A COMPARATIVE IN VITRO EVALUATION OF SANDHANA KARMA OF PALASHAPUSHPA AND PALASHA TWAK (Butea monosperma Lam.) VIS-A-VIS HYALURONIDASE INHIBITORY ACTIVITY

Degenerative joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis, affect all articular joints, which can be correlated with Sandhigata vata. The treatment advocated is Snehana, Swedana, and Vatahara Chikitsa karmas, which alleviate vata prakopa in sandhis. At this juncture, the use of Sandhaneeya dravyas would be more beneficial, as they help in sandhi sangrahana (holding the joint intact). Sandhana refers to Samhati, Samyojana, Samhanana, and Sanghattana. Thus, Sandhana refers to union, joining, restoration, repair, and maintaining the integrity of body parts and connective tissues (bone, muscle, blood). Many dravyas are said to possess Sandhana karma, among which Palasha is one. It is readily available and finds its extensive usage as krimihara, Kustahara, etc. The Rasa panchaka of Palasha Pushpa differs from its other parts, such as Twak and Beeja. Hence, Palasha needs to be explored for its indications and specific activity, such as Sandhana karma, on connective tissues like bone. Analytical and in vitro evaluation of Aqueous and Alcoholic extracts of Palasha Pushpa and twak in hyaluronidase enzyme inhibition was carried out. Palasha Twak exhibited significant results in hyaluronidase enzyme inhibition in comparison with Palasha Pushpa. The Aqueous extract of Palasha Twak exhibited better hyaluronidase inhibition activity when compared to the Alcoholic extract. Hence, its Kashaya form may be more beneficial. Palasha Twak would be effective in Sandhigata vikara, whereas Palasha Pushpa could be a better choice in Bhinnamala sangrana.