75 ISSN:2581-7884

Eastern Scientist© Swadeshi Vigyan Santhanam-Vijnana Bharati

bZLVuZlkbafVLV Issue 14/15- Vol.1/2 -Jan-Mar/Apr.-Jun. 2021 pp.75-95 www.easternscientist.in

Doctrine of Signatures
Shree Nitu1
1
M.D.(Dravyaguna), Lecturer (Dravyaguna Dept.), Major S.D.Singh P.G. Ayurvedic
Medical College and Hospital, Fatehgarh , Farrukhabad, U.P.

Abstract-
The Doctrine of Signatures is an old tradition or a part of many traditions,
that plants (as well as animals and minerals and perhaps even phenomena)
have clues or “signatures” in their shapes, forms, actions and things that tell
what their purposes are. It proposes the idea that God has given everything in
nature its unique healing power and left a clue for us to discover it in the
appearance of each plant or substance. The Doctrine of Signatures is a part
of that theory which posits that all things in the universe are resonating in a
relatively small number of frequencies and that resonate at similar frequencies
have deep impact on one another. The basic idea is that every living thing
has been blown in same life force or spirit, while its physical form is influenced
by a certain form of this universal energy.
There are many examples of Doctrine of Signatures based on morphology,
astrology, behavioural similarity, smell etc. Which give a sort of general
overview to this theory (for example a sliced carrot looks like human eye and
it greatly enhances blood flow to and function of eyes; a walnut looks like a
little brain and act as brain food etc.). Different streams of treatment (like
Homeopathy, Ayurveda, Chineses therapy etc.) have different views or openion
regarding it.
The present work is an effort to collect all possible information regarding
the concept of Doctrine of Signatures. We can say that this concept helps to
study materia medica in a literal style and thereby making the subject
Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021
 76 ISSN:2581-7884

more interesting. It may help for the study of materia medica and not for
practical application of materia medica.
(Key words- Doctrine, signatures, clue)
Introduction
While humans suffered in olden times from innumerable maladies and
diseases, they experimented with plant cures. But how would they know what
plant to use? Out of frustration probably developed the concept of the plant
"Signature". Religious people taught that God provided visual clues, because
plants were placed on earth for the good of mankind. The key to human use
of plants was hidden in the form (Signature) of the plant itself, so look
closely for the label from God that permits us to recognize and utilize these
plants for the benefit of life.
Human beings began to believe that nature alone could provide the means to
remove pain and disease and thus they sought remedies in nature, i.e., in
plants, minerals and animals. A variety of medicinal agent were collected on
the basis of their symbolic qualities as well as their astrological signs. The
resemblance may be physical or subtly symbolic, obvious or hidden, but it is
there.
The basic idea is that every living thing has been blown in the same life
force or spirit, while its physical form is influenced by a certain form of this
universal energy.
The word ‘doctrine’ means belief and the word ‘signature’ is said to be a
duplet, which has been derived from two words sign and nature, meaning
signs of nature. In simple terms 'doctrine of signature' is a belief on various
signs of nature or clues given by nature. Synonyms used for Doctrine of
signatures are Doctrine of correspondence or metaphorical naturalism or a
fingerprint of the devine.
Pioneers of Doctrine of Signatures-
Paracelsus, Gambatista Porta,Jacob Bohme,William Coles, Hahnemann,
C.M.Borger, H. A. Robert, J .C.Burnett are some popular names in the
field of Doctrine of signatures.

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 77 ISSN:2581-7884

Basics used in Doctrine of signatures

Here are the basics used in the Doctrine of Signatures:
A. Morphology of plant
(1). The roots of the plant have their influence on the brains of a human
being; plants with impressive roots are good to ground airy people.
(2). The stems and leaves represent the middle part in a human being; think
of the breast, heart and lungs. Further the stem is analogous to our skeleton.
(3). The flowers mostly work on the lower belly and the genitals.
(4). Upward growing plants fully open up to the force of the sun, and
therefore bring optimism and enthusiasm.
(5).Downward pointing plants with hanging flowers harmonize people who
feel down or depressed; so here Like-cures-like.
(6).Horizontally growing plants symbolize contact and exchange and
therewith promote the circulation of blood and lungs.
(7). A round stem is associated with femininity, harmony and softness.
(8).A square stems points at the masculine qualities of immunity and
strength.
(9).A hollow stem reveals that the plant may relief complaints with the
hollow organs in a human being, like the lungs or the gullet.
(10).A hairy stem and ditto leaves show action on the skin, hair and
mucous membranes.
(11).Thorns and stings show that the plant promotes regeneration and
immunity.
(12). Small and divided leaves show a contracting force in the plant but
have a relaxing effect on a human being.
(13). Large leaves on the other hand have contracting power in a human
being and may help to stop profuse bleedings or increase muscle
contractions.
(14). Dark-green leaves work calming and vitalizing.
(15). Yellow-green leaves promote the metabolism.
(16).Dark yellow flowers stimulate the life force and the liver
(17).Light yellow flowers are good for internal cleansing of the body.

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 78 ISSN:2581-7884

(18).Red flowers work on the heart, blood circulation, energy and vitality.
(19).Orange flowers work on the solar plexus and bring enthusiasm.
(20).Pink flowers work softening and harmonizing.
(21).Blue flowers cool down heat complaints like fever, inflammations or an
irritable character.
(22).Purple flowers relax the nervous system and make a person more
introvert.
(23).White flowers work soothing in inflammations and have their special
working area on the female organs.
(24).The color brown brings inner calm and strength, especially in case of
Exhaustion.
B. Some “wort” plants and their signature
Some examples are:
• liverwort = relieve liver trouble
• lungwort (Pulmonaria officeinalisBoraginaceae) =resembled a diseased
lung & so indicate the use of the plant for pulmonary complaint
• adder’s tongue = cure for wounds and inflammation from snakebite
• bloodroot (Sanguinaria Canadensis;papaveraceae) = cure blood
disorders; induce
• vomiting;laxative
• toothwort = relieve toothache
• gravelwort = dissolve stones in the urinary tract
• wormwood = expel intestinal parasites
• pilewort = cure hemorrhoids
• ginseng = "man essense," used as a general human panacea
• mandrake plant (similar to a child) = promote sexual passion in females
hence useful for sterility.
• maidenhair fern(Adiantum pedatum;Pteridaceae) = cure baldness.
• Spleen wort, Asplenium (similar to spleen): Hence useful for disorders
of spleen.
• Louse wort (similar to lice): Hence useful in repelling lice.

C. Resemblance to different body organs

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021
 79 ISSN:2581-7884

It now contends that every whole food has a pattern that resembles a
Body organ or physiological function and that this pattern acts as a
Signal or sign as to the benefit the food provides the eat
It can be understood by following examples:
A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and
radiating lines look just like the human eye...and science now
shows that carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function
of the eyes.

A tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart is red and
has four chambers. All of the research shows tomatoes are
indeed pure heart and blood food. It has been proved that it
prevent atherosclerosis by inhibiting platelet aggregation.

Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart.

Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today
shows that grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing
food. The chemical constituent polyphenols (resveratrol)
present in it which reduces platelet aggregation, vasodilation
and decreases the activity of angiotensin. The cardioprotective
activity on heart is supposed to be mediated through antioxidant property of
resveratrol. Resveratrol significantly protects LDL from oxidation. Resveratrol
inhibits cyclooxygenase pathway and thus it influences platelet aggregation.

A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere,

upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or
folds are on the nut just like the neo-cortex. We now know
that walnuts help develop over 3 dozen neuro-transmitters for
brain function. It having high omega-3 oil content which act as brain food.

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 80 ISSN:2581-7884

Kidney beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function

and they look exactly like the human kidneys. It inhibits the
action of alpha-amylase (an enzyme used by human body to
convert starch to glucose) and also assist kidney by removing
excess phosphorus from it.

Eggplant, Avocadoes and Pears target the health and function

of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like
these organs. It strengthens the capability of female system,
balance female hormones, shed unwanted birth weight and
prevent cervical cancers.Today's research shows that when a woman eats 1
avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight and
prevents cervical cancers. It takes exactly 9 months to grow an avocado from
blossom to ripened fruit.

Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs
increase the motility of male sperm and increase the numbers
of sperm as well to overcome male sterility.

Oranges, and other Citrus fruits look just like the mammary
glands of the female and actually assist the health of the
breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.

Peanuts have a profound effect on the testicles and sexual libido. Peanuts
were banned as a food for males by the church often during
the Middle Ages. Most people don't realize that arginine, the
main component of Viagra, comes from peanuts.

D. On the basis of astrology

The Doctrine of Signatures naturally led to the concept of Astrological
influence, and this was developed and put forward by Nicolas Culpeper in his
book, "Judgement of Diseases" in the mid sixteen hundreds. This was a

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 81 ISSN:2581-7884

sort of scientific version of the Doctrine of signatures that set itself up in

opposition to the simpler folk style we have seen previously.
Astrology was consulted for diagnosis, classification of medicinal plants and
bodily functions, the preparation of medicines, and the determination of the
most favorable time to administer the remedy.
A brief information about basic planetary divisions of the plant kingdom
are given in this chart:

Ruling Effect on body Indication of herbs

Planet
Sun Rule heart, circulation and v.column Upward flowers as
sunflower,heliotrope
Moon Growth,fertility,breast,menstrual cycle Watery and large
leaves; Juicy globular
fruits
Mercury Nervous system,organ of Finely divided leaves
speech,hearing and respiration such as
fennel,dill,carrot
Venus Complexion,sexual organs,hidden inner Heavely scented,showy
working of body cells as Damascus rose,apple
blossom
Mars Muscle,body vitality,libido Thorn and stings as
Acasia
Jupiter Liver,abdomen,spleen,kidney Big and abundant,
many bearing nuts as
chestnut,apricot
Saturn Aging and all hardening processes Strong and survive in
scare condition as
hemlock,belladona

Plant named as planets of the universe:

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 82 ISSN:2581-7884

(1). Sun-plants have long strong stems and upward flowers in the colors
white, yellow or orange.
(2). Moon-plants are watery and have large leaves.
(3). Mercury-plants grow horizontally and easily move along with the wind.
(4). Venus-plants are soft-colored and smell deliciously.
(5). Mars-plants have thorns and stings.
(6). Jupiter-plants are big and grow abundant, like in the jungle.
(7). Saturnus-plants are the strong ones that survive scarce conditions, like
cactaceae.
(8). Uranus-plants are the radio-active ones.
(9). Neptune-plants are poisonous in the bad case, or have purple flowers
and bring relaxation to the mind in the positive case. Neptune is both for
the very high and the very low.
(10). The plants of Pluto are the toad-stools and mushrooms.
Different Views Regarding Doctrine of Signatures
1.The Doctrine and Homeopathy
Some examples of doctrine of signatures among Homoeopathic drugs
1. Chelidinium- Yellow juice-- Useful for jaundice.
2. Calcarea carb- Hard shell to protect the soft body-- Patient is soft
and needs protection.
3. Sanguinaria- Red color-- Useful for bleeding.
6. Cockroach- Lives in cracks, crevices, damp places-- Useful for asthma
of people living in damp basements and cellars.
7. Digitalis- Blood colored dots on petals-- Given for disorders of blood
vessels.
8. Euphrasia- Black spot in corolla looks like a pupil-- Useful for eye
complaints.
9. Belladonna- Grows in soil rich in calcium carbonate- Hence calc carb
is complimentary to belladonna.
10. Tarentula hispania-- Spiders comes out when drums are beaten- Given
for patients who are sensitive to music.
11. Hypericum- Has red juice- Used in hemorrhages.

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 83 ISSN:2581-7884

12. Bryonia-- Root is fleshy, yellowish white, rough with a bitter taste--
Patient is also fleshy with yellow white colored tongue, rough irritating
temperament and has bitter taste.
2.The Doctrine and Chinese Herbs
Signature plants were probably first recognized in ancient China, where there
was a classification that correlated plant features to human organs.
• yellow and sweet = spleen
• red and bitter = heart
• green and sour = liver
• black and salty = lungs
Yang (primitive male) was associated with strongly acting plants; ailments
of the upper half of the body were treated with upper parts of plants. Yin
(primitive female) was associated with plants having moderate action and
those with bitter, sour, salty, and sweet tastes; ailments of lower parts of the
body were treated with below-ground plant parts.
The most basic level of the doctrine of signatures pertains to the color,
shape/texture or habitat/behavior of the herb in question. These properties in
one way or another point to its healing characteristics.
3.Modern concept regarding Doctrine of signatures
Hundreds of years later, there are studies supporting earlier observations of
these herbalists.
Lungwort is an expectorant helping to remove catarrh from the lungs; walnuts
with their high omega-3 oil content are considered a “brain food;” kidney
beans assist the kidneys by removing excess phosphorus.
How early herbalists were able to obtain specific information by observing
the plants is difficult to know for certain, but it is clear that the benefits of
these plants are just as relevant today as they were then.
In ‘Health Action’ magazine of September 2002 issue, an article ‘Nature’s
Pharmecy’ emphasise upon this topic.
Seeds and other plant-parts can be applied to the areas corresponding
with the affected organs. Depending on the area, shape and size of the organ
seeds can be applied for chronic gastritis, lumbar-sacral spine problem,
menstrual pain and so on.
Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021
 84 ISSN:2581-7884

As a live (full of life force) biological structure, a seed has a great life-
force necessary for germination and growth. During treatment the biological
field of the seed interacts with the areas corresponding to the affected organs
and parts of the body, restoring their energy potential.
Seeds can be used as messengers .To stimulate larger correspondence areas
such as, liver, stomach and lungs, hard seeds of peach, mango, and walnut
can be utilized. For medium and smaller areas of correspondence like heart,
uterus, eyes and nose, it would be better to use seeds of date, acron, chestnut,
and hazelnut and so on. Even one can rub a lemon, onion bulb or a potato
tuber, between hands.
Organ and parts of our body are of different shape such as, Oblong
(extremites,intestine,nose,lips);spherical(eyes,heart,breast);beanshaped(kidn
eys,stomach) ,pea shaped(uterus, gall bladder), racemose (pancreas) etc.
Seeds of different shapes can be used for controlling morbid processes in the
internal organs. For example: to help in the problems of eyes, head or breast,
round shaped seeds (black pepper, peas etc.);for problems of kidney and
stomach, seeds of kidney beans( red as well as creamish white);for cardiac
diseases, seeds found in clusters or of heart shaped (seeds of guilder,
pumpkin, almond);for pancreas diseases, grape seeds; while in disease of brain
massage the correspondence area with a walnut.
If a plant secretes white milk, its seed can be applied to increase the
quality of milk in nourishing mothers; and if it secretes yellow milk, its seed
can remedy for liver and gall bladder problems.
Some seeds contain a lot of thick juice. Those juices can be used for
decreasing inflammatory processes followed by myxopoiesis (rhinitis, gastritis
and bronchitis). For example; seeds of flex, corn, seeds of aqueous plants can
be applied when there is pathological accumulation of body fluids and oedema.
Based on the shape, colour and taste of seeds, odour of flowers of plants
and fruits, we can divide them into eight groups related to eight energies.
1. Seed of Wind (light and long) and sour in taste, they can be used for
improving the function of liver, gall bladder, joints, muscles and peristalsis.
These seeds can also be used to lessen oedema, obesity and decrease the
amount of fluid discharge (rhinitis, lacrimation, diarrhea, sweating etc.).
Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021
 85 ISSN:2581-7884

2. Seed of Heat (oval & red in colour): They can be applied for normalizing
the heart, small intestine, blood vessels and can also be used for getting rid
of viral diseases, diseases of blood etc.
3. Seed of Hotness (orange and round) having a pleasant freshening taste,
this can be used for general fitness, accelerating the process of restoration of
an organism and wound healing.
4. Seed of Humidity (oval, wrinkled, orange; sweet taste): They are applied
for stimulating the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, improving the lymph
flow etc.
5. Seed of Dryness (hemispherical, bitter taste): These seeds can be used
for diseases affecting lungs, large intestine and mucous membranes.
6. Seed of Coldness (ribbed crystal-like): Salty seeds of these category is
applied in disease of the kidney and urinary bladder, strengthing bones and
teeth, fever, oedema, diseases accompanied by the formation of pus, excessive
excretion of fluids, and for losing weight.
The plant like other living things, have an energy system which supports
their vital activity. In spite of the fact that the circulation of energy is carried
out simultaneously in many energy canals, there is a dominating direction of
energy flow which coincides with that of biological growth of plants.
This property can be used for therapy with seeds and other parts of plants
in the system on correspondence.
Knowing the basic direction of energy flow in this or that part of the plant
selected for treatment, it is possible to change (accelerate or inhibit)
physiological processes. If the direction of growth of the twig, leaf or seed
coincides with the natural direction of flow of food, bile, sputum or faecal
matter, their movement is stimulated. And in case they go in the opposite
direction, the process of passing water, stomach and bowel movements are
inhibited.
4.Doctrine and Ayurveda:
According to Emerson-“Trees are imperfect man.” It means that there are
lots of similarities between tree and man. This statement proves the high
status and importance of tree. Our Indian civilization mainly developed in

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 86 ISSN:2581-7884

forests. People who lives in forest are more close to forest plants and therefore
they have good knowledge about medicinal plants.
Dr. Hemchandra Sen wrote in his title ‘Interesting points about
incompatible prescription’ about importance of herbal drugs and their active
principal. He said that by doing research on active principals, scientists give
lot of things to medical science. But it is not enough to depend only on
active principals of that herbal drugs. There are lot of medicines in nature
whose chemical constituents are yet unknown but they are still use for
treatment of many diseases.
Dravayas serve as cause of maintenance, increase and decrease of the living
body because of similarity in being composed of panchbhutas. The body is
composed of five mahabhutas and so the dravyas exhibiting the qualities of
respective mahabhutas. According to Acharya Charak’s concept,

सर्वदा सर्वभार्ानाां सामान्यांर्ृद्धिकारणां ।

ह्रास हेतु वर्शेषश्च प्रर्ृत्तिरुभयस्य तु ॥ ( च. स.सू.१/४४)

i.e. it is generally proposed that similar properties enhances the respective

qualities inside the body while the opposite properties reduces it .
According to this law of samanya (similarity) and vishesha (dissimilarity)
those having similar qualities are used for increase and the dissimilar ones for
decrease. For maintenance both types of dravyas are used balancing each
other.
Ousadhi-Sutra of the Rig-Veda is perhaps the earliest document of the
knowledge about medicinal plants which culminated in samhitas and nighantus
of Ayurveda In Shatapatha Brahamin, a comparision is made between Purusha
(human) and Vanaspati (plant).Some of them are:
Purusha Vanaspati
1.Loma Parna (leaf and hairs)
2.Twak Bahirutpatika (Ectoderm)
3.Rakta Niryasa (latex)
4.Mamsa Sakara (mesoderm)
5.Snayu Kinata (endoderm)

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 87 ISSN:2581-7884

6.Asthi Abhyantara kashta (heart kastha)

7.Majja Majja (pith or medulla)
* (Sa.Br.3-7-1-8)

During this earliest time, the pharmacological and therapeutic utility of herbs
was assumed on the basis of “Doctrine of Signatures”. For e.g., some plant
contain heart shaped leaf, its leaf can remedy heart problems. If plant secrets
white milk, its seed can be applied to increase the quality of milk in nursing
mother. Based on the shape, colour and taste of any plant part, odour of
flowers of plants and fruits etc., we use plants for treatment of diseases.
During this long period large number of terms developed relating to name,
synonyms, properties actions and uses of medicinal plants which are found in
Ayurvedic literature. They reflect the knowledge of the ayurvedists about this
miraculous green drapery of nature who identified each and every plant with
specific name described them by way of synonyms, defined their properties
and actions and discovered their uses in various conditions of health and
diseases.
There are effective impacts of natural materials on living organisms by
the principal of similarity. Information about the human body is embodied in
the systems of correspondence while seeds (fruits) of plants contain
information about the properties of plants. On the basis of this principal of
similarity, we can correlate the morphological similarity of plant with their
application on specific disease. This is the basis of doctrine of signature. It
means that morphological or external similarities or similarity of colour, smell,
taste, texture etc. all have therapeutic relationship.
Following are some examples of Doctrine of Signatures related to
Ayurvedic aspect:
(a). On the basis of Structural- Similarity:
1.Kanchanara(Bauhinia verigata;Leguminosae):
काञ्चनारो गन्डमालाभ्याम् ।
(द्र,गु.सू.८/१९)

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 88 ISSN:2581-7884

It means that Kanchanara is indicated in gandamala (chain of enlarged

glands in neck).Its leaf looks like butterfly which is similar to that of the
shape of thyroid gland. That’s why its use is based originally on the doctrine
of signature.

2. Kapikcchu seed or vanari seed (Mucuna prurita;Leguminosae)

: र्ानरी बीजां र्ृष्योिमां ।(द्र,गु.सू.८/२३)

Vanari seeds are the best among

aphrodisiacs. The use of the testicle-
shaped seeds are also an example of the doctrine of signature. It administrated
orally shows significant improvement in erection, night emission, premature
ejaculations, spermatorrhoea functional impotency and oligospermia. It shows
marked improvement in prostetic functions as assessed by the activity of
maltase and by citric acid content, with increase in the activity of amylase,
maltase and a decrease in post treatment level of glycogen in seminal fluid.

3.Asthisrimkhala (Cissus quadrangulari;Vitaceae):

It is good remedy for bone fracture. Its
quadrangular and jointed stem gives the
appearance of series of bones. Its use for
fracture healing is originally based on the
doctrine of signature because of its bony
appearance.

4. Tambul leaf : (Piper betle;Piperaceae):

Its leaves are heart shaped and it is a good cardiac tonic (Hridya).
5. Shivalingi (Bryonopsis laciniosa; Cucurbitaceae)
Its seeds are good remedy for infertility. The use of its lingakara seed for
treatment of infertility is also an example of the doctrine of signature.

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 89 ISSN:2581-7884

6.Black pepper ( Piper nigrum ;Piperaceae):

It is good remedy for night blindness, arm, shukla etc. Its paste along with
honey is used as anjana for those diseases. Its use is also based on the
doctrine of signature because of its round shape which is similar to that of
eye.
8. Lakshman: (Ipomoea sepiaria ;Convolvulaceae)
Bhavamishra explains Lakshmana as-
पुत्राकार रक्ताल्पबबन्दूभभलावञ्छितच्छदा ।
लक्ष्मणा पुत्रजननी बस्तगन्धाकृततभवर्ेत् ॥(भा.प्र.)
Leaves of Lakshmana contain man like dotted structure which indicates its
use in case of infertility and for pumsavan samskara.
9.Grape seed (Vitis vinifera ;Vitaceae)
The shape of grape seed is like that of pancreas and it has been proved that
grape seed is good remedy for diabetes.
10.Rudraksha(Elaeocarpus ganitrus; Elaeocarpaceae)
The structure of its stony fruit drupe(phalasthi) is similar to brain .The use
of dried stone of rudraksha is quite popular in tradition (rudraksha-dharana)
for attaining mental peace & maintaining psychological equilibrium; it carries
much religious importance. It is a valued remedy for hypertension.
11. Poog (Areca catechu; Palmae):
मोहनां दीपनां रुच्यमास्यर्ैरस्य नाशनम् । (भा.प्र.)

A section of betel nut looks like a cut section of

brain. Its having sedative effect on brain(due to
presence of alkaloid arecoline).

(b).Similarity to colour & coagulating nature:

1.Mamsrohini (Soymida febrifuga;Meliaceae):Indian red wood.
It is good remedy for wound healing. Its bark is hard and red coloured. On
cutting it shows red coloured discharge. The wound healing properties of
stem bark is reported.
Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021
 90 ISSN:2581-7884

2.Manjistha(Rubia cordifolia;Rubiaceae)
मांत्तजष्ठा शोभणतप्रसादनी । ( द्र,गु.सू.८/२२)
Its root looks red coloured. If boiled, water becomes red. It is an effective
remedy for blood disorders. Its use is based originally on the doctrine of
signature.
It has been now proved that the purified fraction of whole plant is known
to inhibit platelet aggregation induced by PAF (platelet aggregation factor).
Napnthohydroquinones shows strong inhibition of arachidinoic acid induced
and collagen induced platelet aggregation. It does not exhibit antiplatelet
activity against thrombin induced platelet aggregation.
3.Daruharidra(Barberis aristata;Berberidaceae)
दारुहररद्रा यकृद्रोगघ्नी । (द्र,गु.सू.८/२२)
Daruharidra alleviates disorders of liver. The colour of its wood is like
that of turmeric. Its use is also based on the doctrine of signature because of
its yellow colour which is similar to that of the bile juice.
By modern research it has been proved that its having hepatoprotective
activity. Acute administration of berberine improves the excretion of bilirubin
although the effect diminish by chronic administration. Berberine in vitro has
been shown to be a potent displacer of bilirubin.
The accumulation of tyramine and its derivatives in individual with
cirrhosis is associated with lowered peripheral resistance with high cardiac
output, reduced renal function and cerebral dysfunction. Berberine has shown
to correct the hyper tyraminemia in patients with liver cirrhosis, indicating its
possible use as an adjunctive supplement.
4. Khadira(Acacia catechu; Leguminosae):
It is good remedy for switra (white leprosy).Its bark is yellowish brown and
it has exfoliating nature which is similar to our skin. The coagulating nature
and colour of khadirsara indicates its use blood coagulation. This use is also
originally based on the doctrine of signature.
5. Raktniryas (Daemenorops draco; Palmae): Dragon’s Blood
रक्तस्तम्भनो व्रणरोपण: ।( द्र.गु.वर्.)

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 91 ISSN:2581-7884

Its fruits having red coloured exudates on its surface. By rubbing fruits,
exudates has been collected, which is known as raktaniryas (gum resin).It is
an effective haemostatic drug which is frequently recommended for entrinsic
haemorrhage (ie.raktapitta), bleeding piles or haemorrhoids, meno-
metrorrhagia, chest wound and other similar ailments. Externally the drug is
applied as haemostatic, astringent &wound healing medicine suggested to be
used in the relevant diseases including acute chronic ulcers and wounds.
Coloured exudates collected over fruits indicate its use as astringent and
haemostatic.
6.Haridra (Curcuma longa; Zingiberaceae)
It also shows hepatoprotective activity. Curcumin and turmeric have been
shown to protect the liver against a variety of toxin(Carbon tetrachloride,
aflatoxinB, paracetamol, iron and cyclophosphamide) in vivo and in
vitro.Curcumine has been shown to strongly inhibit cytochrome-P-450IA in
liver, an isoenzyme involved in the bioactivation of several toxins including
benzopyrene.
(c). Similarity of smell:
1. Ashwagandha (Withenia somnifera; Solanaceae)
र्ात्तजर्त् र्ेगप्रदा अश्वगन्धा । (द्र,गु.सू.८/१३)
It means that Ashwagandha stimulates sexual potency like that of horse.
Its use is based originally on the doctrine of signature because of its horse
like smell from stem. Its root water extract studied on follicular development
and serum level of FSH and LH showed significant changes in gonadotropin
level with a significant increase in overian weight and folliculogenesis. It
increase libido in males and females.
(d). Behavioural similarity:
1. Ashmaghnah or Pashanbhed (Berginia ligulata; Saxifragaceae)
It is good remedy for calculus. Its name itself signifies its action. This
plant grows by breaking through the rocks or growing among rocks. Its use is
originally based on the doctrine of signature because of its growing nature.
2.Durva (Cynodon dactylon;Poaceae)
काण्डात् काण्डात् प्ररोहततइत्यनेनास्या:सन्तततर्र्वनत्वां प्रजास्थापनत्वञ्च द्योत्यते ।
(द्र. गु.सू.८/४४)
Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021
 92 ISSN:2581-7884

It checks abortion and stabilizes foetus.Fresh juice of durva is used .Its

expanding plants with roots arising from the nodes symbolizes the development
of progeny and its firm establishment. That’s why its use is originally based
upon the doctrine of signature.
It is of spreading nature and use as medicine for treatment of cancer
which is also having spreading nature.
3.Murrikutti (Hemigraphis colorata/ Blepharis boerhaviafolia; Acanthaceae)
Its leaf is good remedy for wound healing. The joining nature of its broken
leaves indicate its use in wound healing. It is also an example of the doctrine
of signature.
According to Dravyaguna Sutram,
“Oushadham Pramaneh Parikshayet Prakrititoh Deshata Kalatashcheti”.
It means that drug should be examined by Pramanas in terms of prakariti
(nature), desha (habitat) and kala (time).
“The wise should proceed after examining ”-Keeping this dictum in mind
drugs should also be examined before they are being used. It is to be done
with pramanas which are the means of valid knowledge.
Conclusion:
It is unthinkable that any serious student of herbal medicine would be
unaware of the existence of a diagnostic system called, "The Doctrine of
Signatures". Most people have read of it in passing with little or no
explanation. In the historical perspective, it is one of the most important
modes of medithinking to have evolved, and it was expounded in medical texts
from the middle of the sixteen hundreds right up to the end of the nineteenth
century. It took shape as a spiritual philosophy that had as its base the simple
concept that God had marked everything he had created with a sign. This
sign was a clear indicator of the item's true purpose as intended by God.
This is not a system one learns overnight, and to make use of it one also
needs his intuition. I believe that, if we truly wish to understand the healing
riches of the vegetable world, it is most wise to combine the traditional
knowledge of the Doctrine of Signatures with the scientifically derived
conclusions of chemical tests with the plants.

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 93 ISSN:2581-7884

Instead of coming to a final conclusion whether there is any scientific

backing behind the doctrine of signature or is it just a superstitious belief,
better we assess how it was helpful and how it can be helpful in future.
Undoubtedly, we can say that this concept helped us to introduce many drug
substances in to the field of therapeutics. Apart from that, it helps to study
materia medica in a literal style and to compare and remember some symptoms
thereby making the subject more interesting. It is now clear that the doctrine
of signature helps us for the study of materia medica and not for the practical
application of materia medica. As we know that there is no short cut in
medicine, drugs selected on the basis of similarity with the totality of the
case is one of the methods to cure.
According to Dravyaguna Sutram, “Oushadham Pramaneh Parikshayet
Prakrititoh Deshata Kalatashcheti”. It means that drug should be examined
by Pramanas in terms of prakariti (nature), desha (habitat) and kala (time).
“The wise should proceed after examining ”-Keeping this dictum in mind drugs
should also be examined before they are being used. It is to be done with
pramanas which are the means of valid knowledge.
it may not be seen as very practical, or even safe, to treat ailments by
picking flowers and plants only based upon their appearance, shape, taste, or
habitat, but taking a closer, informed look at the plants and flowers growing
around us can be a very rewarding experience. Through careful observation we
may be able to see the plant’s growing preferences, likes and dislikes, strengths
and weaknesses, and we may even find that sometimes we can judge a book
by its cover.
On reflection plant medicine is totally different than pharmaceutical
medication which only affects one whilst it is being taken; these kinds of
plant medicines seem to have a permanent effect in some way metaphorical
or otherwise altering one's consciousness or "DNA".
One of the great revelations that we can experience in working with the
plant spirit or consciousness is that we are not separate from the natural
world. In our culture we perceive
ourselves to be separate beings with our minds firmly embedded within our
physical being (typically our head). The plants can show us that this way of
Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021
 94 ISSN:2581-7884

being is an illusion and that we are all connected, all of us and everything
else is a discrete element in the great universal field of consciousness or spirit
remember herbs so much better with which we have established a strong
mnemonic based on the doctrine of signatures! When we learn a new herb,
we work hard to find a way that the doctrine of signatures fits. However,
even if it is just a convenient human construction – it’s a great deal for
students of herbal medicine.
Abbreviations
Bha.Pra. - Bhava Prakasha
Cha.Sa.Su. - Charaka Samhita Sutrasthana
Dra.Gu.Su. - Dravya Guna Sutram
Dra.Gu.Vi. - Dravya Guna Vijnan
Sa. Br. - Satapatha Brahman

Bibliography:
1. Al-Akili, Imam Muhammad. The Medicine of the Prophet. Pearl
Publishing House. 1993. (Note: This is a Translation of Al-Jawziyyas
book from 1330).
2. (Article published in The Homoeopathic Heritage, May 2008)
3. Boehme, Jacob. "The Signature of All Things." James Clarke & Co.
Ltd: Cambridge. 1969.
4. Charaka Samhita (Vol 1); elaborated Vidyotani Hindi Commentary by
Pt. Kashinath Sastri and Dr. Gorakhnath
Chaturvedi; Reprint 2003; Chaukhambha Bharti Acadamy, Varanasi
5. Clarkson, Rosetta E. "The Golden Age of Herbs & Herbalists." Dover
Publications Inc: New York. 1972.
6. Culpeper, Nicholas. "Culpeper's Complete Herbal.” Foulsham & Co. Ltd:
London .
7. Diseases of liver: J C Burnett (B Jain, New Delhi)
8. Dravyaguna Sutram(Aphorism on Dravyaguna) by P.V.Sharma;
Second edition 2002; Chaukhambha Sanskrit Bhavan. Varanasi.
9. Dravya guna vijnan (Vol-1) by Dr..J.L.N.Sastry; First edition 2007;
Chaukhambha Orientalia, Varanasi.
Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021
95 ISSN:2581-7884

10. Dravya guna vijnan (Vol-2) by Ac.P.V.Shama.Reprint 2005;

Chaukhambha Bharati Acadamy, Varanasi.
11. Gibson, Arthur C. "The Doctrine of Signatures."University. 1999.
12. Gordon, Lesley. "The Mystery and Magic of Trees and Flowers."
London: Grange Books. 1993.
13. Herbal Plants and Drugs by Agnes Arber; Second Indian Print 2008;
Asiatic Publishing House, Delhi.
14. Nighantu-Aadarsh.(Vol-1) by Bapalal G.Vaidya; Reprint2007;
Chaukhambha Bharti Acadamy, Varanasi.
15. Organon of medicine: Hahnemann (B Jain, New Delhi)
16. "Practical Handbook of Plant Alchemy": Manfred M. Junius: Inner
Traditions International Ltd., New York 1985.
17. Principle an art of cure by homeopathy: H A Robert. (B Jain, new
Delhi)
18. Studies in the philosophy of healing: C M Boger (B Jain, new Delhi)
19. "The Golden Age of Herbs & Herbalists.", Rosetta E. Clarkson: Dover
Publications Inc., New York 1972.
20. "The Herbal of General History of Plants": John Gerard: Dover
Publications Inc. 1975.
21. "The Signature of All Things", Jacob Boehme: James Clarke & Co.
Ltd., Cambridge 1969
22. www.askdrshah.com
23. www.carrotmuseum.co.uk
24. www.concentrina.net
25. www.similima.com
26. www.wikipedia.com

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021

 96 ISSN:2581-7884

Eastern Scientist

Declaration (form-IV)

1-Publishing Place Deoria (UP)

2-Publishing Periodicity Quarterly
3-Printer's Name Dr Ram Achal
Nationality Indian
Address Paikauli Maharaj, District-Deoria UP

4- Publisher's Name Dr Ram Achal

Nationality Indian
Address Paikauli Maharaj, District-Deoria UP

5-Editor Dr Ram Achal

Nationality Indian
Address Paikauli Maharaj, District-Deoria UP

6-Place of publication 9/233 Sindhi Mill Colony, District- Deoria UP

7-Owner Swadeshi Vigyan Sansthanam RegNo G-50464

9/233 Sindhi Mill Colony, District- Deoria UP

I Dr Ram Achal that particular in respect of the said newspaper given

hereunder true to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Dr Ram Achal
Publisher

Eastern Scientist- Combined Issue-14/15-Vol.1/2 - Jan.-Mar & Apr.-Jun 2021