ABOUT KAKADSINGI (Pistacia integerrima)
Pistacia integerrima, an Asian native tree belonging to the Anacardiaceae family, is characterized as a dioecious species. It is widely distributed in Pakistan, eastern Afghanistan, the West Himalayan regions, and North West. P. integerrima growing at altitudes ranging from 800 to 1900 meters. This plant species holds medicinal significance and is commonly known as zebrawood and crab’s claw. It has different vernacular names in Pakistan (shnai, thoak, khanjar,) and in India (kakroi, kakra, kakar singhi, kakring, kakarsinghi and kakkar).
The botanical name for Kakadsingi is Pistacia integerrima.
MORE ABOUT KAKADSINGI (Pistacia integerrima)
According to Ayurveda, Pistacia integerrima is thought to help balance the Pitta and Kapha doshas, but excessive or improper consumption may disturb the Vata dosha. Modern scientific understanding does not support Ayurvedic principles and classifications, which are based on traditional beliefs. It is advisable to seek personalized advice and guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.
Pistacia integerrima is a medicinal plant used for treating various diseases.
- The galls of P.integerrima are employed in folk medicine to address conditions such as cough, asthma, phthisis, fever, irritability, reduced food cravings, digestive problems during the teething process, infantile diarrhea, psoriasis, secretions from the mucous membranes and nosebleeds.
- It is also utilized as an antidote for snake venom and scorpion stings in different regions of India and Pakistan.
- In India, P. integerrima galls are specifically utilized for respiratory diseases, vomiting, dysentery, and appetite issues.
- The plant’s oil possesses carminative properties and acts as an antispasmodic on involuntary muscles, it helps to reduce excessive movements in the intestines.
- The oil has a mild irritant effect on the skin and mucous membranes.
- Extracts derived from P. integerrima have demonstrated antibacterial and antiprotozoal activities.
- Additionally, the oil exhibits CNS-depressant activity.
Active Constituents of Pistacia integerrima.
Tannins
Tannins in P.integerrima contribute to its astringent properties and have antioxidant and antimicrobial effects.
Flavonoids
P. integerrima contains flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
Terpenoids
Terpenoids found in P. integerrima contribute to its medicinal properties and demonstrate anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities.
Phenolic Compounds
Phenolic compounds such as ellagic acid and gallic acid are present in P. integerrima and exhibit anti-cancer antioxidant properties.
Essential Oils
P. integerrima contains essential oils that give it a distinct aroma and flavor, potentially having insecticidal and antimicrobial properties.
Steroids and Triterpenes
P. integerrima contains steroids and triterpenes associated with immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects.
Alkaloids
Alkaloids, including piperine, are present in P. integerrima and may exhibit antimicrobial and analgesic properties.
Boosts the immune system
P. integerrima offers potential immune-boosting benefits due to its immunomodulatory properties, which enhance immune response. The plant’s antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects also contribute to overall immune health.
Helps to reduce inflammation
In traditional medicines, P.integerrima is used as an anti-inflammatory agent. The extracts, especially from the galls, exhibit promising properties in alleviating pain and reducing inflammation. Phytochemical studies have identified specific bioactive compounds that contribute to its therapeutic effects.
Clear congestion
P. integerrima is recognized for its positive impact on relieving congestion. It possesses properties that can alleviate blockages in the nasal and respiratory passages. Its extract has been proven effective in relieving congestion symptoms. In remedies, it can help in clearing congestion and facilitating smoother breathing.
Antioxidant activity
Both leaf and gall extracts of P. integerrima exhibited substantial antioxidant activity, with gall extract showing IC50 values ranging from 19-33 μg/ml and leaf extracts ranging from 59-85 μg/ml. Furthermore, the leaf extracts demonstrated impressive abilities in scavenging radicals and inhibiting xanthine oxidase.
Anti-inflammatory activity
In this study, the anti-inflammatory effects of P. integerrima were examined on the alcoholic extracts of P. integerrima (administered at 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg doses) on carrageenan-induced paw edema. The volume of the paw was measured at various time intervals after the injection of carrageenan. The findings revealed a notable decrease in paw volume at both dosage levels (68.49% and 71.23%) compared to the standard drug Indomethacin (69.86%) after 3 hours.
Anti-oxidant activity
Both the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of P. integerrima were analyzed and found to contain tannins, flavonoids, phenolics, phytosterols, saponins, reducing sugars, and triterpenoids. The ethanolic extract exhibited the highest concentration of total phenolics (234 ± 2.4 mg of GAE/g (mg of gallic acid equivalent) d.w. ( dry weight)) and flavonoids (95.5 ± 3.2 mg of QUE/g (mg quercetin equivalent) d.w.), surpassing the content found in the aqueous extract. This higher presence of phenolics and flavonoids in the ethanolic extract directly correlated with its superior antioxidant activity.
- Be cautious if you or others have known allergies to plants and avoid contact with Pistacia integerrima.
- Be aware of possible side effects and quit its use if any occur.
- Obtain Pistacia integerrima products from reliable sources to ensure quality and safety.
- Avoid using unless prescribed by a healthcare provider because there isn’t enough research on how it affects lactation and pregnancy.
Herbal tea
Make a soothing herbal tea by steeping dried P. integerrima leaves in hot water for a calming beverage.
Culinary uses
Add dried berries or leaves of P. integerrima as a spice or flavoring agent to dishes like stews, curries, or desserts for a unique taste.
Herbal preparations
Use it in the form of tinctures, capsules, or powders following recommended dosages for specific health-related purposes.
Aromatherapy
Extract essential oil from P. integerrima leaves or berries and use it for aromatherapy practices such as diffusing, bath products or massage oils.
