Botanical Overview
Tylophora indica (family Asclepiadaceae) is a climbing shrub native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Common names include Indian ipecac and Tylophora. The primary parts used medicinally are the leaves and roots, traditionally employed for respiratory and inflammatory conditions.
Energetics
The plant is considered cooling and drying in nature, with bitter and acrid tastes. It has a relaxing tonicity, making it useful for respiratory spasm relief.
Primary Actions
- Antiasthmatic
- Expectorant
- Antiallergic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Immunomodulatory
Indications
Western
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Allergic rhinitis
- Eczema
- Chronic cough
Syndromes
- Respiratory hypersensitivity
- Chronic inflammatory conditions
Ayurveda
- Wheezing
- Dyspnea
- Skin eruptions
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Swasa Roga (Asthma)
- Kushtha (Skin diseases)
Unani
- Cough
- Asthmatic attacks
- Respiratory congestion
Syndromes
- Za`f-e-Riya (Asthma)
TCM
No clearly documented traditional Chinese medicine uses found.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Main phytochemicals include alkaloids such as tylophorine and phenanthroindolizidine alkaloids, alongside flavonoids. These compounds contribute to its antiasthmatic, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Leaf decoction 2-5 g daily
- Extracts standardized to tylophorine alkaloids
- Powdered leaf 1-3 g, 1–2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use caution as high doses may cause gastrointestinal irritation. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation due to lack of safety data. Potential interactions with sedatives and respiratory depressants warrant monitoring.
Astrological Correspondences
No authoritative information available on planetary or elemental rulers.
Selected References
- Pharmacological and clinical evaluation of Tylophora indica in bronchial asthma
- The immunomodulatory effects of Tylophora indica extract
- Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia – Tylophora indica monograph
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants: Tylophora indica