Age Ayurveda Nighantu

Saireyaka

Barleria strigosa

Saireyaka (Barleria strigosa) is a plant used in Ayurveda. Lignans show enhanced absorption with lipid co-administration. First-pass metabolism is moderate; flavonoids undergo glucuronidation and sulfation in the intestinal wall. Churna and capsules: store below 25 deg C in airtight containers, protected from light and moisture.

Key facts
Botanical nameBarleria strigosa
Identity sourceAyurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part I, Vol. V: NILAJHINTI (Root)
Also calledBarleria prionitis (attribution recorded without a cited source)
Barleria cristata (reported in the literature)
FamilyAcanthaceae · other entries in this family
OrderLamiales
Taxon identifiersGBIF 3770457 · Wikidata Q13893639 · NCBI Taxonomy 1749380

Names and identification

LanguageName
EnglishSaireyaka

Ayurvedic pharmacology (Dravyaguna)

PropertyValueDescription
Rasa (Taste)Tikta, MadhuraPrimary taste
Guna (Quality)SnigdhaPhysical quality
Virya (Potency)UshnaHeating/Cooling effect
Vipaka (Post-digestive)KatuPost-digestive effect

Dosage forms and preparation

Dosage Forms: Kwatha (decoction), Churna (powder), Swarasa (fresh juice), Vati (tablet), Capsule, Taila (medicated oil)

Standard Dosage: 3-6 g churna per day in divided doses; 10-20 mL swarasa twice daily; 50-100 mL kwatha twice daily

Bioavailability: Moderate oral bioavailability for flavonoid and alkaloid constituents (25-40%). Lignans show enhanced absorption with lipid co-administration. First-pass metabolism is moderate; flavonoids undergo glucuronidation and sulfation in the intestinal wall.

Optimal Timing: Before meals for Raktapitta (bleeding disorders) indications; morning dose for general Pitta-pacifying action

Standardized Extract: Hydroalcoholic extract (8:1 DER), standardized to NLT 2.0% total flavonoids (as luteolin equivalents by UV spectrophotometry); aqueous extract for traditional kwatha preparations

Shelf Life: 12 months for swarasa (refrigerated with preservative); 24 months for churna; 36 months for standardized extract capsules

Storage: Swarasa: refrigerate at 2-8 deg C. Churna and capsules: store below 25 deg C in airtight containers, protected from light and moisture.

Marker Compounds: Luteolin, Apigenin, Beta-sitosterol, Lupeol, Quercetin glycosides

Extraction Methods

  • Aqueous decoction
  • Hydroalcoholic extraction (50-60% ethanol)
  • Cold pressing for fresh juice (swarasa)
  • Maceration in sesame oil for taila preparation

Synergistic Combinations

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