In Rgveda an herb named ‘Yavasa’ in described as a fodder for cattle (R.V. 1/38/5; 1/91/13; 7/18/10). Another herb ‘Yavasa’ is also found in the vedic literature. However it is not confirmed whether these two are the same as the Yavasa of Samhitas. Caraka as well as Sushruta have mentioned about Yavasa and Yasa Sarkara in their texts. Dalhana explained the water extract of Yavasa as Yasa Sarkara. It is generally accepted that Yavasa and Duralabha are synonymous. Thakurji described that both have similar properties and may be used in each others place. Bhavamishra explained both these herbs seperately but their properties are mentioned as similar. The origin for this controversy may be because of Adhamalla’s view where in he considered Yavasaka as the substitute for Duralabha. At present A. camelorum and Fagonia arabica Linn are considered as Yavasa and Duralabha respectively. Bapalalji also expressed similar view.
Different varieties– Yasa and DhanvayŒsa are considered as two varieties in Sodhala Nighantu.
Botanical Description (A. camelorum) – It is a spiny shrub, 30-60 cm. high. Leaves- drooping, arising from the base of spines, obtuse, oblong, 1.3-3.3 cm. long. Flowers- red, in axillary racemes, forming panicles at the end of branches. Fruits- pods, falcate or straight with 6-8 sub-reniform seeds, 2.5-4.0 cm. long. (Flowers during summer and fruits during winter).
Distribution– Widely available in the Gangetic valley and in the arid zones in Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Bihar.
Major chemical constituents– Galacto catechin; (+) catechin,(-) epigallocatechin and leucodelphinidin, phenethylamine, hordenine, salsodine.
Part Used– Whole plant, Yava Sarkara
Dosage– Fresh juice 10-20 ml; decoction 40-80 ml; Yava Sarkara 3-6 g.
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