Pragati Khare1*, Kamal Kishore2, Dinesh Kumar Sharma3
1Department of Pharmacy, Bhagwant University, Raj., India.
2Department of Pharmacy, M.J.P. Rohilkhand University, Bareilly, U.P., India.
3Department of Pharmacy, Devsthali Vidyapeeth College of Pharmacy, Rudrapur, U.K., India.
*Address for Corresponding Author
Pragati Khare
Department of Pharmacy, Bhagwant University, Ajmer, Raj., India.
Abstract
Bauhinia variegata Linn (Mountain Ebony) belongs to the family Leguminosae (Caesalpinioideae). It is a medium-sized, deciduous tree, ascending to an altitude of 1,300 m in the Himalayas. The reported biological activities are anthelmintic, antiulcer, antitumour, antimicrobial, antileprosy, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antigoitrogenic, hepatoprotective and haemagglutination. The plant is widely used by the tribals throughout India and popular in various indigenous systems of medicine like Ayurveda, Unani and Homoeopathy. Carbohydrates, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids are the important constituents of Kachnar. Maharishi Charaka and Sushruta have mentioned the properties of Kovidara and Karbudara in their Samhitas (Treatise). Both flower and bark of Kanchnara are used as medicine because of the presence of hentriacontane, octacosanol, β-sitasterol, stigmasterol, lupeol and amino acids. Kanchanara is one of the major ingredients of many important formulations used in Ayurveda system of medicine such as Kanchanara guggulu, Kanchan gutika, Gulkand kanchanara and Kanchanaradi kwatha, Ushirasava, Chandanasava, Kanchanara drava. In this review article, we discussed about synonyms, botanical description, phytochemicals, pharmacological activity and medicinal uses of Kachnar.
Keywords: Bauhinia variegata, Kachnar, flavonoids
Introduction
For humans, the most important necessities are food, clothes, shelter and good health. For good health, nature is full of remedies which help in curing various pathological disorders. From ancient time, herbs are being constantly used for the cure of various disorders as it has been observed that natural therapy is most efficacious than the synthetic one.
Bauhinia variegata is a small to medium-sized tree. It grows to a height of about 10-12 m and is deciduous. It is mostly grown in tropical region. The genus Bauhinia includes about 600 species including shrubs, trees and vines. It is generally planted as an ornamental plant. It grows throughout India and China. It is a reliable greenhouse species which grows at an altitude of 1800 m in Himalayas (Deswal et al., 2015). Bauhinia variegata belongs to family Leguminosae (Caesalpinioideae) is also called Mountain Ebony (English), Rakta kanchan (Marathi), Kachnar (Hindi). It is a medium-sized, deciduous tree found throughout India, at an altitude of 1800m in Himalayas. Leaves are broader, rigidly sub-coriaceous, deeply cordate with two leaflets, connate for about two-thirds up, leaflets are ovate, rounded at apex, 10-15cm long, pubescent beneath when young. Flowers are variously colored, lateral, sessile, stamens 5, staminodes absent, fruits flat; hard glabrous dehiscent pods, 10-15 seeded (Patil et al., 2012). The genus Bauhinia Linn. consists of shrubs or trees, distributed throughout the tropical regions of the world. In India, about 15 species of this genus are found. Bauhinias are mostly propagated from seeds. Tannins, fibre, gum and oil are procured from Bauhinia species which are useful in industries. The plants bear fragrant and beautiful flowers. They are grown as ornamental plants. B tomentosa Linn, B racemosa Lam, B retusa Roxb, B purpurea Linn, B variegata Linn and B malabarica Roxb. are widely used in the traditional systems of medicine (Mali et al., 2009).
Bauhinia variegata Linn. is traditionally used in bronchitis, leprosy, inflammation, bacterial infection, liver disorders, diarrhoea, dysentery, skin disease, leprosy, intestinal worms, wounds, ulcer, fungal infection, ulcers and tumors (Prashar et al., 2010; Yadava et al., 2003; Sinha et al., 2012). The stem bark is used as astringent, alliterative, antidiabetic, antitumor, tonic and anthelmintic, obesity and washing ulcers. (Ambasta, 1998; Ram et al., 1980; Rajkapoor et al., 2003; Rajkapoor et al., 2006; Sinha et al., 2012; Prashar et al., 2010). Infusion of the leaves is used as a laxative and for treating piles. Dried buds are used in the treatment of worms, tumors, diarrhea, dysentery and piles (Asima, 1992). Bauhinia variegata Linn. is also useful as antibacterial, antifungal, antiulcer, and hepatoprotective (Bodakhe et al., 2007). Its root has Flavanone glycoside which is responsible for its anti-inflammatory activity (Yadava et al., 2003). It is used in obesity, hyperphagia, hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia (Prashar et al., 2010). The stem bark consists of 5, 7 dihydroxy and 5, 7 dimethoxy flavanone-4-O-L rhamnopyrosyl-D-glycopyranosides, Kaempferol-3-glucoside, lupeol, and betasitosterol. Seeds contain protein, fatty oil-containing oleic acid, linoleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid. Flowers contain cyanidin, malvidin, peonidin, and kaempferol. Root contains flavanol glycosides (Rajani et al., 2009).
Taxonomic Classification
|
Kingdom |
Plantae |
|
Sub Division |
Spermatophyta |
|
Division |
Magnoliophyta |
|
Class |
Magnoliopsida |
|
Sub Class |
Rosidae |
|
Order |
Fabales |
|
Family |
Caesalpiniaceae |
|
Genus |
Bauhinia |
|
Species |
Variegata |
Common names
Various common names of Bauhinia variegata are: Phalgu in Sanskrit; kachnar in hindi; Adavimandaramu, Devakanchanamu in telugu; Kattaki, Kanjani in tamil; Kachan, Borada, Kosonara in odia; Chuvannamandaram, Mandaramu in Malayalam; Kanchanal, Kovidara, Kolar in Punjabi; Kanchavala, Bilimandar in kannada; Kanchnal, Bwechin in urdu; Kanchana, Raktakancana in Marathi; Kalad in kashmiri; Champakati, Kanchnar in gujarati; Kanchana in Bengali; Kancan, Kanchan, Shonapushpaka in assamese; Mountain ebony, Orchid tree, Poor man’s orchid, Camel’s foot in English (Sudheerkumar et al., 2015).
Synonyms
Kanakarak, kantar, kanchnar, kanchana, kanthapushpa. Common names are Mountain ebony, kachnar, kanchan, kulada (Chandra et al., 2007).
Habitat
Bauhinia variegata is widely distributed in tropical regions and found throughout India especially in Punjab, central and south India. It is widely found in sub Himalayan tract and outer Himalaya’s up to an altitude of 1300 meters. It is also found in China (Sudheerkumar et al., 2015).
List of Bauhinia variegata species
Bauhinia is a large genus under which about 250 species are present. Bauhinia variegata is also known as Butterfly tree as its leaves are in the shape of “butterfly” which is common to many Bauhinia species. The genus was named after Bauhin brothers, Swiss-French botanists. The leaves share the double-leaf configuration of a heart, or more popularly, that of a butterfly. Bauhinia blakeana is the Hongkong orchid tree which is named after British Governors of Hongkong, Sir Henry Blake, 1898-1903 and is now the floral emblem of Hongkong. It is named “Orchid tree” as the flower looks like an orchid. It is usually sterile and is considered as the hybrid origin between Bauhinia variegata and Bauhinia purpurea. In Bauhinia about 15 species occur in India like Bauhinia variegata, Bauhinia purpurea, Bauhinia acuminate, Bauhinia blakeana, Bauhinia corymbosa, Bauhinia galpinii, Bauhinia monandra, Bauhinia tomentosa, Bauhinia malabarica.
The accepted species are (The Plant List, 2013).:
Historical aspect
Vedic Period
Charaka samhita
Susruta samhita
Astanga hrudaya
Sarangadara samhita
Nigantu period
Dhanvantari nigantu
Bhavaprakasa nigantu
Modern period
History speaks for kanchanara as a drug with good medicinal value (Duvvuru, 2013).
Bauhinia is small evergreen medicinal tree consisting of 300 species which are cultivated all over the world in the tropical regions. The trees are cultivated in plain and sub-mountainous tracks in Pakistan. Bauhinia has been widely planted in garden, park as ornamental plant. Leaves were used as fodder for sheep, goats and cattle. In the native countries, the mature seeds and young pods of Bauhinia are eaten, cooked and pickled. The extract of Bauhinia leaves are utilized due to their anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antipyretic, analgesic, antispasmodic, antitumor and antimicrobial properties. The stems, roots and leaves are also useful for the cure of pain, diabetes, infections, ulcer, jaundice, leprosy (Arain et al., 2012).
According to ayurvedic literature, Bauhinia variegata is named as Kanchnar, Gandari, Yugmapatra and Karbudara. It has been reported that Bauhinia variegata posseses Kasaya rasa, Ruksha guna, Shita virya and Katu vipaka. Krimiroga (worm infestation), gandamala (scrofula), apaci (cervical lymphadenitis) and vrana (wounds) can be cured by using stem bark of Bauhinia variegata (Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia, 1990; Kapoor, 2007). The powder of bark of Bauhinia variegata has been used in combination with other drugs by ayuredic practitioners for the cure of many disorders. It is used for the treatment of gynaecological conditions in combination with myrrh (Commiphora molmol Engler), turmeric (Curcuma domestica Linn.) and ashoka (Saraca indica Linn.). It is used for the treatment of lymphatic swelling in combination with guggulu (Commiphora weightii Linn.), punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa Linn.) and triphala (equal parts of Terminalia belerica Linn., Terminalia chebula Retz. and Emblica officinalis Gaerth). It is used for the treatment of osteoporosis in combination with ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (Linn.) Dunal), bakuchi (Mimusops elengi Linn.), ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe.) and guggulu. Diarrhoea is treated in combination with kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa Linn.) and bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica Linn.) (Sebastian, 2006).
Cultivation and collection
Bauhinia variegata can be naturally propagated through the seeds when provided with favorable conditions, whereas artificial propagation is carried out by stump planting i.e. direct sowing of seeds. Branch cuttings normally root with difficulty, but these root well in August, November and February with the application of auxins. Direct sowing can be done in lines, spaced about 3 m apart. Germination starts in about a week after the onset of monsoon rains ensuring good soaking of soil. The entire plants have to be transplanted with the ball of soil. For planting out in July-August, previous year’s seeds are sowed in March-April (Mali et al., 2009).
The ornamental plant is propagated with seeds, stem planting and branch cutting. Seeds are sown in March- April. The seedlings are then transplanted in July-August. Their germination takes place on the onset of monsoon. In vitro regeneration of Bauhinia variegata was observed in nodal explants from mature trees. Optimal shooting was obtained on media supplemented with 13.3 micrometre IBA within 15-20 days. Single shoots with 3-4 nodes initiates rooting when transferred to MS medium with 4.9 micrometre IBA within 45 days (Chandra et al., 2007).
Flowers: vasantha rutu.
Flowering: February-april.
Fruiting: May-june (Chandra et al., 2007).
DOSAGE
Twakchurnam- 4 grams
Pushpachurnam- 2 grams
Decoction- 50-100 ml (Chandra et al., 2007).
Stem bark powder- 3-6 grams
Decoction- 40-80 ml
Flower juice- 10-20 ml
Flower juice for decoction- 20-30 ml (Chandra et al., 2007).
Kanchanara guggulu- ½ Tula (Khare, 2007).
Bark powder- 2-4 masha.
Pushppa powder- 1-2 masha (Kumar, 2013).
Plant description and distribution
Bauhinia variegata is widely distributed throughout India especially in areas about 1800 meters altitude. It is also distributed throughout tropical regions of the world (Sudheerkumar et al., 2015). Bauhinia variegata is known as Mountain Ebony in English. In Sanskrit the word Kanchnar stands “A glowing beautiful lady”. A freshly collected bark of the plant is greyish brown externally and cream colored internally. Its internal surface slowly turns red and on drying becomes brown and smooth. The external surface remains greyish brown and rough due to large number of exfoliations, transverse cracks and fissures. The bark becomes curved and channeled on drying. Leaves are 10-15 cm in length, rigidly subcoriaceous and deeply cordate. The flowers are bisexual, irregular and light magenta in color. The pods are long, hard, flat, and dehiscent and 10-15 seeded. The various parts of the plant viz., flower buds, flowers, stem, stem bark, leaves, seeds and roots are used in the formulation of medicine and in curing a variety of diseases (Mali et al., 2009). Kachnar is a flowering plant that grows well in parts of Southeast Asia and is native to India, Pakistan, Nepal, Burma and Sri Lanka. It is cultivated as an ornamental tree and famous for its scented flowers. Kachnar is crucial part of cuisine in several Nepali, Pakistani and Indian dishes (Sayago et al., 2013). The tree is found in Sub Himalayan tract from the Indus eastward and throughout the forests of India and Burma. It is also grown for its scented flowers and also used as food item in South Asian cuisine (Tewari et al., 2015).
Botanical description
Bark-The bark is light brownish grey, smooth to slightly fissured and scaly. Inner bark is pinkish, fibrous and bitter. The twigs are slender, zigzag; when young, light green, slightly hairy, and angled, becoming brownish grey.
Leaves-Leaves have minute stipules 1-2 mm, early caducous; petiole puberulous to glabrous, 3-4 cm; lamina broadly ovate to circular, often broader than long, 6-16 cm diameter; 11-13 nerved; tips of lobes broadly rounded, base cordate; upper surface glabrous, lower glaucous but glabrous when fully grown.
Flower-Flower clusters (racemes) are unbranched at ends of twigs. The few flowers have short, stout stalks and a stalk-like, green, narrow basal tube (hypanthium). The light green, fairly hairy calyx forms a pointed 5- angled bud and splits open on 1 side, remaining attached; petals 5, slightly unequal, wavy margined and narrowed to the base; 5 curved stamens; very slender, stalked, curved pistil, with narrow, green, 1-celled ovary, style and dot like stigma.
Seeds- Pods dehiscent, strap-shaped, obliquely striate, 20-30 by 2-25 cm; long, hard, flat with 10-15 seeds in each; seeds brown, flat, nearly circular with coriaceus testa (Deswal et al., 2015).
A study was conducted in which the buds and flowers of kachnar were dehydrated. The buds and flowers were divided into two parts. One part was dipped in 2% potassium metabisulphite solution overnight and the other part was blanched for 2-3 minutes. The treated buds and flowers were dried in tray drier at 50°C, 55°C and 60°C; in solar drier and sun until a uniform weight was obtained. It was concluded that samples dried at 60°C took minimum time for drying and were low in moisture content. The samples which were blanched had high moisture content in comparison to the sulphur treated samples and they took more time to dry. It was also reported that the sulphur treated Kachnar samples which were dried at 50°C in tray drier rehydrated much better than others whereas, the rehydration of blanched samples dried at other temperatures was comparatively lower. The drying of Kachnar ensures its better availability and utilization throughout the year (Verma et al., 2010). Bauhinia variegata bark has been studied for dyeing of fabrics like silk. Silk is popular due to its luster, durability and dye capability and it renders colour in a different way. Now-a-days there is a trend of using natural dyes due to many merits. The silk fabric was degummed before dying in order to remove the impurities. The fabric was dried and then treated with maganesium chloride, ferrous sulphate, pomegranate and arjun. The dyed samples were analyzed for their colour fastness against washing, rubbing, perspiration and sunlight. Kachnar dye gave a colour series of pinkish brown colour on silk using different mordants and mordanting methods with varying concentration levels. It was reported that fastness properties enhanced after post mordanting method and colour adherence to fabric was good. It was concluded that the Kachnar dyed silk samples mordanted with different mordants when evaluated visually showed improvement in appearance over the control sample (Yadav et al., 2014).
Chemical constituents (Bansal et al., 2014)
Flavonoids like flavanone, 5, 7-dimethoxy-30, 40-methylenedioxyflavanone and a new dihydrodibenzoxepin, 5, 6-dihydro-1, 7-dihydroxy-3, 4-dimethoxy-methyldibenz oxepin were reported to be present in the roots of Bauhinia variegata (Reddy et al., 2003). The novel flavonol glycoside 5, 7, 3’, 4’- tetrahydroxy-3-methoxy-7-O-alpharhamnopyranosyl (1-->3) - O-beta-galactopyranoside were obtained from the roots of Bauhinia variegata. Triterpene saponin was isolated from the Bauhinia variegata Linn. leaves which was responsible for the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities (Mohamed et al., 2009). A phenanthraquinone, named bauhinione has been isolated from Bauhinia variegata (Zhao et al., 2005).
Figure 2. Chemical constituents of Bauhinia variegata
Roots: The root bark constitutes (2S)-5, 7-dimethoxy-3’, 4’-methylenedioxy flavanone and 5,6-dihydro-1,7-dihydroxy-3,4-dimethoxy-2-methyldibenzoxepin;5,7,3’,4’-tetrahydroxy-3-methoxy-7-O- -L-rhamnopyranosyl (1 3)- O- -D-glucopyranoside. Hentriacontane, 5,7,3’,4’-tetrahydroxy-3-methoxy-7-O- -L-rhamno pyranosyl (13)-O-galactopyranoside5,6-dihydro-1,7-dihydroxy-3,4-dimethoxy-2-Methyldibenzoxepins(2S)-5,7-dimethoxy-3’,4’-methylenedioxyflavanone, flavanone (2S)-5,7-dimethoxy- 3',4'-methylenedioxyflavanone and a new dihydrodibenzoxepin, ‘5-hydroxy7,3',4',5'-tetra-methoxyflavone5-O-beta-Dxylopyranosyl-(1-2)-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside. Bauhinione, a new phenanthraquinone was isolated from Bauhinia variegata and its structure was 2, 7-dimethoxy-3-methyl-9, 10- dihydrophenanthrene-1, 4-dione analyzed by the spectroscopic analysis (Patil et al., 2010). The qualitative chemical test of Bauhinia variegata root powder showed the presence of carbohydrates, glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, phenolic compounds, proteins, gums and mucilages (Deswal et al., 2015; Patil et al., 2010).
Stems: The stem bark constitutes hentriacontane, octacosanol and stigmasterol; 5, 7-dihydroxyflavanone-4’-O--L-rhamnopyranosyl--D-glucopyranoside; -sitosterol, lupeol and kaempferol-3-glucoside; 2, 7-dimethoxy-3-methyl-9, 10-dihydro phenanthrene-1, 4-dione on the basis of spectroscopic analysis. It also shows the presence of glycosides, reducing sugars, nitrogenous substances. The stem bark of Bauhinia variegata was reported to be composed of tannins which are responsible for the immunomodulatory activity (Patil et al., 2010).
Leaves: Leaves consisted of heptatriacontan-12,13-diol and dotetracont-15-en-9-ol. The phytoconstituents of leaves of Bauhinia variegata leaves are tannins, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, flavanoids i.e quercetin, rutin, quercetin, apigenin and apigenin 7-O-glucoside. Bauhinia variegata has similar composition, with germacrene D, spathulenol, δ-cadinine (Deswal et al., 2015).
Buds: Buds consist of alanine, aspartic acid, glycine, serine, glutamic acid, phosphoenolpyruvic acid, oxaloacetic acid and ketoglutaric acid (Bansal et al., 2014).
Flowers: Quercitroside. Isoquercitroside, rutoside, taxifoline rhamnoside, kaempferol-3-glucoside, myricetol glycoside, apigenin-7-O-glucoside, quercetin, rutin, quercetrin, apigenin, ascorbic, aspartic, glutamic, octadecanoic acid, keto acids, amino acid, tannins, cyaniding-3-glucoside, malvidin-3-glucoside, malvidin-3-diglucoside, peonidin-3-glucoside, peonidin-3-diglucoside, 3-galactoside and 3-rhamnoglucoside of kaempferol.
Seed: Carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, ascorbic acid, flavonoids, alkaloids, leucoanthocyanines, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, arginine, glycine, alanine, histidine, isoleucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tyrosine, valine, 5-hydroxy7,3',4',5'-tetra-methoxyflavone-5-O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl-(l~->2)-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside (Tewari et al., 2003). The seeds yield fatty oil containing linolinic acid, oleic, steric, palmitic and myristic acid (Deswal et al., 2015).
Bark: The bark yields fibre and tannins. Seven flavonoids, namely kaempferol, ombuin, kaempferol-7,4′-dimethyl-ether-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, kaempferol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, isorhamnetin-3-O-β-Dglucopyranoside and hesperidin, together with one triterpene caffeate, 3β-trans-(3,4-dihydro xycinnamoyloxy) olean-12-en-28-oic acid were isolated from the non-woody aerial parts of Bauhinia variegata. Phytochemical analysis of the root bark of Bauhinia variegata Linn yielded a new flavanone, (2S)-5,7-dimethoxy-30,40- methylenedioxyflavanone and a new dihydrodibenzoxepin, 5,6-dihydro-1,7-dihydroxy-3,4-dimethoxy-2-methyldibenz[b,f]oxepin together with three known flavonoids. The structures of the new compounds were determined on the basis of spectral studies (Deswal et al., 2015).
Medicinal uses
In Ayurvedic literature Bauhinia variegata is known by Kanchnar, Gandari, Yugmapatra and Karbudara. The plant is full of Kasaya rasa, Ruksha guna, Shita virya and Katu vipaka. The stem bark of Bauhinia variegata is utilised in the cure of krimiroga (worm infestation), gandamala (scrofula), apaci (cervical lymphadenitis) and vrana (wounds). The bark powder of Bauhinia variegata can be used in combination with myrrh (Commiphora molmol Engler), turmeric (Curcuma domestica Linn.) and ashoka (Saraca indica Linn.) to treat gynaecological conditions. It is administered in combination with guggulu (Commiphora weightii Linn.), punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa Linn.) and triphala (equal parts of Terminalia belerica Linn., Terminalia chebula Retz. and Emblica officinalis Gaerth) for the treatment of lymphatic swelling. Bauhinia variegata is administered with ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (Linn.) Dunal), bakuchi (Mimusops elengi Linn.), ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe.) and guggulu for the treatment of osteoporosis. Bauhinia variegata can be used in combination with kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa Linn.) and bibhitaki (Terminalia belerica Linn.) for treating diarrhoea.
In Unani system of medicine, bark is used as astringent to the bowels and tonic to the liver. It is reported to be useful in treatment of leucoderma, leprosy, menorrhagia, asthma, wounds and ulcers. The flower buds are useful in the treatment of piles, cough, eye diseases, and liver complaints and as styptic in haematuria and menorrhagia (Mali et al., 2009).
Bauhinia variegata is widely used in as an antidiabetic agent, because insulin-like protein was present in its leaves (Azevedo et al., 2006). A new lectin from seeds of the Bauhinia variegata candida was obtained which showed hemagglutination activity of BvcL (Silva et al., 2007). The plant was proved to have antitumour activity in Dalton's ascitic lymphoma, N-nitrosodiethylamine-induced liver tumors and human cancer cell lines. It also possess the anti-inflammatory activity due to flavonol glycoside 5,7,3',4'-tetrahydroxy-3-methoxy-7-O-alpha-l-rhamnopyranosyl( 1-->3)-O-beta-galactopyranoside (Patil et al., 2015).
Bauhinia variegata is also useful in the preparation of ayurvedic medicines for diarrhoea, dysentery, goitre, lymphadenitis, worm infestation, rectal prolapse and as depurative (blood purifier). It also enhances the detoxifying function of liver. This plant also possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, cytotoxic, antiobesity and nephroprotective effect (Manoj et al., 2013). Root decoction is administered for reducing corpulence (Tomar et al., 2009). The bark, leaves and flowers of Bauhinia variegata is useful in the cure of gall bladder, kidney stones and piles (Singh et al., 2013).
Pharmacological Activities
Antipathogenic activity
Bauhinia variegata is widely distributed throughout India especially in areas about 1800 meters altitude (Sudheerkumar et al., 2015). Bauhinia variegata Linn. is traditionally used in bronchitis, leprosy, inflammation, bacterial infection, liver disorders, diarrhoea, dysentery, skin disease, leprosy, intestinal worms, wounds, ulcer, fungal infection, ulcers and tumors (Prashar et al., 2010; Yadava et al., 2003; Sinha et al., 2012). The aqueous extract of leaves from Bauhinia variegata was used in barley plant to protect against Bipolaris sorokiniana. The result of research work lead to conclusion that Barley plants pretreated with an extract from Bauhinia variegata and later challenged with conidia from Bipolaris sorokiniana, demonstrated protection against the pathogen that correlated with increased PAL and β-1, 3-glucanase enzyme activities and the presence of coumaric acid (Bach et al., 2012).
Anthelmintic Activity
The stem bark of Bauhinia variegata is used as astringent, alliterative, antidiabetic, antitumor, tonic and anthelmintic, obesity and washing ulcers (Ambasta, 1998; Ram et al., 1980; Rajkapoor et al., 2003; Rajkapoor et al., 2006; Sinha et al., 2012; Prashar et al., 2010). Synergistic anthelmintic activity of panchagavya was reported with ethanolic extract of Bauhinia variegata Linn (EEBV). The presence of PG could potentiate binding of free protein in GIT of host animal and causes death (Kumar et al., 2014).
Antioxidant and DNA protective activity
Infusion of the leaves is used as a laxative and for treating piles. Dried buds are used in the treatment of worms, tumors, diarrhea, dysentery and piles (Asima, 1992). The methanolic extract of Bauhinia variegata bark (MEB) possess in vitro antioxidant and DNA protective activity against H2O2–induced oxidative damage to pBR322 DNA. The results of the research work lead to the conclusion that MEB and its polar sub-fractions (EAB, NBB and REB) have significant antioxidant activity and potential to prevent H2O2-induced oxidative damage to pBR322 DNA. The potent antioxidant activity and DNA protection ability of Bauhinia variegata bark extract/fractions may be attributed to their richness in phenolic/flavonoid compounds (Sharma et al., 2011).
Antihyperlipidemic
Bauhinia variegata Linn. is used as antibacterial, antifungal, antiulcer, and hepatoprotective (Bodakhe et al., 2007). The methanolic extract of Bauhinia variegata (Linn) leaves is evaluated for the presence of antihyperlipidemic activity in Triton WR-1339 (tyloxapol) induced hyperlipidemic rats. The research work concluded that Butanol fraction of B. variegata not only resulted in significant reduction in cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, VLDL, level but also increases the HDL level (Kumar et al., 2011).
Nephroprotective activity
The roots of Bauhinia variegata possess flavanone glycoside which is responsible for its anti-inflammatory activity (Yadava et al., 2003). The ethanolic extract of Bauhinia variegata Linn. whole stem is evaluated for nephroprotective activity against cisplatin-induced nephropathy. It was investigated by an in vivo method in rats and Bauhinia variegata whole stem was found to have potent activity against cisplatin- induced nephropathy (Pani et al., 2011).
Immunomodulatory activity
Kachnar is used in the treatment of obesity, hyperphagia, hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia (Prashar et al., 2010). Patil et al (2010) reported the In-vitro immunomodulatory activity of extracts of Bauhinia variegata Linn stem bark on human neutrophils. Bauhinia variegata Linn stem bark significantly increased the phagocytic function of human neutrophils when compared with control, indicating the possible immunostimulating effect. The Bauhinia variegata Linn stem bark extracts significantly increased the neutrophil chemotactic movement as indicated by the increase in number of cells reached the lower surface of filter; thereby Bauhinia variegata Linn stem bark extracts acts as chemo-attractant (Patil et al., 2010).
Antifungal and antibacterial activity
Bauhinia variegata is a small to medium-sized tree. It grows to a height of about 10-12 m and is deciduous. It is mostly grown in tropical region. It is a reliable greenhouse species which grows at an altitude of 1800 m in Himalayas (Deswal et al., 2015). Bauhinia variegata is evaluated for the presence of antibacterial and antifungal activity of 50 mg/ml, 100 mg/ml and 200 mg/ml petroleum ether, chloroform, acetone-water, water extract by using cup-plate method. The antibacterial activity was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram positive) and Escherichia coli (Gram negative). The antifungal activity was evaluated against Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. It was concluded from the study that Bauhinia variegata exhibited potent antibacterial and antifungal activity (Patil et al., 2015).
Antimicrobial activity
Tannins, fibre, gum and oil are procured from Bauhinia species which are useful in industries. The plants bear fragrant and beautiful flowers. They are grown as ornamental plants. B tomentosa Linn, B racemosa Lam, B retusa Roxb, B purpurea Linn, B variegata Linn and B malabarica Roxb. are widely used in the traditional systems of medicine (Mali et al., 2009). In a study the antimicrobial effect of methanolic extract of flower of Bauhinia variegate Linn was estimated by using gram positive B.subtilus, S. aureaus, S. epidermis and gram negative E. coli, S. flexineria, P. auriginosa. Study shows that methanolic extract of flower of Bauhinia variegata Linn inhibited the growth of micro-organisms dose dependently (Kulshrestha et al., 2011).
Adjunct therapy in chronic Staphylococcus aureus mastitis in goat
Kachnar is used in the cure of obesity, hyperphagia, hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia (Prashar et al., 2010). Jeevan Ranjan Dash studied the effect of Bauhinia variegata L. stem bark powder as adjunct therapy in chronic Staphylococcus aureus mastitis in goat. Mastitis was induced by intracisternal inoculation of coagulase positive S. aureus (J638) at the concentration of 2000 colony forming units. A marked reduction in polymorphonuclear cells and fibrous tissue was observed indicating antifibrotic property of Bauhinia variegata L (Dash et al., 2014).
Molluscicidal activity
Bauhinia variegata is widely distributed in tropical regions and found throughout India especially in Punjab, central and south India (Sudheerkumar et al., 2015). A study using binary combination of Bauhinia variegata and Mimusops elengi with other plant molluscicides Saraca asoca and Thuja orientalis against snail Lymnaea acuminata. It was reported that toxicity of binary combinations of plant molluscicides with other plant molluscicides was toxic against fresh water snail L. acuminate (Singh et al., 2012).
Adulticidal activity
Bauhinia variegata can be naturally propagated through the seeds when provided with favorable conditions, whereas artificial propagation is carried out by stump planting i.e. direct sowing of seeds. Branch cuttings normally root with difficulty, but these root well in August, November and February with the application of auxins (Mali et al., 2009). A study on seven medicinal plants to check their activity against adult worms of Haemonchus contortus. The plants used for the study were Chenopodium album, Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium, Bauhinia variegata, Cuscutta reflexa, Ailenthus excelsa, Calotropis gigantea and Annona squamosa. All these plants were dried in shade and grinded to form a coarse powder, then this coarse powder is extracted by soxhlet apparatus, followed by concentration by rotatory evaporator. In vitro adulticidal activity was analyzed. Then the data obtained was analyzed statistically to find LC50. The result concluded that out of the seven test plants, Calotorpis procera showed significant adulticidal activity after 1 hour, while Chrysanthemum indicum leaves extract after 2 hours. All other five plants took about 4 hours to show the adulticidal activity (Yadav et al., 2009).
Larvicidal activity
Kachnar is a flowering plant that grows well in parts of Southeast Asia and is native to India, Pakistan, Nepal, Burma and Sri Lanka. It is cultivated as an ornamental tree and famous for its scented flowers. Kachnar is crucial part of cuisine in several Nepali, Pakistani and Indian dishes (Sayago et al., 2013). A study proceeded with the investigation of the larvicidal activity of Bauhinia variegata and Croton sparsiflorus plant powders for the Aedes aegypti larvae. Concentrations of 100, 120, 140, 160, 180, and 200 mg/100 ml leaf powder of Bauhinia variegata and C. sparsiflorus were tested against the larvae of A. aegypti up to 24 hr. LC50 value of 122.73 mg/100 ml and LC90 value of 180.04 mg/100 ml was observed for C. sparsiflorus leaf powder. LC50 value of 142.47 mg/100 ml and LC90 value of 210.16 mg/100 ml was observed for Bauhinia variegata leaf powder. It was proved from the study that C. sparsiflorus leaf powder caused 100% mortality which was followed by the leaf powder of Bauhinia variegata against A. aegypti (Shanmugapriya et al., 2016).
Treatment of Urinary tract infection (UTI):
Kachnar is grown for its scented flowers and also used as food item in South Asian cuisine (Tewari et al., 2015). Bauhinia variegata can be used for the treatment of urinary tract infection. 9 tropical flowering plants (Anogeissus acuminata, Azadirachta indica, Bauhinia variegata, Boerhaavia diffusa, Punica granatum, Soymida febrifuga, Terminalia chebula, Tinospora cordifolia and Tribulus terrestris) have been studied for possible use as source of antimicrobials for multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria, along with main-stream antibiotics. Pathogenic bacteria were isolated from urine samples of patients attending and admitted in the hospital. Antibiograms of 11 isolated bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus; and GNs, Acinetobacter baumannii, Citrobacter freundii, Enterobacter aerogenes, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) were ascertained by the disc-diffusion method, and antibacterial activity of plant extracts was monitored by the agar-well diffusion method. It was noticed that Bauhinia variegata was one of the plant active against urinary tract infection (Mishra et al., 2015).
Anti-carcinogenic and Anti-mutagenic potential
Flavonoids like flavanone, 5, 7-dimethoxy-30, 40-methylenedioxyflavanone and a new dihydrodibenzoxepin, 5, 6-dihydro-1, 7-dihydroxy-3, 4-dimethoxy-methyldibenz oxepin were reported to be present in the roots of Bauhinia variegata (Reddy et al, 2003). The topical application of the Kachanar leaves extract at the pre promotion phase showed a significant reduction in tumor incidence, tumor burden, tumor weight, tumor size, cumulative number of papillomas, in Kachanar treated groups as compared to the carcinogen treated control. The antitumor activity of ethanolic extract of Bauhinia variegata was reported in Dalton’s ascetic lymphoma (DAL) in swiss albino mice and in liver tumor in rats (Agrawal et al., 2009). Mishra et al investigated the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities of Bauhinia variegata leaf extracts against Klebsiella pneumonia, E. coli, Proteus spp. and Pseudomonas spp. It produced significant antioxidant acitvity in beta carotene bleaching assay. Ethyl acetate fraction was used to produce cytotoxicity against MCF-7 and THP-1 cell lines (Mishra et al., 2013).
Anti-tumour activity
Bauhinia variegata is widely used in as an antidiabetic agent, because insulin-like protein was present in its leaves (Azevedo et al., 2006). The ethanolic extract of Bauhinia variegate possess potent cytotoxic activity against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma in Swiss albino mice. Oral administration of ethanolic extract of Bauhinia variegata was effective in reducing solid tumor mass development induced by EAC cells (Rajkapoor et al., 2003 and Rajkapoor et al., 2006).
Rajkapoor B. et al reported chemopreventive and cytotoxic effect of ethanol extract of Bauhinia variegata. The chemopreventive and cytotoxic effect was against induced DEN liver tumor and human cancer lines (Rajkapoor et al., 2006).
Anti-inflammatory
The flower buds of Bauhinia variegata are used in the treatment of piles, cough, eye diseases, and liver complaints and as styptic in haematuria and menorrhagia (Mali et al., 2009). A study was performed regarding the investigation of the anti-inflammatory activity of the ethanolic extract of the roots of Bauhinia variegata in albino rats by carrageenan induced hind paw edema method. The plant extract produced moderate anti-inflammatory activity (Bansal et al., 2014). Gayathri G. et al reported the anti-inflammatory activity of Bauhinia variegata Linn. leaf. The study included the search of COX-2 and iNOS inhibiting compounds from Bauhinia variegata Linn. 3D structures of compounds reported from GCMS analysis. The phytochemicals of Bauhinia variegata leaf was found to have appreciable anti-inflammatory activity (Gunalan et al., 2014).
Antipyretic activity
Bauhinia variegata is also useful in the preparation of ayurvedic medicines for diarrhoea, dysentery, goitre, lymphadenitis, worm infestation, rectal prolapse and as depurative (blood purifier) (Manoj et al., 2013). The ethanolic extracts of Bauhinia variegata and Glycosmis pentaphylla were evaluated for antipyretic activity in Brewer’s yeast induced pyrexia in rats. Activity was due to inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis in the hypothalamus (Mandal et al., 2011).
Wound healing activity
The bark, leaves and flowers of Bauhinia variegata is useful in the cure of gall bladder, kidney stones and piles (Singh et al., 2013). A polyherbal ointment of Napalese medicinal plants made up of methanolic extracts of Bauhinia variegata, Rhododendron arboreum, and Myrica esculenta was evaluated for antioxidant and wound healing activities. The antioxidant activity was investigated for Bauhinia variegata, Myrica esculenta, Rhododendron arboreum, Pyrus pashia and Psidium guajava by using DPPH assay. The ointment was prepared by using Bauhinia variegata, Rhododendron arboreum, and Myrica esculenta into 10% w/w ointment in the ratio of 1:1:2. It was observed that herbal ointment treated rats were totally healed in excision wound model in comparison to the Framycetin treated, blank and control group of rats where 2.72%, 4.5%, and 5.73% wound area was found remaining (Gyawali et al., 2016).
Antidiabetic Activity
Bauhinia variegata helps in the treatment of gynaecological conditions (Mali et al., 2009). A study was conducted to investigate the antidiabetic property of Bauhinia purpurea extract against alloxan induced diabetes in mice by glucometer method, with 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg (Meshram et al., 2013).
Anti-Eosinophilic activity
Bauhinia variegata is widely used in as an antidiabetic agent, because insulin-like protein was present in its leaves (Azevedo et al., 2006). The response of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Bauhinia variegata was evaluated against milk-induced leucocytosis and eosinophilic in mice and found significant dose-dependent reduction in total leucocyte and eosinophil (Mali et al., 2011).
Antidepressant effect
Khare P. et al reported the antidepressant activity of Bauhinia variegata using Tail suspension test (TST), Forced swim test (FST). The study revealed that Bauhinia variegata methanolic extract produced significant antidepressant like effect at dose of 100 & 200 mg/kg administered for 7 & 14 consecutive days as indicated by reduction in immobility times of mice in TST & FST (P<0.05). Bauhinia variegata methanolic extract produced significant antidepressant activity compared to that of imipramine (Khare et al., 2015).
Antianxiety activity
Kachnar was proved to have antitumour activity in Dalton's ascitic lymphoma, N-nitrosodiethylamine-induced liver tumors and human cancer cell lines. It also possess the anti-inflammatory activity due to flavonol glycoside 5,7,3',4'-tetrahydroxy-3-methoxy-7-O-alpha-l-rhamnopyranosyl( 1-->3)-O-beta-galactopyranoside (Patil et al., 2015). The antianxiety activity of the leaves and seeds of Bauhinia variegata was investigated. Elevated plus maze (EPM) apparatus was used in swiss albino mice to analyze the antianxiety activity. It was concluded that the methanolic extract (100 mg/kg, p.o.) of leaves and Bauhinia variegata seeds (200 mg/kg) significantly increased the time spent in open arms of the EPM. The activity of Bauhinia variegata was comparable with buspirone and showed good antianxiety activity (Khare et al., 2016).
Antistress /Adaptogenic Activity
Bauhinia variegata is also useful in the preparation of ayurvedic medicines for diarrhoea, dysentery, goitre, lymphadenitis, worm infestation, rectal prolapse and as depurative (blood purifier). It also enhances the detoxifying function of liver (Manoj et al., 2013). The effect of ethanolic bark extract of Bauhinia variegata on oxidative stress induced by cold restraint stress (CRS) and iron overload (IO) oxidative stress was evaluated. They found changes in the antioxidant enzymes like GSH, CAT, SOD and LPO. The extract significantly managed the stress-induced variations in the biochemical levels and antioxidant enzymes in stress models (Marasani et al., 2013).
Nootropic potential
Bauhinia variegata is a small to medium-sized tree. It grows to a height of about 10-12 m and is deciduous. It is mostly grown in tropical region. The genus Bauhinia includes about 600 species including shrubs, trees and vines. It is generally planted as an ornamental plant (Deswal et al., 2015). A research was conducted to evaluate the nootropic potential of Bauhinia variegata Linn in rats. Leaves were used for investigation of total flavonoid content. Nootropic activity was determined by diazepam-induced amnesia (Jatav et al., 2014).
Neuroprotective activity
Bauhinia variegata Linn. is traditionally used in bronchitis, leprosy, ulcer, fungal infection, ulcers and tumors (Prashar et al., 2010). The neuroprotective activity of Bauhinia variegata acetone soluble leaf extract was investigated in the reserpine induced catalepsy rat model. It was concluded from the results that catalepsy was reduced in the drug treated groups when compared to the disease induced group in comparison to the disease induced group. The biochemical parameters like lipid peroxidation, glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were estimated in brain. The extract of Bauhinia variegata significantly decreased lipid peroxidation levels and increased antioxidant enzyme levels (Trivedi et al., 2015).
Hepatoprotective activity
Infusion of the leaves is used as a laxative and for treating piles. Dried buds are used in the treatment of worms, tumors, diarrhea, dysentery and piles (Asima, 1992). The ethanolic extract of Bauhinia variegata possess hepatoprotective property against carbon tetrachloride induced liver injury in rats. In this study liver injury was induced by carbon tetrachloride 1 ml/kg dissolved in olive oil (1:1) orally. Silymarin (100mg/kg) orally was used as standard drug. Various biochemical parameters were also analysed like aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) followed by histopathology. BVEE (400mg/kg and 600mg/kg) proved to be more potent than BVEE (200mg/kg and 100mg/kg) (Manoj et al., 2013).
Trypsin inhibitory activity: The root of Bauhinia variegata consists of flavanone glycoside which is responsible for its anti-inflammatory activity (Yadava et al., 2003). The Camel’s foot tree, Bauhinia variegata var. variegate seeds possess Kunitz-type trypsin inhibitor (termed BvvTI) activity. BvvTI shared the same reactive site residues (Arg, Ser) and exhibited similarity with N-terminal amino acid sequence to other Bauhinia protease inhibitors. It showed the highest trypsin inhibitory activity (Ki, 0.1 × 10−9 M) among the other species. It was further reported that BvvTI showed anti-HIV-1 reverse transcriptase activity along with diminishing the growth of nasopharyngeal cancer CNE-1 cells. This may be caused due to the stimulation of cytokines and apoptotic bodies (Fang et al., 2010).
Hemagglutinator
It was reported the hemagglutinator activity of the seeds of Bauhinia variegata. Melibiose binding lectin was isolated from Bauhinia variegata seeds which were responsible for hemagglutinator activity. It was successful in inhibiting the proliferation in hepatoma HepG2 cells, breast cancer MCF7 cells and HIV-1 reverse transcriptase activity (Lin et al., 2008).
Proteinase Inhibitor
Kachnar is used in obesity, hyperphagia, hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia (Prashar et al., 2010). The seeds of Bauhinia variegata could be a source of proteinase inhibitors which may be responsible for the inhibition of blood clotting enzymes, serine and cysteine proteinases. According to their study, two varieties Bauhinia variegata seeds exhibited Plant Kunitz type inhibitors- Bauhinia variegata trypsin inhibitors, viz. Bauhinia variegata Candida trypsin inhibitor and Bauhinia variegata lilac trypsin inhibitor are proteins. The complete sequences were estimated by automated Edman degradation of the reduced and carboxymethylated proteins of the peptides caused due to Staphylococcus aureus protease and trypsin digestion (Oliva et al., 2009).
Anticataract activity
Flowers of Bauhinia variegata contain cyanidin, malvidin, peonidin, and kaempferol. Root contains flavanol glycosides (Rajani et al., 2009). The anticataract activity of stem bark of Bauhinia variegata was evaluated on the basis of presence of rhamnocitrin. The anticataract study was conducted on ovine and chick embryo lens model by using a flavonoids rhamnocirin (10, 20, 40 and 80 µg) isolated from stem bark of Bauhinia variegata. It was concluded from the study that rhamnocitrin was responsible to prevent the lens against cloudiness induced by hydrogen peroxide and hydrocortisone in a dose dependent manner (Bodakhe et al., 2012).
Antimalarial activity
Bauhinia variegata is widely distributed in tropical regions and found throughout India especially in Punjab, central and south India. It is widely found in sub Himalayan tract and outer Himalaya’s up to an altitude of 1300 meters. It is also found in China (Sudheerkumar et al., 2015). The leaves and roots of Ocimum sanctum Linn. and Bauhinia variegata Linn. possess antimalarial activity which was evaluated against Plasmodium berghei. Water and ether soluble extracts were given orally to the mice along with placebo controls. It was observed from the study that on day 4 parasitaemia in control group of mice was 25.20% ± 9.44% while in mice treated with water soluble extracts of leaves and roots of Ocimum sanctum showed 2.80% ± 2.17% and 7.60% ± 5.32% infection respectively while in mice treated with water soluble extract of leaves of Bauhinia variegata showed 23.60% ± 13.35% infection (Banyal et al., 2015).
Anti-ulcer activity
The stems, roots and leaves are also useful for the cure of pain, diabetes, infections, ulcer, jaundice, leprosy (Arain et al., 2012). Bauhinia variegata possess anti-ulcer activity. The anti-ulcer activity of alcoholic extract of Bauhinia variegata stem (250 mg/kg) was performed against pylorus ligation-induced and aspirin-induced gastric ulcer in rats. It was concluded that Bauhinia variegata stem extract significantly decreased the gastric secretions and hence decreased the ulcer index (Prusty et al., 2011).
Bauhinia variegata Marketed Products
Kanchnar Guggul: is an Ayurvedic formulation consisting of kanchnar bark (10 parts) ginger, black pepper, long pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, tejpatra leaves (Cassia cinnamon), triphala (1 part of each of the above herbs) is available in the market for the treatment of TB tumors, ulcers, gonorrhoea, increase white blood cells.
Chandanasava: used as cardiac and digestive tonic
Chitrakadi Taila: Herbal oil used to apply into fistula tract to bring quick healing.
Ushirasava: Used in the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding, skin diseases.
Gandamala Kandana Rasa: Used in goiter, cervical lymphadenitis.
Mutra Sangrahaniya Kwatha: Used in UTI.
Kanchan gutika
Gulkand Kanchanara
Kanchanaradi Kwatha
Kanchanara drava
Kachnar buds are used in many recipes. The recipes of buds of Kachnar included its treatment with potassium metabisulphite followed by drying in the tray drier at 50°C. This recipe was much better than blanching (Awasthi et al., 2011).
Conclusion
Kanchnara (Bauhinia variegata Linn.) is the medicinal plant with a potential to cure various diseases. We have discussed about the pharmacological activities, traditional, medicinal uses, cultivation, collection, chemical constituents and history of Bauhinia variegata. The important chemical constituents present in it are flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids, tannins and terpenoids which are responsible for different pharmacological properties of Bauhinia variegata Linn. Bauhinia variegata Linn. act as anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant, anti-ulcer, nephroprotective, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-cancer and hepatoprotective agent. Further studies on Bauhinia variegata should be done for the investigation of the molecular mechanisms of action of various phytoprinciples present in it. A wide variety of biological potential of Bauhinia variegata has been proved by the scientific research. This plant can be used in the preparation of various medicines due to its phytochemical and pharmacological properties. A major portion of world population is dependent on plants as the exclusive source of drugs. So, it is very challenging to provide safe, cheap and effective medicines especially to the population belonging to rural area. Investigation should be continued on the chemical constituents, pharmacological activities of Bauhinia variegata based on clinical trials. In this review article, we have gathered information to represent the botanical, pharmacognostical, ethnobotanical, phytochemical and pharmacological literature on Bauhinia variegata. It has been reported through this study that this plant exhibit antimicrobial, antiarthritic, antigoitrogenic, anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, antitumour, cytotoxic, antiulcer, haemagglutination, hepatoprotective and insecticidal activity. There is much more to explore about the benefits of this herbal medicinal plant by clinical and pharmacological screening at molecular level. So, investigations should be done for the standardization of different extracts of Bauhinia variegata for preparing herbal formulations, analysing the possible mode of action of isolated active constituents.
Conflicts of interest
There are no conflicts of interest.
References
Agrawal RC, Pandey S. 2009. Evaluation of anticarcinogenic and antimutagenic potential of Bauhinia variegata extract in Swiss albino mice. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention J, 10(5):913-16.
Ambasta SP. 1998. The Wealth of India, Raw materials. CSIR: 56-7.
Arain S, Memon N, Muhammad T, Sherazi THS. 2012. Physico-chemical characteristics of oil and seed residues of Bauhinia variegata and Bauhinia linnaei. Pakistan Journal of Analytical Environmental Chemistry, 13:16-21.
Asima C, Satyesh CP. 1992. The Treatise of Indian medicinal plants. CSIR 2:24-6.
Awasthi M, Verma R. 2011. Sensory acceptability of rehydrated Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata) bud based recipes. Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika, 26(1 and 2):34-8.
Azevedo CR, Maciel FM, Silva LB, Ferreira AT, Da Cunha M, Machado OL, Fernandes RN, Oliveira AE, Xavier-Filho J. 2006. Isolation and intracellular localization of insulin-like proteins from leaves of Bauhinia variegata. Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, 39 (11):1435-44.
Bach Erna E, Marcondes, Maria CL. 2012. Aqueous extract of leaves from Bauhinia variegata used in barley plants to protect against Bipolaris Sorokiniana. Wudpecker Research Journal, 1(3):71-9.
Bansal V, Malviya R, Deeksha. 2014. Phytochemical, Pharmacological Profile and Commercial Utility of Tropically Distributed Plant Bauhinia variegate. Global Journal of Pharmacology, 8(2):196-205.
Banyal HS, Sharma R, Devi N. 2015. Antimalarial effect of Ocimum sanctum Linn. and Bauhinia variegata Linn. on Plasmodium berghei. Journal of Pharmacy and Biological Sciences, 10(2):70-2.
Bodakhe B, Jayakar B, Ram A. 2007. Hepatoprotective properties of Bauhinia variegate bark extract. Yakugaku Zasshi Journal of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan, 127(9):1503-7.
Bodakhe SH, Ram A, Verma S, Pandey DP. 2012. Anticataract activity of rhamnocitrin isolated from Bauhinia variegata stem bark. Oriental Pharmacy and Experimental Medicine, 12(3):227-32.
Chandra K, Chaudhari BG, Dash S, Kour GD, Gautam RK. 2007. Database on medicinal plant used in Ayurveda. Central council of research in Ayurveda & Siddha (Deptt of AYUSH, Min. Health & Family Welfare) Govt of India 8:157-69.
Dash JR, Sar TK, Samanta I, Pal S, Khan M, Patra NC, Sarkar U, Maji AK, Mandal TK. 2014. Efficacy evaluation of Bauhinia variegata L. stem bark powder as adjunct therapy in chronic Staphylococcus aureus mastitis in goat. Pharmacognosy Magazine, 10(3):512–8.
Deswal G, Arora K. 2015. Ethnobotany and phytopharmacology of Bauhinia variegata. International Journal of Pharmaceutics and Drug Analysis, 3(9):261-3.
Fang EF, Wong JH, Bah CSF, Lin P, Tsao SW, Ng TB. 2010. Bauhinia variegata var. variegata trypsin inhibitor: From isolation to potential medicinal applications. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 396 (4):806-11.
Gunalan G, Vijayalakshmi K, Saraswathy A, Hopper W, Tamilvannan T. 2014. Anti-inflammatory activities of phytochemicals from Bauhinia variegata Linn. leaf: An in silico approach. Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research, 6(9):334-48.
Gyawali R, Hengaju A, Magar PT, Khadka P, Sah R, Bhandari S, Adhikari S, Subedi G, Shrestha AK, Shrestha TM. 2016. Antioxidant and wound healing property of polyherbal ointment of Nepalese medicinal plants. International Journal of Allied Medical Science and Clinical Research, 4(2):275-83.
Jatav N, Ganeshpurkar A, Gupta N, Ayachi C, Ramhariya R. 2014. Nootropic potential of Bauhinia variegata: A systematic study on murine model. Archives of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2(1):29-35.
Kapoor RB, Ravichandra V, Gobinath M, Anbu J, Harikrishnan N, Sumithra M, Sankari M. Venugopal R, Sakthisekaran D. 2007. Effect of Bauhinia variegata on complete freund’s adjuvant induced arthritis in rats. Journal of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 2(5):465-72.
Khare CP. 2007. Indian Medicinal Plants.
Khare P, Deepshikha, Singh L, Sweety, Chauhan S, Yadav G. 2015. Evaluation of antidepressant activity of Bauhinia variegata in rats. Global Journal of Pharmacology, 9 (1):56-9.
Khare P, Deepshikha, Singh L, Sweety, Chauhan S, Yadav G. 2016. Evaluation of antianxiety activity of Bauhinia variegata in mice. Journal of the International Association of Advanced Technology and Science, 2(2):1-8.
Kulshrestha PK, Kumar P, Mishra AK, Pal VK, Pandey S, Tripathi D, Yadav P. 2011. The antimicrobial activity of Bauhinia variegata linn. flower extract (methanolic). Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research, 4(1):46-7.
Kumar D, Parcha V, Maithani A, Dhulia I. 2011. Effect and evaluation of Antihyperlipidemic activity of fractions of total methanol extract of Bauhinia variegata (Linn.) leaves on Triton WR -1339 (Tyloxapol) induced hyperlipidemic rats. International Journal of Research in Pharmacy and Science, 2(4):493-7.
Kumar P. 2013. Bhavaprakasa nigantu. Classical text book review: 1-10.
Lin P, Ng TB. 2008. Preparation and biological properties of a melibiose binding lectin from Bauhinia variegata seeds. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 56:10481-6.
Mali RG, Dhake AS. 2009. Bauhinia variegata Linn. (Mountain Ebony): A review on ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacology. Oriental Pharmacy and Experimental Medicine, 9(3):207-16.
Mali RG, Dhake AS. 2011. Evaluations of effects of Bauhinia variegate stem bark extracts against milk-induced eosinophilia in mice. Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology and Research, 2:132-4.
Mandal S, Upadhyay N, Sharma I, Rohit S, Mandloi A. 2011. A comparative antipyretic activity of the crude extracts of the aerial parts of Glycosmis pentaphylla and Bauhinia variegate. Recent Research in Science and Technology, 3(7):16-8.
Manoj, Ahmad F, Kumar A, Yunus SM. 2013. Screening of hepatoprotective activity of ethanolic extract of stem bark of Bauhinia variegata in rats. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 5(2):624-8.
Marasani A, Kavitha N, Babu M. 2013. Antistress/Adaptogenic activity of Bauhinia variegata against different stress paradigms. International Journal of Pharmaceutical & Biological Archives, 4(5):956-64.
Meshram SS, Itankar PR, Patil AT. 2013. To study antidiabetic activity of stem bark of Bauhinia purpurea Linn. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, 2(1):171-5.
Mishra A, Sharma AK, Kumar S, Saxena AK, Pandey AK. 2013. Bauhinia variegata leaf extracts exhibit considerable antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. Bio Med Research International, 1:1-10.
Mishra MP, Rath S, Swain SS, Ghosh G, Das D, Padhy RN. 2015. In vitro antibacterial activity of crude extracts of 9 selected medicinal plants against UTI causing MDR bacteria. Journal of King Saud University-Science, 10:1-12.
Oliva MLV, Sampaio MU. 2009. Action of plant proteinase inhibitors on enzymes of physiopathological importance. Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciencias, 81(3):615-21.
Pani SR, Sahoo S, Panda PK, Mishra S. 2011. Hepatoprotective effect of Bauhinia variegata (Linn.) whole stem against carbon tetrachloride-included hepatopathy in rats. Medicinal and aromatic plant science and biotechnology, 5(1):62-5.
Patil JK, Jalalpure SS, Hamid S, Ahirrao RA. 2010. In-vitro immunomodulatory activity of extracts of Bauhinia variegata Linn stem bark on human neutrophils. Iranian Journal of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 9:41-6.
Patil JK, Jalalpure SS, Sayyed HYH, Hiremath RD, Chouhan MK. 2015. Evaluation of antibacterial and antifungal potential of Bauhinia variegata (linn.) stem bark. Indian Journal of Natural Products, 29(1):44-55.
Patil JK, Patel MR, Sayyed HY, Patel AA, Pokal DM, Suryawanshi HP, Ahirrao RA. 2012. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical investigation of Bauhinia variegata (linn.) benth stem bark. Pharma Science Monitor, 3(1):1-12.
Prashar Y, Kumar AS. 2010. Antiobesity activity of Bauhinia variegata Linn. in high fat diet induced obesity in female rats. Pharmacologyonline 2:1008-16.
Prusty KB, Kiran B, Bhargavi V, Subudhi SK. 2011. Anti-ulcer investigation of the different extracts of bark of Bauhinia variegata Linn (Family-Caesalpiniaceae) by pyloric ligation & aspirin plus pyloric ligation model. Internatiional Journal of Pharmacy Biological Sciences, 1(4):606-14.
Rajani GP, Ashok P. 2009. In vitro antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic activities of Bauhinia variegata Linn. Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 41(5):227-32.
Rajkapoor B, Jayakar B, Murugesh N, Sakthisekaran D. 2006. Chemoprevention and cytotoxic effect of Bauhinia variegata against N-nitrosodiethylamine induced liver tumors and human cancer cell lines. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 104(3):407-9.
Rajkapoor B, Jayakar B, Murugesh N. 2003. Antitumour activity of Bauhinia variegate on Dalton’s ascitic lymphoma. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 89:107-9.
Ram PR, Mehrotra BN. 1980. Compendium of Indian medicinal plants, 3:84-91.
Sayago CT, Camargo VB, Barbosa F, Gularte C, Pareira G, Miotto S. 2013. Chemical composition and in vitro antioxidant activity of hydro-ethanolic extracts from Bauhinia forficate sussp. Pruinosa and B. variegate. Acta Biologica Hungarica, 64(1):21-33.
Shanmugapriya R, Maheswaran R, Ignacimuthu S. 2016. Bauhinia variegata L. and Croton sparsiflorus L. against the larvae of Aedes aegypti L. Research & Reviews: Journal of Zoological Sciences, 4(1):1-4.
Sharma N, Bhardwaj R. 2011. Evaluation of Bauhinia variegate Linn bark fraction for in-vitro antioxidant potential and protection effect against H2O2 induced oxidative damage to pBRR322 DNA. African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 5(12):1494-1500.
Silva JA, Damico DC, Baldasso PA, Mattioli MA, Winck FV, Fraceto LF. 2007. Isolation and biochemical characterization of a galactoside binding lectin from Bauhinia variegata candida (BvcL) seeds. Protein Journal 26(3): 193-201.
Singh A, Satanker N, Kushwaha M, Disoriya R, Gupta AK. 2013. Ethano-Botany and uses of non-graminaceous forage species of Chitrakoot region of Madhya Pradesh. Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources, 4(4):425-31.
Singh R, Bachheti RK, Saraswat S, Singh SK. 2012. Assessment of Phytochemical and Biological Potentials of Bauhinia variegata L. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 4(1):95-100.
Sinha K, Verma A. 2012. Evaluation of Antimicrobial and Anticancer activities of methanol extract of in vivo and in vitro grown Bauhinia variegata L. International Research Journal of Biological Sciences 1(6): 26-30.
Sudheerkumar K, Seetaramswamy S, Babu AK, Kumar PK. 2015. Phytopharmacognostical and isolation of chemical constituents from Bauhinia variegata leaf extract. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, 4(1):189-91.
Tewari RC, Chaubey S, Dash S, Kour GD. 2015. Kanchnara (Bauhinia variegata linn.): A critical review. International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharma Research, 3(7):39-46.
The Plant List 2013. A working list for all plant species.
Tomar A. 2009. Folk medicinal uses of plant roots from Meerut district, Uttar Pradesh. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 8(2):298-301.
Trivedi V, Sarawade RD, Mehta S, Shaikh A. 2015. Evaluation of neuroprotective activity of Bauhinia variegata on reserpine induced catalepsy in rats. Journal of Medical Science and Clinical Research, 3(9):7421-8.
Verma R, Awasthi M, Modgil R, Dhaliwal RS. 2010. Physico-chemical characteristics of dehydrated Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata). International Journal of Processing and Post Harvest Technology, 1(2):93-8.
Yadav P, Kumar A, Vihan VS, Mahour K. 2009. In-vitro adulticidal screening of various plant extract against adult Haemonchus contortus. Journal of Pharmacy Research, 2 (7):1262-3.
Yadav S, Rose NM, Singh, SSJ, Khambra K. 2014. Effect on physical properties of silk dyed with Kachnar bark dye. Annals of biology, 30(4):758-61.
Yadava RN, Reddy VM. 2003. Anti-inflammatory activity of a novel flavonol glycoside from the Bauhinia variegata Linn. Natural Product Research, 7:159-65.
Zhao YY, Cui CB, Cai B, Han B, Sun QS. 2005. A new phenanthraquinone from the stems of Bauhinia variegata L. Journal of Asian Natural Products Research, 7(6):835-8.
