Abstract

SAPTAPARNA IN SHALYA – TANTRA: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

^*Dr. Lakhan Solanki, Prof. Dr. Ajay Kumar Gupta

Abstract

Alstonia scholaris, commonly known as Saptaparna - the Devil’s tree, is an important medicinal tree of the family Apocynaceae which holds significant importance in Ayurveda. The review summarizes its classical Ayurvedic references, botanical characteristics, phytochemical constituents, traditional uses, and pharmacological activities. Ayurveda describes Saptaparna as a Tridosha-shamaka drug indicated for the management of various diseases like Kushtha (skin diseases), Vrana (wounds), Krimi (parasitic infections), etc. The plant is also mentioned by Acharya Sushruta in the preparation of Kshara. Phytochemical studies reveal the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins and steroids, which contribute to its diverse biological activities. Alkaloid studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-bacterial, anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant, and wound-healing properties, supporting its traditional therapeutic uses. The available evidence highlights the medicinal potential of Saptaparna and suggests that further clinical research is needed to validate its efficacy and expand its therapeutic applications.

Keywords: Alstonia scholaris, Saptaparna, Ayurveda, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities.