A REVIEW ON SIDDHA POLYHERBAL FORMULATION NILAVAGAI CHOORANAM- A SPECIAL MEDICINE FOR ANORECTAL DISEASES
HTML Full TextA REVIEW ON SIDDHA POLYHERBAL FORMULATION NILAVAGAI CHOORANAM- A SPECIAL MEDICINE FOR ANORECTAL DISEASES
S. Venkatesh *, H. Nalini Sofia and H. Vetha Merlin Kumari
Department of Maruthuvam, National Institute of Siddha, Tambaram Sanatorium, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
ABSTRACT: Traditional Siddha Medicine (TSM) is one of the oldest forms of traditional medicine, having its roots in South India's ancient Tamil Nadu. One of the Internal Medicines available in Classical text Brammamuni Karukkidai Choothiram is Nilavagai Chooranam. It is used to treat Malakkattu (Constipation), Vaaivu (One of the three humours), Soodukollal (Intense heat in pelvic region), Sori & Sirangu (A kind of itch or scabies), Moolavaayu (Accumulation of bowel gas), Malam suththi (Stool/faeces will be purified), Moola noygal (Diseases of Anorectal region). Ingredients of the formulation and their pharmacological action in various research studies are discussed in this review. The details were collected from different Siddha texts, Medicinal botany books and electronic databases such as Pubmed. In conclusion the results of the review revealed that the pharmacological actions such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, laxative and vasoactive actions were consistent with the medicinal uses of each ingredient of formulation with respect to anorectal ailments.
Keywords: Moolam, Brammamuni Karukkidai Choothiram, Nilavagai Chooranam, Siddha medicine, Thirithodam, Anorectal diseases
INTRODUCTION: Traditional Siddha Medicine (TSM) is one of the oldest forms of traditional medicine, having its roots in South India's ancient Tamil Nadu. It ensures everyone to lead a disease-free healthy life. Siddhars classified the human diseases as 4448 in number 1. Anorectal diseases are one among them. Under the spectrum of anorectal diseases sage Yugi mentioned the disease Moolam and its 21 types in Yugi Vaidhya Chinthamani 2. In Siddha, Moolatharam is mentioned as one of the 6 pillars and six psychic centres in the human body.
It is said to be located near the coccygeal plexus beneath the sacrum which is the principal axis of the body. According to Thiridhosha theory, derangement of both Vatham and Pitham Humour is attributed as etiological factor for moolam.
“Anila pithathondhamalathumoolamvaraathu” - Siddhar Theraiyar. (Anilam-Vaatham, Pitha-Pitham). In Moola noi, deranged Vatha humor triggers keezhvaikanal (abanavaayu) which in turn stimulates pithamhumor resulting in Moolam. With the symptoms of constipation, bleeding during defecation, pain in umbilical region, pallor of the body, headache, giddiness are developed. Haemorrhoids are a very common anorectal condition defined as the symptomatic enlargement and distal displacement of the normal anal cushions 3. Usual treatments provided for Haemorrhoids are conservative management includes stool softeners, bulking agents for stage 1 and 2.
Conditions Refractory to conservative management or stage 3 and 4 Haemorrhoids will be treated surgically 4. The recurrence rate after stapled hemorrhoidopexy and conventional hemo-rrhoidectomy 0 to 26% and 0 to 10.8%, respectively; reoperation rate was 16.7% after stapled hemorrhoidopexy 5.
Though there are many formulations are available in siddha system of medicine for managing the Anorectal disorders, the medicine Nilavagai Chooranam 6 is a classical siddha herbo-mineral compound indicated in Brammamuni Karukkidai Choothiram for various anorectal diseases. Nilavagai Chooranam contains 20 ingredients. This review describes the phytochemicals, pharmacological action and medicinal uses of the part of each ingredient used in this formulation.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Research Design: Drug Review on Literature
Research Type: Literature Review
Research Period: 3 months
Literature Collected from: Brammamuni Karukkidai Choothiram – 380. Edited by S. B. Ramachandiran (February 1998), Page No: 68, 69; Publication: Thamarai Noolagam, 7, N.G.O Colony, Vadapalani, Chennai-26.
Ingredients of the Drug: The formulation comprises a harmonious blend of potent herbal and mineral ingredients: Nilavagai (Cassia senna, Linn.), Milagu (Piper nigrum, Linn.), Kadukkai (Terminalia chebula, Retz), Thaanrikkai (Terminalia bellerica, Roxb), Seeragam (Cuminum cyminum, Linn.), Vaaluluvai (Celastrus paniculatus, Willd), Sirunaagapoo (Mesua nagassarium, Kosternm), Elam (Elettaria cardamomum, Maton), Ilavanga pattai (Cinnamomum verum, Presl), Kadugurogini (Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora, Pennell), Sivadhai (Operculina turpethum, Linn.), Thalis apathiri (Abies spectabilis, Mirb), Jaadhikkai (Myristica fragrans, Houtt), Kiraambu (Syzygium aromaticum, Linn.), Thippili (Piper longum, Linn.), Seviyam (Piper nigrum, Linn.), Indhuppu (Sodii chloridumimpura), Koogaineeru (Maranta arundinacea, Linn.), Sukku (Zingiber officinale, Rosc), and Seeni Sarkkari (Saccharum officinarum, Linn.). Each component has been carefully selected for its therapeutic potential, working synergistically to support the intended pharmacological action.
Drug Administration: The prescribed dosage of the formulation is Verukadialavu (approximately 1.375 grams) 7, to be administered twice daily. It is to be taken along with an appropriate adjuvant such as ghee or honey, based on the individual's condition and practitioner’s guidance. The duration of therapy is one Mandalam, equivalent to 48 days, allowing sufficient time for the drug to exert its intended therapeutic effect within the body.
Purification Process of Raw Drugs 8: The purification process of the raw drugs involves various traditional methods tailored to enhance the therapeutic efficacy and safety of each ingredient. Nilavagai leaves are powdered and subjected to steam boiling in milk for 3 hours. Milagu is soaked in buttermilk and then dried, while Kadukkai has its seeds removed and is dried. Thaanrikkai is soaked in Thazhaivizhuthu (Pandanus odoratissimus) juice for 3 hours before sun drying. Seeragam, Sirunaagapoo, Elam, Ilavangapattai, Thalisapathiri, Kiraambu, and Seviyam are simply cleaned and dried under sunlight. Vaaluluvai is washed in Katraalai (Aloe barbadensis) juice and dried. Kadugurogini is soaked in either neem or nochi (Vitex negundo) leaf juice for 3 hours before sun drying. Sivadhai's central root veins are removed, boiled in milk, and then dried. Jaadhikkai is peeled, cut into small pieces, and sun-dried. Thippili is soaked in Kodiveli (Plumbago zeylanica) leaf juice for 24 minutes before drying. Indhuppu is soaked in fermented rice water for three days, followed by drying. Koogaineeru is mixed with water, washed seven times, filtered, and then sun-dried. Sukku is soaked in limestone water for 3 hours, after which the outer layer is removed. Lastly, Seeni Sarkkari is crushed into a fine powder. This meticulous purification ensures the removal of impurities and enhances the bioavailability of the medicinal constituents.
Indications:
- Megam (A sexually transmitted disease classified into 21 types) 9
- Pitham (One of the three humours) 9
- Arosagam (Anorexia)
- Vaai neerooral (Excessive salivation) 10
- Malakkattu (Constipation) 9
- Vaaivu (One of the three humours) 10
- Soodukollal (Intense heat in pelvic region) 10
- Sori & Sirangu (A kind of itch or scabies) 9
- Moolavaayu (Accumulation of bowel gas) 10
- Malam suththiaagum (Stool/faeces will be purified) 10
- Moolathil noyellam murindhu pogum (Diseases of Anorectal region)
RESULT:
TABLE 1: SCIENTIFIC & SELECTED VERNACULAR NAMES, FAMILIES OF THE MEDICINAL INGREDIENTS
| Botanical name | Vernacular Name in Tamil | English Name | Sanskrit Name | Family |
| Cassia senna, Linn. | Nilavagai | Country Senna | Swarnapatri | Fabaceae |
| Piper nigrum, Linn. | Milagu | Black Pepper | Maricha | Piperaceae |
| Terminalia chebula, Retz | Kadukkai | Chebulic Myrobalan | Harithaki | Combretaceae |
| Terminalia bellerica, Roxb | Thaanrikkai | Beleric myrobalans | Vebeethaki | Combretaceae |
| Cuminum cyminum, Linn | Seeragam | Cumin Seeds | Jirakams | Umbelliferae |
| Celastrus paniculatus, Willd | Vaaluluvai | Climbing staff plant | Jyotishmati | Celastraceae |
| Mesua nagassarium, Kosternm | Sirunaagapoo | Ceylon Iorn wood | Naga kesara | Calophyllaceae |
| Elettaria cardamomum, Maton | Elam | Cardamom Seeds | Ela | Zingiberaceae |
| Cinnamomum verum, Presl | Ilavangapattai | Bark of Cinnamon | Twak | Lauraceae |
| Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora, Pennell | Kadugurogini | Picrorhiza | Katuka | Schrophulariaceae |
| Operculina turpethum, Linn | Sivadhai | Turpeeth root | Trivrith | Convolvulaceae |
| Abies spectabilis, Mirb | Thalisapathiri | FlaurtiaCalaphracta | Talisapathra | Pinaceae |
| Myristica fragrans, Houtt | Jaadhikkai | Nutmeg | Jatphalam | Myristicaceae |
| Syzygium aromaticum, Linn | Kiraambu | Cloves | Lavangam | Myrtaceae |
| Piper longum, Linn | Thippili | Long pepper | Pippali | Piperaceae |
| Piper nigrum, Linn | Seviyam | Black pepper root | Maricha | Piperaceae |
| Sodii chloridumimpura | Indhuppu | Pink salt | Sainthavalavana | - |
| Maranta arundinacea, Linn | Koogaineeru | East Indian Arrow root | Tavaksiri | Marantaceae |
| Zingiber officinale, Rosc | Sukku | Dried Ginger | Nagaram | Zingiberaceae |
| Saccharum officinarum, Linn | Seenisarkkari | Sugar | Ikshu | Poaceae |
TABLE 2: MORPHOLOGY, PARTS USED & ORGANOLEPTIC CHARACTERS OF THE HERBAL INGREDIENTS IN NILAVAGAI CHOORANAM
| Botanical name | Morphology | Quantity | Part Used | Taste | Potency | Division |
| Cassia senna, Linn. | Large shrub | 10 palam (350g) | Leaf | Bitter | Hot | Pungent |
| Piper nigrum, Linn. | Climber | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Seed | Bitter, Pungent | Hot | Pungent |
| Terminalia chebula, Retz | Tree | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Fruit | Astringent, Sweet, Sour, Pungent, Bitter | Hot | Pungent |
| Terminalia bellerica, Roxb | Tree | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Fruit | Astringent | Hot | Sweet |
| Cuminum cyminum, Linn | Herb | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Seed | Pungent, Sweet | Cold | Sweet |
| Celastrus paniculatus, Willd | Shrub | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Seed | Bitter | Hot | Pungent |
| Mesua nagassarium, Kosternm | Tree | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Flower bud | Mild bitter, Astringent | Cold | Pungent |
| Elettaria cardamomum, Maton | Herb | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Pods, seeds | Pungent | Hot | Pungent |
| Cinnamomum verum, Presl | Tree | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Bark | Pungent, Sweet | Cold | Sweet |
| Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora, Pennell | Herb | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Root | Bitter, Pungent | Hot | Pungent |
| Operculina turpethum, Linn | Twiner | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Root | Bitter | Hot | Pungent |
| Abies spectabilis, Mirb | Tree | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Leaf | Pungent | Hot | Pungent |
| Myristica fragrans, Houtt | Tree | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Fruit | Pungent, Astringent | Hot | Pungent |
| Syzygium aromaticum, Linn | Tree | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Flower bud | Pungent | Hot | Pungent |
| Piper longum, Linn | Climber | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Fruit | Pungent | Hot | Sweet |
| Piper nigrum, Linn | Climber | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Root | Bitter, Pungent | Hot | Pungent |
| Sodii chloridumimpura | - | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Salt | - | - | - |
| Maranta arundinacea, Linn | Glabrous herb | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Tuber flour | Sweet | Cold | Sweet |
| Zingiber officinale, Rosc | Herb | ¼ palam (8.75g) | Dried Root tuber | Pungent | Hot | Pungent |
| Saccharum officinarum, Linn | Tall grass | 7.25 palam (253.75g) | Sugar | Sweet | Cold | Sweet |
TABLE 3: PHYTOCONSTITUENTS AND MEDICINAL USES OF THE INGREDIENTS IN NILAVAGAI CHOORANAM
| Ingredients | Actions as per Siddha | Phytoconstituents | Medicinal Uses in Siddha | Pharmacological Effects |
| Cassia senna, Linn. | Purgative, Laxative | Sennosides A-D, Naphthopyrones, Naphthalene Derivatives, Alkaloids, Essential Oils, Triterpenes, And Flavonoids | Henorrhoids, Syphillis, Acid Peptic Disorder, Chronic Constipation | Vasoactive, vasoconstrictor 11 |
| Piper nigrum, Linn. | Acrid, Carminative, Antiperiodic, Rubefacient, Stimulant, Resolvent, Antivatha, antidote | Piperine, Chavicine,Piperidine, Limonene, Pipercide, Pipericide | Anemia, Diarrhea, Acid Peptic Disorder, Hemorrhoids, Cough, Hemiplegia, Indigestion | Analgesic, Anti inflammatory 12, Vasomodulator 13 |
| Terminalia chebula, Retz | Laxative, tonic, stomachic, purgative, alterative
|
ChebulinicAcid, Chebulagic Acid, Chebulic Acid, Gallic Acid, Fatty Acid, Tannin
|
Anorexia, Cardiac diseases, Cough, Hemorrhoids, UTI, Vitiligo | Anti inflammatory, Anti oxidant, laxative, Astringent 14 |
| Terminalia bellerica, Roxb | Astringent, Expectorant, Laxative, Tonic | Gallic Acid, Ellagic Acid, Ethyl Gallate, Chebullagic Acid, Belleric Acid, Bellaricanin | Penile ulcers, Leucorrhea, Spider bite and Diseases Caused by derangement of Vali and Azhal | Anti thrombotic, Anti Inflammatory, wound healing 15 |
| Cuminum cyminum, Linn | Carminative, Stimulant, Stomachic, Astringent | α-Sabinin, α-Cymene, α-Phellandrene, α-Terpineol, 1,8-Cineole 32 | Azhal, Abdominal pain, Liver diseases, Hemochezia, Rhinitis | Analgesic, Anti inflammatory 16, Anti nociceptive 17 |
| Celastrus paniculatus, Willd | Aphrodisiac, Stimulant, Alterative, Nervine tonic | Celastrine, Celapanin, Celapagin, Sitosterol, Campesterol, Lupeol, Pristimeri 33 | Abdominal discomfort, Hemochezia, Cough, Heat. | Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic and Antioxidant 18 |
| Mesua nagassarium, Kosternm | Astringent, Carminative | Α-Copaene And Germacrene D, Β-Amyrin, Mesuanic Acid; MesuferrolsA And B; Mesuaxanthones A And B; MesuaferrinsA, B, And C 34 | Leucorrhea, Cough, Diarrhea | Analgesic, Anti inflammatory, Styptic, Anti hemorrhoidal 19 |
| Elettaria cardamomum, Maton | Stimulant, Carminative, Stomachic | Limonene, Linalool, Cineole, Campesterol, Methylacetate, Geranyl Acetate | Diseases of Throat, Jaw, Mouth, Anorectum; Cough, Diarrhea, | Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic and Antioxidant 20 |
| Cinnamomum verum, Presl | Stimulant, Carminative, Aphrodisiac | Γ-Terpinene, Α-Terpineol, Piperitone, Geraniol, (E)-Cinnamaldehyde, (Z)-Cinnamaldehyde, Eugenol, (E)-Cinnamyl Acetate, EugenylAcetate 35 | Animal bites, Wheezing, Cough, Abdominal discomfort, Internal hemorrhoids | Analgesic, Anti inflammatory, Antioxidant 21 |
| Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora, Pennell | Antiperiodic, Cathartic, Stomachic, Anthelmintic | Kutkin, Curcubitacin, Glycosides, Vanillic Acid Steroids, Picroside, Apocynin | Indigestion, Fever, Abdominal pain, Dysentery | Anti inflammatory 22 |
| Operculina turpethum, Linn | Purgative | Butulin, Lupeol, Sistosterol, Galactomannan, Hydroxy Fatty Acids | Internal Hemorrhoids, Diseases of Abdominal origin | Laxative, Anti inflammatory, Analgesic 23 |
| Abies spectabilis, Mirb | Stomachic, Carminative, Expectorant, Tonic | Abiesin, Betuloside, Limonene, A-Pinene, Abiesadine, And Myricetin | Diarrhea, Chronic cough, asthma, Vomiting, Indigestion | Anti inflammatory, Antiseptic, Astringent 24 |
| Myristica fragrans, Houtt | Aphrodisiac, Stimulant, Carminative, Hypnotic
|
Alkyl Benzene Derivatives Macelignan, Myristicin, Elemicin, Safrole, Terpenes, Alpha-Pinene, Myristic Acid, Trimyristicin, Volatile Oil, Fixed Oil, And Starch 36 | Dysentery,
Diarrhea, Bloating, Abdominal pain, Indigestion |
Antioxidant, Anti inflammatory, Analgesic 25 |
| Syzygium aromaticum, Linn | Antispasmodic, Carminative, Stomachic | Caryophyllene Oxide, Eugenol, Acetophenone, Eugenol Acetate, Methyl Palmitate | Dizziness, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Hemochezia, Chronic Diarrhea, Tenesmus, Ear diseases | Anti nociceptive, Anti inflammatory 26 |
| Piper longum, Linn | Stimulant, Carminative | Piperine, Pipernonaline, Piplasterol, Sesamine | Cough, acid peptic disease, anemia, anorexia, headache, throat diseases | Anti inflammatory, Anti Proliferatory 27 |
| Piper nigrum, Linn | Acrid, Carminative, Antiperiodic, Rubefacient, Stimulant, Resolvent, Antivatha, antidote | Piperine, Chavicine,Piperidine, Limonene, Pipercide, Pipericide | Anemia, Diarrhea, Acid Peptic Disorder, Hemorrhoids, Cough, Hemiplegia, Indigestion | Analgesic, Anti inflammatory 12, Vasomodulator 13 |
| Sodii chloridumimpura | Laxative, Carminative, Diuretic, Stomachic | - | 8 types of GI ulcers, Constipation, Bleeding piles | Laxative, Cures Bleedig piles, pain 28 |
| Maranta arundinacea, Linn | Refrigerant, Demulcent, Nutrient | Fatty Acids: Ethyl Palmitate, Cyclohexanone, And Farnesyl Bromide
Phenolic Compounds: 2,6-Dimethoxy Phenol Vitamins: Niacin Carotenoids: Beta Carotene 37 |
Cough, Fever, Thirst and gives nourishment | Demulcent, Anti-inflammatory, Antiulcerogenic 29 |
| Zingiber officinale, Rosc | Stimulant, Stomachic, Carminative | Gingerdione, Shogaols, Gingerols, Zingiberin | Indigestion, Asthma, Diarrhoea, Bloating, Abdominal pain | Vasoactive, Analgesic, Anti inflammatory 30 |
| Saccharum officinarum, Linn | Antiseptic, Demulcent | Flavone Glycosides, Including Orientin, Diosmetin-8-C-Glycoside, Luteolin 8-C-(Rhamnosyl-Glucoside), And Flavolignan 7-O-Glucosides. 38 | Vadha fever, Vadha disease, Vomiting, Hiccup | Anti inflammatory, Antioxidant 31 |
Pharmacological Importance of Parts of the Herbs: The analysis of Nilavagai Chooranam reveals that roots (ver), fruits (kani), and seeds (vithai) form the core of its herbal composition Fig. 1. In Siddha medicine, these parts are revered for their potent therapeutic energy, acting effectively on the gastrointestinal and circulatory systems. Roots like Sivadhai and Thippiliver possess purgative and analgesic properties, promoting virechana and easing anorectal inflammation and pain. Fruits such as Kadukkai and Thaanrikkai regulate vata and pitta doshas, soften stools, and heal mucosal irritation, while Jaadhikkai and Ilavangapattai enhance agni and reduce flatulence. Seeds, rich in oils and active compounds, offer carminative, anti-inflammatory, and styptic effects. Vaaluluvai and Milagu stimulate digestion, addressing constipation, whereas Seeragam and Elam improve intestinal motility and balance vata-kapha. Collectively, these parts act synergistically to relieve symptoms and correctthe underlying doshic imbalances in anorectal disorders such as haemorrhoids.
FIG. 1: USED PARTS OF HERBS PRESENT IN NILAVAGAI CHOORANAM
Pharmacological Importance of Families of the Herbs: The analysis of Nilavagai Chooranam with respect to families of herbs they belong to Fig. 2, highlights the therapeutic significance of herbs from the Piperaceae, Combretaceae, and Zingiberaceae families in treating anorectal disorders. Piperaceae members like Piper nigrum and Piper longum are rich in piperine and essential oils that stimulate agni, relieve vata-induced bloating, and reduce inflammation and pain in hemorrhoidal tissues 39, 40. Combretaceae fruits such as Terminalia chebula and T. bellerica, known for their thuvarpusuvai (astringent taste), promote venous constriction, reduce bleeding, and act as mild laxatives, facilitating smooth evacuation. Zingiberaceae spices like Zingiber officinale and Elettaria cardamomum exhibit ushnaviriyam (warming) and deepana (Stimulates digestive fire) actions, improving digestion, relieving flatulence, and reducing rectal spasms. Together, these families support dosha balance, soften stools, reduce inflammation, and tone anorectal tissues, thereby forming a pharmacological cornerstone in Siddha management of haemorrhoids and related conditions.
FIG. 2: FAMILIES OF HERBS PRESENT IN NILAVAGAI CHOORANAM
Potential Therapeutic Benefits of Nilavagai Chooranam through Pharmacological Actions: Nilavagai Chooranam demonstrates a broad spectrum of pharmacological actions Fig. 3 beneficial in the management of haemorrhoids. One of its primary effects is anti-inflammatory activity, crucial for reducing pain, swelling, and bleeding associated with inflamed hemorrhoidal veins. Inflammation, often exacerbated by straining and chronic constipation, is significantly modulated by 33.3% of the herbs in the formulation, including Piper nigrum, Elettaria cardamomum, Zingiber officinale, Piper longum, Mesua nagassarium, and Abies spectabilis, all known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Analgesic activity is another critical therapeutic property. Pain in haemorrhoids, especially external types, arises from swollen veins, mucosal irritation, and sphincter spasms. While NSAIDs are contraindicated in bleeding piles, 22.2% of herbs such as Cuminum cyminum, Piper nigrum, Myristica fragrans, and Zingiber officinale exhibit analgesic effects. These effects are likely due to a synergistic interplay with their anti-inflammatory and mucosal healing properties.
FIG. 3: PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIONS OF HERBS PRESENT IN NILAVAGAI CHOORANAM
Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in weakening anal vasculature and promoting inflammation. The antioxidant activity of 11.1% of herbs, including Saccharum officinarum, Cinnamomum verum, and Elettaria cardamomum, offers protection against free radicals by supplying phytochemicals like flavonoids, quercetin, and polyphenols that prevent cellular damage and vascular degradation 41, 42.
Constipation is a key etiological factor in haemorrhoids, addressed by the laxative activity of 5.5% of herbs, prominently Cassia senna. This helps in softening stools, easing defecation, and reducing the mechanical strain on rectal veins 42. Furthermore, vasoactive, wound healing, and astringent activities are attributed to around 10% of the herbs, including Cassia senna, Piper nigrum, Abies spectabilis, and Terminalia chebula. These properties contribute to vasomodulation, reduce bleeding, enhance mucosal repair, and promote the shrinkage of the hemorrhoidal mass without causing excessive purgation or constipation. Astringents like Terminalia chebula and T. bellerica also help tone the tissues and support healing 43. Collectively, these actions form a synergistic pharmacological foundation, positioning Nilavagai Chooranam as a holistic therapeutic agent in the Siddha management of hemorrhoidal disorders.
DISCUSSION: The conventionally used Nilavagai Chooranam formulation from Siddha vaidhyathirattu 44 book has 5 ingredients. It is indicated for conditions like Ushna vaayu, bloating of abdomen, Hiccups, Vomiting and Bronchial asthma. The drug Nilavagai Chooranam taken for this study has 20 ingredients. It has various indications like Megam (A sexually transmitted disease classified into 21 types), Pitham (One of the three humours), Malakkattu (Constipation) 9, Vaaivu (One of the three humours), Soodukollal (Intense heat in pelvic region), Sori & Sirangu (A kind of itch or scabies), Moolavaayu (Accumulation of bowel gas) and proposed to cleanse the bowel and to cure all the diseases arising from the seat of moolam 10, 9.
According to the review of literature of Nilavagai Chooranam, the following topics were analysed such as part used, family, morphology, pharmacological actions and indications of each ingredient. Herbs from the following familes, Piperaceae (15.8%), Zingiberacea (10.5%), Combretaceae (10.5%) were mostly used. Upon analysis of parts used Fruit (20%), Root (15%), Seed (15%), Flower bud (10%), Leaf (10%) were majorly used. In Potency of herbs, hot potency were 70% Cold potency were 25%. According to Siddha, in anorectal disorders there will be vitiation of Vadham & Pitham humours. Mandāgni (sluggish digestion) and Ama (undigested toxins) is said to be the causative factors for many illnesses especially the anorectal ailments. Hot potency (Ushna Veeriyam) herbs play a pivotal role in rectifying these imbalances. Their inherent qualities help stimulate Agni (digestive fire), thereby enhancing digestion and preventing the accumulation of Ama a known etiological factor in hemorrhoidal conditions. These herbs also have the anti-inflammatory effect in system. Cold potency herbs have the tendency to heal and reduce the soreness. They have demulcent activity.
In division Sweet (30%), Pungent (65%). Pungent taste herbs stimulate metabolism and disperse the stagnation thereby relieving the vascular congestion and promotes blood flow. They also have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects which helps in healing and pain relief. According to Siddha, the sweet taste is said to have nourishing and tissue regenerative properties. They also have Haemostatic and anti-ulcer property. Thus, they regulate bowel habit and pacify Vaatham. When considering the pharmacological actions, majority of the ingredients has laxative, anti-inflammatory. analgesic, carminative, stomachic and astringent properties. Some of drugs like Zingiber officinale, has vasoactive property.
CONCLUSION: Nilavagai Chooranam, formulated based on Siddha tridosha principles Suvai, Gunam, Veeriyam, and Pirivu has shown therapeutic relevance, now further supported by modern scientific validation. This alignment strengthens confidence among Siddha physicians in managing ailments like haemorrhoids.
Future directions include conducting preclinical and clinical trials to establish safety and efficacy, exploring pharmacological mechanisms, and setting quality control standards for consistency. Thus, this study not only reaffirms traditional knowledge but also opens avenues for scientific exploration and global integration of Siddha medicine.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: I express my thanks to Dr. C. B. S. Bharath Christian MD (S), Assistant Professor, Department of Maruthuvam for his valuable guidance & support in publication of the study. I express my thanks to Dr. B. Anbarasan, MD (S), Assistant Professor, Department of Maruthuvam for his valuable guidance in publication of the study.
Source of Funding: None
CONFLICT OF INTEREST: None
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How to cite this article:
Venkatesh S, Sofia HN and Kumari HVM: A review on siddha polyherbal formulation Nilavagai chooranam- a special medicine for anorectal diseases. Int J Pharm Sci & Res 2026; 17(2): 427-36. doi: 10.13040/IJPSR.0975-8232.17(2).427-36.
All © 2026 are reserved by International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research. This Journal licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.
Article Information
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427-436
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IJPSR
S. Venkatesh *, H. Nalini Sofia and H. Vetha Merlin Kumari
Department of Maruthuvam, National Institute of Siddha, Tambaram Sanatorium, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
venkatesh.spkv@gmail.com
29 July 2025
24 September 2025
26 October 2025
10.13040/IJPSR.0975-8232.17(2).427-36
01 February 2026








