Evaluation of the effect of Prithvi Mahabhuta (earth element) on intestinal transit time in Swiss albino mice

Abstract

Background: Pugaphala (fruit of Areca catechu Linn.) and Udumbara Twaka (bark of Ficus glomerata Roxb.) are popular for their medicinal properties. Both drugs are used in a variety of compound formulations in Ayurveda. On the basis of their Rasa Panchaka (five factors of substance), pharmacognostical, and pharmaceutical research, Pugaphala and Udumbara Twaka were chosen as Prithvi Mahabhuta (earth element) dominant drugs in the current study. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of Prithvi Mahabhuta-dominating Dravya, Pugaphala, and Udumbara Twaka on intestinal transit time in Swiss albino mice. Materials and methods: A total of 18 Swiss albino mice were divided into three groups of six in each. Pugaphala and Udumbara Twaka were administered in mice in doses of 260 mg/kg and 520 mg/kg, respectively. Results: The result shows that both the drugs significantly reduce intestinal motility due to their Guna (properties) as Ruksha (dry), Vishada (nonslimy), Sthira (stable), Sheeta (cold), and Kashaya Rasa (astringent taste) of Prithvi Mahabhuta; however, Udumbara sample is found to be more efficient. Conclusion: The dominance of Prithvi Mahabhuta is thus confirmed by pharmacological studies in both Pugaphala and Udumbara Twaka, and it is also confirmed that Udumbara Twaka has more Parthiva dominancy than Pugaphala Churna. The Stambhana effect of Prithvi Mahabhuta on intestinal motility can be assessed by latency of onset of white-colored fecal matter in mice.