Exploring the Diversity of Patola and Its Connection to Contemporary Species A Drug Research

Patola Trichosanthes species has been extensively used and applauded for its curing properties especially in skin disorders since ages in Ayurveda. Many species are identified under the genus Trichosanthes and are being used according to the availability and necessity throughout world. Botanically 2 major varieties are abundantly available in India, Trichosanthes dioica Roxberg and Trichosanthes cucumerina Linnius. Each species again bears sub species, a bitter wild variety and a sweet vegetable variety. Mostly wild varieties are used as medicines whereas the cultivated variety is used as vegetable which is of high nutritional values. In Nighantus, number of synonyms were given to explain the habitat, habit and pharmacological properties of Patola, to facilitate it's easy identity. As most of the synonyms suit to almost all the species a great confusion is prevailing in its identity. Most of the authors of ancient era didn't mention the morphological characters of the drug or the part to be used, in their chikitsa granthas which lead to further confusion in its usage. To throw some light over these issues and to make it a clear choice, a keen and deeper study is done Understanding the views of the sages. Using the specific terminology for the same drug at different places needs much more deep understanding regarding its characters and properties. This work tries to follow the footsteps of great sages of Ayurveda in understanding the synonyms of Patola. By understanding the lexicons starting from Brihatrayee to latest Nighantus in Ayurvedic literature one can easily draw a conclusion in utilizing the correct species and correct part to be used according to the requirement. Dr. Rathour Yamini Diwakar "Exploring the Diversity of Patola & Its Connection to Contemporary Species - A Drug Research" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-8 | Issue-3 , June 2024, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd64994.pdf Paper Url: https://www.ijtsrd.com/medicine/ayurvedic/64994/exploring-the-diversity-of-patola-and-its-connection-to-contemporary-species--a-drug-research/dr-rathour-yamini-diwakar