Sthauneyaka (Barhibarha, Shukabarha, Kukkura, Shataponaka)

About

Sthauneyaka, scientifically known as *Taxus baccata* or English Yew, is an evergreen tree traditionally used in Ayurveda, though it's crucial to acknowledge its toxicity and necessity for expert guidance. Modern research focuses on its role as a source of paclitaxel, a chemotherapy drug, while also investigating its anti-inflammatory and other therapeutic properties. Caution is advised due to the plant's poisonous nature.

Properties

Inhibition of cancer cell division by paclitaxel., Anti-inflammatory activity through various compounds.

Dosage

1-3 grams of the drug in powder form, as per the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Crude preparations of yew needles or bark should not be used because of their cardiotoxic taxanes. Always use under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional due to toxicity.

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Pungent, Sweet, Bitter
• Virya: ["Unknown"]
• Vipaka: ["Unknown"]

Benefits

• Anticancer Activity: Contains paclitaxel, a compound effective against breast, ovarian, lung, and prostate cancers. Paclitaxel inhibits mitosis and tumor growth by stabilizing microtubules in cancer cells.
• Immunomodulation: Traditional texts mention its blood-purifying properties.
• Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties may help with autoimmune disorders and allergies.

Traditional uses

• Historically used for rheumatism, fever, and gout.
• Used for diphtheria, tapeworms, tonsillitis, epilepsy, muscle and joint pain, urinary and liver conditions.
• Used to start menstruation and to cause abortions.

Dosha effects

• vata: balancing
• kapha: balancing
• pitta: balancing

Preparation methods

• Decoction: Inner bark and needles are dried for decoctions.
• Fresh Consumption (Arils): Arils (red flesh surrounding the seed) can be eaten fresh, but the seed inside is highly toxic.

Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation
• Severe Liver or Kidney Impairment
• Concurrent Anticoagulant Therapy
• Cardiac Conditions
• Children (under 12 years)
• General Toxicity

Side effects

• Toxicity: All parts of the yew plant, except the aril, are poisonous.
• Gastrointestinal: Nausea and vomiting.
• Cardiotoxicity: Taxine alkaloids can cause slow heart rate (bradycardia), low blood pressure (hypotension), and arrhythmias, especially in overdose.
• Neurotoxicity: Dizziness and confusion.
• Other symptoms: Dry mouth, abdominal cramping, rash, and pale skin. Ingestion of 50-100 grams of yew needles can be fatal.

Interactions

• Formal interaction studies have not been performed due to the plant's toxicity.

Active compounds

• Paclitaxel
• Taxanes
• Taxine alkaloids
• Flavonoids
• Lignans

Clinical evidence

Limited clinical trials support the traditional uses of *Taxus baccata*. One RCT has shown potential benefit in managing Tamakashwasa (bronchial asthma). Additional pre-clinical studies have explored anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions