http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/2 2026-11-06T13:04:01Z 2026-11-06T13:04:01Z Sujeethasai, K. Miraaj, R. http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/13191 2026-10-27T04:37:49Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Pranayamam: A comprehensive review of its therapeutic benefits and potential adverse effects Authors: Sujeethasai, K.; Miraaj, R. Abstract: Pranayama is derived from the Sanskrit terms prana, meaning life force, and ayama, meaning control. It refers to a set of regulated breathing techniques that form an integral part of traditional yoga and Siddha medicine. Classical texts authored by revered sages such as Thirumoolar, Vaanmeegar, and Pathanjali describe various types of pranayama, including Naadishodhana, Ujjayi, Kapalabhati, Bhastrika, and Brahmari. These techniques are believed to regulate both physiological and psychological functions. Pranayama is widely practiced for health promotion and disease prevention however the improper practice may result in adverse effects. Therefore, it is essential to critically evaluate both the benefits and potential risks of pranayama by integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific evidence. This study aims to discuss the therapeutic benefits and possible adverse effects associated with pranayama. Data were collected through a comprehensive review of traditional Siddha texts and scholarly articles available online. Clinical evidence, research findings, and classical descriptions were systematically analyzed to assess both the positive outcomes and potential complications of various pranayama techniques. The findings indicate that when practiced correctly and under proper guidance, pranayama enhances respiratory efficiency, improves cardiovascular function, reduces stress and anxiety, and promotes mental clarity. It also contributes to autonomic balance and may support increased longevity. However, improper practice such as excessive force, incorrect posture, or lack of supervision may lead to adverse effects, including dizziness, hyperventilation, fluctuations in blood pressure, and respiratory discomfort. In conclusion, pranayama offers substantial health benefits when performed appropriately under expert guidance. Nevertheless, awareness of correct techniques, individual capacity, and contraindications is essential to minimize risks. The integration of traditional wisdom with scientific validation can facilitate the safe and effective application of pranayama in contemporary healthcare systems.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z Gowri, R. Vethanayahan, K. Vinotha, S. http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/13152 2026-10-12T02:42:02Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Antimicrobial Potential of Leaf, Seed Coat, and Bark Extracts of Sri Lankan Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels: A Comparative Study Authors: Gowri, R.; Vethanayahan, K.; Vinotha, S. Abstract: Background and Objectives: Emergence of antimicrobial resistance emphasizes the requirement for new plant-derived bioactive compounds. Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels (S. cumini) has been reported to possess various pharmacological properties; however, systematic comparison of different parts of the plant and extraction solvents under similar conditions is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the antifungal and antibacterial activities of extracts obtained from leaves, seed coats, and bark of the plant using ethanol, methanol, and water. Methods: The extracts were evaluated for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas sp. Antifungal activity was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method against Mucor sp., Aspergillus niger, and Fusarium sp. through an in vitro bioassay. Zones of inhibition were measured and statistically analyzed. Results: Antimicrobial activities varied with plant parts and solvent. The ethanolic seed coat extract showed the maximum antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (27.56 ± 0.46 mm), while the aqueous bark extract showed the minimum antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas sp. (11.50 ± 0.66 mm). The leaf methanolic extract exhibited the highest antifungal activity against Fusarium sp. (15.87 ± 0.73 mm), whereas the bark aqueous extract exhibited the lowest antifungal activity against Aspergillus sp. (37.93 ± 0.80 mm). Seed coat extracts were more efficacious against bacteria, and leaf extracts were relatively more potent against fungi. Conclusion: This comparative study identified the most effective plant part–solvent combinations of S. cumini, supporting its potential as a naturally occurring source of antimicrobial agents for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z Saruja, N. Karunya, S. Sivagajendran, S. Viviyan, S. http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/13110 2026-09-24T04:24:23Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Current status of medicinal plant diversity in paalameenmadu, Batticaloa, eastern province of Sri Lanka Authors: Saruja, N.; Karunya, S.; Sivagajendran, S.; Viviyan, S. Abstract: Sri Lanka Possesses rich medicinal plant diversity that is important for ecosystem conservation and pharmaceutical development. This study aimed to document and evaluate the diversity of medicinal plant species recorded in paalameenmadu, a mangrove ecosystem located in Batticaloa, eastern province of Sri Lanka. The study area was identified using the maps, and field surveys were conducted from April 2024 to April 2025 using the belt transect method to identify and record medicinal plant species. Specimens collected during the fieldwork were authenticated using the herbarium of the faculty of siddha medicine, university of Jaffna. A total of 130 medicinal plant species belonging to 43 botanical families were recorded, with Fabaceae being the dominant family. According to an analysis of growth forms, trees accounted for 42.32% of living forms, with herbs coming in second at 20.77%, shrubs at 18.46%, climbers at 13.84%, and creepers at 4.62%. according to a life cycle study, 66.92 of species were perennials, 20% were annuals, and 13.08% were biennials. Among the recorded medicinal flora, 10species were identified as mangroves. The most commonly used plant part was leaves (n=102), which were followed by seeds (n =75), fruits (n=49), roots (n =44), flowers (n = 32), bark (n =24) whole plant (n = 11), and tubers (n =9). Exudates such as toddy (n =2) and milky latex (n =4) were also utilized. A total of 17 species produced edible fruits, while latex (n = 4) were also utilized. A total of species produced edible fruits, while 18 species were used as edible leafy vegetables. despite their rich medicinal plant diversity, mangrove ecosystems are increasingly threatened by climate change and human activities such as urbanization, deforestation, aquaculture expansion, pollution and runoff. These finding provide valuable baseline date for biodiversity conservation, ethnobotanical research, and the sustainable management of mangrove ecosystems in Sri Lanka.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z Rakulini, S. http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/13105 2026-09-23T03:13:09Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Anthropometric Measurement on Wrist and Manikkadai Alavu (Forearm Circumference) in Gunmam (Gastric Ulcer) Patients – A Comparative Study Authors: Rakulini, S. Abstract: Siddha Medicine is a system of traditional medicine originating in ancient Tamil Nadu in South India and Sri Lanka. Traditionally, it is taught that the Siddhars laid the foundation for this system of medicine. Siddha system has a unique diagnostic method to identify the diseases and their causes. Manikkadai Nool is one of the diagnostic tools. It is explained in the Agasthiyar Soodamani Kajiru Soothiram by Saint Veadammamuni in Pathinen Siddhar Naadi Nool. The aim of this study was to compare the wrist circumference and Manikkadai alavu (cm) in gunmam patients. It is an observational study. After identifying the eligible subjects, Data was collected by using the interview administrated questionnaire & relevant data was collected by measurement. Collected data were processed and statistically analyzed by a SPSS. The mean age of the subjects was 46.06 (SD±13.833). Majority of subjects in 14 (28%) were between 51 – 60 years of age. The majority of subjects in 30 (60%) were female. The average wrist circumference of the subjects was 16.3cm (SD ± 1.34) and 16.616cm (SD ± 1.24) and Manikkadai alavu was 18.10cm (SD ± 1.81) and 17.97cm (SD ± 1.82) in right and left hand. In group I, II and III, the mean value of right and left wrist circumferences was almost same. On the other hand, right and left Manikkadai alavu in cm was increase slightly. In the present study revealed that In Group I, II and III, the mean value of right and left wrist circumference.was almost same. On the other hand, right and left Manikkadai alavu in cm was increase slightly. These slight differences may influence in the disease diagnosis by Manikkadai Nool.

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