Jambu (Eugenia jambolana) & Kshudra jambu (Syzygium caryophyllatum)

Jambu is one among the key stone species. Jambu is a very well known tree in Ayurveda being famous for its anti-diabetic potential. This Dravya which is mentioned in Phala varga of Brihatrayi, is said to be of 5-6 varieties according to Nighantukaräs like Raja, maha, Kshudra, Kaka, Jala & Bhumi Jambu. Raja means Shresta or superior or having bigger fruit & Kshudra means smaller or inferior or having smaller fruit. Both these Jambu bheda is said to have same properties, but Jambu is said to be Shresta than any other variety. The source of Jambu is Eugenia jambolana Lam., & Kshudra Jambu is Syzygium caryophyllatum L. Alston by Kerala vaidyäs, which is also used as a substitute of Jambu. In folklore medicine the mature leaf of Jambu & Kshudra jambu is used externally & orally for the management of Acne. Acne can be correlated to Youvana pidaka, one among the Kshudra roga which is caused due to Kapha, Vata and Rakta vitiation. According to classical literatures, Kshudra jambu is said to have same properties as Jambu and since both are used in the management of Acne in folklore practice, this research is undertaken to compare their efficacies phyto-pharmacognostically and clinically.