Cor Health Dictionary

(Hominy) See also Flour, Vegetable oils, Wheat cereals.

Nutritional Profile Energy value (calories per serving): Moderate Protein: Moderate Fat: Low Saturated fat: Low Cholesterol: None Carbohydrates: High Fiber: High Sodium: Low Major vitamin contribution: Vitamin A (in yellow corn), B vitamins, vitamin C Major mineral contribution: Potassium

About the Nutrients in This Food Like other grains, corn is a high-carbohydrate, high-fiber food. Eighty-one percent of the solid material in the corn kernel consists of sugars, starch, and dietary fiber, including insoluble cellulose and noncarbohydrate lignin in the seed covering and soluble pectins and gums in the kernel.* Corn has small amounts of vitamin A, the B vitamin folate, and vitamin C. Corn is a moderately good source of plant proteins, but zein (its major protein) is deficient in the essential amino acids lysine, cystine, and tryptophan. Corn is low in fat and its oils are composed primarily of unsaturated fatty acids. Yellow corn, which gets its color from the xanthophyll pigments lutein and zeaxanthin plus the vitamin A-active pigments carotene and cryptoxanthin, contains a little vitamin A; white corn has very little. One fresh ear of yellow corn, 5.5– 6.5 inches long, has three grams dietar y fiber, one gram fat (0.1 g saturated fat, 0.3 g monounsaturated fat, 0.4 mg polyunsaturated fat), 137 IU vitamin A (6 percent of the R DA for a woman, 5 percent of the R DA for a man), 34 mcg folate (9 percent of the R DA), and 5 mg vitamin C (7 percent of the R DA for a woman, 6 percent of the R DA for a man). * The most plent iful sugar in sweet corn is glucose; hydrolysis (chemical splitt ing) of corn starch is t he principal indust rial source of glucose. Since glucose is less sweet t han sucrose, sucrose and fructose are added to commercial corn syrup to make it sweeter.

The Most Nutritious Way to Serve This Food With beans (which are rich in lysine) or milk (which is rich in lysine and tryptophan), to complement the proteins in corn. With meat or a food rich in vitamin C, to make the iron in corn more useful.

Diets That May Restrict or Exclude This Food Low-fiber diet

Buying This Food Look for: Cobs that feel cool or are stored in a refrigerated bin. Keeping corn cool helps retain its vitamin C and slows the natural conversion of the corn’s sugars to starch. Choose fresh corn with medium-sized kernels that yield slightly when you press them with your fingertip. Very small kernels are immature; very large ones are older and will taste starchy rather than sweet. Both yellow and white kernels may be equally tasty, but the husk of the corn should always be moist and green. A dry yellowish husk means that the corn is old enough for the chlorophyll pigments in the husk to have faded, letting the carotenes underneath show through.

Storing This Food Refrigerate fresh corn. At room temperature, fresh-picked sweet corn will convert nearly half its sugar to starch within 24 hours and lose half its vitamin C in four days. In the refrigera- tor, it may keep all its vitamin C for up to a week and may retain its sweet taste for as long as ten days.

Preparing This Food Strip off the husks and silk, and brush with a vegetable brush to get rid of clinging silky threads. R inse the corn briefly under running water, and plunge into boiling water for four to six minutes, depending on the size of the corn.

What Happens When You Cook This Food Heat denatures (breaks apart) the long-chain protein molecules in the liquid inside the corn kernel, allowing them to form a network of protein molecules that will squeeze out moisture and turn rubbery if you cook the corn too long. Heat also allows the starch granules inside the kernel to absorb water so that they swell and eventually rupture, releasing the nutrients inside. When you cook corn, the trick is to cook it just long enough to rupture its starch granules while keeping its protein molecules from turning tough and chewy. Cooking fresh corn for several minutes in boiling water may destroy at least half of its vitamin C. At Cornell University, food scientists found that cooking fresh corn in the microwave oven (two ears/without water if very fresh/4 minutes/600 –700 watts) preserves most of the vitamin C.

How Other Kinds of Processing Affect This Food Canning and freezing. Canned corn and frozen corn both have less vitamin C than fresh- cooked corn. The vitamin is lost when the corn is heated during canning or blanched before freezing to destroy the natural enzymes that would otherwise continue to ripen it. Blanch- ing in a microwave oven rather than in boiling water can preserve the vitamin C in frozen corn (see above). Milling. Milling removes the hull and germ from the corn kernel, leaving what is called hominy. Hominy, which is sometimes soaked in wood ash (lye) to increase its calcium con- tent, can be dried and used as a cereal (grits) or ground into corn flour. Coarsely ground corn flour is called cornmeal. Processed corn cereals. All processed, ready-to-eat corn cereals are much higher in sodium and sugar than fresh corn. Added calcium carbonate. Pellagra is a niacin-deficiency disease that occurs most com- monly among people for whom corn is the staple food in a diet lacking protein foods with the essential amino acid tryptophan, which can be converted to niacin in the human body. Pellagra is not an inevitable result of a diet high in corn, however, since the niacin in corn can be made more useful by soaking the corn in a solution of calcium carbonate (lime) and water. In Mexico, for example, the corn used to make tortillas is boiled in a dilute solution of calcium carbonate (from shells or limestone) and water, then washed, drained, and ground. The alkaline bath appears to release the bound niacin in corn so that it can be absorbed by the body.

Medical Uses and/or Benefits As a wheat substitute in baking. People who are allergic to wheat or cannot tolerate the glu- ten in wheat flour or wheat cereals can often use corn flour or hominy instead. Bath powder. Corn starch, a fine powder refined from the endosperm (inner part) of the corn kernel, can be used as an inexpensive, unperfumed body or face powder. Because it absorbs oils, it is also used as an ingredient in dry shampoos.

Adverse Effects Associated with This Food Allergic reaction. According to the Merck Manual, corn is one of the 12 foods most likely to trigger the classic food allergy symptoms: hives, swelling of the lips and eyes, and upset stomach. The others are berries (blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries), choco- late, eggs, fish, legumes (green peas, lima beans, peanuts, soybeans), milk, nuts, peaches, pork, shellfish, and wheat (see wheat cer ea ls).... corn

(Greek) A romantic woman; resembling the spice Coryander, Coriender, Coryender... coriander

A temporary endocrine gland formed at ovulation from part of the former egg follicle, and the source of progesterone. See PROGESTERONE, ESTROGEN, MENOPAUSE... corpus luteum

An early corticosteroid drug (see CORTICOSTEROIDS), now obsolete and replaced by PREDNISOLONE and HYDROCORTISONE.... cortisone

Coryza is the technical name for a ‘cold in the head’ (see COLD, COMMON).... coryza

The surgical operation of cutting the anterolateral tracts of the SPINAL CORD to relieve otherwise intractable pain. It is also sometimes known as tractotomy.... cordotomy

See EYE.... cornea

Also known as keratoplasty. If the cornea (see EYE) becomes damaged or diseased and vision is impaired, it can be removed and replaced by a corneal graft. The graft is taken from the cornea of a human donor. Some of the indications for corneal grafting include keratoconus (conicalshaped cornea), corneal dystrophies, severe corneal scarring following HERPES SIMPLEX, and alkali burns or other injury. Because the graft is a foreign protein, there is a danger that the recipient’s immune system may set up a reaction causing rejection of the graft. Rejection results in OEDEMA of the graft with subsequent poor vision. Once a corneal graft has been taken from a donor, it should be used as quickly as possible. Corneas can be stored for days in tissue-culture medium at low temperature. A small number of grafts are autografts in which a patient’s cornea is repositioned.

The Department of Health has drawn up a list of suitable eye-banks to which people can apply to bequeath their eyes, and an o?cial form is now available for the bequest of eyes. (See also DONORS; TRANSPLANTATION.)... corneal graft

See HEART, DISEASES OF.... coronary thrombosis

An independent legal o?cer of the Crown who is responsible for deciding whether to hold a POST-MORTEM EXAMINATION and an inquest in cases of sudden or unexpected or unnatural death. He or she presides over an inquest, if held – sometimes with the help of a jury. Coroners are usually lawyers or doctors (some are double-quali?ed) who have been quali?ed for at least ?ve years. In Scotland the coroner is known as the procurator ?scal.... coroner

Corpuscle means a small body. (See BLOOD.)... corpuscle

The tissues that form the outer part of an organ and which are positioned just below the capsule or outer membrane. Examples are the cerebal cortex of the BRAIN and the renal cortex of the KIDNEYS.... cortex

Natural steroid hormones or synthetic analogues, usually taken for suppressing inflammation (and immunity) and therefore having cortisone-like functions, or taken as analogues to adrenocortical androgen...or even testosterone, in order to impress the other gym members, make varsity by your junior year or to join the WWF and get newbie-mangled for two years by The Hangman or even the Hulkster Himself. Then, if your gonads don’t fall off and your back holds up you get promoted to Good Guy, have your chance to Take A Name and finally wear your chosen costume...a spandex violet nurse’s uniform.... corticosteroids

Another name for HYDROCORTISONE.... cortisol

See BRAIN.... sensory cortex

This comprises the VAS DEFERENS, nerves and blood vessels, and it runs from the cavity of the ABDOMEN to the TESTICLE in the SCROTUM.... spermatic cord

The ?eshy tube containing two arteries and a vein through which the mother supplies the FETUS with oxygen and nutrients. The cord, which is up to 60 cm long, ceases to function after birth and is clamped and cut about 2·5 cm from the infant’s abdominal wall. The stump shrivels and falls o? within two weeks, leaving a scar which forms the UMBILICUS. (See also PREGNANCY AND LABOUR.)... umbilical cord

This is the lower portion of the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM which is situated within the SPINAL COLUMN. Above, it forms the direct continuation of the medulla oblongata, this part of the BRAIN changing its name to spinal cord at the foramen magnum, the large opening in the base of the skull through which it passes into the spinal canal. Below, the spinal cord extends to about the upper border of the second lumbar vertebra, where it tapers o? into a ?ne thread, known as the ?lum terminale, that is attached to the coccyx at the lower end of the spine. The spinal cord is thus considerably shorter than the spinal column, being only 37– 45 cm (15–18 inches) in length, and weighing around 30 grams.

In its course from the base of the skull to the lumbar region, the cord gives o? 31 nerves on each side, each of which arises by an anterior and a posterior root that join before the nerve emerges from the spinal canal. The openings for the nerves formed by notches on the ring of each vertebra have been mentioned under the entry for spinal column. To reach these openings, the upper nerves pass almost directly outwards, whilst lower down their obliquity increases, until below the point where the cord ends there is a sheaf of nerves, known as the cauda equina, running downwards to leave the spinal canal at their appropriate openings.

The cord is a cylinder, about the thickness of the little ?nger. It has two slightly enlarged portions, one in the lower part of the neck, the other at the last dorsal vertebra; and from these thickenings arise the nerves that pass to the upper and lower limbs. The upper four cervical nerves unite to produce the cervical plexus. From this the muscles and skin of the neck are mainly supplied, and the phrenic nerve, which runs down through the lower part of the neck and the chest to innervate the diaphragm, is given o?. The brachial plexus is formed by the union of the lower four cervical and ?rst dorsal nerves. In addition to nerves to some of the muscles in the shoulder region, and others to the skin about the shoulder and inner side of the arm, the plexus gives o? large nerves that proceed down the arm.

The thoracic or dorsal nerves, with the exception of the ?rst, do not form a plexus, but each runs around the chest along the lower margin of the rib to which it corresponds, whilst the lower six extend on to the abdomen.

The lumbar plexus is formed by the upper four lumbar nerves, and its branches are distributed to the lower part of the abdomen, and front and inner side of the thigh.

The sacral plexus is formed by parts of the fourth and ?fth lumbar nerves, and the upper three and part of the fourth sacral nerves. Much of the plexus is collected into the sciatic nerves, the largest in the body, which go to the legs.

The sympathetic system is joined by a pair of small branches given o? from each spinal nerve, close to the spine. This system consists of two parts, ?rst, a pair of cords running down on the side and front of the spine, and containing on each side three ganglia in the neck, and beneath this a ganglion opposite each vertebra. From these two ganglionated cords numerous branches are given o?, and these unite to form the second part – namely, plexuses connected with various internal organs, and provided with numerous large and irregularly placed ganglia. The chief of these plexuses are the cardiac plexus, the solar or epigastric plexus, the diaphragmatic, suprarenal, renal, spermatic, or ovarian, aortic, hypogastric and pelvic plexuses.

The spinal cord, like the brain, is surrounded by three membranes: the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater, from without inwards. The arrangement of the dura and arachnoid is much looser in the case of the cord than their application to the brain. The dura especially forms a wide tube which is separated from the cord by ?uid and from the vertebral canal by blood vessels and fat, this arrangement protecting the cord from pressure in any ordinary movements of the spine.

In section the spinal cord consists partly of grey, but mainly of white, matter. It di?ers from the upper parts of the brain in that the white matter (largely) in the cord is arranged on the surface, surrounding a mass of grey matter (largely neurons – see NEURON(E)), while in the brain the grey matter is super?cial. The arrangement of grey matter, as seen in a section across the cord, resembles the letter H. Each half of the cord possesses an anterior and a posterior horn, the masses of the two sides being joined by a wide posterior grey commissure. In the middle of this commissure lies the central canal of the cord, a small tube which is the continuation of the ventricles in the brain. The horns of grey matter reach almost to the surface of the cord, and from their ends arise the roots of the nerves that leave the cord. The white matter is divided almost completely into two halves by a posterior septum and anterior ?ssure and is further split into anterior, lateral and posterior columns.

Functions The cord is, in part, a receiver and originator of nerve impulses, and in part a conductor of such impulses along ?bres which pass through it to and from the brain. The cord contains centres able to receive sensory impressions and initiate motor instructions. These control blood-vessel diameters, eye-pupil size, sweating and breathing. The brain exerts an overall controlling in?uence and, before any incoming sensation can affect consciousness, it is usually ‘?ltered’ through the brain.

Many of these centres act autonomously. Other cells of the cord are capable of originating movements in response to impulses brought direct to them through sensory nerves, such activity being known as REFLEX ACTION. (For a fuller description of the activities of the spinal cord, see NEURON(E) – Re?ex action.)

The posterior column of the cord consists of the fasciculus gracilis and the fasciculus cuneatus, both conveying sensory impressions upwards. The lateral column contains the ventral and the dorsal spino-cerebellar tracts passing to the cerebellum, the crossed pyramidal tract of motor ?bres carrying outgoing impulses downwards together with the rubro-spinal, the spino-thalamic, the spino-tectal, and the postero-lateral tracts. And, ?nally, the anterior column contains the direct pyramidal tract of motor ?bres and an anterior mixed zone. The pyramidal tracts have the best-known course. Starting from cells near the central sulcus on the brain, the motor nerve-?bres run down through the internal capsule, pons, and medulla, in the lower part of which many of those coming from the right side of the brain cross to the left side of the spinal cord, and vice versa. Thence the ?bres run down in the crossed pyramidal tract to end beside nerve-cells in the anterior horn of the cord. From these nerve-cells other ?bres pass outwards to form the nerves that go direct to the muscles. Thus the motor nerve path from brain to muscle is divided into two sections of neurons, of which the upper exerts a controlling in?uence upon the lower, while the lower is concerned in maintaining the muscle in a state of health and good nutrition, and in directly calling it into action. (See also NERVE; NERVOUS SYSTEM.)... spinal cord

See ERYTHROCYTES and LEUCOCYTES.... blood corpuscle

(Spanish) A crowned woman Coronna, Coronetta, Coronette, Carona, Coronete, Coronet, Coroneta... corona

A term applied to several structures in the body encircling an organ in the manner of a crown. The coronary arteries are the arteries of supply to the HEART which arise from the aorta, just beyond the aortic valve, and through which the blood is delivered to the muscle of the heart. Disease of the coronary arteries is a very serious condition producing various abnormal forms of heart action and the disorder, ANGINA PECTORIS.... coronary

A technique of dilating atheromatous obstructions (see ATHEROMA) in CORONARY ARTERIES by inserting a catheter with a balloon on the end into the affected artery (see also CATHETERS). It is passed through the blockage (guided by X-ray FLUOROSCOPY) and in?ated. The procedure can be carried out through a percutaneous route.... coronary angioplasty

(See also HEART.) The right coronary artery arises from the right aortic sinus and passes into the right atrio-ventricular groove to supply the right ventricle, part of the intraventricular septum and the inferior part of the left ventricle. The left coronary artery arises from the left sinus and divides into an anterior descending branch which supplies the septum and the anterior and apical parts of the heart, and the circum?ex branch which passes into the left atrio-ventricular groove and supplies the lateral posterior surfaces of the heart. Small anastomoses exist between the coronary arteries and they have the potential of enlarging if the blood-?ow through a neighbouring coronary artery is compromised. Coronary artery disease is damage to the heart caused by the narrowing or blockage of these arteries. It commonly presents as ANGINA PECTORIS or acute myocardial infarction (see HEART, DISEASES OF).... coronary arteries

Most generally, the degree to which one phenomenon or random variable is associated with, or can be predicted from, another. In statistics, correlation usually refers to the degree to which a linear predictive relationship exists between random variables, as measured by a correlation coefficient (q.v.). Correlation may be positive (but never larger than 1), i.e. both variables increase or decrease together; negative or inverse (but never smaller than -1), i.e. one variable increases when the other decreases; or zero, i.e. a change in one variable does not affect the other.... correlation

A support device worn around the trunk to help in the treatment of backache and spinal injuries or disorders.... corset

Corticotropin is the British Pharmacopoeia name for the adrenocorticotrophic hormone of the PITUITARY GLAND, also known as ACTH. It is so-called because it stimulates the functions of the cortex of the suprarenal glands. This results, among other things, in an increased output of cortisone.... corticotropin

The genus of Gram positive bacilli including Corynebacterium diphtheriae, the cause of diphtheria in humans. Genus also includes C. minutissimum, the cause of erythrasma in humans and the diphtheroids which are commensal corynebacteria making up part of the human respiratory tract normal flora.... corynebacterium

Pacinian corpuscles, or lamellated corpuscles, are minute bulbs at the ends of the nerves scattered through the SKIN and subcutaneous tissue, and forming one of the end-organs for sensation.... pacinian corpuscles

A treatment for a stenosed (restricted) coronary artery (see ARTERIES). A balloon-tipped catheter (see CATHETERS) is passed through an incision in the skin of the chest into the artery of the HEART that has developed stenosis (narrowing). The balloon is aligned with the stenosed section and then in?ated to dilate the coronary artery and allow the blood to ?ow more freely.... percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty

A degenerative condition of the SPINAL CORD which most commonly occurs as a complication of PERNICIOUS ANAEMIA. The motor and sensory nerves in the cord are damaged, causing spasticity of the limbs and an unsteady gait. Treatment is with vitamin B12 (see APPENDIX 5: VITAMINS).... subacute combined degeneration of the cord

See LARYNGOSCOPE; LARYNX; VOICE AND SPEECH.... vocal cords

See: EYES, INFECTION. ... corneal ulcer

A specialist ward for the care of acutely ill patients who may be suffering, or who have suffered, a myocardial infarction (heart attack) or another serious cardiovascular disorder.... coronary care unit

Narrowing of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart, leading to damage or malfunction of the heart. The most common heart disorders due to coronary artery disease are angina pectoris and myocardial infarction (heart attack). The usual cause of narrowing of the arteries is atherosclerosis, in which fatty plaques develop on the artery linings. The vessel can become totally blocked if a blood clot forms or lodges in the narrowed area. Atherosclerosis has many interrelated causes including smoking, a high-fat diet, lack of exercise, being overweight, and raised blood cholesterol levels. Other factors include a genetic predisposition and diseases such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension.

The first symptom of coronary artery disease is frequently the chest pain of angina. Treatment is with drugs such as glyceryl trinitrate and other nitrate drugs, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, potassium channel activators, and vasodilator drugs. If drug treatment fails to relieve the symptoms, or there is extensive narrowing of the coronary

arteries, blood flow may be improved by balloon angioplasty or coronary artery bypass surgery.... coronary artery disease

The cause of: coronary occlusion, coronary blockage, coronary thrombosis. A heart attack occurs when a coronary artery becomes blocked by swellings composed, among other things, of cholesterol. Such swellings may obstruct the flow of blood leading to a blood clot (thrombus). Cholesterol is a major cause of CHD.

Coronary thrombosis is more common in the West because of its preference for animal fats; whereas in the East fats usually take the form of vegetable oils – corn, sunflower seed, sesame, etc. Fatty deposits (atheroma) form in the wall of the coronary artery, obstructing blood-flow. Vessels narrowed by atheroma and by contact with calcium and other salts become hard and brittle (arterio-sclerosis) and are easily blocked. Robbed of oxygen and nutrients heart muscle dies and is replaced by inelastic fibrous (scar) tissue which robs the heart of its maximum performance.

Severe pain and collapse follow a blockage. Where only a small branch of the coronary arterial tree is affected recovery is possible. Cause of the pain is lack of oxygen (Vitamin E). Incidence is highest among women over 40 who smoke excessively and who take The Pill.

The first warning sign is breathlessness and anginal pain behind the breastbone which radiates to arms and neck. Sensation as if the chest is held in a vice. First-line agent to improve flow of blood – Cactus.

For cholesterol control target the liver. Coffee is a minor risk factor.

Measuring hair calcium levels is said to predict those at risk of coronary heart disease. Low hair concentrations may be linked with poor calcium metabolism, high aortic calcium build-up and the formation of plagues. (Dr Allan MacPherson, nutritionist, Scottish Agricultural College, Ayr, Scotland)

Evidence has been advanced that a diagonal ear lobe crease may be a predictor for coronary heart disease. (American Journal of Cardiology, Dec. 1992)

Tooth decay is linked to an increased risk of coronary heart disease and mortality, particularly in young men. (Dr Frank De Stefano, Marshfield Medical Research Foundation, Wisconsin, USA) Treatment. Urgency. Send for doctor or suitably qualified practitioner. Absolute bedrest for 3 weeks followed by 3 months convalescence. Thereafter: adapt lifestyle to slower tempo and avoid undue exertion. Stop smoking. Adequate exercise. Watch weight.

Cardiotonics: Motherwort, Hawthorn, Mistletoe, Rosemary. Ephedra, Lily of the Valley, Broom.

Cardiac vasodilators relax tension on the vessels by increasing capacity of the arteries to carry more blood. Others contain complex glycosides that stimulate or relax the heart at its work. Garlic is strongly recommended as a preventative of CHD.

Hawthorn, vasodilator and anti-hypertensive, is reputed to dissolve deposits in thickened and sclerotic arteries BHP (1983). It is believed to regulate the balance of lipids (body fats) one of which is cholesterol.

Serenity tea. Equal parts: Motherwort, Lemon Balm, Hawthorn leaves or flowers. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes; 1 cup freely.

Decoction. Combine equal parts: Broom, Lily of the Valley, Hawthorn. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup freely.

Tablets/capsules. Hawthorn, Motherwort, Cactus, Mistletoe, Garlic.

Practitioner. Formula. Hawthorn 20ml; Lily of the Valley 10ml; Pulsatilla 5ml; Stone root 5ml; Barberry 5ml. Tincture Capsicum 1ml. Dose: Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Thrice daily in water or honey.

Prevention: Vitamin E – 400iu daily.

Diet. See: DIET – HEART AND CIRCULATION.

Supplements. Daily. Vitamin C, 2g. Vitamin E possesses anti-clotting properties, 400iu. Broad spectrum multivitamin and mineral including chromium, magnesium selenium, zinc, copper.

Acute condition. Strict bed-rest; regulate bowels; avoid excessive physical and mental exertion. Meditation and relaxation techniques dramatically reduce coronary risk. ... coronary heart disease

Hook. f. ex Brandis

Family: Rubiaceae.

Habitat: Indigenous in deciduous forests all over India.

English: Yellow Teak, Saffron Teak.

Ayurvedic: Haridru, Haraduaa- kadamba, Gaur-kadamba, Girikadamba, Dhaaraakadam- ba, Pitadaaru, Kadambapushpa.

Siddha/Tamil: Manjakadambu.

Folk: Haladu, Kheta Kadam.

Action: Antibacterial, antiseptic, antidysenteric, antibilious (used in biliary colic), febrifuge. Root— astringent.

The heartwood contains indole alkaloids; bark 7.27-9.27% tannin. The leaves contain ursolic acid and querce- tin.... adina cordifolia

The outer covering of the two adrenal glands that lie atop each kidney. Embryonically derived from gonad tissue, they make steroid hormones that control electrolytes, the management of fuels, the rate of anabolism, the general response to stress, and maintenance of nonspecific resistance.... adrenal cortex

(Jacq.) Willd.

Family: Caesalpiniaceae.

Habitat: Grows abundantly in South India, also cultivated in North-western India and West Bengal.

English: American Sumac, Divi-divi Plant.

Siddha/Tamil: Kodivelam.

Folk: Libi-dibi; Divi-divi.

Action: Bark—febrifuge, antiperi- odic. Pod—astringent (in piles). Fruit—semen coagulant.

All parts of the plant contain tannin, the maximum amount occurring in the pods (69.4%). The tannins from pods comprise pyrogallol type of hy- drolysable tannins and consists of gal- lotannin and ellagitannin. Divi-divi closely resembles myrobalans both in nature and contents of tannins. Seeds contain little or no tannin.

The plant is used for treating freckles. Leaves contain ellagic and gallic acids, catechol and tannins.

Ethanolic extract of the leaves showed antifungal activity.... caesalpinia coriaria

(English) A young maiden; in mythology, another name for the goddess of the underworld

Corabel, Corabella, Corabelle, Corabellita, Coraima, Coralette, Coraletta, Coralete, Coralet, Corra, Corah... cora

A ciliated oncosphere which develops in the eggs of pseudophyllidean tapeworms.... coracidium

(English) Resembling the semiprecious sea growth; from the reef Coralee, Coralena, Coralie, Coraline, Corallina, Coralline, Coraly, Coralyn, Coralyne, Coralia, Coralin, Coralina, Coralea, Coraleah... coral

Benth. ex Hook. f.

Family: Cucurbitaceae.

Habitat: Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Peninsular India.

Ayurvedic: Shukanaasaa, Nahikaa, Katunaahi, Paataala-garudaa.

(Cocculus hirsutus is used as Paataala-garudi).

Siddha/Tamil: Kollankovai, Aaakaasagarudam.

Action: Laxative. Root used during later stages of dysentery and chronic mucous enteritis; also in syphilitic rheumatism. The herb shows no apparent effect on acute dysentery.

The root contains a bitter principle allied to bryonin.... corallocarpus epigaeus

(Spanish) Of the heart Corazon, Corazana, Corazone, Corazona... corazon

(Latin) Resembling a crow; as dark as a raven

Corben, Corbet, Corbett, Corbie, Corbit, Corbitt, Corby, Corbyn, Corvin, Corbi... corbin

(English) One who is well-prepared Cordaye, Cordai, Cordae... corday

(Latin) A good-hearted woman; a woman of honesty

Cordella, Cordelea, Cordilia, Cordilea, Cordy, Cordie, Cordi, Cordee, Cordey, Cordelle... cordelia

Roem. & Schult.

Family: Boraginaceae.

Habitat: Rajasthan, Gujarat, Deccan and Karnataka.

English: Sebestan (smaller var.)

Ayurvedic: Laghu-shleshmaataka, Lisodaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Naruvili.

Folk: Gondi.

Action: See C. myxa.

Bark—astringent; decoction is used as a gargle.... cordia rothii

The mountain ridge that spans North America, from Mexico through the Rocky Mountains into Alaska.... cordillera

(Latin / German) From the heart / resembling a jewel

Cordulah, Cordulla, Cordullah, Cordoola, Cordoolah, Cordoolla, Cordoollah... cordula

Activities which are essential for daily living, such as self care, mobility and communication.... core activities

(Irish) From the hollow; of the churning waters

Cory, Cori, Coriann, Corianne, Corie, Corri, Corrianna, Corrie, Corry, Corre, Coree, Corella, Coretta, Corilla, Corisa, Corissa, Corita, Corlene, Corrella, Correlle, Corrissa, Coryssa, Corentine, Corette, Corrianne, Corea, Coreah, Correa, Correah... corey

Linn.

Synonym: C. acutangulus Lam.

Family: Tiliaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the warmer parts of India, as a weed.

English: White Jute. (Tossa Jute is equated with C. olitorius Linn.).

Ayurvedic: Chunchu, Chanchu, Chinchaa. (bigger var. is equated with C. olitorius; smallar var. with C. capsularis.)

Folk: Chench shaaka, Titapat (Bengal).

Action: Seeds and aerial parts— stomachic, anti-inflammatory. Used in pneumonia.

The seeds contain cardenolides, beta-sitosterol, ceryl alcohol, oligosaccharides. The aerial parts contain triterpenoidal glycosides—corchoru- sins. Corchorusins have similar structural similarity with saikosaponins (isolated so far from Bupleurum sp. of Japan, China and Korea) and some of them exhibit antiviral, anti-inflam matory and plasma-cholesterol lowering activities.

The alcoholic extract of the entire plant was found to have anticancer activity against epidermal carcinoma of nasopharynx in tissue culture. Alcoholic extract and glycosides of seeds exhibit cardiotonic activity. Digitox- ose containing glycosides are reported to be present in Corchorus sp.

C. olitorius Linn. is known as Jew's Mallow (Pattaa Shaaka or Patuaa Shaa- ka).

Corchorosid A, reported from the plant, improved cardiac competence experimentally.

The leaf extracts may be used as moisturizers in skin cosmetics. The extracts consist of uronic acid containing muco-polysaccharide, Ca, K and P, among others, which act as effective moisturizers.... corchorus aestuans

Linn.

Family: Tiliaceae.

Habitat: Throughout warmer parts of India; extensively cultivated in West Bengal.

English: White Jute.

Ayurvedic: Kaala shaaka.

Siddha/Tamil: Pirattai-keerai.

Folk: Naadi shaaka, Narichaa. Titapat (Bengal).

Action: Leaves—stomachic, carminative, diuretic, antidysenteric (dried leaves). Seeds—purgative.

Seeds contain cardiac glycosides. These include two monosides, helveti- coside and corchoroside A and two polar glycosides, erysimoside and olitori- side. Leaves contain beta-sitosterol- glucoside. Corchoroside A exhibited cardiotonic properties.

The aqueous/alcoholic extracts, containing polysaccharides, may be used in preparations of skin cosmetics or hair preparations for their moisturizing effect.... corchorus capsularis

Lam.

Family: Tiliaceae.

Habitat: Throughout warmer parts of India.

Ayurvedic: Chanchuka, Chanchu.

Folk: Chanchu shaaka, Baaphali.

Action: Astringent, spasmolytic, restorative, mucilaginous.

The plant contains betulinic acid and beta-sitosterol. Seeds yield cardeno- lides including trilocularin. The glyco- sides of the plant were found to be devoid of any effect of its own on smooth muscle of guinea pig ileum, but produced spasmolytic effect against acetyl- choline, histamine and bradykinin. Direct action of the drug was observed on rabbit intestines. Slight cardiac depressant effect was found on isolated amphibian heart preparation.

Corchorus depressus (L.) Christensen, found in drier parts of North India, is known as Bhauphali (Delhi).

The Plant is used as a cooling medicine in fevers; its mucilage is prescribed in gonorrhoea, also for increasing the viscosity of seminal fluid. An extract of the plant is applied as a paste to wounds.

The plant contains alpha-amyrin derivatives, together with apigenin, luteolin, sitosterol and its glucoside. Presence of quercetin and kaempferol has been reported in leaves and flowers.

The plant exhibits antimicrobial and antipyretic activities.... corchorus fascicularis

(American) A humorous woman Corgy, Corgey, Corgi, Corgee, Corgea, Corgeah... corgie

(Latin) A spear-wielding woman Corinna, Coreen, Coreene, Coren, Corena, Corine, Correen, Correena, Corrin, Corrina, Corrine, Corenne, Corin, Corinda, Corinn, Corinne, Correna, Corrianne, Corrienne, Corrinda, Corrinn, Corrinna, Corryn, Coryn, Corynn, Corynne, Correnda, Corynna, Coreana, Correana... corina

(Greek) A woman of Corinth Corinthiah, Corinthe, Corinthea, Corintheah, Corynthia, Corynthea, Corynthe... corinthia

(Greek) A beautiful singer Corys, Corris, Corrys... coris

(American) An energetic young woman

Corki, Corkey, Corkie, Corkee, Corkea, Corkeah... corky

(English) A carefree and cheerful woman

Corlisse, Corless, Corley, Corly, Corli, Corlie, Corlea, Corleah, Corlee, Corleigh... corliss

The fleshy, bulblike, solid base of a stem, often rising out of a tuber or bulb.... corm

(Italian) A fiery woman Cormellah, Cormela, Cormelah, Cormellia, Cormelia, Cormellea, Cormelea, Cormy, Cormey, Cormi, Cormie, Cormee, Cormea, Cormeah... cormella

Instinctive closing of the eyelids when the surface of the cornea (see EYE) is lightly touched with a ?ne hair.... corneal reflex

Roxb. noncLinn.

Synonym: C. dichotoma Forst. f. C. obliqua Willd.

Family: Boraginaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, wild and often planted.

English: Sabestan Plum.

Ayurvedic: Shleshmaataka, Shelu, Bahuvaara, Bahuvaaraka, Bhutvrk- shak, Uddaalaka Shita, Picchila, Lisodaa.

Unani: Sapistaan, Lasodaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Naruvili.

Action: Fruit—astringent, demulcent, expectorant, diuretic, anthelmintic, mucilaginous. Used in the diseases of the chest and urinary passage. Bark—used in dyspepsia and fevers. Kernels— externally applied to ringworm. Leaf—decoction used in cough and cold.

The fruits contain Ca 55, P 275, Zn 2, Fe 6, Mn 2, Cr 0.2 and Cu 1.6 mg/100 g (Chromium is of therapeutic value in diabetes).

Antinutritional factors are—phytic acid 355, phytate phosphorus 100 and oxalic acid 250 mg/100 g.

The seeds contain alpha-amyrin and taxifolin-3, 5-dirhamnoside, which showed significant anti-inflammatory activity. EtOH (50%) of leaves and stems—antimicrobial; aerial parts— diuretic and hypothermic.... cordia myxa

G. Don.

Synonym: C. oblique Willd. var. wallichii.

Family: Boraginaceae.

Habitat: Gujarat, North Kanara and Deccan.

English: Sebestan (bigger var.).

Ayurvedic: Shleshmaataka (bigger var.), Uddaalaka, Bahu- vaaraka.

Siddha/Tamil: Perunaruvili.

Folk: Gondi.

Action: Fruit—astringent, demulcent, expectorant. See C. myxa.... cordia wallichii

Linn.

Family: Umbelliferae; Apiaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated chiefly in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Bihar.

English: Coriander.

Ayurvedic: Dhaanyaka, Kustum- buru, Dhaanyeyaka, Dhanika, Dhanikaa, Dhaanaa, Dhaanya, Dhaniyaa, Kunati, Chhatraa, Vitunnaka.

Unani: Kishneez.

Siddha/Tamil: Kotthamalli.

Action: Stimulant, stomachic, carminative, antispasmodic, diuretic; also hypoglycaemic and anti-inflammatory. Oil—bactericidal and larvicidal. Used in China as a remedy for measles, diabetes, aerophagy and gastroenteritis.

Key application: In dyspeptic complaints, loss of appetite. (German Commission E, British Herbal Pharmacopoeia, Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

Coriander contains 0.5-1% volatile oil, consisting mainly of delta-linalool (55-74%), alpha-pinene and terpinine. It also contains flavonoids, coumarins, phthalides and phenolic acids (including caffeic and chlorogenic).

Aqueous extract of the roasted seeds contains large amounts of acetylcho- line and its precursor choline. (Choline is found useful in preventing and curing certain liver disorders.) The extract shows cholinomimetic effects experimentally.

Coriandrin, an antiviral agent, has been synthesized from the aerial parts. The plant forms an ingredient of a Pakistani herbal drug (Intellan) which is considered to be a neuro-energizer.

In Unani medicine, an infusion of fruits is also used in bleeding piles, neuralgia, cephalalgia and spermatorrhoea.

Dosage: Fruit—1-3 g powder. (API Vol. I.)... coriandrum sativum

Have you ever thought that if you remove the corn silk from corn combs, you can use it as a remedy? While many people may not be familiar with this type of tea, in fact corn silk tea was used for a long time even by Native Americans as a remedy for heart problems, malaria or urinary tract infections. More about Corn silk tea Corn silk is in fact the thin, hair-like strands that cover the corn cob. These silky yellowish strands which form the stigma collect pollen to fertilize the corn, and they’re also used to make a healing tea. In corn silk there can be found many important components like flavonoids, allantoin, mucilage, saponins, vitamins C and K and potassium. Corn silk may also be combined with other herbs to increase its healing powers and range of medicinal uses. It’s also available in prepackaged teabags, or in a dried supplement form. Powdered corn silk is a common ingredient in face powders, due to its soothing qualities. Corn silk tea has a slightly sweet taste. If you decide to collect it in order to make a tea, make sure that the plants were not sprayed with pesticides. Brew corn silk tea In order to make a tasty healthy corn silk tea it is usually recommended to use fresh corn silk. If you don’t have it at your hand, the dried one works just fine. To prepare the infusion, use 2 teaspoons of fresh corn silk or 2.5 g of dried one and pour 1 cup of boiled water over it. Let it seep for 10 - 15 minutes and it is ready to serve. Corn silk tea benefits Corn silk tea has many health benefits for adults and for children. The most important benefit of this tea is for disorders in the urinary system : infections, cystitis, as well as bladder infections or gonorrhea. If you want your children to stop wetting their beds give them corn silk tea. Corn silk tea is also diuretic, demulcent, has anti-inflammatory properties and it fights kidney stones. Corn silk tea may help detoxify and flush out accumulated toxins in the body. Corn silk tea contains vitamin K, which has been shown to improve the body’s blood clotting process. Corn silk tea has also been shown to lower blood pressure, relieve arthritis pains, and help in the treatment of jaundice and prostate disorders. When applied topically, corn silk tea can help heal wounds and skin ulcers. Corn silk tea side effects In most cases, corn silk tea is suitable for daily consumption without special warnings. However, in rare cases, in you are allergic to corn, you may develop a skin rash. Corn silk tea can also decrease the level of potassium in your blood. So you should avoid it if you already have low potassium levels, problems with blood pressure, or diabetes. It is not recommended for children, during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Corn silk tea is safe to be included in your diet, but in order to enjoy its benefits, do not exceed 3 cups a day.... corn silk tea remedy

(Latin) Feminine form of Cornelius; referring to a horn Cornalia, Corneelija, Cornela, Cornelija, Cornelya, Cornella, Cornelle, Cornie... cornelia

(American) A talkative woman Corneshah, Corneisha, Corneishah, Corniesha, Cornieshah, Corneesha, Corneeshah, Corneasha, Corneashah, Cornysha, Corynshah... cornesha

psychism... cornflower

A corn is a localised thickening of the cuticle or epidermis (see SKIN) affecting the foot. The thickening is of a conical shape; the point of the cone is directed inwards and is known as the ‘eye’ of the corn. A general thickening over a wider area is called a callosity. Bunion is a condition found over the joint at the base of the big toe, in which not only is there thickening of the skin, but the head of the metatarsal bone also becomes prominent. Hammer-toe is a condition of the second toe, often caused by short boots, in which the toe becomes bent at its two joints in such a way as to resemble a hammer.

Corns and bunions are caused by badly ?tting shoes, hence the importance of children and adults wearing properly ?tted footwear. Corns can be pared after softening in warm water, or painted with salicylic acid collodion or other proprietary preparations. Bad corns may need treatment by a chiropodist (see CHIROPODY). Bunions may require surgical treatment. Regular foot care is important in patients with DIABETES MELLITUS.... corns and bunions

When coronary arteries, narrowed by disease, cannot supply the heart muscle with su?cient blood, the cardiac circulation may be improved by grafting a section of vein from the leg to bypass the obstruction. Around 10,000 people in the United Kingdom have this operation annually and the results are usually good. It is a major procedure that lasts several hours and requires the heart to be stopped temporarily, with blood circulation and oxygenation taken over by a HEART-LUNG MACHINE.... coronary artery vein bypass grafting (cavbg)

A specialised hospital unit equipped and sta?ed to provide intensive care (see INTENSIVE THERAPY UNIT (ITU)) for patients who have had severe heart attacks or undergone surgery on the heart.... coronary care unit (ccu)

RNA viruses causing the common cold Coronatae The taxonomic order of grooved jellyfish.... coronavirus

Coronaviruses – so-called because in electron micrographs the spikes projecting from the virus resemble a crown – are a group of viruses which have been isolated from people with common colds (see COLD, COMMON) and have also been shown to produce common colds under experimental conditions. Their precise signi?cance in the causation of the common cold is still undetermined.... coronaviruses

(Greek) In mythology, Apollo’s lover who was killed by Artemis Coronys, Coroniss, Coronisse, Coronyss, Coronysse... coronis

See OBESITY.... corpulence

The name applied to the collapsing pulse found with incompetence of the heart’s aortic valve. It is so-called after Sir Dominic John Corrigan (1802–80), the famous Dublin physician, who ?rst described it.... corrigan’s pulse

Corrosives are poisonous substances which corrode or eat away the skin or the mucous surfaces of mouth, gullet and stomach with which they come into contact. Examples are strong mineral acids like sulphuric, nitric and hydrochloric acids, caustic alkalis, and some salts like chlorides of mercury and zinc. (See POISONS.)... corrosives

(Welsh) Resembling a reed... corsen

Means “bark of (plant name)”; look up the plant name which follows this description of the plant part used.... corteza de

Wall.

Family: Papaveraceae.

Habitat: The West Himalayas, from Kashmir to Kumaon.

Ayurvedic: Bhootakeshi (a doubtful substitute for Bhootajataa, Nardostachys jatamansi DC.) Species of Selinum are also used as Bhootakeshi.

Action: Sedative, spasmolytic, hypotensive, nervine, antiseptic. Used in cutaneous and scrofulous affections, chronic fever and liver complaints.

The roots contain phthalide iso- quinoline alkaloids. In addition, stems and leaves contain tetrahydroproto- berberines.

A related species, C. solida, indigenous to Siberia, northern China and Japan, contains alkaloids including corydalmine, tetrahydropalmatine, protoberberine-type alkaloid lenticin. The alkaloids are analgesic and sedative and have been shown to work, at least in part, by blocking the dopamine receptors in the central nervous system.

The powdered rhizome of Corydalis possesses one-hundredth of the analgesic potency of morphine.... corydalis govaniana

A genus of aerobic and anaerobic gram-positive (see GRAM’S STAIN) bacteria, widely distributed and best known as parasites and pathogens in humans. C. diphtheria, a prime example, causes diphtheria.... corynebacteria

The colloquial name for Millepora.... fire coral

Corydalis tea was used for centuries in ancient Chinese medicine as a pain reliever. But this tea has also various other health benefits. More on Corydalis tea Native to the northern parts of China, Japan, Eastern Russia and Eastern Africa, Corydalis is a perennial plant that usually grows in shade along the edges of woodlands. It possesses pink flowers and finely-divided thin leaves and yellow tubers. It is closely related to the opium poppy family. Its medicinal properties largely lie in the roots or rhizomes. Corydalis is used either as a decoction, tincture, extract or tea for its analgesic, antispasmodic, antiseptic, sedative, tranquilizing, anti-cancer, hypotensive and cardiotonic qualities. It contains more than 20 potent alkaloids that include tetrahydropalmatine, dehydrocorydaline, protopine and cordalines. Though its effects are somewhat similar to that given by the opium poppy, corydalis tea is said to be non-addictive. Its taste can be bitter so you might want to drink it along with some sweeteners. Corydalis herb is typically mixed with other herbs by Chinese herbal practitioners. They use it in a variety of ways, for example with peony and licorice to fight spastic pain, or with pteropus and bulrush for treating abdominal and menstrual pain. Corydalis tea brew Corydalis tea can be made by placing a handful of the dried roots in a pot of boiling water and allowing it to steep for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then let it simmer for a further 5 minutes before drinking it. Alternatively, an infusion can be made using the powdered form of the roots. Simply immerse the powdered corydalis roots in newly-boiled water for about 5 to 7 minutes. Corydalis tea benefits Here are some of the health benefits of Corydalis tea. It lowers blood pressure, eases heart rate and reinforces the circulation system. Being a pain reliever, Corydalis tea can ease chest and abdominal pains, fight pain in the lumbar region and  help relieve menstrual cramps and dysmenorrhea. It can cure anxiety, restlessness, sleeplessness and edginess. Corydalis tea may help fight stomach ulcers as it may help decrease gastric secretions. Corydalis tea may be helpful in fighting cough and allergies. Corydalis tea side effects Corydalis tea has some precautions that should be considered before taking it. Corydalis tea should always be used under the supervision of a health care provider. The tea is not for the use of children, pregnant or nursing women, liver or kidney disease. People taking sleeping pills, depressants and alcohol should avoid it, as the effects of such a combination have not yet been fully established. Corydalis tea can be included in a healthy life style, but first consult with your physician and do not drink too much of it.... corydalis tea

Linn.

Family: Betulaceae.

Habitat: Native to Europe and Western Asia; common in gardens on hill-station in India.

English: European Hazel, Filbert.

Unani: Funduq, Bunduq.

Action: Kernel—nutritive, astringent; used as an anabolic tonic and in sexual debility in Unani medicine. The oil is used to reduce cholesterol and as an antioxidant.

The kernel of the European Hazel Nut contains protein 12.7%, carbohydrate 17.7%, fat 60.9% and phosphorus 0.35%. The fatty acid components of the kernel oil are : oleic 88.1%, linoleic 2.9%, palmitic 3.1%, stearic 1.6% and myristic 2.2%.

The stem bark contains a biologically active cyanidanol glycoside.

The Turkish Hazel Nuts are rich in mono and polysaturated fatty acids— oleic 82% and linoleic 9%; also gave beta-sitosterol.

The Turkish Hazel Nuts are imported into India during the winter season.... corylus avellana

Linn.

Family: Betulaceae.

Habitat: Western temperate Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon; common in Kashmir forests.

English: Turkish Hazel.

Folk: Virin (Kashmir). Thangi, Urni (Punjab). Kapaasi, Bhotiaa Badaam (Kumaon).

Action: A mixture of flavonoids, isolated from the leaves, has shown potent antiperoxidative and oxygen radical scavenging properties. It exhibits very low toxicity and can be used as an alternative to the toxic synthetic antioxidants used for the treatment of free radical-mediated injuries. See also C. avellana.

Himalayan Hazel, occurring in central and eastern Himalayas, locally known as Curri and Langura, is equated with Corylus ferox Wall.... corylus colurna

(body louse) di?ers from the head and crab louse in that it lives in clothing and only goes on to the body to feed. Infestation is found in vagabonds, armies in the ?eld, or prisoners in conditions where even minimal hygiene is impossible. The lice are found in the seams of clothing together with multiple eggs. Typically excoriation and pigmentation are seen on the back of the infested person. Replacement of clothing or autoclaving or hot ironing of the clothes is curative.... pediculus humanus var. corporis

Roth.

Family: Cyperaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, in shallow waters.

Ayurvedic: Kronchaadana.

Action: Tuber—prescribed for diarrhoea, dysentery and emesis.... scirpus corymbosus

Gaertn.

Family: Gramineae; Poaceae.

Habitat: A grain crop of Karnataka; also grown on large scale in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.

English: Finger Millet, African millet, Ragi.

Ayurvedic: Madhuuli, Markata- hasta-trna.

Siddha/Tamil: Ragi, Kezhvaregu.

Action: Seeds—cooling, astringent. Nutritive value of ragi is higher than that of rice and equal to that of wheat. White ragi is superior to the pigmented type. A nourishing food for infants, growing children, expectant mothers and aged people. Ragi is considered an ideal food for diabetics because of slow release of sugars to the body. A decoction of leaves and stems is drunk to ease vaginal bleeding.

The protein content of ragi is 813%, with P 250, Fe 7.6, thiamine 0.18— and riboflavin 0.1 mg/100 g. Ragi has high glycemic index value. It reduced plasma cholesterol, total serum cholesterol and LDL cholesterol by 9% each, and triglycerides by 15%, and increased HDL cholesterol, thus exhibited a sig- nificantbeneficial effect on plasma profile. The lipemic index for ragi is 55, taking isocaloric wheat-supplemented background diet (control) at 100.... eleusine coracana

staff.

Synonym: E. divaricata (L.) Alston. Tabernaemontana coronaria R.Br.

Family: Apocynaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the sub- Himalayan tract from Garhwal eastwards to Assam and Bengal, extending southwards to North Circars.

English: East Indian Rosebay.

Ayurvedic: Nandivrksha, Tagar.

Siddha/Tamil: Nandiyaavattam.

Action: Topically anodyne; chewed for relief of toothache; administered as a vermicide. Various parts of the plant are used in the indigenous system of medicine for skin diseases and cancer.

The plant from Sri Lanka and Pakistan contains several indole alkaloids, including voacristine.

Isovoacristic hydrochloride caused bradycardia in frogs and rabbits. The decoction of leaves exhibits antihypertensive and diuretic activity. Taberson- ine, reported in the flowers, showed hypotensive effect on anaesthetized cats.

The most abundant alkaloids in stem cortex are tabernaemontanine, dregamine and 20-epi ervatamine.... ervataemia coronaria

Roxb.

Synonym: F. rumphii Bl.

Family: Moraceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, up to 1,700 m in the hills.

Ayurvedic: Ashmantaka (var.)

Folk: Gajanaa, Ashtaa, Paakar.

Action: Fruit juice and latex— antiasthmatic and vermifuge.

Siddha/Tamil: Kal Aal, Pei Aal.

Action: Fruit—cardiotonic. Leaves and bark—used in affections of the liver and skin diseases.... ficus cordifolia

Koenig.

Family: Zingiberaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the moist parts of India, up to 2,000 m. Also grown in gardens of Assam and South India.

English: Ginger Lily.

Ayurvedic: Shati (related species).

Action: Anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, febrifuge, tranquilizer.

The rhizomes gave furanoditerpene, hedychenone, an anti-inflammatory principle, also cytotoxic principles as labdane-type diterpenes.

The essential oil from rhizome shows anthelmintic and mild tranquil- izing property. The essential oil contains alpha- and beta-pinene, limo- nene, carene, and its oxide, linalool and elemole in varying concentrations. The essential oil also gave borneol, methyl salicylate, eugenol and methy- lanthranilate.... hedychium coronarium

Wight & Arn.

Family: Combretaceae.

Habitat: Western Andhra Pradesh and Central India.

English: Leathery Murdah.

Folk: Tani (Andhra Pradesh)

Action: Bark—cardiac stimulant.... terminalia coriacea

(Linn.) Lam.

Synonym: Oldenlandia corymbosa Linn.

Family: Rubiaceae.

Habitat: A weed in wet, low lands and in cultivated fields.

Ayurvedic: Kshetraparpata (used in Kerala as Parpataka).

Action: Purifies blood, improves digestion, stimulates action of liver.

The presence of caffeine and fumar- ic acid has been reported in H. corym- bosa.

Iridoidoglucosides have been isolated from H. diffusa Willd. The plant is reported to have immunopotentiation activity and has been used in China to treat some tumours. An aqueous extract of the plant yielded a polysac- charide composed of rhamnose, arabi- nose, xylose, mannose, galactose and glucose.

Hedyotis herbacea Linn., synonym Oldenlandia herbacea Roxb. is also used in Kerala as Parpata, Parpataka.

See Fumaria indica.... hedyotis corymbosa

(Houtt.) Merrill.

Synonym: L. grandis (Dennst.) Engl.; Odina wodier Roxb.

Family: Anacardiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, ascending to 1,500 m in the Himalayas.

Ayurvedic: Jingini, Jhingan, Gudamanjari.

Siddha/Tamil: Kalasan, Anaikkarai, Odiyan.

Action: Bark—stimulant and astringent; used in gout; decoction for aphthae of the mouth and for toothache. Leaves— boiled and applied to sprains, bruises, local swellings, elephantiasis. Gum— given in asthma; as a cordial to women during lactation.

The roots contain cluytyl ferulate; heartwood gave lanosterol; bark, dl- epi-catechin and (+)-leucocyanidin; flowers and leaves, ellagic acid, querce- tin and quercetin-3-arabinoside. Flowers also contain iso-quercetin and morin. Leaves in addition contain beta-sitosterol, leucocyanidin and leu- codelphinidin.... lannea coromandelica

Linn.

Family: Sterculiaceae.

Habitat: Kumaon to Sikkim, Gujarat and Peninsular India.

Siddha/Tamil: Pinnakkuppundu.

Folk: Chunch, Bilpat.

Action: Leaf and root—antidysen- teric. Leaf—applied as poultice for swellings of abdomen and sores.

The leaves gave flavonol glycosides, cyclopeptide alkaloids. The triter- penoids and steroids, isolated from the aerial parts, are friedelin, beta- sitosterol and its beta-D-glucoside and stearate.... melochia corchorifolia

(Burm.) B. L. Robinson.

Synonym: M. micrantha Kunth. M. scandans Hook. f. non-Willd.

Family: Asteraceae; Compositae.

Habitat: West Bengal, eastern Assam, as a weed in tea gardens; sal and other forests and waste lands. Distributed in tropical America, Africa and Asia.

Folk: Mikaaniaa.

Action: Root—anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, adaptogenic.

Stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol and sesquiterpene dilactones, mikanolide, dihydromikanolide, deoxymikanolide and scandenolide have been isolated from the weed.

The root extract exhibited anti-inflammatory activity; reduced carra- geenan-induced paw oedema in experimental rats.

The methanolic extract of the root showed CNS deperssant action. It showed reduction in spontaneous motility, hypothermia, potentiation of pentobarbitone sleeping time, analgesia, suppression of aggressive behaviour and antagonism to amphetamine toxicity on experimental animals.

The methanolic extract of the root exhibited adaptogenic activity against a variety of stress-induced effects in albino rats.

The chemoprotective, anticarcino- genic and hepatoprotective effect of the methanolic extract of the root were also evaluated in animal studies. Chemical carcinogens were reduced in the liver of rats treated with the plant extract. The root extract induced recovery from carbon tetrachloride-induced damage to liver tissues in mice.... mikania cordata

Stagger-weed. Root. Corydalis cava.

Action. Powerful alterative and antiseptic. Nervine.

Uses: Has a long traditional reputation for ulcerations, chancre, sore throat of syphilis and the chronic nerve dystrophy that follows. An analogue of Goldenseal. Parkinsonism. (Wm A.R. Thomson MD) vSaid to work well with Poke root.

Combined with Skullcap for epilepsy.

Preparation. Tincture: from the bulbous root when plant is in flower. 10 drops in water thrice daily.

Once used in herbal pharmacy. Of historic interest only. ... corydalis

A scratch or defect in the epithelium (outer layer) of the cornea caused by a small, sharp particle in the eye (see eye, foreign body in) or by an injury. Corneal abrasions usually heal quickly but may cause severe pain and photophobia. Treatment includes covering the eye with a patch, analgesic drugs to relieve pain, and, if the eye muscles go into spasm, eyedrops containing cycloplegic drugs (which paralyse the ciliary muscle, preventing accommodation). Antibiotic eyedrops are usually

given to prevent bacterial infection, which can lead to a corneal ulcer.... corneal abrasion

See corneal graft.... corneal transplant

Either of the 2 main arteries that supply the tissues of the heart with oxygen-rich blood. These are

known as the left and right main coronary arteries and arise directly from the aorta. The term coronary artery is also applied to any of the arteries that branch off from the main coronary arteries, such as the left circumflex artery and the left anterior descending artery. Blockage of a coronary artery as a result of atherosclerosis can lead to myocardial infarction.

(See also coronary artery disease.)... coronary artery

Linn.

Family: Oxalidaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the warmer parts of India.

English: Indian Sorrel.

Ayurvedic: Chaangeri, Am- lapatrikaa, Amlikaa, Chukraa, Chukrikaa, Chhatraamlikaa.

Unani: Ambutaa bhaaji, Amutaa saag.

Siddha/Tamil: Puliyarai.

Folk: Tinpatiyaa, Ambilonaa.

Action: Plant—boiled with butter milk is a home remedy for indigestion and diarrhoea in children. Used for tympanitis, dyspepsia, biliousness and dysentery; also for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic and antiscorbutic activities. Leaf paste is applied over forehead to cure headache.

The leaves contain the flavonoids, vitexin, isovitexin and vitexin-2"-O- beta-D-glucopyranoside. The leaves contain 1.47% of lipid (dry weight), a rich source of essential fatty acids and alpha-and beta-tocopherol (1.58 and 6.18 mg/g dry basis, respectively.) They are a good source of vitamin C (125 mg/100 g), carotene (3.6 mg/100 g) and calcium (5.6% of dry material) but contain a high content of oxalates (12% of dry material).

The leaves and stem contain tartar- ic and citric acid; stems contain also malic acid.

An aqueous extract of the plant shows activity against Micrococcus pyogenes var. aureus. Expressed juice of the entire plant shows activity against Gram-positive bacteria.

Oxalis martiana Zucc. (native to America, naturalized in moist and shady placaes in temperate parts of India) is equated with Wood-Sorrel. It is known as Khatmitthi in Delhi and Peria-puliyarai in Tamil Nadu.

Dosage: Whole plant—5-10 ml juice. (API, Vol. III.)... oxalis corniculata

Lam.

Family: Caryophyllaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the greater part of India, ascending up to 2,100 m in the Himalaya.

Ayurvedic: Parpata (substitute).

Siddha/Tamil: Nilaisedachi.

Folk: Pittapaaparaa (Uttar Pradesh), Rupaaphuli (Gujarat).

Action: Leaves—anti-inflammatory, applied as poultice. Also prescribed in jaundice in the form of pills with molasses. Flowering head, along with stem and leaves—astringent, demulcent. Plant—spermicidal.

The plant gave camelliagenins (bar- rigenol) and stigmasterol.... polycarpaea corymbosa

Linn.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

English: Babchi, Purple Fleabane.

Habitat: Rajasthan., eastern districts of Punjab and adjoining areas of Uttar Pradesh.

Ayurvedic: Somaraaji, Somavalli, Somavallik, Soma, Chaandri, Vaakuchi, Baakuchi, Avalguja. (Somaraaji and Avalguja have also been equated with Centratherum anthelminticum.)

Unani: Baabchi, Bakuchi.

Siddha/Tamil: Karpoogaarisi.

Action: Seed—used in leucoderma, vitiligo, leprosy, psoriasis and inflammatory diseases of the skin, both orally and externally. (The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India.)

The seed and roots contain chal- cones, flavones, isoflavones, furano- coumarins and coumesterol group of compounds. These include psoralen, isopsoralen, bavachinin.

A mixture of psoralen and isopso- ralen, in a ratio of 1:3, is recommended for topical application in leucoderma. These furanocoumarins initiate transformation of DOPA to melanin under the influence of UV light. Seeds are powdered and administered orally with warm water (5 g/day) in cases of eczema.

Psoralen was found to be cytotoxic in vitro. The combination therapy of psoralen and UV irradiation has been shown to inhibit the growth of tumours in vivo.

Bavachinin-A, isolated from the fruits, exhibited marked anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and mild analgesic properties similar to those of oxyphenylbutazone and hydrocortisone. It demonstrated better antipyretic activity than paracetamol experimentally.

Oral administration of the powdered seeds has generally resulted in side reactions (nausea, vomiting, purging); external application generally proved highly irritant to the skin.

Dosage: Seed—1-3 g powder (CCRAS.); 3-6 g powder (API, Vol. I).... psoralea corylifolia

A major heart operation to bypass narrowed or blocked coronary arteries using additional blood vessels (such as a mammary artery) to improve blood flow to the heart muscle. This operation is used when symptoms of coronary artery disease have not been relieved by drugs or balloon angioplasty.

Before surgery, sites of blockage in the arteries are identified using angiography. In some cases, minimally invasive surgery can be used, avoiding the need to stop the heart and use a heart–lung machine during the operation. The long term outlook after a bypass is good, but the grafted vessels may also eventually become blocked by atherosclerosis.... coronary artery bypass

A group of hormones produced by the adrenal glands that control the body’s use of nutrients and the excretion of salts and water in the urine.... corticosteroid hormones

a combination of angina (unstable or stable), non-S–T elevation *myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and S–T elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). It implies the presence of coronary artery disease.... acute coronary syndrome

Linn.

Family: Anacardiaceae.

Habitat: Mediterranean region.

English: European or Sicilian Sumach (used in Unani medicine).

Unani: Sumaaq, Taatraak

Action: Leaves and seeds— astringent, styptic.

Limonene, nonanal and dec-2 (Z)- enal were obtained from pericarp oil, whereas the leaf oil contained beta- caryophyllene and patchoulane. Cem- brane and beta-caryophyllene were isolated from branch and bark oil.... rhus coriaria

Hallier f.

Family: Convolvulaceae.

Habitat: Native to tropical America; cultivated as an ornament in gardens in Mumbai, Pune and Belgaum.

English: Ololiuqui, Snake Plant.

Action: Seeds—narcotic.

The psychic effect produced by the ground seeds have been ascribed to the presence of ergot-type alkaloids (up to 0.07%) found in embryo. Among the principal alkaloids identified in the seeds are: ergine, isoergine, elymo- clavine, lysergol and chanoclavine. Er- gometrine, clymoclavine, penniclavine and ergometrinine have also been reported. Ergine has been reported to be the most and lysergol the least effective.

A glucoside, turbicoryn, isolated from the seeds, was found to have a CNS stimulant action. (Doses exceeding 31.6 mg/kg proved fatal to test animals in 5-10 min.)

Ergine and isoergine are present in the leaves (0.03%, dry basis) and stems (0.01%, dry basis) but not in the roots.... rivea corymbosa

Linn.

Synonym: R. munjesta Roxb.

Family: Rubiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India, ascending to an altitude of 3,700 m.

English: Indian Madder, Bengal Madder.

Ayurvedic: Manjishthaa, Vikasaa, Samangaa, Yojanavalli, Kaalameshi- ka, Raktaangi, Raktayashtikaa, Arunaa, Gandira, Jingi.

Unani: Manjeeth.

Siddha/Tamil: Manjitti.

Action: Roots and dried stem— blood purifier, astringent, diuretic, emmenagogue, deobstruent, antidysenteric, antiseptic, alterative.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends the use of the dried stem in blood, skin and urinogenital disorders; dysentery; piles, ulcers, inflammations; erysipelas, skin diseases and rheumatism. (Roots, leaves and seeds of R. cordifolia, R. tinctorum and allied species are used in amenorrhoea, liver diseases, gall and spleen complaints.) (Mutagenic and carcinogenic aspects of the drug are under investigation.)

It is reported that after oral administration of the root decoction, the urine and bones of the patient show a red tinge.

The roots are rich in anthraquinones and their glycosides (around 20), the important ones include purpurin (tri- hydroxy anthraquinone), munjistin (xanthopurpurin-2-carboxylic acid); besides xanthopurpurin, peudopur- purin (purpurin-3-carboxylic acid), free alizarin as well as its glucoside.

Whole plant yielded pentacylic tri- terpenic acids—rubicoumaric and ru- bifolic acids.

Antitumour cyclic hexapeptides have been isolated from the root (while lucidin is thought to be carcinogenic).

The root extracts of R. sikkimensis Kurz, known as Naaga-Madder (Nepal eastwards to Assam, Nagaland and Ma- nipur); are very similar to those of R. cordifolia.

Dosage: Stem—2-4 g. (API, Vol. III.)... rubia cordifolia

Linn.

Family: Malvaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India in moist places.

English: Country Mallow.

Ayurvedic: Balaa (yellow-flowered var.), Sumanganaa, Khara- yashtikaa, Balini, Bhadrabalaa, Bhadraudani, Vaatyaalikaa.

Unani: Bariyaara, Khirhati, Khireti, Kunayi.

Siddha/Tamil: Nilatutti.

Action: Juice of the plant— invigorating, spermatopoietic, used in spermatorrhoea. Seeds— nervine tonic. Root—(official part in Indian medicine) used for the treatment of rheumatism; neurological disorders (hemiplegia, facial paralysis, sciatica); polyuria, dysuria, cystitis, strangury and hematuria; leucorrhoea and other uterine disorders; fevers and general debility. Leaves—demulcent, febrifuge; used in dysentery.

Ephedrine and si-ephedrine are the major alkaloids in the aerial parts. The total alkaloid content is reported to be 0.085%, the seeds contain the maximum amount. In addition to alkaloids, the seeds contain a fatty oil (3.23%), steroids, phytosterols, resin, resin acids, mucin and potassium nitrate.

The root contains alkaloids—ephed- rine, si-ephedrine, beta-phenethyl- amine, carboxylated tryptamines and hypaphorine, quinazoline alkaloids— vasicinone, vasicine and vasicinol. Choline and betaine have also been isolated.

A sitoindoside, isolated from the plant, has been reported to exhibit adaptogenic and immunostimulatory activities. Alcoholic extract of the plant possesses antibacterial and antipyretic propeptide. Ethanolic extract of the plant depresses blood pressure in cats and dogs.... sida cordifolia

adj. describing the characteristic radiographic appearance of a *stricture of the large bowel resulting from the presence of a cancer, observed in a double-contrast barium enema study. The bowel is narrow with an irregular outline and the ends of the stricture are ‘shouldered’, giving the appearance of an apple core after eating the fleshy portion of the fruit. This contrasts with smooth tapering strictures, which are commonly benign.... apple-core

see transposition of the great vessels.... congenitally corrected transposition

Scoliosis A condition where the spine is curved to one side (the spine is normally straight when seen from behind). The deformity may be mobile and reversible, or ?xed; if ?xed it is accompanied by vertebral rotation and does not disappear with changes in posture. Fixed scoliosis is idiopathic (of unknown cause) in 65–80 per cent of cases. There are three main types: the infantile type occurs in boys under three and in 90 per cent of cases resolves spontaneously; the juvenile type affects 4–9 year olds and tends to be progressive. The most common type is adolescent idiopathic scoliosis; girls are affected in 90 per cent of cases and the incidence is 4 per cent. Treatment may be conservative with a ?xed brace, or surgical fusion may be needed if the curve is greater than 45 degrees. Scoliosis can occur as a congenital condition and in neuromuscular diseases where there is muscle imbalance, such as in FRIEDREICH’S ATAXIA.

Kyphosis is a backward curvature of the spine causing a hump back. It may be postural and reversible in obese people and tall adolescent girls who stoop, but it may also be ?xed. Scheuermann’s disease is the term applied to adolescent kyphosis. It is more common in girls. Senile kyphosis occurs in elderly people who probably have osteoporosis (bone weakening) and vertebral collapse.

Disc degeneration is a normal consequence of AGEING. The disc loses its resiliance and becomes unable to withstand pressure. Rupture (prolapse) of the disc may occur with physical stress. The disc between the fourth and ?fth lumbar vertebrae is most commonly involved. The jelly-like central nucleus pulposus is usually pushed out backwards, forcing the annulus ?brosus to put pressure on the nerves as they leave the spinal canal. (See PROLAPSED INTERVERTEBRAL DISC.)

Ankylosing spondylitis is an arthritic disorder of the spine in young adults, mostly men. It is a familial condition which starts with lumbar pain and sti?ness which progresses to involve the whole spine. The discs and ligaments are replaced by ?brous tissue, making the spine rigid. Treatment is physiotherapy and anti-in?ammatory drugs to try to keep the spine supple for as long as possible.

A National Association for Ankylosing Spondylitis has been formed which is open to those with the disease, their families, friends and doctors.

Spondylosis is a term which covers disc degeneration and joint degeneration in the back. OSTEOARTHRITIS is usually implicated. Pain is commonly felt in the neck and lumbar regions and in these areas the joints may become unstable. This may put pressure on the nerves leaving the spinal canal, and in the lumbar region, pain is generally felt in the distribution of the sciatic nerve – down the back of the leg. In the neck the pain may be felt down the arm. Treatment is physiotherapy; often a neck collar or lumbar support helps. Rarely surgery is needed to remove the pressure from the nerves.

Spondylolisthesis means that the spine is shifted forward. This is nearly always in the lower lumbar region and may be familial, or due to degeneration in the joints. Pressure may be put on the cauda equina. The usual complaint is of pain after exercise. Treatment is bed rest in a bad attack with surgery indicated only if there are worrying signs of cord compression.

Spinal stenosis is due to a narrowing of the spinal canal which means that the nerves become squashed together. This causes numbness with pins and needles (paraesthia) in the legs. COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging scans can show the amount of cord compression. If improving posture does not help, surgical decompression may be needed.

Whiplash injuries occur to the neck, usually as the result of a car accident when the head and neck are thrown backwards and then forwards rapidly. This causes pain and sti?ness in the neck; the arm and shoulder may feel numb. Often a support collar relieves the pain but recovery commonly takes between 18 months to three years.

Transection of the cord occurs usually as a result of trauma when the vertebral column protecting the spinal cord is fractured and becomes unstable. The cord may be concussed or it may have become sheared by the trauma and not recover (transected). Spinal concussion usually recovers after 12 hours. If the cord is transected the patient remains paralysed. (See PARALYSIS.)... spine and spinal cord, diseases and injuries of

(Jacq.) Willd.

Synonym: T. divaricata (L.) R. Br. Ervatamia coronaria (Jacq.) Staph. E. divaricata (L.) Burkill.

Family: Apocynaceae.

Habitat: Sub-Himalayan tract. Cultivated in gardens.

English: East Indian Rosebay.

Ayurvedic: Tagar, Nandivriksha (The Wealth of India); Nandi Pushpa. (Tagar is equated with Valeriana hardwickii and Nandivrksha with Cedrela toona.)

Siddha/Tamil: Nandiyavattam.

Folk: Tengari, Chaandani.

Action: Leaves—milky juice, antiinflammatory; applied to wounds. Flowers—mixed with oil, used in skin diseases. Root—acrid, anodyne; relieves toothache, also used as a vermicide.

Various parts of the plant are used in the indigenous system of medicine for the treatment of skin diseases and cancer. A decoction of leaves is used as antihypertensive and diuretic.

The plant from Sri Lanka (root, leaves and flowers) contain several indole alkaloids including voacristine, voacangine, coronaridine, vobasine, tabernaemontanine and dregamine. Isovoacristic hydrochloride, found in the plant, caused bradycardia in frogs and rabbits. The flowers contain an alkaloid tabersonine which is reported to show hypotensive effect on anaesthetized cats.

Coronaridine showed autonomic as well as CNS activity when tested for biological action in animals. It produced analgesia and was effective in suppressing foot-shock-induced rage in mice.

Indole alkaloid (I) inhibited HC1- induced ulcer in mice by 48.8%.

The crude alkaloid extracts of the leaves, bark and flowers exhibit antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus.... tabernaemontana coronaria

a beaklike process that curves upwards and forwards from the top of the *scapula, over the shoulder joint.... coracoid process

n. any long flexible structure, which may be solid or tubular. Examples include the spermatic cord, spinal cord, umbilical cord, and vocal cord.... cord

n. surgical removal of a vocal cord or, more usually, a piece of the vocal cord (partial cordectomy).... cordectomy

(Willd.) Miers ex Hook. f. & Thoms.

Family: Menispermaceae.

Habitat: Tropical India and the Andamans.

Ayurvedic: Guduuchi, Gudu- uchikaa, Guluuchi, Amrita, Am- ritaa, Amritalataa, Amritavalli, Chinnaruuhaa, Chinnodbhavaa, Madhuparni, Vatsaadani, Tantrikaa, Kundalini. Guduuchi sattva (starch).

Unani: Gilo, Gulanchaa. Sat-e-Gilo (starch).

Siddha: Seenil, Amrida-valli.

Folk: Giloya.

Action: Herb—antipyretic, an- tiperiodic, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, spasmolytic, hypo- glycaemic, hepatoprotective. Water extract increases urine output. Stem juice—prescribed in high fever; decoction in rheumatic and bilious fevers. Aqueous extract of the plant—fabrifuge. Starch—antacid, antidiarrhoeal and antidysenteric.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, along with other therapeutic applications, recommends the dried stems in jaundice, anaemia, polyuria and skin diseases.

The stem contains alkaloidal constituents, including berberine; bitter principles, including columbin, chas- manthin, palmarin and tinosporon, tinosporic acid and tinosporol.

The drug is reported to possess one- fifth of the analgesic effect of sodium salicylate. Its aqueous extract has a high phagocytic index.

Alcoholic extract of the stem shows activity against E. coli. Active principles were found to inhibit in vitro the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Oral administration of alcoholic extract of the root resulted in a significant reduction in blood and urine glucose and in lipids in serum and tissues of alloxan diabetic rats. (Phytother Res. 2003 17 (4), 410-3.)

A significant reduction in levels of SGOT, SGPT, ALP and bilirubin were observed following T. cordifolia treatment during CCl4 intoxication in mature rats. (J. Toxicol Sci. 2002, 27 (3), 139-46.) The plant extract showed in vitro inactivating activity in Hepatitis- B surface antigen. (Indian Drugs, 1993, 30, 549.)

A new hypoglycaemic agent was isolated from the plant; it was found to be 1,2-substituted pyrrolidine.

The starch from roots and stem, used in chronic diarrhoea and dysentery, contains a polysaccharide having 1-4 glucan with occasional branching points.

Dosage: Stem—3-6 g powder; 2030 g for decoction. (API, Vol. I.)... tinospora cordifolia

Roxb.

Family: Cucurbitaceae.

Habitat: Foot hills of the Himalayas from Garhwal to Sikkim and in north-eastern India, up to 500 m.

Ayurvedic: Vidaari (var.), Bhuumi- kushmaanda, Patola (related species.).

Folk: Bhui-kumhraa.

Action: Tuber—dried powder given in enlarged spleen and liver; applied externally on leprous ulcers.

Used in prescriptions for haemor- rhagic diseases and in spermatopoietic tonics. Aerial parts—diuretic.

The seeds yield 23.3% (dry basis) a fatty oil containing 32.3% of punicic acid.... trichosanthes cordata

Linn.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: Kashmir to Sikkim, and in Bihar and West Bengal. Cultivated in North India.

Unani: Pirang.

Folk: Kasuri Methi, Maarwaari Methi, Champaa Methi.

Action: Leaves—rich in phosphorus. Fruits—bitter, astringent and styptic. Applied to swellings and bruises.

The seeds afforded ethyl-alpha-D- galactopyranoside, glycoflavones—vi- texin (apigenin-C-glucoside), apige- nin-6-8-di-C-monoglucoside and its monoacetate; also contain triacontane, 22,23-dihydrostigmasterol, choline and betaine; saponins on hydrolysis gave yuccagenin and diosgenin.... trigonella corniculata

Blume.

Family: Caprifoliaceae.

Habitat: The Himalayas from Punjab and Bhutan at altitudes of 1,200-2,500 m, also in the Nilgiris.

Ayurvedic: Tilvaka (related species).

Folk: Kaalaa Titmuliyaa, Tita, Karwaa (Kumaon).

Action: The root and stem bark— antispasmodic, uterine sedative.

Ethanolic extract of the aerial parts shows antiprotozoal activity against Entamoeba hystolytica.

The root and stem bark (also of V. foetidum) possess distinct odour of the root of valerian. The extracts of root and stem bark exhibited antispas- modic activity and were comparable with those of the bark of V. opulus var. americanum and V. prunifolium.

Laal Titmuliyaa (Kumaon) is equated with Viburnum mullaha Buch-Ham. ex D. Don syn. V. stellulatum Wall ex DC.... viburnum coriaceum

n. the removal of a sample of fetal blood by inserting a fine hollow needle through the abdominal wall of a pregnant woman, under ultrasound guidance, into the umbilical vein. Cordocentesis is most commonly performed for confirmation of fetal *packed cell volume prior to intrauterine transfusion in cases of haemolytic disease of the newborn or for confirmation of infection in the fetus. See also fetal blood sampling.... cordocentesis

the position of the umbilical cord when it lies below the presenting part of the fetus in an intact bag of membranes. See also cord prolapse.... cord presentation

rupture of the membranes in cases of a *cord presentation. It is an obstetric emergency: there is a severe risk of cord compression and spasm causing fetal asphyxia (see hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy). Delivery must occur as soon as possible and the presenting part displaced away from the cord.... cord prolapse

Stigmata maidis. Zea mays, L. German: Turkisches Korn. French: Mai?s. Arabian: Durah shami. Iranian: Kho?shahemakki. Chinese: Yu-kao-liang. Malayan: Jagung. Dried silky flower threads of maize. Constituents include: rutin, flavonoids.

Constituents: allantoin, saponins, Vitamin C and K.

Keynote: kidneys and bladder.

Action: antilithic, mild stimulant, soothing urinary demulcent, diuretic.

Uses: Kidney and bladder disorders. Cystitis, uncontrollable bladder, retention, pus in the urine, bed- wetting, prostate gland enlargement, irritation of the urinary tract by phosphatic and uric acids, urethritis, expulsion of gravel. Gonorrhoea, in combination with powerful alteratives: Yellow Dock, Burdock, Queen’s Delight.

Heart failure with oedema and scanty urine; used with success. (William Boericke MD) Chronic malaria – in strong infusion the shucks have been used with success. (Dr E.C. Lowe) Nephritis (with equal parts Marshmallow) for temporary relief. Its value is increased by adding to it (equal parts) Dandelion root and Shepherd’s Purse herb. (J.H. Greer MD) Of special value for bed-wetting: with Agrimony herb (equal parts). Diabetes. (Chinese medicine)

Preparations: It is a consensus of professional opinion that the infusion (tea) is the best form. 3-4 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes; drink freely.

Liquid Extract: 1-2 teaspoons, in water.

Tincture: 1-3 teaspoons, in water. ... corn silk

 A bunion (hallux valgus) is a bony prominence on the inner side of the foot at the base of the big toe due to injury, flat feet, arthritis or narrow shoes. A corn (clavus) is an area of thickening and hardening of the skin, worse from friction or pressure on the toes.

Relieve pressure on the tender area by use of thick felt rings.

Alternatives. Internal (to reduce inflammation). Prickly Ash, Lignum Vitae (Guaiacum). Celery seed tea for elimination of uric acid.

Topical. Lobelia, Comfrey or St John’s Wort fomentation. Zinc and Castor oil ointment or cream. Comfrey cream. Bind a slice of lemon over bunion or corn at night. Wipe surface with a cut raw onion or garlic 2-3 times daily. Wipe with expressed orange-coloured juice of the fractured stem of Greater Celandine.

Paint with Liquid Extract Lobelia. (Ernest Cockayne FNIMH)

For corns, soak feet in hot soapy water; scrape away the corn and when dry cover with a plaster. Successful results reported with Houseleek steeped in Cider vinegar. Hundreds of corn-cures exist.

Old Yorkshire tradition: 2 teaspoons Epsom salts to a bowl of hot water for a foot-soak; finish off with a Castor oil wipe.

Greek traditional: Rub corn or bunion with lemon juice and leave on lemon rind overnight. Onion juice. Preventative: Anoint feet with Plantain oil believed to be effective. Cider vinegar as a lotion. Aromatherapy. Massage feet after soaking: Lavender, Geranium. ... corns, bunions

A group of drugs that are similar to the corticosteroid hormones produced by the adrenal glands. Corticosteroids are used as hormone replacement therapy in Addison’s disease and when the adrenal glands or pituitary gland have been destroyed or removed. They are also used to treat inflammatory intestinal disorders such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease and as an urgent treatment for inflammation in the artery supplying the retina in temporal arteritis. Other uses include treatment of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, and treatment of asthma, eczema, and allergic rhinitis. Corticosteroid drugs are also used to prevent organ rejection after transplant surgery and in the treatment of some types of cancer, such as a lymphoma or leukaemia. Corticosteroid injections may relieve pain in disorders such as tennis elbow and arthritis.

Side effects are uncommon when corticosteroids are given as a cream or by inhaler, but tablets taken in high doses for long periods may cause oedema, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, peptic ulcer, Cushing’s syndrome, inhibited growth in children, and, in rare cases, cataract or psychosis. High doses also impair the body’s immune system. Long-term treatment suppresses production of corticosteroid hormones by the adrenal glands, and sudden withdrawal may lead to adrenal failure.... corticosteroid drugs

n. see tumbu fly.... cordylobia

n. displacement of the pupil towards one side from its normal position in the centre of the iris. When present from birth, the displacement is usually inwards towards the nose. Scarring of the iris from inflammation may also draw the pupil out of position.... corectopia

n. see dermis.... corium

a white or greyish line in the periphery of the cornea, concentric with but separated from the edge by a clear zone. It begins above and below but may become a continuous ring. It consists of an infiltration of fatty material and is common in the elderly (arcus senilis). When it occurs in younger people (arcus juvenilis) it may indicate *hyperlipidaemia. It does not affect vision.... corneal arcus

the intricately folded outer layer of the *cerebrum, making up some 40% of the brain by weight and composed of an estimated 15 thousand million neurons (see grey matter). This is the part of the brain most directly responsible for consciousness, with essential roles in perception, memory, thought, mental ability, and intellect, and it is responsible for initiating voluntary activity. It has connections, direct or indirect, with all parts of the body. The folding of the cortex provides a large surface area, the greater part lying in the clefts (sulci), which divide the upraised convolutions (gyri). On the basis of its microscopic appearance in section, the cortex is mapped into *Brodmann areas; it is also divided into functional regions; including *motor cortex, *sensory cortex, and *association areas. Within, and continuous with it, lies the *white matter, through which connection is made with the rest of the nervous system.... cerebral cortex

reflex blinking of both eyes normally elicited by lightly touching the cornea of one eye. This reflex is lost in deep coma, during general anaesthesia, and in death; it is therefore one of the tests used to confirm brainstem death.... corneal reflex

a ring designed to be inserted into the peripheral tissue of the cornea in order to alter the curvature of the corneal surface. It is undergoing trials to assess its ability to correct errors of refraction. In myopia (short-sightedness), for example, the ring would be required to stretch the corneal tissue peripherally and thus flatten the central corneal curvature in order to correct the myopia.... corneal ring

(videokeratography) an imaging technique used to study the shape and refractive power of the cornea in detail. An image projected onto the cornea is analysed by a computer to produce a representation of the shape and refractive power of the corneal surface. Corneal topography has an important role in the management of corneal disease and refractive surgery.... corneal topography

n. see keratinization.... cornification

n. (pl. cornua) (in anatomy) a horn-shaped structure, such as the horn-shaped processes of the hyoid bone and thyroid cartilage. See also horn.... cornu

adj. relating to the crown of the head or of a tooth. The coronal plane divides the body into dorsal and ventral parts (see illustration overleaf).... coronal

see suture.... coronal suture

1. a series of radiating fibres between the cerebral cortex and the internal capsule of the brain. 2. a layer of follicle cells that surrounds a freshly ovulated ovum. The cells are elongated radially to the ovum when seen in section.... corona radiata

an X-ray technique for examination of the coronary arteries, often taken to also include examination of the chambers of the heart. A catheter is introduced via the radial artery at the wrist or the femoral artery at the groin and manipulated into the heart under X-ray control. *Contrast medium is then injected to outline the ventricles and coronary arteries. Digital video images are recorded during contrast-medium injection. Coronary angiography is used to diagnose cardiac disease, specifically narrowing or blockage in the coronary arteries, and plan treatment by surgery or radiological interventional techniques (see coronary artery bypass graft; percutaneous coronary intervention). It has now largely been replaced by CT coronary angiography.... coronary angiography

(CABG) *coronary revascularization in which a segment of a coronary artery narrowed by atheroma is bypassed by an *autologous section of healthy saphenous vein or internal mammary artery at *thoracotomy. The improved blood flow resulting from one or more such grafts relieves *angina pectoris and reduces the risk of *myocardial infarction. Recently developed techniques of *minimally invasive surgery have enabled the operation to be performed without the need for thoracotomy.... coronary artery bypass graft

the restoration of blood flow to ischaemic heart muscle (see ischaemia) by *coronary angioplasty and *stenting or by a *coronary artery bypass graft.... coronary revascularization

1. a process on the upper end of the *ulna. It forms part of the notch that articulates with the humerus. 2. the process on the ramus of the *mandible to which the temporalis muscle is attached.... coronoid process

n. (pl. corpora) any mass of tissue that can be distinguished from its surroundings.... corpus

the residual body of scar tissue that remains in the ovary at the point where a *corpus luteum has regressed after its secretory activity has ceased.... corpus albicans

the broad band of nervous tissue that connects the two cerebral hemispheres, containing an estimated 300 million fibres. See cerebrum.... corpus callosum

either of a pair of cylindrical blood sinuses that form the erectile tissue of the *penis and clitoris. In the penis a third sinus, the corpus spongiosum, encloses the urethra and extends into the glans. All these sinuses have a spongelike structure that allows them to expand when filled with blood.... corpus cavernosum

the blood sinus that surrounds the urethra of the male. Together with the corpora cavernosa, it forms the erectile tissue of the *penis. It is expanded at the base of the penis to form the urethral bulb and at the tip to form the glans penis.... corpus spongiosum

the part of the *basal ganglia in the cerebral hemispheres of the brain consisting of the caudate nucleus and the lentiform nucleus.... corpus striatum

(collapsing pulse) a type of pulse that has an exaggerated rise followed by a sudden fall. It is typical of *aortic regurgitation. [Sir D. J. Corrigan (1802–80), Irish physician]... corrigan’s pulse

powerful pulsation of the carotid arteries causing ear movement and/or head nodding. It is a sign of *aortic regurgitation. [Sir D. J. Corrigan]... corrigan’s sign

(CERA) an objective test of hearing that measures the electrical activity in the *cerebral cortex following sound stimulation.... cortical evoked response audiometry

a disorder characterized by a combination of *parkinsonism and *dementia, which typically fluctuates. Visual hallucinations are common, and there is exquisite sensitivity to phenothiazine drugs. Abnormal proteins called Lewy bodies are found within the nerve cells of the cortex and the basal ganglia. It is the third most common cause of dementia (dementia with Lewy bodies) after *Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.... cortical lewy body disease

(corticoid) n. any steroid hormone synthesized by the adrenal cortex. There are two main groups of corticosteroids. The glucocorticoids (e.g. *cortisol, *cortisone, and corticosterone) are essential for the utilization of carbohydrate, fat, and protein by the body and for a normal response to stress. Naturally occurring and synthetic glucocorticoids have very powerful anti-inflammatory effects and are used to treat conditions that involve inflammation. The mineralocorticoids (e.g. *aldosterone) are necessary for the regulation of salt and water balance.... corticosteroid

n. a steroid hormone (see corticosteroid) synthesized and released in small amounts by the adrenal cortex.... corticosterone

n. see ACTH.... corticotrophin

(CRH) a peptide hypothalamic hormone (of 41 amino acids) stimulating the release of *ACTH (adrenocorticotrophic hormone) from the anterior pituitary. Its own release is suppressed by a *negative feedback loop involving cortisol, and its action is increased by antidiuretic hormone (see vasopressin) and *angiotensin II. It can be administered intravenously as part of the CRH test, during which blood is analysed at 15-minute intervals for one hour for the ACTH response, which is excessive in cases of primary adrenal failure and suppressed in cases of anterior *hypopituitarism.... corticotrophin-releasing hormone

the region of the *cerebral cortex that is responsible for initiating nerve impulses that bring about voluntary activity in the muscles of the body. It is possible to map out the cortex to show which of its areas is responsible for which particular part of the body. The motor cortex of the left cerebral hemisphere is responsible for muscular activity in the right side of the body.... motor cortex

either of the paired ridges of tissue that run along the dorsal surface of the abdominal cavity of the embryo. Parts of it develop into the kidney, ovary, or testis and their associated ducts. Intermediate stages of these developments are the *pronephros, *mesonephros, and *metanephros.... nephrogenic cord

(spiral organ) the sense organ of the *cochlea of the inner ear, which converts sound signals into nerve impulses that are transmitted to the brain via the cochlear nerve. [A. Corti (1822–88), Italian anatomist]... organ of corti

(PCI) treatment of coronary artery disease delivered by cardiac *catheterization. This usually means *coronary angioplasty followed by insertion of a coronary *stent, but also includes more specialized procedures, such as rotational *atherectomy (rotablation). Primary PCI refers to the use of PCI as the first-line treatment to relieve coronary obstruction in S-T elevation *myocardial infarction, rather than *thrombolysis. Rescue PCI is used in the event of unsuccessful thrombolysis.... percutaneous coronary intervention

haemopoietic *stem cells collected from umbilical cord blood donated at birth, which can be stored indefinitely and used if a sibling or any other blood-compatible baby develops an illness (such as leukaemia) that could only be treated by cord-blood stem-cell transplantation. This facility is now available in the UK and the USA.... umbilical cord blood banked stem cells

Mentha arvensis

FAMILY: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

SYNONYMS: Field mint, Japanese mint.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A rather fragile herb with leafy stems up to 60 cms high, lance-shaped leaves and lilac-coloured flowers borne in clustered whorls in the axils of the upper leaves.

DISTRIBUTION: Native to Europe and parts of Asia (Japan and China); naturalized in North America. Major producers of the oil include China, Brazil, Argentina, India and Vietnam.

OTHER SPECIES: There are many varieties and chemotypes of this herb, which is used for large-scale oil production, such as the Chinese type M. arvensis var. glabrata, and the Japanese species M. arvensis var. piperascens.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: It is used therapeutically in many of the same ways as peppermint; the bruised leaves are applied to the forehead to relieve nervous headache. In the East it is used to treat rheumatic pain, neuralgia, toothache, laryngitis, indigestion, colds and bronchitis. In Chinese medicine, it is also employed for relieving earache, treating tumours and some skin conditions.

ACTIONS: Anaesthetic, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, cytotoxic, digestive, expectorant, stimulant, stomachic.

EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation from the flowering herb. The oil is usually dementholized since it contains so much menthol that it is otherwise solid at room temperature.

CHARACTERISTICS: Dementholized oil – a colourless or pale yellow liquid with a strong, fresh, bitter-sweet minty odour, somewhat like peppermint.

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Menthol (70–95 per cent), menthane (10–20 per cent), pinene, menthyl acetate, isomenthone, thujone, phellandrene, piperitone and menthofuran, among others. Constituents vary according to source.

SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant (except in concentration); may cause sensitization in some individuals. Menthol is a dermal irritant.

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE None. Use peppermint in preference, since it is not fractionated like the commercial cornmint oil and has a more refined fragrance.

OTHER USES: Used in some pharmaceutical preparations, such as cough lozenges, herb teas and syrups, mainly in the form of menthol. Extensively employed in soaps, toothpastes, detergents, cosmetics, perfumes and especially industrial fragrances. Used by the food industry especially for flavouring confectionery, liqueurs and chewing gum. However, it is mainly used for the isolation of natural menthol.... mint, cornmint

a stimulant and tonic.... cordial

the petals of a flower considered as a whole.... corolla