Eu Health Dictionary

See Eucalipto.... eucalyptus

A deliberate act undertaken by one person with the intention of either painlessly putting to death or failing to prevent death from natural causes in cases of terminal illness or irreversible coma of another person. The term comes from the Greek expression for “good death”.... euthanasia

A feeling of well-being. This may occur normally; for instance, when someone has passed an examination. In some neurological or psychiatric conditions, however, patients may have an exaggerated and quite unjusti?ed feeling of euphoria. This is then a symptom of the underlying condition. Euphoria may also be drug-induced – by drugs of addiction or by therapeutic drugs such as CORTICOSTEROIDS.... euphoria

The descriptive term for a person with a normally functioning THYROID GLAND, or someone who has had successful treatment for an underactive (hypothyroid) or overactive (hyperthyroid) gland.... euthyroid

The study and cultivation of conditions that may improve the human race, in particular the detection and elimination of genetic disease.... eugenics

A man whose testes (see TESTICLE) have been removed or seriously damaged so that he is unable to produce male hormones and thus is sterile. A male castrated before puberty will have a feminine appearance and underdeveloped secondary sexual characteristics. The term was historically used to describe boys, castrated to make them suitable for working in harems, or boy singers, castrated to retain their higher-register voices (castrati singers).... eunuch

Purification, Protection ... euphorbia

The passage that runs from the middle ear into the back of the nose, just above the soft palate. The tube acts as a drainage channel from the middle ear and maintains hearing by opening periodically to regulate air pressure. The lower end of the tube opens during swallowing and yawning, allowing air to flow up to the middle ear, equalizing the air pressure on both sides of the eardrum.

When a viral infection such as a cold causes blockage of the eustachian tube, equalization cannot occur, resulting in severe pain and temporary impairment of hearing. A person with a blocked eustachian tube who is subjected to rapid pressure changes may suffer from barotrauma. Glue ear or chronic otitis media may occur if the tube is blocked, preventing adequate drainage from the middle ear. These conditions, which often result in partial hearing loss are more common in children. This is partly because their adenoids are larger and more likely to cause a blockage if they become infected and partly because children’s eustachhian tubes are shorter than those of adults.... eustachian tube

auct non L.

Synonym: A. pilosa Hook.f. non Ledeb.

A. pilosa Ledeb. var. nepalensis (D. Don) Nakai

Family: Rosacae.

Habitat: The Himalayas from Kashmir to West Bengal at 9003,000 m, and in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Meghalaya.

English: Agrimony, Stickle Wort.

Unani: Ghaafis.

Folk: Belu.

Action: Astringent, anti- inflammatory, hepatic, cholagogue, diuretic, mild haemostatic, antibacterial. Used for irritations and infections of the intestinal tract, gallbladder diseases, hyperacidity, colic, urinary disorders (bed- wetting, incontinence), sluggish liver, mucus membrane inflammations; externally for ulcerated and discharging skin, psoriasis and seborrhoic eczemas.

Key application: In mild, nonspecific, acute diarrhoea and in inflammation of oral and pharyngeal mucosa; as astringent. (German Commission E, The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

The herb contains condensed tannins up to 8%, coumarins, flavonoids (glucosides of luteolin, apigenin and quercetin), polysaccharides, volatile oil. Luteolin 7-glucoside shows a chole- gogic action. Aqueous extracts inhibited Mycobacterium tuberculosis, also strains resistant to streptomycin and p-aminosalicylate. Essential oil is antibacterial, active against Bacillus sub- tilis.

The ethanolic extracts of the herb are used for their antiviral properties. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)

Coumarins interact with anticoagulants, and drugs that increase the risk of bleeding Furanocoumarin content increase photosensitivity. (Sharon M. Herr.)... agrimonia eupatoria

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus).

Plant Part Used: Leaf, essential oil.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: Leaf: infusion or decoction, orally or inhaled vapor, for asthma, common cold, flu-like symptoms, congestion, cough and pulmonary infection.

Safety: Leaves considered safe for internal and external use if administered appropriately; essential oil is highly toxic if taken internally and may cause allergic reaction when administered topically; vapor inhalation may transmit fungal spores.

Contraindications: Young children and infants (inhalation or topical administration my lead to respiratory disorders); gastro-intestinal inflammatory conditions (internal use may irritate mucosa), history of allergy or hypersensitivity to eugenol (essential oil constituent).

Drug Interactions: Antidiabetic drugs (may potentiate effect), barbiturates (may decrease effect), pyrrolizidine-containing herbs (may exacerbate hepatotoxic effects).

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: In vivo: anti-inflammatory, bronchitis treatment (essential oil).

In vitro: antibacterial, antioxidant (essential oil)

* See entry for Eucalipto in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... eucalipto

Labill.

Family: Myrtaceae.

Habitat: Native to Australia; now cultivated mainly at the hill-stations of India.

English: Blue-Gum tree, Australian Gum tree.

Ayurvedic: Tilaparna, Tailaparna, Sugandhapatra, Haritaparna Neela- niryaasa, Tribhandi, Triputaa, Sar- alaa, Suvahaa, Rechani, Nishotraa.

Unani: Neelgiri oil.

Siddha/Tamil: Karpooramaram.

Action: Essential oil from leaves— antiseptic, antibiotic, antiviral, antifungal, antispasmodic, decon- gestant, antiasthmatic, expectorant, antirheumatic, diaphoretic. Used in chronic, bronchitis, migraine, congestive headache, neuralgia and ague, as an inhalant or internal medicine. Root—purgative.

Key application: Leaf tea for catarrhs of the respiratory tract. Oil used externally for rheumatic complaints, contraindicated internally in inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, bile ducts, and in severe liver diseases. (German Commission E.) Oil—internally as adjuvant treatment of chronic obstructive respiratory complaints, including bronchitis and bronchial asthma, also for symptomatic relief of colds and catarrh of the upper respiratory tract; externally for symptomatic treatment of colds and rheumatic complaints. (ESCOP.) Leaf—antiseptic. (The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

E. globulus is the main commercial source of Eucalyptus leaf oil; yield is 2.12%; 1,8-cineole exceeds 70% (pharmaceutical grade oil requires a minimum cineole content of 70%).

Several potent euglobals, having closely related acyl-phloroglucinol- monoterpene (or sesquiterpene) structures, are isolated from the leaves and flower buds. These compounds showed strong granulation-inhibiting activity and inhibition of TPA induced EBV (Epstein-Barr Virus) activation.

Phloroglucin derivatives, isolated from leaves, showed better antiinflammatory activity than indomethacin.

Natural antioxidants have also been isolated from the plant.

Dosage: Leaf—50-100 ml infusion. (CCRAS.)... eucalyptus globules

(Slavic) A generous woman Eudlinah, Eudleena, Eudleenah, Eudleana, Eudleanah, Eudlyna, Eudlynah... eudlina

(Greek) One who is esteemed Eudociah, Eudocea, Eudoceah, Eudokia, Eudokea, Eudosia, Eudosea, Eudoxia, Eudoxea... eudocia

(Greek) A good gift Eudorah, Eudoria, Eudorea, Eudoriah, Eudoreah... eudora

(Greek) Feminine form of Eugene; a wellborn woman

Eugena, Eugenie, Eugina, Eugyna, Eugynia, Eugynie, Eugeni, Evgenia, Eugenea, Eugeny, Eugeney, Eugenee... eugenia

A cell that has a NUCLEUS bounded by a membrane and with chromosomes containing DNA, RNA and proteins. The cell divides by MITOSIS and also contains MITOCHONDRIA. Animals, plants and cellular organisms made up of this type of cell are included in the biological superkingdom of Eukaryote.... eukaryote

Did you know that eucalyptus leaves are the favourite food of koala bears? Having a pungent scent and antimicrobial properties, eucalyptus is a well known remedy for sinusitis and other respiratory ailments. It is also used successfully in aromatherapy. About Eucalyptus Tea Eucalyptus is one of the quickest growing tree species on the planet and it is derived from the grayish-green, leathery leaves of the tree botanically known as Eucalyptus globulus, also called the “blue gum tree” or “Australian fever tree.” Native to Tasmania, the eucalyptus tree grows in subtropical zones worldwide. The leaves contain eucalyptol, as well as tannins, caffeic and gallic acids, also found in green tea, along with flavonoids and antioxidants. Eucalyptus is antiseptic, antiviral, antifungal and antispasmodic with expectorant and decongestant properties. Eucalyptus is primarily valuable for its leaves, which are used to make an essential oil, eucalyptus tea and compresses. If you want to enhance the scent of the leaves, due to the aromatic oils that are contained inside, all you have to do is break or crush them, and then this will be released. You can prepare eucalyptus tea either using dry or fresh leaves. However, Eucalyptus tea made of dried eucalyptus leaves has lost most of its healing power. Instead, it’s best to cut small branches with a few dozen fresh leaves and keep them in a vase with water to prevent drying. How to make Eucalyptus Tea To make eucalyptus tea, pour 1 cup of boiled water over up to 1/2 teaspoon of the dried eucalyptus leaves. Cover and steep for 10 minutes, then strain. You can sweeten with honey and drink up to 2 - 3 cups a day. If you want to use fresh leaves, take a single one, chop it, add hot water and let it steep for about 4-6 minutes - then add honey or brown sugar. The bits of leaf should then be strained and discarded. Take care not to ingest the eucalyptus oil directly, as it is extremely strong and somewhat volatile. Then drink in small sips while hot. Benefits of Eucalyptus Tea Some studies pointed out that drinking eucalyptus tea may help increase insulin production and lower blood sugar level. You can gargle this tea when you have throat infections, or use it as a mouthwash as its antiseptic and antibacterial properties fight bad breath. Eucalyptus tea, when rubbed in the chest area, may relieve bronchitis, asthma and colds. When inhaled, the steam from the eucalyptus tea can help alleviate chest infections and a host of respiratory and pulmonary ailments like colds, emphysema, whooping cough and asthma. Applied topically, the tea may produce healthier looking skin. A compress with eucalyptus tea is effective in treating painful joints, minor burns and sore muscles. Side effects of Eucalyptus Tea Side effects from eucalyptus tea are rare; nausea, vomiting and diarrhea have been reported. Consult your doctor before using eucalyptus tea. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, if you have inflammation of the kidneys or that of the gastrointestinal tract, bile duct disease, liver disease or low or high blood pressure, don’t drink eucalyptus tea. Eucalyptus is a tree with many benefits and uses. Eucalyptus tea can easily be included in a healthy life style, especially when it is used to treat certain ailments.... eucalyptus tea

Linn.

Family: Myrtaceae.

Habitat: Native to South America; cultivated in gardens; now naturalized in some parts of In dia at medium elevations under sub-tropical conditions.

English: Pitaanga, Surinam Cherry.

Action: Fruit—used as a source of carotenoids (225.9 mcg/g) and provitamin A (991 RE/100g). Leaves—diuretic, antirheumatic, antifebrile. Used for lowering blood pressure, blood cholesterol, uric acid level, also for reducing body weight. Essential oil— digestive, carminative.

The leaves gave flavonoids, querci- trin, quercetin, myricitrin and myrice- tin as major constituents.

The bark contains 28.5% tannins.... eugenia uniflora

(Greek) Well-spoken Eulalia, Eulia, Eula, Eulah, Eulallia, Eulalea, Eulaleah, Eulalee, Eulaleigh, Eulaly, Eulaley, Eulali... eulalie

(Retz.) C. E. Hubbard.

Synonym: Pollinidium angustifolium Haines.

Family: Gramineae; Poaceae.

Habitat: Many parts of North India. English: Baib grass, Sabai grass. Ayurvedic: Balvaja. Folk: Bhaabar.

Action: Diuretic. Used for treating lithiasis.

EtOH (50%) extract of the plant is sasmogenic.... eulaliopsis binata

(American) A fair woman Eulande, Euland, Eulandia, Eulandea... eulanda

(Greek) The wolf ruler; ruler of all Euleigh, Eule, Eulie, Euli, Euly, Euley... eulee

Wall.

Family: Orchidaceae.

Habitat: Throughout greater part of India, mostly in the plains.

Ayurvedic: Amrita, Sudhaa-muuli, Munjaataka (Salep var.) Saalam- misri (substitute). Munjaataka and Saalam-misri have been equated with Orchis latifolia Linn. of the same family.

Action: Tubers—used in stamatitis, purulent cough and as a cardiac and nervine tonic. Also used in scrofulous diseases and dyscrasia. Used a substitute for Salep.... eulophia campestris

Lindl.

Family: Orchidaceae.

Habitat: Western Himalayas, Bengal and Western parts of Deccan Peninsula.

English: Salep (var.).

Ayurvedic: Munjaataka (substitute), Saalam-misri (substitute).

Action: Tubers—used as a substitute for Salep.... eulophia herbacea

Lindl.

Family: Orchidaceae.

Habitat: Tropical Himalayas from Nepal eastward to Assam, and in Deccan from Konkan southwards.

Ayurvedic: Baalakanda, Amarkan- da, Maalaakanda.

Folk: Ambarkanda (Maharashtra).

Action: Tubers—used for bronchitis, diseases due to vitiated blood, tumours, scrofulous glands. Also used as vermifuge.

The tubers yield two phenanthrene derivatives, eulophiol and nudol, along with n-hexacosyl alcohol and lupeol.... eulophia nuda

Lindl.

Synonym: E. ramentaceae Lindl. ex Wt.

Family: Orchidaceae.

Habitat: Pasture lands of Deccan from Konkan southwards.

English: Salep (var.).

Folk: Sataavari (Maharashtra).

Action: Tuber—used for scrofulous glands.... eulophia pratensis

(Greek) One who conquers Eunise, Eunyce, Eunis, Euniss, Eunyss, Eunysse... eunice

(Greek) In mythology, goddess of order

Eunomiah, Eunomea, Eunomeah, Eunoma, Eunomah... eunomia

(Hebrew) A traveling woman Euodia, Euodeas, Euodea... euodias

Wall.

Family: Celastraceae.

Habitat: Tropical Himalayas from Simla to Bhutan between 2,150 and 3,200 m, and in Assam.

English: Spindle Wood, Wahoo. (Euonymus atropurpureus, found in Eastern and Central USA and Canada, is equated with Wahoo and Spindle tree.

Ayurvedic: Bhillotaka.

Folk: Chopra, Mermahaul, Kunku, Barphali.

Action: Cholagogue, laxative, diuretic, circulatory stimulant. Used for constipation, torpidity of liver, gall bladder disorders, jaundice and dyspepsia. Bark is used in diseases of the eye.

Key application: Bark—as laxative.

(The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

The plant yielded triterpenes—epi- friedelinol, taraxerol, dulcitol, pris- timerin and tingenins A and B. Pris- timerin exhibited antitumour activity.

Only bark and root bark is used medicinally. The seeds are poisonous.

Toxic constituents of E. atropur- pureus are furan-a-carboxylic acid; d- phenyl-glucosone (sterol glucoside); euatroside; euatromonoside (steroid glycosides). (Francis Brinker.)... euonymus tingens

Linn.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: The temperate Himalayas up to 3,600 m and in Khasi Hills between 1,000 and 2,000 m.

English: Hemp Agrimony, Water Hemp, Hemp Eupatorium.

Folk: Bundaar (Maharashtra), Tongollati (Assam).

Action: Diuretic, cathartic, anti-tumoral. Used under strict medical supervision for blood impurities and tumours. Internal administration is not advised unless the hepatotoxic alkaloids are shown to be absent from the sample.

The herb contains volatile oil (about 0.5%); sesqiterpene lactones, the major one being eupatoriopicrin; flavonoids, pyrrolizidine alkaloids; immunoactive polysaccharides.

Eupatoriopicrin has shown to be cy- tostatic as well as cytotoxic; it delayed transplanted tumour growth in mice in a dose-dependent manner.

An aqueous extract of the plant exhibited anti-necrotic activity against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepato- toxicity in rats. The effect is attributed to the presence of flavonoids, rutoside, hyperoside and quercetin; phenolic acids, caffeic and chlorogenic; and not due to the presence of eupatoriopicrin.

Acrylic acid and the lactic, malic and citric acids, present in the plant, also exhibited protective effect against acute toxicity induced by ethanol in mice.

The polysaccharides have immuno- stimulatory activity and enhance phagocytosis in a number of immunolog- ical tests. The leaf oil is reported to exhibit fungicidal effect.

A related species, Eupatorium odorum Linn., is known as Gondri in Ori- ssa.... eupatorium cannabinum

(Greek) One who speaks well Euphemiah, Euphemea, Euphemeah, Euphemie, Euphemi, Euphemy, Euphemey, Euphemee, Effie, Effi, Effy, Effey, Effee, Ephie, Ephi, Ephy, Ephey, Ephee, Eppie... euphemia

Linn.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Western Himalayas from Garhwal, westwards to Kashmir.

Ayurvedic: Saatala, Saptalaa. (Substitute).

Action: Purgative, emetic. Root— used in fistulous sores.

Prostratin, isolated from the roots of var. cornigeria Hook. f., was found to be pro-inflammatory.... euphorbia pilosa

Boiss.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Kashmir, above 2,350 m.

Ayurvedic: Hiyaavali, Svarnakshiri (also equated with Argemone mexicana L., Papaveraceae.), Kanchanakshiri, Pitadugdhaa, Katuparni.

Folk: Hiravi (Kashmir). Titari (Himachal Pradesh).

Action: Root—purgative. Latex— used in eruptions and other skin diseases.... euphorbia thomsoniana

Vahl.

Synonym: E. ayapana Vent.

Family: Compositae; Asteraceae.

Habitat: Native to Brazil; naturalized in many parts of India; grown in gardens of Maharashtra.

English: Ayapana Tea.

Ayurvedic: Vishalyakarani, Ayaapaana.

Siddha/Tamil: Ayapanai.

Folk: Ayapani (Maharashtra).

Action: Cardiac stimulant, laxative, emetic, expectorant, bechic, antiscorbutic, alterative. Used in ague, also in dyspepsia. Leaf— anticholerin, haemostatic.

The leaves contain ayapanin and ayapin, with pronounced haemostatic properties. The leaves also contain carotene and free vitamin C (25 mg/ 100 g); there is 100% increase in vitamin C content on frying the leaves in oil.

A aqueous extract of dried leaves and shoots exhibits cardiac stimulant activity, increasing the force of the heartbeat but diminishing its frequency.

The plant is comparable to chamo- mile (Anthemis sp.).... eupatorium triplinerve

Linn.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: The warmer regions of India; often cultivated for hedges.

English: Triangular Spurge.

Ayurvedic: Snuhi (Substitute), Vajra-kantaka, Vajratundi

Siddha/Tamil: Chathurakkali.

Folk: Tridhaari, Tidhaaraa Sehunda.

Action: Latex—purgative. Applied on burns. Plant—used in dropsy, anasarca, sores, venereal sores, syphilis; also in dysentery, bronchitis, asthma. Root—anthelmintic. Fresh stems—used for skin sores and scabies. A decoction of stems is given in gout.

The stems yielded friedelan-3 alpha- ol and 3 beta-ol, taraxerol and taraxe- rone. The roots yielded taraxerol. Latex gave beta-amyrin, cycloartenol, euphol (70%) and alpha-euphorbol.... euphorbia antiquorum

Lamk.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India in the plains and low hills.

Ayurvedic: Saatalaa, Saptalaa, Sapralaa, Viduraa, Charmasaahvaa, Charmakashaa.

Unani: Thuhar.

Siddha/Tamil: Tillakada, Thusimul- lai.

Folk: Titali.

Action: Fruit—removes warts topically. Plant extract—cholinergic. The aerial parts are used as a vegetable for maintaining smooth and regular movement of bowels.

The alcoholic and aqueous extracts of aerial parts showed significant action on gastro-intestinal motility in rats. The activity is more pronounced in alcoholic extract than in aqueous extract.

The extract of air-dried plant exhibits cholinergic action and direct stimulation of different muscle preparations. Plant gave euphorbol, surcose, glycosides, sterols and kaempferol.

Dosage: Root—3-5 g powder. (CCRAS.)... euphorbia dracunculoides

Linn.

Synonym: E. pilulifera auct. non Linn.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout warmer regions of India.

English: Euphorbia, Australian Asthma Weed, Pill-bearing Spurge.

Ayurvedic: Dudhi, Dudhikaa, Naagaarjuni, Vikshirini.

Unani: Dudhi Khurd.

Siddha/Tamil: Amman pachharisi.

Action: Pectoral, antiasthmatic, antispasmodic. Used for asthma, laryngitis, chronic nasal and bronchial catarrh; diarrhoea, dysentery, intestinal parasitosis Also used in postnatal complaints, failure of lactation. Latex— vermifuge. Used in diseases of urinogenitory tract.

The herb contains several terpenes, anthocyanins, alcohols and steroids. Aerial parts also gave shikimic acid, choline, L-inositol and free sugars.

Antiasthmatic activity is attributed to choline and shikimic acid. Shikimic acid and choline showed relaxant and contracting properties on guinea-pig ileum.

The aqueous extract of the herb exhibited sedative, anxiolytic, analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory activities; exerted an inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation.

Quercitrin is reported to be responsible for antidiarrhoeal activity.

Methanolic extract of the leaves exhibits antibacterial and antifungal activities.

Dimeric hydrolysable tannins, eu- phorbains, have been isolated from the plant.... euphorbia hirta

Producing a sense of bodily comfort and well-being and the absence of pain or distress... euphoriant

Drugs which induce a state of EUPHORIA or well-being.... euphoriants

(Hebrew) From the great river Euphratees, Eufrates, Eufratees... euphrates

(Greek) Woman of good cheer; in mythology, one of the three Graces Euphrosyna, Euphrosine, Euphrosina, Euphroseen, Euphroseena, Euphroseane, Euphroseana... euphrosyne

Auct. Non Linn.

Synonym: E. indica Lam.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Throughout warmer regions of India, up to 1,500 m in the Himalaya.

Ayurvedic: Dugdhikaa.

Action: Plant—used in colic, diarrhoea and dysentery. Leaf— astringent, antidysenteric, antileuc- orrhoeic (also used in menorrhagia).

The plant contains taraxerol, oc- tacosanol, campesterol, stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol, quercetin, quercitrin, ellagic acid, rhamnetin-3-galactoside, rhmnetin-3-rhamnoside and kaempferol.... euphorbia hypericifolia

Auct. Non Linn.

Synonym: E. ligularia Roxb.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Grown as a field and boundary fence and as curious on rockeries in gardens.

English: Holy Milk Hedge, Dog's Tongue.

Ayurvedic: Snuhi, Samant-dugdhaa, Sehunda, Singhtunda, Snuk, Gudaa, Sudhaa, Vajra, Vajjri, Vajjradram, Thuuhar.

Siddha/Tamil: Ielaikkali, Perumbu- kalli.

Action: Latex—purgative, diuretic, antiasthmatic, expectorant, rube- facient. Used in ascites, polyuria, anasarca, chlorosis, tympanitis; externally on warts, cutaneous eruptions, scabies, unhealthy ulcers.

A succus compounded of equal parts of the juice and simple syrup is said to be used for giving relief in asthma.

The triterpenoids, euphol, 24-meth- ylenecycloartenol, euphorbol hexa- cosonate, glut-5 (10)-en-1-one, glut-5- en-3 beta-yet-acetate, taraxerol, friede- lan-3 alpha-ol and -3 beta-ol have been reported from the plant.... euphorbia neriifolia

Buch.-Ham.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Northern and central India, often planted in dry areas.Ayurvedic: Snuhi (substitute), Patra-Snuhi.Siddha/Tamil: Kalli, Naga-kalli.

Action: Latex—used for treating jaundice, dropsy, enlargement of liver and spleen; colic; syphilis, leprosy; applied to haemorrhoids. Coagulated latex is used for bronchitis. Leaf—juice is used as a purgative. Warmed in mustard oil, applied in cold and headache.The latex gave cycloart-25-en-3 beta-ol, and cyclolaudenol; stem contained cyclolaudenol and sitosterol; leaves gave sitosterol. (None of these triterpenes have been reported from E. neriifolia.) These triterpenes exhibited antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli.

... euphorbia nivulia

Berg.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Native to Morocco.

English: Euphorbium.

Unani: Farfiyuun, Afarbiyuun.

Action: A drastic purgative, irritant, vesicant and toxic, proinflammatory. Internal use of the drug has been abandoned.

Dried latex gave diterpene esters; derivatives of 12-deoxyphorbol, which are pro-inflammatory, tumour promoting and cause platelet aggregation; exhibit co-carcinogenic activity.... euphorbia resinifera

Boiss.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Western Himalaya from Kumaon to Nepal.

Ayurvedic: Snuhi, Snuk, Sehunda, Gudaa (Substitutes.) (Adhogudaa of Ayurvedic medicine and Bana- muuli of folk medicine have been equated with Euphorbia acaulis Rox.)

Unani: Thuuhar

Folk: Thor, Surai.

Action: Latex—cathartic, anthelmintic.

The latex yield euphol, cycloeu- calenol, an inseparable mixture of four tetra-and four tri-esters of macrocyclic diterpene ingenol, octacosanol, tetra- cosanol, beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol, alpha-amyrin and campesterol. The plant gave ingenol.

The latex is a valuable source of in- genol esters. Ingol is a macrocyclic diterpene and is of therapeutic interest due to its antileukemic properties. Fractionation of the latex gave ingol- 12-acetate and 8-tigloyl-12-acetate. The acylation of ingol-12-acetate yielded derivatives which inhibit the growth of the basophilic leukaemia cells in rats.... euphorbia royleana

(Greek) In mythology, a Gorgon Euryle, Euraile, Eurale, Eurael, Euraele... eurayle

(Greek) In mythology, the mother of Minos... europa

(Greek) In mythology, a sea goddess and mother of Pallas, Perses, and Astraios

Eurybiah, Eurybea, Eurybeah, Euryba, Eurybah... eurybia

(Greek) In mythology, wife of Orpheus

Euridice, Eurydyce, Euridyce... eurydice

(Greek) In mythology, the mother of the Graces Eurynomie, Eurynomi, Eurynomey, Eurynomee, Eurynomy, Eurynomea, Eurynomeah... eurynome

The passages, one on each side, leading from the throat to the middle ear. Each is about 38 mm (1••• inches) long and is large at either end, though at its narrowest part it only admits a ?ne probe. The tubes open widely in the act of swallowing or yawning. The opening into the throat is situated just behind the lower part of the nose, so that a catheter can be passed through the corresponding nostril into the tube for in?ation of the middle ear. (See also EAR; NOSE.)... eustachian tubes

Linn.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Smaller var., equated with E. thymifolia, is found in tropical plains and low hills of India, ascending to 1,750 m. Bigger var., E. pilulifera/E. hirta Linn. is found in warmer parts of India from Punjab eastwards, and southwards to Kanyakumari.

Ayurvedic: Dudhi (smaller var.), Dugdhikaa, Naagaarjuni, Swaaduparni.

Siddha/Tamil: Sittrapaladi.

Action: Plant—antispasmodic, bronchodilator, antiasthmat- ic (used in bronchial asthma), galactagogue (also used for spermatorrhoea). Root—used in amenorrhoea. Latex—used in ringworm, dandruff. Leaf, seed and latex—purgative. A decoction of the plant, with honey, is given to treat haematuria.

Aerial parts gave epitaraxerol, n- hexacosanol, euphorbol, two derivatives of deoxyphorbol-OAC, 24-meth- ylene cycloartenol and quercetin galactoside. Co-carcinogenic activity is due to phorbol derivatives. The plant exhibits antimicrobial activity due to alkaloids.

Dosage: Whole plant—10-20 g paste. (CCRAS.)

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Native to Africa; naturalized in the warmer parts of India.

English: Milk-Bush, Milk Hedge, Indian tree Spurge, Aveloz, Petroleum Plant

Ayurvedic: Saptalaa, Saatalaa.

Siddha/Tamil: Tirukalli.

Folk: Angulia-thuuhar.

Action: Purgative, emetic, antiasthmatic, bechic. Used for whooping cough, asthma, dyspepsia, biliousness, jaundice, enlargement of spleen, leucorrhoea. Latex—applied externally on warts.

Used as a purgative and for rheumatism and neuralgia. Stem bark—used for gastralgia, colic, asthma.

The latex contains an ingol ester besides triterpenoids, euphorbinol and cycloeuphordenol.

Presence of a number of ingenol and phorbol esters (diterpenoids), and tri- terpenoids are reported from the plant. The stem gave hentriacontane, hentri- acontanol, beta-sitosterol, Me-ellagic and ellagic acids and kaempferol glu- coside.

The latex is a weak tumour promoter.... euphorbia thymifolia

Steud.

Family: Sapindaceae.

Habitat: South India, Assam and Bengal.

Ayurvedic: Aakshiki (non-classical).

Siddha/Tamil: Puvatti, Shempuvan.

Folk: Aashaphala (Bengal), Naag- lichi (Assam).

Action: The aril of the fruit is used in prescriptions of Chinese traditional medicine for treating insomnia, neurosis, palpitation, amnesia and anaemia.

It has been found to ameliorate the impaired learning process in mice.

An aqueous extract of the fruit pulp showed stimulating effect on superoxide dimutase activity in red blood cells of mice., indicating its possible use in delaying the aging process.

The seeds contain antimutagens, amino-hydroxy-hexynoic acid, hypo- glycin A (which causes hypoglycaemia) and amino-hydroxy-heptynoic acid.... euphoria longan

D. Don.

Synonym: E. officinalis Linn.

Family: Scrophulariaceae.

Habitat: The Temperate Himalaya from Kashmir to Sikkim, from 1,350 to 4,000 m.

English: Eyebright.

Action: Plant—astringent, antiallergic, bechic, anticatarrhal.

Key application: Externally as lotions, eye-baths, poultices, for eye complaints associated with inflammatory conditions, and as a preventive measure against mucus of the eyes, "glued" and inflammed eyes. (Traditional uses mentioned by German Comission E.)

Orally, Eyebright is used to treat allergies, common cold, bronchial conditions and sinusitis. Ophthalmic application is not recommended. Eye- bright has been used in a British herbal tobacco product, which was smoked for cold and chronic bronchial conditions.

Aerial parts showed presence of phenol, carboxylic acid, flavones and methyl flavone derivatives. Plant gave quercetin glucoside, diosmetin, kaem- pferol, caffeic and ferulic acids, stig- masterol and beta-sitosterol. Iridoid glycosides, including aucubin, are also present. Tannins include both condensed and hydrolysable gallic acid type.... euphrasia simplex

(Greek) Feminine form of Eustace; having an abundance of grapes Eustaciah, Eustacea, Eustaceah, Eustatia, Eustatiah... eustacia

(Latin) A calm and tranquil child... eustada

(Greek) In mythology, muse of lyric poetry... euterpe

(American) A hardworking woman Eveniah, Evenea, Eveneah, Eveniya, Eveniyah... euvenia

(Polish) One who is pious Euzebiah, Euzebea, Euzebeah, Euzeba, Euzebiya, Euzebiyah... euzebia

See: WAHOO. ... euonymus

Salisb.

Family: Nymphaeaceae.

Habitat: Kashmir, Bihar, Rajasthan, Assam, Manipur, Tripura, Bengal and Uttar Pradesh, in lakes and ponds.

English: Gorgan Nut, Fox Nut.

Ayurvedic: Makhaann, Paaniyapha- la, Padma-bijaabha, Ankalodya.

Unani: Makhaanaa.

Action: Seed—deobstruent, astringent, nervine tonic. Used in spermatorrhoea and sexual affections (restrains seminal gleet) and debility.

Edible parts of the seeds gave the following values: moisture 12.8, protein 9.7, fat 0.1, mineral matter 0.5, carbohydrates 76.9, calcium 0.02, and phosphorus 0.09%; iron 1.4 mg/100 g.... euryale ferox

Linn.

Family: Labiatae.

Habitat: Western Himalayas in Jammu and Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh.

English: Gipsywort, Bugleweed.

Folk: Gandam-gundu, Jalneem.

Action: Cardioactive, diuretic, peripheral vasoconstrictor, sedative, narcotic, antihaemorrhagic, antitussive, thyrostatic.

Key application: In mild thyroid hyperfunction (contraindicated in thyroid hypofunction, enlargement of thyroid) with disturbances of vegetative nervous system; masto- dynia (tension and pain in breast). No simultaneous administration of thyroid preparations. Administration of Bugleweed preparations interferes with the administration of diagnostic procedures using radioactive isotopes. (German Commission E.)

The leaves contain lithospermic acid. Plant contains luteolin-7-glucoside; ur- solic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, sinapic acid, ellagic acid and other derivatives of phenolic acid. The antioxidant activity of the plant is partially attributed to rosmarinic acid. Antigonadotropic activity of the leaf extract is attributed to phenolic precursors.

Ethanol extract of the plant showed diverse effects on the pituitary, thyroid and gonadal glands of rats.

A closely related species, Lycopus virginicus of Europe, exhibits anti- thyrotropic activity. It induces TSH repletion in hypothyroid rats and reduction of TSH levels in euthyroid rats. Antigonadotropic activity has been demonstrated in rats.... lycopus europaeus

Linn.

Family: Olaeaceae.

Habitat: Native of Mediterranean region; cultivated in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh.

English: Olive.

Unani: Zaitoon.

Action: Leaves and bark— febrifugal, astringent, diuretic, antihypertensive.

Oil—preparations are used for cho- langiitis, cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, icterus, flatulence, meteorism, lack of bacteria in the intestines. Demulcent and mild laxative. Externally used for wound dressing and for minor burns, psoriasis and pruritus. (Included among unapproved herbs by German Commission E.)

Chemical investigations of two varieties—Ascotrinia and Ascolina— grown in Jammu region have shown that the characteristics of fruits and their oils are similar to those of European varieties.

Leaves of Olea europaea gave iri- doid monoterpenes including oleu- ropein and oleuroside; triterpenes including oleanolic and maslinic acids; flavonoids including luteolin and api- genine derivatives. The oil contains glycerides of oleic acid about 70-80%, with smaller amounts of linoleic, palmitic and stearic acid glycerides.

The leaves exhibited hypotensive, antiarrhythmic and spasmolytic activities in animal studies. The oil exhibited contraction of gallbladder due to raising of the cholecystokinin level in the plasma.

India's requirements of olive oil are met by imports.... olea europaea

Linn.

Family: Umbelliferae.

Habitat: Europe, including Britain. The Himalayas from Kashmir to Bhutan, Assam, Western Ghats and Palni hills in South India.

English: Wood Sanicle.

Action: Plant—astringent, alterative, vulnerary. Used in leucorrhoea, menorrhagia, bleeding piles; also in diarrhoea and dysentery. The herb is also employed as an ingredient of an ointment used for septic ulcers.

The herb contains saponins based on saniculogenins; allantoin; chlorogenic and rosmarinic acids. The flowers contain 3.1 and fruits 1.1% rosmarinic acid. The leaves contain 0.6% chlorogenic acid. The roots contain 23.1, leaves 12.8, flowers 6.0 and fruits 5.2% surcose. Rhizome contains chlorogeni acid 1.2 and sucrose 13.9%.... sanicula europaea

Published three times a year by The National Institute of Medical Herbalists, 9 Palace Gate, Exeter, Devon, England EX1 1JA. Material of high quality on all subjects relevant to the practice of herbal medicine, creating a forum for sharing information and opinion about developments in the field, including scientific, professional and political issues of importance to the medical herbalist. ... european journal of herbal medicine

A substance distilled from the leaves of eucalyptus trees. Because of its aromatic smell and refreshing taste, it is used as a flavouring, and – applied as a rub, inhaled as vapour, or incorporated in tablets – is also used in cough and cold remedies. There is little evidence that it has any curative properties, although it may relieve symptoms.... eucalyptus oil

a surgical procedure used to treat dysfunction of the *Eustachian tube. A small balloon is inserted from the *nasopharynx into the Eustachian tube in a deflated state under endoscopic control. It is then inflated to widen the Eustachian tube before being deflated and removed.... balloon eustachian tuboplasty

 Silver birch. Betula alba L., B. pendula Roth. German: Weissbirke. French: Bouleau. Spanish: Abidul. Italian: Betula. Bark and leaves.

Action: Astringent. Bitter. Anti-inflammatory. Cholagogue. Diuretic. Contains salicylates which have an aspirin-like effect. Young leaves increase the flow of urine. Popular in Scandinavia.

Uses: Rheumatism and gout (dried leaf tea). Sore mouth (gargle). Kidney and bladder complaints. Sluggish kidney function. ‘Heart’ oedema. Cellulitis due to retention of metabolic wastes.

Preparations: Tea: 1 teaspoon dried leaves to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Strain. Wineglass thrice daily.

Methyl salicylate, a rheumatism remedy, obtained by distillation of the twigs. (A. Vogel) Birch tar oil. (Ointment) External use only (UK). ... birch, european

Legal status of. Under the 1964 Convention on the Elaboration of a European Pharmacopoeia the standards of the European Pharmacopoeia are required to take precedence over the standards of the national pharmacopoeias of the contracting parties, thus ensuring a common standard. In the United Kingdom this has been achieved by means of section 65(7) of the Medicines Act 1968. In addition to the United Kingdom the countries party to the Convention are Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, German Federal Republic, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Portugal. (Mail 54, June 1988) ... european pharmacopoeia

pl. n. a very large group of bacteria with rigid cell walls and – typically – flagella for movement. The group comprises the so-called ‘true’ bacteria, excluding those, such as spirochaetes and mycoplasmas, with flexible cell walls.... eubacteria

n. a volatile oil that has a mild irritant effect on the mucous membranes of the mouth and digestive system. It is used to relieve catarrh. Large doses may cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.... eucalyptol

n. chromosome material (see chromatin) that stains most deeply during mitosis and represents the major genes. Compare heterochromatin.... euchromatin

n. see normoglycaemia.... euglycaemia

adj. describing a tissue that heals quickly after injury.... euplastic

n. the condition of cells, tissues, or organisms in which there is one complete set of chromosomes or a whole multiple of this set in each cell. Compare aneuploidy. —euploid adj., n.... euploidy

the supervisory body of *advanced life-support courses in Europe, responsible for updating the content of the courses based on best evidence from all countries represented.... european resuscitation council

n. a normal mood state, often referred to in *mental state examinations. The term also refers to a neutral mood state in a person with bipolar affective disorder. —euthymic adj.... euthymia

(sick euthyroid syndrome) a syndrome characterized by alteration in the thyroid function tests in which the level of triiodothyronine is markedly reduced, thyroxine is slightly reduced, and thyroid-stimulating hormone is reduced or normal. This syndrome is commonly seen in nonthyroidal illness, due to altered metabolism and transport of the thyroid hormones, but can be mistaken for secondary *hypothyroidism.... euthyroid sick syndrome

Eucalyptus globulus var. globulus

FAMILY: Myrtaceae

SYNONYMS: Gum tree, southern blue gum, Tasmanian blue gum, fever tree, stringy bark.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A beautiful, tall, evergreen tree, up to 90 metres high. The young trees have bluish-green oval leaves while the mature trees develop long, narrow, yellowish leaves, creamy-white flowers and a smooth, pale grey bark often covered in a white powder.

DISTRIBUTION: Native to Tasmania and Australia. Mainly cultivated in Spain and Portugal, also Brazil, California, Russia and China. Very little of this oil now comes from its native countries.

OTHER SPECIES: There are over 700 different species of eucalyptus, of which at least 500 produce a type of essential oil. Many have been extracted simply for experimental purposes, and research is still being carried out with regard to the different constituents of each oil. In general, they can be divided into three categories. 1. The medicinal oils containing large amounts of cineol (or eucalyptol), such as the blue gum, but increasingly the blue malee (E. polybractea), the narrow-leaved peppermint (E. radiata var. australiana) and the gully gum (E. smithii). 2. The industrial oils containing mainly piperitone and phellandrene, such as the peppermint eucalyptus (E. piperita), grey peppermint (E. radiata var. phellandra) and increasingly the broad-leaved peppermint (E. dives var. Type). 3. The perfumery oils containing mainly citronellal, such as the lemon-scented eucalyptus (E. citriodora). See also Botanical Classification section.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: A traditional household remedy in Australia, the leaves and oil are especially used for respiratory ailments such as bronchitis and croup, and the dried leaves are smoked like tobacco for asthma. It is also used for feverish conditions (malaria, typhoid, cholera, etc.) and skin problems like burns, ulcers and wounds. Aqueous extracts are used for aching joints, bacterial dysentery, ringworms, tuberculosis, etc. and employed for similar reasons in western and eastern medicine. The wood is also used for timber production in Spain.

ACTIONS: Analgesic, antineuralgic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, balsamic, cicatrisant, decongestant, deodorant, depurative, diuretic, expectorant, febrifuge, hypoglycaemic, parasiticide, prophylactic, rubefacient, stimulant, vermifuge, vulnerary.

EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation from the fresh or partially dried leaves and young twigs.

CHARACTERISTICS: A colourless mobile liquid (yellows on ageing), with a somewhat harsh camphoraceous odour and woody-sweet undertone. It blends well with thyme, rosemary, lavender, marjoram, pine, cedarwood and lemon. (The narrow-leaved eucalyptus (E. radiata var. australiana) is often used in preference to the blue gum in aromatherapy work, being rich in cineol but with a sweeter and less harsh odour.)

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Cineol (70–85 per cent), pinene, limonene, cymene, phellandrene, terpinene, aromadendrene, among others.

SAFETY DATA: Externally non-toxic, non-irritant (in dilution), non-sensitizing. ‘When taken internally eucalyptus oil is toxic and as little as 3.5ml has been reported as fatal’..

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE

Skin Care: Burns, blisters, cuts, herpes, insect bites, insect repellent, lice, skin infections, wounds.

Circulation Muscles And Joints: Muscular aches and pains, poor circulation, rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, etc.

Respiratory System: Asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, sinusitis, throat infections.

Genito-Urinary System: Cystitis, leucorrhoea.

Immune System: Chickenpox, colds, epidemics, ’flu, measles.

Nervous System: Debility, headaches, neuralgia.

OTHER USES: The oil and cineol are largely employed in the preparation of liniments, inhalants, cough syrups, ointments, toothpaste and as pharmaceutical flavourings also used in veterinary practise and dentistry. Used as a fragrance component in soaps, detergents and toiletries – little used in perfumes. Used for the isolation of cineol and employed as a flavour ingredient in most major food categories.... eucalyptus, blue gum

Eucalyptus dives var. Type

FAMILY: Myrtaceae

SYNONYMS: Broad-leaf peppermint, blue peppermint, menthol-scented gum.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: A robust, medium-sized eucalyptus tree, with a short trunk, spreading branches and fibrous grey bark. The young leaves are blue and heart-shaped, the mature leaves are very aromatic, thick and tapering at both ends.

DISTRIBUTION: Native to Tasmania and Australia, especially New South Wales and Victoria. Oil is also produced in South Africa.

OTHER SPECIES: There are two types of broad-leaved peppermint although they look identical – one is rich in cineol (E. dives var. C.) and one is rich in ‘piperitone’ (E. dives var. Type). It is also similar to the peppermint eucalyptus (E. piperita) and the grey or narrow-leaved peppermint (E. radiata var. phellandra). See also entry on Eucalyptus, blue gum and Botanical Classification section.

HERBAL/FOLK TRADITION: The aborigines used the burning leaves in the form of a fumigation for the relief of fever; ‘heat went out of sick man and into fire’.

ACTIONS: See Eucalyptus, blue gum.

EXTRACTION: Essential oil by steam distillation from the leaves and twigs.

CHARACTERISTICS: A colourless or pale yellow mobile liquid with a fresh, camphoraceous, spicy-minty odour.

PRINCIPAL CONSTITUENTS: Piperitone (40–50 per cent), phellandrene (20–30 per cent), camphene, cymene, terpinene and thujene, among others. It is sold as Grades A, B or C according to the exact balance of constituents.

SAFETY DATA: Non-toxic, non-irritant (in dilution), non-sensitizing. Eucalyptus oil is toxic if taken internally (see entry on eucalyptus blue gum).

AROMATHERAPY/HOME: USE

Skin Care: Cuts, sores, ulcers etc.

Circulation muscles and joints: Arthritis, muscular aches and pains, rheumatism, sports injuries, sprains, etc.

Respiratory System: Asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, throat and mouth infections, etc.

Immune System: Colds, fevers, ’flu, infectious illness, e.g. measles.

Nervous System: Headaches, nervous exhaustion, neuralgia, sciatica.

OTHER USES: Little used medicinally these days except in deodorants, disinfectants, mouthwashes, gargles and in veterinary practice. ‘Piperitone’ rich oils are used in solvents. Employed for the manufacture of thymol and menthol (from piperitone).

EUCALYPTUS, ... eucalyptus, broad-leaved peppermint