Pushkarmoola (Inula racemosa Hook. F.): A Healing Legacy Unveiled - Exploring its Potent Anti-Pyretic and Medicinal Significance

Abstract

Pushkarmoola, scientifically known as Inula racemosa Hook. F., is a robust herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is renowned for its potent medicinal properties, particularly in the realm of cardio-pulmonary health. In contemporary times, it enjoys significant recognition and popularity in both folk and traditional medicinal practices. Its versatility in addressing various health conditions such as fever (Jwara), cardiac diseases (Hridroga), wasting (Kshaya), cough (Kasa), respiratory diseases (Svasa), and tuberculosis (Rajayakshma) has been firmly established over the years through a combination of traditional wisdom and scientific investigation. Objective: This article provides a concise overview of the historical significance of Inula in medicine. Inula is a valuable source of natural compounds, and this article covers their pharmacological, biochemical, and clinical studies conducted in both in-vitro and in-vivo settings. Furthermore, it places particular emphasis on Inula's widespread use in Ayurvedic literature particularly as a remedy for fever (Jwara). Data Source: The available literature on Pushkaramoola from original Ayurvedic scriptures, classical Ayurvedic texts from different periods, Indian Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia, and scientific databases such as ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Review Methods: Numerous references to Pushkaramoola, found in Ayurvedic classics, journals, and traditional knowledge sources, were thoroughly compiled, and analyzed. The extensive data revealed its potential as a potent antipyretic, as it is prominently featured in formulations designed to alleviate fever. Additionally, both in vivo and in vitro studies have provided evidence of its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antifungal properties. Conclusion: This article encourages future researchers to delve deeper into the anti-pyretic properties of Pushkarmoola, as it has been extensively documented in ancient texts for its effectiveness in treating various types of fever (jwara). This historical evidence serves as a compelling reason for scholars to explore and expand upon the potential anti-fever benefits of Pushkarmoola.