Kumud
Kumud is a substance used in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Alkaloids (nymphayol) are well-absorbed orally. Ghrita (ghee) preparations provide lipid carrier for enhanced absorption of lipophilic compounds. Mucilaginous rhizome constituents create sustained-release matrix in GI tract.
Names and identification
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | Kumud |
Ayurvedic pharmacology (Dravyaguna)
| Property | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rasa (Taste) | Madhura, Tikta | Primary taste |
| Guna (Quality) | Laghu | Physical quality |
| Virya (Potency) | Sheeta | Heating/Cooling effect |
| Vipaka (Post-digestive) | Madhura | Post-digestive effect |
What is it made of?
Mineral/Elemental Profile
- Primary component: Mineral-derived preparation
- Note: Composition varies by specific preparation method
Analytical Methods: XRD, ICP-OES, SEM-EDS
Dosage forms and preparation
Dosage Forms: Churna (powder), Kashayam (decoction), Swarasa (juice), Kalka (paste), Ghrita (medicated ghee), Capsule
Standard Dosage: 3-6 g powder twice daily; 50-100 mL decoction; 10-20 mL juice; 5-10 g medicated ghee
Bioavailability: Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol glycosides) from water lily show moderate oral bioavailability. Alkaloids (nymphayol) are well-absorbed orally. Ghrita (ghee) preparations provide lipid carrier for enhanced absorption of lipophilic compounds. Mucilaginous rhizome constituents create sustained-release matrix in GI tract.
Optimal Timing: After meals for digestive cooling; Ghrita preparation: twice daily with warm water; flower preparations: evening for calming effect
Standardized Extract: Rhizome extract standardized to minimum 2% total alkaloids (as nymphayol) and 3% total flavonoids; flower extract to minimum 1% essential oil
Shelf Life: 18 months for dried rhizome powder; 24 months for capsules; 12 months for Ghrita; decoction consumed within 24 hours
Storage: Store dried material in airtight, moisture-proof containers at 15-30°C. Rhizome powder is hygroscopic. Ghrita in clean glass jars at room temperature. Flower preparations protected from light.
Marker Compounds: Nymphayol, Nupharin, Quercetin, Kaempferol, Myricetin, Gallic acid, Nymphaesterone, Starch polysaccharides
Extraction Methods
- Water decoction of rhizome
- Hydroalcoholic extraction (50-60% ethanol)
- Cold pressing of fresh rhizome for juice
- Ghrita preparation (Sneha Paka with ghee)
- Infusion of flowers for aromatic preparations
Synergistic Combinations
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