The Journal of Phytopharmacology 2026; 15(1):63-69 ;   DOI:10.31254/phyto.2026.15108

Review Article

Exploring the therapeutic potential of Siddha traditional medicine Eraippu Erumal Chooranam in managing bronchial asthma: A comprehensive review

Nikil Niva John Raja¹ , Hema Nandhini Devi V² , Susila R³

Nikil Niva John Raja,Hema Nandhini Devi V,Susila R

1. Research Associate (Siddha)- III, Siddha Clinical Research unit, Central Council for Research in Siddha, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi-110029, India
2. Junior Research Fellow (Pharmacovigilance), Peripheral Pharmacovigilance Centre, Siddha Clinical Research unit, Safdarjung Hospital campus, Central Council for Research in Siddha, Ministry of Ayush, New Delhi-110029, India
3. Research Officer (Siddha)/ Scientist- II and In-charge, Siddha Clinical Research unit, Central Council for Research in Siddha, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi-110029, India

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 1st December, 2025 / Accepted: 11th March, 2026 / Published : 30th March, 0026

Abstract

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Bronchial asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition characterized by increased sensitivity within the airways, resulting in significant inflammation, excessive mucus production, and reversible airflow obstructions. Respiratory diseases, particularly asthma, pose a significant challenge in South Asia, with India exhibiting an asthma prevalence rate of 6.3%. Although established pharmacological treatments including bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids effectively manage symptoms, prolonged use may lead to undesirable side effects and impose additional strain on healthcare systems. In response to these challenges, there is a strong and growing interest in traditional medicinal practices that provide complementary and alternative therapies for respiratory conditions. The Siddha system of medicine represents an ancient medical tradition primarily practiced in Southern India. This system employs a diverse array of herbal formulations designed to address various health issues, including bronchial asthma. This comprehensive review confidently assesses the therapeutic potential of Eraippu Erumal Chooranam (EEC), a traditional polyherbal formulation utilized in Siddha medicine for managing bronchial asthma and related respiratory disorders. An extensive literature review conducted between October and December 2024 draws from classical Siddha texts, respected pharmacopoeias, and esteemed scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and google scholar etc. This review systematically compiles and analyses critical data related to the botanical characteristics, phytochemical compositions, pharmacological effects, and historical therapeutic uses of the individual ingredients within this formulation. EEC comprises four distinguished medicinal plants: Acalypha indica L., Glinus lotoides L., Eclipta prostrata (L.) L., and Piper nigrum L. Phytochemical analysis has unveiled a rich array of bioactive compounds within these plants, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids. Collectively, these constituents exhibit an impressive range of pharmacological activities essential for asthma management, including bronchodilation, anti-inflammatory responses, antihistaminic effects, antioxidant properties, and immunomodulatory actions. These synergistic properties effectively alleviate airway inflammation, promote relaxation of the bronchial passages, and modulate immune responses critical to the development of asthma. In Siddha medicine, bronchial asthma is understood as resulting from an imbalance of the body's humors, particularly the humor known as Aiyam. The individual ingredients of EEC possess unique tastes, potencies, and post-digestive biotransformation effects that contribute to restoring this delicate humoral balance. Given the compelling combination of traditional wisdom and scientific insights, Eraippu Erumal Chooranam presents a promising therapeutic option for managing bronchial asthma. However, to establish its safety, efficacy, and mechanisms of action definitively, further systematic preclinical investigations and rigorously designed clinical trials are imperative.

Keywords

Anti-inflammatory, Acalypha indica, Bioactive compounds, Flavonoids, Phytochemical Contents, Respiratory disease

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