Description of Colchicicum:
It is generally found at the height of 2000 to 9000 feet. Its tuberous root is oval in shape and bears a dark brown color. Leaves are 6 to 12 inch in length and 1/3 to ½ inch in length. It is rounded in shape and small when it flowers. Flowers are 1to 2 inch in length and 1 to 1 ½ inch broad. This plant leaf’s from late summers to early summers. The flowers are hermaphrodite i.e. possess both male and female parts in same flower. Fruit is ½ to 1 inch in length and bears seeds. Seeds are 2 to 3 millimeter in diameter and are ovate shape. These are light brown to white in color and are bitter to taste.
Principal Constituents:
Suranjan contains an alkaloid named colchicines which is 0.21 to 0.25 %. Besides this it contains starch in limited amounts.
Pharmochology:
It is kapha and vata suppressant. It is a good pain reliever and helps in healing of wounds. It helps in preventing indigestion. It is also a mild laxative and helps in relieving from constipation. It is helpful in liver and spleen related ailments. It is also a good blood purifier. Saurananjan also acts as diuretic, thus is helpful in urine related problems.
Toxicology:
It is harmful if taken in high doses as it has narcotic actions and suppresses brain activities. If taken in larger doses it may even cause death.
Medicinal Uses: Joint pains, Sciatica, Rheumatoid arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Liver and spleen related problems, Gouty arthritis, Blood infection, Dysurea, Skin related problems.
