Nonganadi Taila – Ingredients, Preparation, Medicinal Properties, Indications, Dosage & More
Introduction
Nonganadi Taila is a classical Ayurvedic medicated oil formulation primarily indicated in Shlipada (elephantiasis / lymphatic filariasis). The oil is processed in the fresh juice of Nongana (identified in regional practice as Trinavisesha group herb) along with Patha (Cissampelos pareira) and Karkata Shringi (Pistacia integerrima) as paste ingredients. The formulation is administered internally and is described to alleviate swelling, inflammation, and lymphatic obstruction associated with chronic lymphedema. Owing to its Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), Lekhana (scraping), Krimighna (anti-parasitic), and Kapha-Vata shamaka properties, it is considered beneficial in managing glandular enlargement and progressive edema of the lower limbs.
Classical Reference
नोङ्गणस्य रसे सिद्धं पाठाकर्कटकल्कवत्।
तैलं पानात्प्रशमयेच्छ्लीपदं शीघ्रमेव हि।।
The verse explains that sesame oil processed in the fresh juice of Nongana and combined with the paste (kalka) of Patha (Cissampelos pareira) and Karkata Shringi becomes effective in alleviating Shlipada (elephantiasis). It further emphasizes that when this medicated oil is taken internally (pana), it quickly reduces the symptoms of Shlipada. The Malayalam commentary reiterates that regular intake of this oil helps in relieving severe swelling of the legs (perumpadam – elephantiasis).
Commentary (Sanskrit–Malayalam Version)
नोंगणस्यरसे सिद्धं पाठाकर्कट कल्कमाय्।
एण्णवेंतु कुडिप्पिच्चालिल्लतेपों पेरुंपदं ।।
Ingredients
I. Drava Dravyas (Liquid Ingredient)
Nongana (Trinavisesha) Svarasa
Fresh juice of Nongana herb (640 ml).
(Botanical identification varies regionally; traditionally grouped under Trina (grass) varieties used in edema and inflammatory disorders.)
II. Taila Dravya
Murchita Tila Taila (Sesamum indicum) – Processed sesame oil (160 ml)
III. Kalka Dravyas (Paste Ingredients)
- Patha (Cissampelos pareira) – 20 gm
Common name: Velvetleaf / False pareira - Karkata Shringi (Pistacia integerrima) – 20 gm
Common name: Crab’s claw gall
Method of Preparation
Fine paste (kalka) of Patha (Cissampelos pareira) and Karkata Shringi (Pistacia integerrima) is prepared separately. This paste is added to murchita tila taila along with the fresh juice of Nongana in a stainless-steel vessel. The mixture is heated over mild fire following classical Taila Paka Vidhi (medicated oil preparation) until the aqueous portion evaporates completely and only the medicated oil remains in the quantity of taila dravya. After proper paka lakshanas (signs of completion), the oil is filtered and stored in clean, airtight glass containers.
Pharmacological Properties
Nonganadi Taila possesses Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), Lekhana (reducing excessive tissue growth), Krimighna (anti-parasitic), Kandughna (anti-itching), and Kapha-Vata hara properties.
- Patha (Cissampelos pareira) exhibits anti-inflammatory, lymphatic decongestant, and antimicrobial effects, useful in chronic swelling and glandular disorders.
- Karkata Shringi (Pistacia integerrima) is known for its Kapha-reducing, anti-inflammatory, and astringent actions.
- Tila Taila (Sesamum indicum) acts as a yogavahi (carrier), facilitating deep tissue penetration and systemic action when administered internally.
Collectively, the formulation works on lymphatic stagnation, chronic edema, and tissue hypertrophy seen in Ślīpada.
Indication
- Shlipada (Elephantiasis / Lymphatic filariasis)
- Chronic lymphedema with Kapha-Vata predominance
Method Of Use
- Internal administration (Paana)
Dose
- 10 ml twice daily (b.i.d.), or as directed by an Ayurvedic physician.
Precautions
- Should be taken under medical supervision.
- Not advised during pregnancy without consultation.
- Monitor digestion and appetite, as oil preparations require proper Agni (digestive fire).
Conclusion
Nonganadi Taila is a specialized classical formulation indicated in Shlipada, a condition characterized by chronic lymphatic obstruction and progressive swelling. Processed in Nongana juice and fortified with Patha (Cissampelos pareira) and Karkata Shringi (Pistacia integerrima), the oil exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and Kapha-Vata pacifying actions. Its internal administration helps reduce edema, tissue hypertrophy, and inflammatory manifestations associated with elephantiasis. When used judiciously under expert supervision, this formulation serves as a valuable therapeutic option in traditional Ayurvedic management of lymphatic disorders.
