Somalata (Somalata (Somavalli, Somakshiri, Dwijapriya))
Somalata, or Sarcostemma acidum, is a leafless plant traditionally used in Ayurveda for its health restorative properties. It has demonstrated potential benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects, as well as uses for rhinitis.
Botanical name: Sarcostemma acidum. Also known as: Moon Plant, Moon Creeper, Climbing Milk Weed, Leafless East-Indian Vine, Soma, Somavalli, Somlata, Kula Thar, Soma, Somlatha, Somalate, Soma balli, Hambukalli, HambuBali, Vasukaanthi, Kodikkalli, Somamum, Aaku jemudu, Dustappa Tiga, Kaadujemmudu, Kondapaala, Somlata, Borohwi, Notasiju, Somvel, Somam, Somavalli, Vayastha, Ransher, Somvel.
Properties
Inhibition of inflammatory mediators, HRBC membrane stabilization, Free radical scavenging, Antimicrobial activity against Propionibacterium acnes
Dosage
The precise dosage of *Somalata* is not well-defined in the available literature. Dosage can depend on the specific ailment, the individual, and the preparation method.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Amla (Sour)
- Virya: ["Ushna (Heating)"]
- Vipaka: ["Amla (Sour)"]
Benefits
- Rasayana (Rejuvenative)
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
Traditional uses
- Kasa (Cough)
- Shwasa (Asthma)
- Jwara (Fever)
- Rhinitis
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Extracts: Ethanol, acetone, or methanol extracts of *Sarcostemma acidum* exhibit therapeutic properties and can be used in formulations. Extracts using water, ethyl acetate, petroleum ether, and ethanol have also been prepared.
- Decoction: The plant stem can be used to make a decoction.
- Stem Juice: The stem juice has been used as ear drops for otitis and dog bites.
- Powder: The dried stem of *Sarcostemma acidum* can be pulverized into a coarse powder. Microscopic examination of the powder reveals starch grains, calcium oxalate crystals, mucilage, and elongated collapsed fibers.
Contraindications
- May be contraindicated for men seeking to conceive due to spermatogenesis arrest and reduced sperm motility/density.
- Caution advised; consult a Siddha physician before self-medication.
- Distinguish from similar species, as some may be poisonous.
Side effects
- *Sarcostemma acidum* stem extract may arrest spermatogenesis without systemic side effects. Studies have shown a reduction in sperm motility and density.
- One study reported that at a dose of 2000mg/kg body weight, no mortality occurred.
Interactions
- Information on specific drug interactions with *Sarcostemma acidum* is limited.
Clinical evidence
Preclinical studies (in vitro and animal models) suggest that Sarcostemma acidum has a range of potential therapeutic effects, including antipsychotic, anxiolytic, analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities. Further human clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Rasayana (Rejuvenative)
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
Classical clinical indications
- Kasa (Cough)
- Shwasa (Asthma)
- Jwara (Fever)
- Rhinitis