DRUG REVIEW OF AGASTYA (SESBANIA GRANDIFLORA LINN.) FROM CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC TEXT

*Dr. Gayatri Sudam Sonawane, Dr. Anupama Santosh Patil

ABSTRACT

Agastya (Sesbania grandiflora Linn.), belonging to the family Fabaceae (Leguminosae / Papilionaceae), is a prominent medicinal and dietary plant extensively documented in classical Ayurvedic literature. Named after the sage Agastya due to its flowering coincidence with the appearance of the Agastya star (Canopus) in Sharad Ritu (autumn season), the plant holds significant therapeutic value. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of Agastya across chronological periods—ranging from Vedic references and Samhita texts to extensive descriptions in Nighantu literature. Pharmacodynamically, Agastya possesses Tikta and Kashaya Rasa, Ruksha Guna, Sheeta Virya, and Katu Vipaka, functioning primarily as a Kapha-Pitta shamana. Therapeutically, various plant parts (roots, bark, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds) are indicated in the management of Naktandhya (night blindness), Chaturthika Jwara, Pratishyaya (rhinitis), Apasmara (epilepsy), and Vatarakta (gout). This paper describes classical synonyms, morphological variations, pharmacodynamics, regional vernacular names, and therapeutic applications, establishing a solid bridge between traditional Ayurvedic wisdom and modern pharmacological perspectives.

Keywords: Agastya, Sesbania grandiflora, Ayurveda.