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Eastern Scientist© Swadeshi Vigyan Santhanam-Vijnana Bharati bZLVuZlkbafVLV Issue 14/15- Vol.1/2 -Jan-Mar/Apr.-Jun. 2021 pp.75-95 www.easternscientist.in

Doctrine of Signatures Shree Nitu1 1M.D.(Dravyaguna), Lecturer (Dravyaguna Dept.), Major S.D.Singh P.G. Ayurvedic Medical College and Hospital, Fatehgarh , Farrukhabad, U.P.

Abstract- The Doctrine of Signatures is an old tradition or a part of many traditions, that plants (as well as animals and minerals and perhaps even phenomena) have clues or “signatures” in their shapes, forms, actions and things that tell what their purposes are. It proposes the idea that God has given everything in nature its unique healing power and left a clue for us to discover it in the appearance of each plant or substance. The Doctrine of Signatures is a part of that theory which posits that all things in the universe are resonating in a relatively small number of frequencies and that resonate at similar frequencies have deep impact on one another. The basic idea is that every living thing has been blown in same life force or spirit, while its physical form is influenced by a certain form of this universal . There are many examples of Doctrine of Signatures based on morphology, , behavioural similarity, smell etc. Which give a sort of general overview to this theory (for example a sliced carrot looks like human eye and it greatly enhances blood flow to and function of eyes; a walnut looks like a little brain and act as brain food etc.). Different streams of treatment (like , Ayurveda, Chineses therapy etc.) have different views or openion regarding it. The present work is an effort to collect all possible information regarding the concept of Doctrine of Signatures. We can say that this concept helps to study materia medica in a literal style and thereby making the subject Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021 76 ISSN:2581-7884 more interesting. It may help for the study of materia medica and not for practical application of materia medica. (Key words- Doctrine, signatures, clue) Introduction While humans suffered in olden times from innumerable maladies and diseases, they experimented with plant cures. But how would they know what plant to use? Out of frustration probably developed the concept of the plant "Signature". Religious people taught that God provided visual clues, because plants were placed on earth for the good of mankind. The key to human use of plants was hidden in the form (Signature) of the plant itself, so look closely for the label from God that permits us to recognize and utilize these plants for the benefit of life. Human beings began to believe that nature alone could provide the means to remove pain and disease and thus they sought remedies in nature, i.e., in plants, minerals and animals. A variety of medicinal agent were collected on the basis of their symbolic qualities as well as their astrological signs. The resemblance may be physical or subtly symbolic, obvious or hidden, but it is there. The basic idea is that every living thing has been blown in the same life force or spirit, while its physical form is influenced by a certain form of this universal energy. The word ‘doctrine’ means belief and the word ‘signature’ is said to be a duplet, which has been derived from two words sign and nature, meaning signs of nature. In simple terms 'doctrine of signature' is a belief on various signs of nature or clues given by nature. Synonyms used for Doctrine of signatures are Doctrine of correspondence or metaphorical naturalism or a fingerprint of the devine. Pioneers of Doctrine of Signatures- , Gambatista Porta,Jacob Bohme,William Coles, Hahnemann, C.M.Borger, H. A. Robert, J .C.Burnett are some popular names in the field of Doctrine of signatures.

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Basics used in Doctrine of signatures Here are the basics used in the Doctrine of Signatures: A. Morphology of plant (1). The roots of the plant have their influence on the brains of a human being; plants with impressive roots are good to ground airy people. (2). The stems and leaves represent the middle part in a human being; think of the breast, heart and lungs. Further the stem is analogous to our skeleton. (3). The flowers mostly work on the lower belly and the genitals. (4). Upward growing plants fully open up to the force of the sun, and therefore bring optimism and enthusiasm. (5).Downward pointing plants with hanging flowers harmonize people who feel down or depressed; so here Like-cures-like. (6).Horizontally growing plants symbolize contact and exchange and therewith promote the circulation of blood and lungs. (7). A round stem is associated with femininity, harmony and softness. (8).A square stems points at the masculine qualities of immunity and strength. (9).A hollow stem reveals that the plant may relief complaints with the hollow organs in a human being, like the lungs or the gullet. (10).A hairy stem and ditto leaves show action on the skin, hair and mucous membranes. (11).Thorns and stings show that the plant promotes regeneration and immunity. (12). Small and divided leaves show a contracting force in the plant but have a relaxing effect on a human being. (13). Large leaves on the other hand have contracting power in a human being and may help to stop profuse bleedings or increase muscle contractions. (14). Dark-green leaves work calming and vitalizing. (15). Yellow-green leaves promote the metabolism. (16).Dark yellow flowers stimulate the life force and the liver (17).Light yellow flowers are good for internal cleansing of the body.

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(18).Red flowers work on the heart, blood circulation, energy and vitality. (19).Orange flowers work on the solar plexus and bring enthusiasm. (20).Pink flowers work softening and harmonizing. (21).Blue flowers cool down heat complaints like fever, inflammations or an irritable character. (22).Purple flowers relax the nervous system and make a person more introvert. (23).White flowers work soothing in inflammations and have their special working area on the female organs. (24).The color brown brings inner calm and strength, especially in case of Exhaustion. B. Some “wort” plants and their signature Some examples are: • liverwort = relieve liver trouble • lungwort (Pulmonaria officeinalisBoraginaceae) =resembled a diseased lung & so indicate the use of the plant for pulmonary complaint • adder’s tongue = cure for wounds and inflammation from snakebite • bloodroot (Sanguinaria Canadensis;papaveraceae) = cure blood disorders; induce • vomiting;laxative • toothwort = relieve toothache • gravelwort = dissolve stones in the urinary tract • wormwood = expel intestinal parasites • pilewort = cure hemorrhoids • = "man essense," used as a general human panacea • mandrake plant (similar to a child) = promote sexual passion in females hence useful for sterility. • maidenhair fern(Adiantum pedatum;Pteridaceae) = cure baldness. • Spleen wort, Asplenium (similar to spleen): Hence useful for disorders of spleen. • Louse wort (similar to lice): Hence useful in repelling lice.

C. Resemblance to different body organs Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021 79 ISSN:2581-7884

It now contends that every whole food has a pattern that resembles a Body organ or physiological function and that this pattern acts as a Signal or sign as to the benefit the food provides the eat It can be understood by following examples: A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye...and science now shows that carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.

A tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart is red and has four chambers. All of the research shows tomatoes are indeed pure heart and blood food. It has been proved that it prevent atherosclerosis by inhibiting platelet aggregation.

Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows that grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food. The chemical constituent polyphenols (resveratrol) present in it which reduces platelet aggregation, vasodilation and decreases the activity of angiotensin. The cardioprotective activity on heart is supposed to be mediated through antioxidant property of resveratrol. Resveratrol significantly protects LDL from oxidation. Resveratrol inhibits cyclooxygenase pathway and thus it influences platelet aggregation.

A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds are on the nut just like the neo-cortex. We now know that walnuts help develop over 3 dozen neuro-transmitters for brain function. It having high omega-3 oil content which act as brain food.

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Kidney beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function and they look exactly like the human kidneys. It inhibits the action of alpha-amylase (an enzyme used by human body to convert starch to glucose) and also assist kidney by removing excess phosphorus from it.

Eggplant, Avocadoes and Pears target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like these organs. It strengthens the capability of female system, balance female hormones, shed unwanted birth weight and prevent cervical cancers.Today's research shows that when a woman eats 1 avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight and prevents cervical cancers. It takes exactly 9 months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit.

Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the motility of male sperm and increase the numbers of sperm as well to overcome male sterility.

Oranges, and other Citrus fruits look just like the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.

Peanuts have a profound effect on the testicles and sexual libido. Peanuts were banned as a food for males by the church often during the Middle Ages. Most people don't realize that arginine, the main component of Viagra, comes from peanuts.

D. On the basis of astrology The Doctrine of Signatures naturally led to the concept of Astrological influence, and this was developed and put forward by Nicolas Culpeper in his book, "Judgement of Diseases" in the mid sixteen hundreds. This was a

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021 81 ISSN:2581-7884 sort of scientific version of the Doctrine of signatures that set itself up in opposition to the simpler folk style we have seen previously. Astrology was consulted for diagnosis, classification of and bodily functions, the preparation of medicines, and the determination of the most favorable time to administer the remedy. A brief information about basic planetary divisions of the plant kingdom are given in this chart:

Ruling Effect on body Indication of herbs Planet Sun Rule heart, circulation and v.column Upward flowers as sunflower,heliotrope Moon Growth,fertility,breast,menstrual cycle Watery and large leaves; Juicy globular fruits Mercury Nervous system,organ of Finely divided leaves speech,hearing and respiration such as fennel,dill,carrot Venus Complexion,sexual organs,hidden inner Heavely scented,showy working of body cells as Damascus rose,apple blossom Mars Muscle,body vitality,libido Thorn and stings as Acasia Jupiter Liver,abdomen,spleen,kidney Big and abundant, many bearing nuts as chestnut,apricot Saturn Aging and all hardening processes Strong and survive in scare condition as hemlock,belladona

Plant named as planets of the universe:

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(1). Sun-plants have long strong stems and upward flowers in the colors white, yellow or orange. (2). Moon-plants are watery and have large leaves. (3). Mercury-plants grow horizontally and easily move along with the wind. (4). Venus-plants are soft-colored and smell deliciously. (5). Mars-plants have thorns and stings. (6). Jupiter-plants are big and grow abundant, like in the jungle. (7). Saturnus-plants are the strong ones that survive scarce conditions, like cactaceae. (8). Uranus-plants are the radio-active ones. (9). Neptune-plants are poisonous in the bad case, or have purple flowers and bring relaxation to the mind in the positive case. Neptune is both for the very high and the very low. (10). The plants of Pluto are the toad-stools and mushrooms. Different Views Regarding Doctrine of Signatures 1.The Doctrine and Homeopathy Some examples of doctrine of signatures among Homoeopathic drugs 1. Chelidinium- Yellow juice-- Useful for jaundice. 2. Calcarea carb- Hard shell to protect the soft body-- Patient is soft and needs protection. 3. Sanguinaria- Red color-- Useful for bleeding. 6. Cockroach- Lives in cracks, crevices, damp places-- Useful for asthma of people living in damp basements and cellars. 7. Digitalis- Blood colored dots on petals-- Given for disorders of blood vessels. 8. Euphrasia- Black spot in corolla looks like a pupil-- Useful for eye complaints. 9. Belladonna- Grows in soil rich in calcium carbonate- Hence calc carb is complimentary to belladonna. 10. Tarentula hispania-- Spiders comes out when drums are beaten- Given for patients who are sensitive to music. 11. Hypericum- Has red juice- Used in hemorrhages.

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12. Bryonia-- Root is fleshy, yellowish white, rough with a bitter taste-- Patient is also fleshy with yellow white colored tongue, rough irritating temperament and has bitter taste. 2.The Doctrine and Chinese Herbs Signature plants were probably first recognized in ancient China, where there was a classification that correlated plant features to human organs. • yellow and sweet = spleen • red and bitter = heart • green and sour = liver • black and salty = lungs Yang (primitive male) was associated with strongly acting plants; ailments of the upper half of the body were treated with upper parts of plants. Yin (primitive female) was associated with plants having moderate action and those with bitter, sour, salty, and sweet tastes; ailments of lower parts of the body were treated with below-ground plant parts. The most basic level of the doctrine of signatures pertains to the color, shape/texture or habitat/behavior of the herb in question. These properties in one way or another point to its healing characteristics. 3.Modern concept regarding Doctrine of signatures Hundreds of years later, there are studies supporting earlier observations of these herbalists. Lungwort is an expectorant helping to remove catarrh from the lungs; walnuts with their high omega-3 oil content are considered a “brain food;” kidney beans assist the kidneys by removing excess phosphorus. How early herbalists were able to obtain specific information by observing the plants is difficult to know for certain, but it is clear that the benefits of these plants are just as relevant today as they were then. In ‘Health Action’ magazine of September 2002 issue, an article ‘Nature’s Pharmecy’ emphasise upon this topic. Seeds and other plant-parts can be applied to the areas corresponding with the affected organs. Depending on the area, shape and size of the organ seeds can be applied for chronic gastritis, lumbar-sacral spine problem, menstrual pain and so on. Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021 84 ISSN:2581-7884

As a live (full of life force) biological structure, a seed has a great life- force necessary for germination and growth. During treatment the biological field of the seed interacts with the areas corresponding to the affected organs and parts of the body, restoring their energy potential. Seeds can be used as messengers .To stimulate larger correspondence areas such as, liver, stomach and lungs, hard seeds of peach, mango, and walnut can be utilized. For medium and smaller areas of correspondence like heart, uterus, eyes and nose, it would be better to use seeds of date, acron, chestnut, and hazelnut and so on. Even one can rub a lemon, onion bulb or a potato tuber, between hands. Organ and parts of our body are of different shape such as, Oblong (extremites,intestine,nose,lips);spherical(eyes,heart,breast);beanshaped(kidn eys,stomach) ,pea shaped(uterus, gall bladder), racemose (pancreas) etc. Seeds of different shapes can be used for controlling morbid processes in the internal organs. For example: to help in the problems of eyes, head or breast, round shaped seeds (black pepper, peas etc.);for problems of kidney and stomach, seeds of kidney beans( red as well as creamish white);for cardiac diseases, seeds found in clusters or of heart shaped (seeds of guilder, pumpkin, almond);for pancreas diseases, grape seeds; while in disease of brain massage the correspondence area with a walnut. If a plant secretes white milk, its seed can be applied to increase the quality of milk in nourishing mothers; and if it secretes yellow milk, its seed can remedy for liver and gall bladder problems. Some seeds contain a lot of thick juice. Those juices can be used for decreasing inflammatory processes followed by myxopoiesis (rhinitis, gastritis and bronchitis). For example; seeds of flex, corn, seeds of aqueous plants can be applied when there is pathological accumulation of body fluids and oedema. Based on the shape, colour and taste of seeds, odour of flowers of plants and fruits, we can divide them into eight groups related to eight energies. 1. Seed of Wind (light and long) and sour in taste, they can be used for improving the function of liver, gall bladder, joints, muscles and peristalsis. These seeds can also be used to lessen oedema, obesity and decrease the amount of fluid discharge (rhinitis, lacrimation, diarrhea, sweating etc.). Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021 85 ISSN:2581-7884

2. Seed of Heat (oval & red in colour): They can be applied for normalizing the heart, small intestine, blood vessels and can also be used for getting rid of viral diseases, diseases of blood etc. 3. Seed of Hotness (orange and round) having a pleasant freshening taste, this can be used for general fitness, accelerating the process of restoration of an organism and wound healing. 4. Seed of Humidity (oval, wrinkled, orange; sweet taste): They are applied for stimulating the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, improving the lymph flow etc. 5. Seed of Dryness (hemispherical, bitter taste): These seeds can be used for diseases affecting lungs, large intestine and mucous membranes. 6. Seed of Coldness (ribbed crystal-like): Salty seeds of these category is applied in disease of the kidney and urinary bladder, strengthing bones and teeth, fever, oedema, diseases accompanied by the formation of pus, excessive excretion of fluids, and for losing weight. The plant like other living things, have an energy system which supports their vital activity. In spite of the fact that the circulation of energy is carried out simultaneously in many energy canals, there is a dominating direction of energy flow which coincides with that of biological growth of plants. This property can be used for therapy with seeds and other parts of plants in the system on correspondence. Knowing the basic direction of energy flow in this or that part of the plant selected for treatment, it is possible to change (accelerate or inhibit) physiological processes. If the direction of growth of the twig, leaf or seed coincides with the natural direction of flow of food, bile, sputum or faecal matter, their movement is stimulated. And in case they go in the opposite direction, the process of passing water, stomach and bowel movements are inhibited. 4.Doctrine and Ayurveda: According to Emerson-“Trees are imperfect man.” It means that there are lots of similarities between tree and man. This statement proves the high status and importance of tree. Our Indian civilization mainly developed in

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021 86 ISSN:2581-7884 forests. People who lives in forest are more close to forest plants and therefore they have good knowledge about medicinal plants. Dr. Hemchandra Sen wrote in his title ‘Interesting points about incompatible prescription’ about importance of drugs and their active principal. He said that by doing research on active principals, scientists give lot of things to medical science. But it is not enough to depend only on active principals of that herbal drugs. There are lot of medicines in nature whose chemical constituents are yet unknown but they are still use for treatment of many diseases. Dravayas serve as cause of maintenance, increase and decrease of the living body because of similarity in being composed of panchbhutas. The body is composed of five mahabhutas and so the dravyas exhibiting the qualities of respective mahabhutas. According to Acharya Charak’s concept,

सर्वदा सर्वभार्ाना車 सामान्य車र्ृद्धिकारण車 । ह्रास हेतु वर्शेषश्च प्रर्ृत्ति셁भयस्य तु॥ ( च. स.सू.१/४४)

i.e. it is generally proposed that similar properties enhances the respective qualities inside the body while the opposite properties reduces it . According to this law of samanya (similarity) and vishesha (dissimilarity) those having similar qualities are used for increase and the dissimilar ones for decrease. For maintenance both types of dravyas are used balancing each other. Ousadhi-Sutra of the Rig-Veda is perhaps the earliest document of the knowledge about medicinal plants which culminated in samhitas and nighantus of Ayurveda In Shatapatha Brahamin, a comparision is made between Purusha (human) and Vanaspati (plant).Some of them are: Purusha Vanaspati 1.Loma Parna (leaf and hairs) 2.Twak Bahirutpatika (Ectoderm) 3.Rakta Niryasa (latex) 4.Mamsa Sakara (mesoderm) 5.Snayu Kinata (endoderm)

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6.Asthi Abhyantara kashta (heart kastha) 7.Majja Majja (pith or medulla) * (Sa.Br.3-7-1-8)

During this earliest time, the pharmacological and therapeutic utility of herbs was assumed on the basis of “Doctrine of Signatures”. For e.g., some plant contain heart shaped leaf, its leaf can remedy heart problems. If plant secrets white milk, its seed can be applied to increase the quality of milk in nursing mother. Based on the shape, colour and taste of any plant part, odour of flowers of plants and fruits etc., we use plants for treatment of diseases. During this long period large number of terms developed relating to name, synonyms, properties actions and uses of medicinal plants which are found in Ayurvedic literature. They reflect the knowledge of the ayurvedists about this miraculous green drapery of nature who identified each and every plant with specific name described them by way of synonyms, defined their properties and actions and discovered their uses in various conditions of health and diseases. There are effective impacts of natural materials on living organisms by the principal of similarity. Information about the human body is embodied in the systems of correspondence while seeds (fruits) of plants contain information about the properties of plants. On the basis of this principal of similarity, we can correlate the morphological similarity of plant with their application on specific disease. This is the basis of doctrine of signature. It means that morphological or external similarities or similarity of colour, smell, taste, texture etc. all have therapeutic relationship. Following are some examples of Doctrine of Signatures related to Ayurvedic aspect: (a). On the basis of Structural- Similarity: 1.Kanchanara(Bauhinia verigata;Leguminosae): काञ्चनारो गन्डमालाभ्याम् । (द्र,गु.सू.८/१९)

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It means that Kanchanara is indicated in gandamala (chain of enlarged glands in neck).Its leaf looks like butterfly which is similar to that of the shape of thyroid gland. That’s why its use is based originally on the doctrine of signature.

2. Kapikcchu seed or vanari seed (Mucuna prurita;Leguminosae)

: र्ानरी बीज車 र्ृष्योिम車 ।(द्र,गु.सू.८/२३)

Vanari seeds are the best among aphrodisiacs. The use of the testicle- shaped seeds are also an example of the doctrine of signature. It administrated orally shows significant improvement in erection, night emission, premature ejaculations, spermatorrhoea functional impotency and oligospermia. It shows marked improvement in prostetic functions as assessed by the activity of maltase and by citric acid content, with increase in the activity of amylase, maltase and a decrease in post treatment level of glycogen in seminal fluid.

3.Asthisrimkhala (Cissus quadrangulari;Vitaceae): It is good remedy for bone fracture. Its quadrangular and jointed stem gives the appearance of series of bones. Its use for fracture healing is originally based on the doctrine of signature because of its bony appearance.

4. Tambul leaf : (Piper betle;Piperaceae): Its leaves are heart shaped and it is a good cardiac tonic (Hridya). 5. Shivalingi (Bryonopsis laciniosa; Cucurbitaceae) Its seeds are good remedy for infertility. The use of its lingakara seed for treatment of infertility is also an example of the doctrine of signature.

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6.Black pepper ( Piper nigrum ;Piperaceae): It is good remedy for night blindness, arm, shukla etc. Its paste along with honey is used as anjana for those diseases. Its use is also based on the doctrine of signature because of its round shape which is similar to that of eye. 8. Lakshman: (Ipomoea sepiaria ;Convolvulaceae) Bhavamishra explains Lakshmana as- पुत्राकार रक्ताल्पबबन्दूभभलावञ्छितच्छदा । लक्ष्मणा पुत्रजननी बस्तगन्धाकृततभवर्ेत् ॥(भा.प्र.) Leaves of Lakshmana contain man like dotted structure which indicates its use in case of infertility and for pumsavan samskara. 9.Grape seed (Vitis vinifera ;Vitaceae) The shape of grape seed is like that of pancreas and it has been proved that grape seed is good remedy for diabetes. 10.Rudraksha(Elaeocarpus ganitrus; Elaeocarpaceae) The structure of its stony fruit drupe(phalasthi) is similar to brain .The use of dried stone of rudraksha is quite popular in tradition (rudraksha-dharana) for attaining mental peace & maintaining psychological equilibrium; it carries much religious importance. It is a valued remedy for hypertension. 11. Poog (Areca catechu; Palmae): मोहन車 दीपन車 셁च्यमास्यर्ैरस्य नाशनम् । (भा.प्र.)

A section of betel nut looks like a cut section of brain. Its having sedative effect on brain(due to presence of alkaloid arecoline).

(b).Similarity to colour & coagulating nature: 1.Mamsrohini (Soymida febrifuga;Meliaceae):Indian red wood. It is good remedy for wound healing. Its bark is hard and red coloured. On cutting it shows red coloured discharge. The wound healing properties of stem bark is reported. Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021 90 ISSN:2581-7884

2.Manjistha(Rubia cordifolia;Rubiaceae) म車त्तजष्ठा शोभणतप्रसादनी ।( द्र,गु.सू.८/२२) Its root looks red coloured. If boiled, water becomes red. It is an effective remedy for blood disorders. Its use is based originally on the doctrine of signature. It has been now proved that the purified fraction of whole plant is known to inhibit platelet aggregation induced by PAF (platelet aggregation factor). Napnthohydroquinones shows strong inhibition of arachidinoic acid induced and collagen induced platelet aggregation. It does not exhibit antiplatelet activity against thrombin induced platelet aggregation. 3.Daruharidra(Barberis aristata;Berberidaceae) दा셁हररद्रा यकृद्रोगघ्नी । (द्र,गु.सू.८/२२) Daruharidra alleviates disorders of liver. The colour of its wood is like that of turmeric. Its use is also based on the doctrine of signature because of its yellow colour which is similar to that of the bile juice. By modern research it has been proved that its having hepatoprotective activity. Acute administration of berberine improves the excretion of bilirubin although the effect diminish by chronic administration. Berberine in vitro has been shown to be a potent displacer of bilirubin. The accumulation of tyramine and its derivatives in individual with cirrhosis is associated with lowered peripheral resistance with high cardiac output, reduced renal function and cerebral dysfunction. Berberine has shown to correct the hyper tyraminemia in patients with liver cirrhosis, indicating its possible use as an adjunctive supplement. 4. Khadira(Acacia catechu; Leguminosae): It is good remedy for switra (white leprosy).Its bark is yellowish brown and it has exfoliating nature which is similar to our skin. The coagulating nature and colour of khadirsara indicates its use blood coagulation. This use is also originally based on the doctrine of signature. 5. Raktniryas (Daemenorops draco; Palmae): Dragon’s Blood रक्तस्तम्भनो व्रणरोपण: ।( द्र.गु.वर्.)

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Its fruits having red coloured exudates on its surface. By rubbing fruits, exudates has been collected, which is known as raktaniryas (gum resin).It is an effective haemostatic drug which is frequently recommended for entrinsic haemorrhage (ie.raktapitta), bleeding piles or haemorrhoids, meno- metrorrhagia, chest wound and other similar ailments. Externally the drug is applied as haemostatic, astringent &wound healing medicine suggested to be used in the relevant diseases including acute chronic ulcers and wounds. Coloured exudates collected over fruits indicate its use as astringent and haemostatic. 6.Haridra (Curcuma longa; Zingiberaceae) It also shows hepatoprotective activity. Curcumin and turmeric have been shown to protect the liver against a variety of toxin(Carbon tetrachloride, aflatoxinB, paracetamol, iron and cyclophosphamide) in vivo and in vitro.Curcumine has been shown to strongly inhibit cytochrome-P-450IA in liver, an isoenzyme involved in the bioactivation of several toxins including benzopyrene. (c). Similarity of smell: 1. Ashwagandha (Withenia somnifera; Solanaceae) र्ात्तजर्त् र्ेगप्रदा अश्वगन्धा । (द्र,गु.सू.८/१३) It means that Ashwagandha stimulates sexual potency like that of horse. Its use is based originally on the doctrine of signature because of its horse like smell from stem. Its root water extract studied on follicular development and serum level of FSH and LH showed significant changes in gonadotropin level with a significant increase in overian weight and folliculogenesis. It increase libido in males and females. (d). Behavioural similarity: 1. Ashmaghnah or Pashanbhed (Berginia ligulata; Saxifragaceae) It is good remedy for calculus. Its name itself signifies its action. This plant grows by breaking through the rocks or growing among rocks. Its use is originally based on the doctrine of signature because of its growing nature. 2.Durva (Cynodon dactylon;Poaceae) काण्डात् काण्डात् प्ररोहततइत्यनेनास्या:सन्तततर्र्वनत्व車 प्रजास्थापनत्वञ्च द्योत्यते । (द्र. गु.सू.८/४४) Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021 92 ISSN:2581-7884

It checks abortion and stabilizes foetus.Fresh juice of durva is used .Its expanding plants with roots arising from the nodes symbolizes the development of progeny and its firm establishment. That’s why its use is originally based upon the doctrine of signature. It is of spreading nature and use as medicine for treatment of cancer which is also having spreading nature. 3.Murrikutti (Hemigraphis colorata/ Blepharis boerhaviafolia; Acanthaceae) Its leaf is good remedy for wound healing. The joining nature of its broken leaves indicate its use in wound healing. It is also an example of the doctrine of signature. According to Dravyaguna Sutram, “Oushadham Pramaneh Parikshayet Prakrititoh Deshata Kalatashcheti”. It means that drug should be examined by Pramanas in terms of prakariti (nature), desha (habitat) and kala (time). “The wise should proceed after examining ”-Keeping this dictum in mind drugs should also be examined before they are being used. It is to be done with pramanas which are the means of valid knowledge. Conclusion: It is unthinkable that any serious student of would be unaware of the existence of a diagnostic system called, "The Doctrine of Signatures". Most people have read of it in passing with little or no explanation. In the historical perspective, it is one of the most important modes of medithinking to have evolved, and it was expounded in medical texts from the middle of the sixteen hundreds right up to the end of the nineteenth century. It took shape as a spiritual philosophy that had as its base the simple concept that God had marked everything he had created with a sign. This sign was a clear indicator of the item's true purpose as intended by God. This is not a system one learns overnight, and to make use of it one also needs his intuition. I believe that, if we truly wish to understand the healing riches of the vegetable world, it is most wise to combine the traditional knowledge of the Doctrine of Signatures with the scientifically derived conclusions of chemical tests with the plants.

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Instead of coming to a final conclusion whether there is any scientific backing behind the doctrine of signature or is it just a superstitious belief, better we assess how it was helpful and how it can be helpful in future. Undoubtedly, we can say that this concept helped us to introduce many drug substances in to the field of therapeutics. Apart from that, it helps to study materia medica in a literal style and to compare and remember some symptoms thereby making the subject more interesting. It is now clear that the doctrine of signature helps us for the study of materia medica and not for the practical application of materia medica. As we know that there is no short cut in medicine, drugs selected on the basis of similarity with the totality of the case is one of the methods to cure. According to Dravyaguna Sutram, “Oushadham Pramaneh Parikshayet Prakrititoh Deshata Kalatashcheti”. It means that drug should be examined by Pramanas in terms of prakariti (nature), desha (habitat) and kala (time). “The wise should proceed after examining ”-Keeping this dictum in mind drugs should also be examined before they are being used. It is to be done with pramanas which are the means of valid knowledge. it may not be seen as very practical, or even safe, to treat ailments by picking flowers and plants only based upon their appearance, shape, taste, or habitat, but taking a closer, informed look at the plants and flowers growing around us can be a very rewarding experience. Through careful observation we may be able to see the plant’s growing preferences, likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses, and we may even find that sometimes we can judge a book by its cover. On reflection plant medicine is totally different than pharmaceutical medication which only affects one whilst it is being taken; these kinds of plant medicines seem to have a permanent effect in some way metaphorical or otherwise altering one's consciousness or "DNA". One of the great revelations that we can experience in working with the plant spirit or consciousness is that we are not separate from the natural world. In our culture we perceive ourselves to be separate beings with our minds firmly embedded within our physical being (typically our head). The plants can show us that this way of Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021 94 ISSN:2581-7884 being is an illusion and that we are all connected, all of us and everything else is a discrete element in the great universal field of consciousness or spirit remember herbs so much better with which we have established a strong mnemonic based on the doctrine of signatures! When we learn a new herb, we work hard to find a way that the doctrine of signatures fits. However, even if it is just a convenient human construction – it’s a great deal for students of herbal medicine. Abbreviations Bha.Pra. - Bhava Prakasha Cha.Sa.Su. - Charaka Samhita Sutrasthana Dra.Gu.Su. - Dravya Guna Sutram Dra.Gu.Vi. - Dravya Guna Vijnan Sa. Br. - Satapatha Brahman

Bibliography: 1. Al-Akili, Imam Muhammad. The Medicine of the Prophet. Pearl Publishing House. 1993. (Note: This is a Translation of Al-Jawziyyas book from 1330). 2. (Article published in The Homoeopathic Heritage, May 2008) 3. Boehme, Jacob. "The Signature of All Things." James Clarke & Co. Ltd: Cambridge. 1969. 4. Charaka Samhita (Vol 1); elaborated Vidyotani Hindi Commentary by Pt. Kashinath Sastri and Dr. Gorakhnath Chaturvedi; Reprint 2003; Chaukhambha Bharti Acadamy, Varanasi 5. Clarkson, Rosetta E. "The Golden Age of Herbs & Herbalists." Dover Publications Inc: New York. 1972. 6. Culpeper, Nicholas. "Culpeper's Complete Herbal.” Foulsham & Co. Ltd: London . 7. Diseases of liver: J C Burnett (B Jain, New Delhi) 8. Dravyaguna Sutram(Aphorism on Dravyaguna) by P.V.Sharma; Second edition 2002; Chaukhambha Sanskrit Bhavan. Varanasi. 9. Dravya guna vijnan (Vol-1) by Dr..J.L.N.Sastry; First edition 2007; Chaukhambha Orientalia, Varanasi. Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021 95 ISSN:2581-7884

10. Dravya guna vijnan (Vol-2) by Ac.P.V.Shama.Reprint 2005; Chaukhambha Bharati Acadamy, Varanasi. 11. Gibson, Arthur C. "The Doctrine of Signatures."University. 1999. 12. Gordon, Lesley. "The Mystery and Magic of Trees and Flowers." London: Grange Books. 1993. 13. Herbal Plants and Drugs by Agnes Arber; Second Indian Print 2008; Asiatic Publishing House, Delhi. 14. Nighantu-Aadarsh.(Vol-1) by Bapalal G.Vaidya; Reprint2007; Chaukhambha Bharti Acadamy, Varanasi. 15. Organon of medicine: Hahnemann (B Jain, New Delhi) 16. "Practical Handbook of Plant ": Manfred M. Junius: Inner Traditions International Ltd., New York 1985. 17. Principle an art of cure by homeopathy: H A Robert. (B Jain, new Delhi) 18. Studies in the philosophy of healing: C M Boger (B Jain, new Delhi) 19. "The Golden Age of Herbs & Herbalists.", Rosetta E. Clarkson: Dover Publications Inc., New York 1972. 20. "The Herbal of General History of Plants": John Gerard: Dover Publications Inc. 1975. 21. "The Signature of All Things", Jacob Boehme: James Clarke & Co. Ltd., Cambridge 1969 22. www.askdrshah.com 23. www.carrotmuseum.co.uk 24. www.concentrina.net 25. www.similima.com 26. www.wikipedia.com

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