Pharmacognostic Standardization and Phytochemical Screening of ShalmaliKantaka (Bomax Ceiba. Linn)

Abstract

Medicinal plants continue to serve as the primary source of life-saving drugs for a major proportion of the global population, owing to their therapeutic efficacy, safety, and wide availability. Ayurveda, the ancient system of Indian medicine, has extensively documented numerous medicinal plants with multifaceted pharmacological actions. Shalmali (Bombax ceiba Linn.) is one such highly valuable medicinal plant, widely used in various classical formulations and therapeutic practices. Almost all parts of the plant—such as the bark, roots, flowers, thorns, gum, and seeds—are attributed with significant medicinal properties.

According to Ayurvedic literature, Shalmali possesses Sheetala (coolant), Grahi (absorbent), Vrushya (aphrodisiac), and Dahanut (relieves burning sensation) properties, making it especially useful in conditions associated with Pitta aggravation, excessive heat, bleeding disorders, diarrhea, and genitourinary ailments. Acharya Charaka has described Shalmali under important therapeutic groupings such as Pureeshavirajniya, Shonitasthapana, and Vedanasthapana Mahakashaya, indicating its role in regulating bowel functions, arresting bleeding, and alleviating pain. Furthermore, Acharya Sushruta has included Shalmali in Priyangvadi Gana, emphasizing its wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and hemostatic properties. Modern pharmacological studies have also supported its traditional uses by demonstrating antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and aphrodisiac activities. Thus, Shalmali stands as an important medicinal plant with immense therapeutic potential, bridging classical Ayurvedic wisdom and contemporary scientific validation.