EXPLORING DIFFERENT FORMULATIONS OF KANTAKARI (SOLANUM VIRGINIANUM LINN): INSIGHTS FROM BRIHADATRAYI

Kantakari (Solanum virginianum Linn), a perennial diffused herb belonging to the family Solanaceae, is widely recognized in Ayurveda for its broad-spectrum medicinal applications. Various plant parts, including root, leaves, floral bud, flower, fruit, seed and whole plant are employed in numerous traditional formulations such as Svarasa (fresh juice), Kalka (paste), Kvatha (decoction), Churna (powder), Taila (medicated oil), Ghrita (medicated ghee), Basti (enema) and many others are used for both internal and external therapeutic purposes. Pharmacological studies attribute its bronchodilator, antiasthmatic, antitussive, antimicrobial, insecticidal, immunomodulatory and other therapeutic activities. The present review compiles 320 formulations containing Kantakari from Brihadatrayi, underscoring its longstanding significance in classical Ayurvedic pharmacopeia. Analysis of these formulations reveals that documentation of medicated ghee (74), followed by enema (62) and decoction (36) formulations in the maximum numbers indicating their significant role in traditional therapeutic practice.