Abstract

REVIEW OF VARAHIKANDA (DIOSCOREA BULBIFERA) FOR ITS PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

*Galakatu Sameer S., Surve Pankaj P., Ghotankar Aparna M., Kharat Ravindra S.

Abstract

Dioscorea bulbifera (Linn) is an important medicinal plant. The medicinal uses of Varahikanda are of utmost importance. In Ayurvedic literature it is used to cure some disease. A review of research work done regarding anciet and ayurvedic properties of varahikanda, i.e. Dioscorea bulbifera is mentioned here. The study shows that Varahikanda posseses various pharmacological properties. According to Ayurveda Jeevaneeya, Rasayana, Balya, Krumighna, Pramehaghna, Kushtaghna, Vrushya, Nadivrun, Visarpa, Udarshool, Raktapitta. According to modern science it possesses Antimiorobial activity, Wound healing activity, Antihyperglycemic activity, Dyslipidemic activity, Anticancer activity, Immunomodulatory activity, Antioxidant activity and Antiinflammatory and Analgesic activity, Anthelmintic activity, Aphrodisiac activity.

Keywords: Varahikanda, Dioscorea bulbifera, pharmacological actions.