External applications of Shigru (Moringa oleifera Lam): A comprehensive review

Background: Plants are the main source of medicine in traditional system of medicines like Ayurveda. In Ayurvedic literature, there are indications of Basti (drug administration through anal route) and Nasya (drug administration through nasal route) along with oral route. Similarly, for external application, there were many forms such as lepa (external application of paste), Aschyotana (eye drops), Anjana (collyrium), etc. The Ayurveda literature is a treasure of many formulations that can be therapeutically used through various routes in Netra roga (eye disorders), Karna roga (ear disorders), Kustha (skin diseases), Apsmara (epilepsy), Galganda (goitre), and Slipada (elephantiasis). Systematic monographs of single drugs can be very useful for clinical application. Moringa oleifera is a single drug, which is abundantly available as well as therapeutically efficacious; this review is an appraisal to compile and present the external therapeutic uses of Shigru (Moringa oleifera Lam). Aim: The aim of the study was to review the Ayurvedic literature to collect information regarding the external therapeutic use of various parts of Shigru. Materials and Methods: Extensive review of Shigru involves the study of Veda, Samhita, Chikitsa granth, Ayurvedic compendia, and various databases like database of India, etc., regarding various formulations, dosage form, indications, and useful parts. Result: During the literature survey, a total of 149 formulations in 145 dosage forms of Shigru have been recommended for 24 diseases. Conclusions: Shigru is extensively useful for external application, and based on the information presented in this literature survey, it can be therapeutically used in many diseases as well as novel formulations and dosage forms using Shigru (Moringa oleifera Lam).