AP Herbal Medicine & Formulations 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary action of Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) in Ayurvedic medicine?
- Medhya (brain tonic and cognitive enhancer) (Correct answer)
- Deepana (digestive stimulant)
- Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
- Muthrala (diuretic)
Correct answer: Medhya (brain tonic and cognitive enhancer)
Shankhapushpi is classified as a Medhya Rasayana, specifically used as a brain tonic to enhance memory, learning, and cognitive function while also reducing stress and anxiety.
Question 2: Which Ayurvedic formulation known as Chyawanprash is classified under which dosage form?
- Avaleha (electuary/jam) (Correct answer)
- Churna (powder)
- Vati (tablet)
- Ghrita (medicated ghee)
Correct answer: Avaleha (electuary/jam)
Chyawanprash is classified as an Avaleha, a semi-solid jam-like preparation made primarily with Amalaki, ghee, honey, and numerous other herbs.
Question 3: Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is contraindicated or used with caution in patients with which condition?
- Hypothyroidism, as it may reduce thyroid hormone levels (Correct answer)
- Hypertension, as it significantly raises blood pressure
- Anemia, as it reduces iron absorption
- Diabetes, as it causes hyperglycemia
Correct answer: Hypothyroidism, as it may reduce thyroid hormone levels
Bacopa monnieri has been shown to potentially lower thyroid hormone levels, so it should be used cautiously in patients with hypothyroidism or those on thyroid medications.
Question 4: In Ayurvedic formulations, what is the specific role of 'Praxi' or 'Prakshepa dravya' ingredients?
- Added at the end of preparation without heating to preserve volatile components (Correct answer)
- Used as the primary therapeutic ingredient in the formulation
- Added at the beginning to enhance the decoction process
- Used to adjust the pH of the final preparation
Correct answer: Added at the end of preparation without heating to preserve volatile components
Prakshepa dravyas are ingredients containing volatile oils or heat-sensitive compounds that are added at the very end of preparation or after cooling to prevent destruction of their active constituents.
Question 5: Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves are classified by which predominant rasa (taste) in Ayurveda?
- Tikta (bitter) (Correct answer)
- Katu (pungent)
- Kashaya (astringent)
- Madhura (sweet)
Correct answer: Tikta (bitter)
Neem is predominantly Tikta (bitter) in taste, which reflects its primary actions of reducing Pitta and Kapha, clearing heat, and acting as an antibacterial and blood purifier.
Question 6: Which classical Ayurvedic text primarily deals with the preparation and properties of herbal formulations?
- Ashtanga Hridayam by Vagbhata
- Arthashastra by Chanakya
- Sushruta Samhita's surgical sections only
- Charaka Samhita's Kalpa Sthana (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Charaka Samhita's Kalpa Sthana
The Kalpa Sthana (pharmaceutical section) of Charaka Samhita specifically deals with the preparation of pharmaceutical dosage forms, including details on herbs, formulations, and their proper preparation.
Question 7: Vidanga (Embelia ribes) is most commonly used in Ayurveda for which condition?
- Intestinal parasites and worm infestations (Correct answer)
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Chronic kidney disease
- Autoimmune skin disorders
Correct answer: Intestinal parasites and worm infestations
Vidanga is the primary Ayurvedic herb for Krimi (intestinal parasites), containing embelin which has proven anthelmintic (anti-worm) properties.
AP Herbal Medicine & Formulations 3
What is the primary action of Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) in Ayurvedic medicine?