Classical Insights, Botanical Identification, Chemical Composition and Therapeutic Effectiveness of Dinesavalli: A Key Ayurvedic Medicine

Abstract

Dineśavallī or Vēṁpāta is a widely recognized Ayurvedic herb used extensively in South India for treating skin-related ailments. In Kerala, it features prominently in various formulations, either as a standalone herb or in combination with others. Notably, neither the bŗhatrayī nor laghutrayī directly mention dineśavallī or Vēṁpāta. Previous studies have identified dineśavallī of South India with ‘Ratanjot,’ a herbal dye from North India. Literature suggests that the roots of Arnebia and Alkanna, sold as ‘Ratanjot,’ are linked to dineśavallī (Vēṁpāta). Traditionally sourced from Ventilago madraspatana Gaertn. of the Rhamnaceae family, dineśavallī (Vēṁpāta) is also associated locally with allied species like Ventilago bombaiensis Dalzell. and Ventilago denticulata Willd. This review examines major classical Ayurvedic texts and peer-reviewed articles to elucidate the botanical identity, chemical constituents, pharmacological properties, and therapeutic efficacy of dineśavallī or Vēṁpāta, providing comprehensive insights into its use in traditional medicine.