Turmeric is known by many common names such as Haldi, Haridra, Nisha, Gauri and Halud. It is sacred and auspicious in Hindu Dharma and is an important herb used in several rituals from ancient period. In Hindu marriages, it is applied to bride and bridegroom as a substance of purity and auspiciousness.

" Turmeric-powder" by Sanjay Acharya - en-wikipedia. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

---

Overview of Turmeric

The botanical name of turmeric is Curcuma longa and it belong to plant family Zingiberaceae. The powder prepared from the ground dried rhizome of Haldi, known as Turmeric Power or Haldi powder, is used extensively as a spice, food preservative, cosmetic and medicine for centuries.

The orange yellow Colour of Turmeric is because of Curcumin. It contains not less than 1.5 per cent of curcumin, calculated on the dried basis. Curcumin along with its mono- and bisdemethoxy derivatives, collectively called curcuminoids, are the biologically active constituents of turmeric. The Curcumin related phenolic possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective and hepatoprotective activities.

General Information

The turmeric plant is extensively cultivated in India for its tubers. The tubers / rhizomes can be used fresh or dried. Turmeric / haldi powder, is used in all Indian kitchen as a spice. It is essential ingredient of curry. Haldi powder is also taken as medicine to treat welling, cold, cough, flu, diabetes, etc.

Description

It is perennial herb, 60-90 cm in height, with a short stem and tufts of erect leaves.

Leaves- simple, very large, petiole as long as blade, oblong, lanceolate, tapering to the base up to 45 cm long.

Flowers- Zygomorphic flowers appearing at ground level and having three fused sepals and three large yellow petals.

Rhizomes- oblong or round (pyiform) or cylindrical to elongate, bluntly tapering at both end and varies from 3-8 cm in length, 2-3 cm in diameter, intense yellow in colour.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Turmeric / Haldi is Curcuma longa. It belongs to plant family Zingiberaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

Synonyms:

1. Curcuma domestica Val.
2. Curcuma xanthorrhiza

Classification

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Liliopsida – Monocotyledons
6. Subclass: Zingiberidae
7. Order: Zingiberales
8. Family: Zingiberaceae – Ginger family
9. Genus: Curcuma L. – curcuma
10. Species: Curcuma longa L. – common turmeric

Group: Monocot

Duration: Perennial

Growth Habit: Forb/herb

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Rhizome, tubers

Habitat: Indigenous to India. Cultivated all over India, particularly in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra

Ecology and cultivation: Tropical plant; cultivated throughout the tropics.

Vernacular names/Synonyms

• Latin name: Curcuma longa Linn. Synonym: C. domestica Valeton.
• Ayurvedic : Haridraa, Priyaka, Haridruma, Kshanda, Gauri, Kaanchani, Krimighna, Varavarnini, Yoshitapriyaa, Hattavilaasini, Naktaahvaa, Sharvari
• Unani : Zard Chob
• Siddha: Manjal
• Assamese : Haldhi, Haladhi
• Bengali : Halud, Haldi
• English : Turmeric
• Gujrati : Haldar
• Hindi : Haldi, Hardi
• Kannada : Arishina
• Kashmiri : Ledar, Ladhir
• Malayalam : Manjal
• Marathi : Halad
• Oriya : Haladi
• Punjabi : Haldi, Haldar
• Tamil : Manjal
• Telugu : Pasupu
• Urdu : Haldi

Phytochemical constituents of rhizomes

Sesquiterpene: Bisaboline beta, Bisabolone, Caryophyllane, Turmerone, Turmerone alpha, Zingiberene,

Zingeberene alpha.

Benzenoid: Curcumin (1.06-5.65%), Curcumin bis-demethoxy (0.42-2.16%), Curcumin demethoxy (0.66-3.36%), Curcumin monodemethoxy.

Monoterpene: Borneol, Borneol iso, Camphene, Camphor, Limonene, Linalool, Pinene alpha & beta, Terpinene, Terpinene alpha & gamma, Terpineol.

Quinoid: 2-hydroxy methyl anthraquinones.

Steroid: Campesterol, Cholesterol, Stigmasterol.

Medicinal Properties of Turmeric

Ayurvedic Properties and Action of Turmeric / Haldi

Haldi or Haridra is indicated in treatment of diseases that occur due to vitiation of Kapha and Vata disorders. It detoxifies blood. It is considered bitter, astringent, pungent and heating. It reduces Kapha and Vata due to its thermogenic properties.

Its main action can be seen on digestive, circulatory and respiratory system. Haldi / Haridra is indicated in indigestion, poor circulation, cough, cold, flu, skin disorders, diabetes, arthritis, Madhumeha, swelling, fever, bacterial infection, intestinal worms, liver complaints, stammering, filaria, sprain, boils, wounds, conjunctivitis, thirst due to phlegm, allergic reactions etc.

In Rigveda it is described as one that improves body complexion and appetite. In Yajurveda, it is considered blood-purifier. Charak Samhita indicates its use as a laxative and for treating skin diseases.

1. Rasa (taste on tongue): Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
2. Guna (Pharmacological Action): Ruksha (Dry)
3. Virya: Ushna (Heating)
4. Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Karma / Action: Krimighna (anthelmintic), Kushtaghna (effective in diseases of skin), Varnya (helps in improving complexion), Vishaghna (detoxfies), Pramehanashak (cures urinary disorders), Kaphahar (reduces Kapha)

Therapeutic uses: Pandu, Prameha, Vrana, Visha-vikara, Kushtha, Tvagroga, Shitapitta, Pinasa (running nose)

Classical Ayurvedic Preparations of Turmeric: Haridra khanda, Haridradi churna, Nishamalki Churna

Unani Properties

Turmeric is known as Chob zard in Unani. It is used in treatment of bronchitis, respiratory disorders, cough, cold, in gastric disorder.

Its Mizaj (Temperament) is Hot (2) Dry (2). It is indicated in affections of the liver and jaundice, urinary discharges, scabies and bruises. It is ingredient of 'Majnoor-e-falsfa', a medicine useful in gastrointestinal complaints.

Scientifically Proven Medicinal Properties of Turmeric Powder

Turmeric Powder is tonic, stimulant, pungent, bitter, heating, laxative, anthelmintic, vulnerary, tonic, alexiteric, and emollient. It is good for skin and reduces phlegm. Turmeric is useful in variety of diseases such as diseases of the blood, leukoderma, scabies, urinary discharges, inflammations, ozoena, bad taste in the mouth, biliousness, dyspepsia, elephantiasis, snake-bite, smallpox, swellings, boils, bruises, sprains etc.

1. Antibiotic: inhibits the growth of or destroys microorganisms.
2. Appetizer: stimulate appetite.
3. Antiseptic: Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of infectious agents.
4. Anthelmintic: destroy parasitic worms
5. Antidiabetic: control level of glucose (sugar) in the blood.
6. Antioxidant: neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.
7. Antiplatelet: decrease platelet aggregation and inhibit thrombus formation.
8. Anodyne: Relieves pain without causing loss of consciousness.
9. Antiasthmatic: treat or prevent asthma attacks.
10. Antitumor / anticancer: preventing or inhibiting the formation or growth of tumors.
11. Antihistamine: inhibits the physiological effects of histamine, used especially in the treatment of allergies.
12. Antiallergic: prevents, or relieves an allergy.
13. Antiinflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
14. Antifertility and anti-spermatic: contraceptive, fertility reducing.
15. Cholagogue: promotes the discharge of bile from the system, purging it downward.
16. Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
17. Digestive: digestant.
18. Depurative: Purifying agent.
19. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
20. Emollient: Soothing and softening effect on the skin or an irritated internal surface.
21. Expectorant: Promoting or facilitating the secretion or expulsion of phlegm, mucus, or other matter from the respiratory tract.
22. Emmenagogue: stimulate blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus, some stimulate menstruation.
23. Hepatoprotective: prevent damage to the liver.
24. Hypolipidemic: lowers lipid.
25. Immunomodulatory: modifies the immune response or the functioning of the immune system.
26. Stomachic: stimulates gastric activity.
27. Tonic: Restore or improve health or well-being.
28. Thermogenic: heating.
29. Ophthalmic: relating to the eye and its diseases.
30. Wound healing: heals wound due to antiseptic, antimicrobial action.

Health Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric offers innumerable health benefits. It is a tonic that improves overall health. It not only prevents but cures diseases. Below is given some of the health benefits of turmeric supported by clinical studies.

It is beneficial in diabetes as it lowers blood sugar, increases glucose metabolism andpotentiates insulin activity more than three-folds. Scientific investigations prove it lower blood glucose in experimental, induced- diabetic rats. Diabetic rats maintained on a curcumin diet for 8 weeks excreted less albumin, urea, creatinine and inorganic phosphorous. You can read here about Turmeric milk Benefits.

Several animal studies have demonstrated that curcumin can overcome insulin resistance and can delay cataract incidence in diabetic patients.

1. It is regenerator of liver tissue. It reduces high plasma cholesterol. It converts cholesterol into bile acids and increases the excretion of bile acids via its choleretic effects. It strengthens digestion and promotes proper metabolism. It improves intestinal flora.
2. It protectsliver. It prevents the increases in liver enzymes, SGOT and SGPT. It reduces bilirubin cholesterol, AST and alkaline phosphatase activity.
3. It protectsstomach. It increase the mucin content of the stomach and exert gastroprotective effects against stress, alcohol, drug-induced ulcer formation.
4. It is good for heart. It lowers the risk of arteriosclerosis and reduces cholesterol, lipid profile. It is has antiplatelet activity and protects heart and vessels.
5. It removestoxins and warms blood.
6. It effective in treatment of allergy. It causes inhibition of histamine release from mast cells and helps in urticaria.
7. It has anti-carcinogenic properties due to presence of natural curcuminoids, curcumin I (diferuloylmethane), curcumin II (feruloyl-p-hydroxycinnamoylmethane) and curcumin III (bis-(phydroxycinnamoyl) methane).
8. It is beneficial in all inflammatoryconditions.
9. It is a tonic.

Medicinal Uses of Turmeric / Haldi

Turmeric Powder is used both internally and externally. It is used as a stimulant, carminative, detoxifier and expectorant. Externally it is applied on wounds, bruises, sprain, leech bites, spider poison, and for improving complexion. For chronic otorrhea (drainage of liquid from the ear), turmeric and alum in the, proportion of 1 to 20, is blown into the ear.

Turmeric is used in treatment of diarrhea, diabetes, fever, oedema (excess of watery fluid collecting in the cavities or tissues of the body), intermittent fever, bronchitis, inflammation of joints, colic, Pneumonia, jaundice, spleen enlargement, amenorrhea, and congestions.

Anemia (deficiency of red cells or of hemoglobin in the blood)

Regular intake of 1 teaspoon of Haldi powder mixed with honey cures anemia.

Asthma (attacks of spasm in the bronchi of the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing)

Take 1 teaspoon of Haldi powder and Boil in 1 cup of milk and Drink warm.

Acne, Pimples, Skin Problems

Make a paste of turmeric and cinnamon with water, and gently rub face daily.

Ankle Pain

1. For pain in the ankle, take aloe Vera leaf. Remove the outer layer to get the pulp. On the pulp sprinkle
2. Turmeric powder and heat at low flame in a pan. When the turmeric powder starts boiling remove the pan. At bearable temperature, tie the pulp on painful ankle with help of cloth. Repeat the process after few hours.
3. Some time we got hurt our joints in some accidents or while playing some sports and our damaged joints get strain. For these kind of injuries use Turmeric with limestone.

Bronchitis, Cough

Mix 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon, turmeric, dry ginger, black pepper, cardamom and clove. Add 3 tablespoon of raw sugar / Mishri and grind together to make a fine powder. Take ½–1 teaspoon of this powder mixed with honey twice per day.

Burn injury

Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric with 1 teaspoon of aloe gel and apply topically on affected area.

Boosting immunity

Take one spoon of turmeric powder in one glass of warm milk daily.

Bone Fractures

Mix 5 grams of Prishniparni / Uraria Logopoides root powder and 2 grams of turmeric powder and take this combination for 21 days.

Cold, cough, flu

Stir a teaspoon into a glass of water and drink.

Constipation, piles

1. Daily at night, take one teaspoon turmeric powder with milk.
2. For piles: Take latex of Thuhar (Euphorbia ligularia) and mix with turmeric powder. Apply externally twice a day for few months.

Diarrhea

Take ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder thrice a day.

Dental problems, Pyorrhea, Bad breath

Take 1 teaspoon of turmeric, ½ teaspoon of salt, with mustard oil to make a paste. Rub this preparation on the teeth and gums twice daily.

Diabetes

Nishamalki Powder is effective in diabetes.

Gastric disorder, swelling in any part of the body

Mix well, Turmeric Powder + Fenugreek grains powder + Dry Ginger Powder in equal amount. Take 1 teaspoon with warm water / milk.

Dark Pigmentation

Mix equal parts of turmeric and ground sesame seeds / Til and rub on the affected areas.

Gonorrhea

Mix equal parts of turmeric and Amla powder (Indian gooseberry) and take 1-2 teaspoon of this powder with water.

Indigestion, tastelessness

Take 3 gram powder.

Jaundice

Take one spoonful of the powder of Amalki fruit, ginger, black pepper and turmeric (in equal proportions) orally along with honey.

Kidney stone

Grind the leaves of Patharchatta / Kalanchoe pinnata, with a piece of turmeric and extract the juice. Add some jaggery and take the preparation for ten days.

Pain, fever, allergy, Urticaria / Pitti / Sheet pitta

Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric to 1 cup of warm milk and drink before bed.

Purulent conjunctivitis

1. Purulent conjunctivitis is an acute inflammation of the conjunctiva (delicate membrane lining the eyelids and covering the eyeball), with copious pus and a marked tendency for corneal involvement.
2. The decoction of Haldi is used for washing the eyes.
3. Mix 1 tablespoon of crushed, raw turmeric in 1/3 cup of water. Boil and sieve. 2–3 drops of this mixture may be used in each eye up to 3 times per day.

Preventing cancer

Daily consumption of 1 gm turmeric powder helps to fight decaying metabolism and prevents cancer.

Ringworm, parasitic skin diseases, gonorrhea

A paste made of the Bowers is used.

Skin Diseases, Eczema, itching, toxins in blood

1. In skin diseases, one gram turmeric powder should be taken with water in the morning.
2. Turmeric pounded into a paste and mixed with oil, is rubbed on the skin to improve its appearance and prevent skin diseases.

Sprains and bruises

Turmeric paste mixed with little lime is applied topically.

Spider poison

Apply paste of turmeric and sesame on affected area.

Swine flu

1. Prepare a decoction by boiling turmeric (1-2 gm), cloves (3-5), Black pepper (5), Tulsi leaves, Giloy. Filter and drink.
2. Piperine, present in black pepper enhances absorption and bioavailability of curcumin of turmeric.

Throat problem, coughing

Take 1/2 teaspoon turmeric and roast. Mix with honey and take.

Vata Vyadhi / Diseases due to vitiation of Vata e.g. joint pain, gout, joint swelling, morning stiffness, rheumatoid arthritis

Mix well: Turmeric Powder + Fenugreek grains powder + Dry Ginger Powder (Each 100 grams) + Ashwagandha Powder (50 grams). Take 1 teaspoon with lukewarm water in the morning and evening.

Wound healing

1. Apply paste of turmeric powder mixed with honey on affected area.
2. Mix Abhrak Bhasma + Pippali + Turmeric in honey and take in diabetes.
3. Take ½–1 teaspoon of turmeric powder thrice a day.

Whooping cough

Boil 2 black pepper corn, half spoon turmeric, and 1 clove, in milk. Take this every 3 hours to get relief from cough.

Direction to use and Precautions

Dosage of Turmeric for Medicinal Use

1. For oral use, the dose of turmeric powder for adults is 2 to 5 grams and for children it is 1 to 2 grams.
2. The dose of fresh turmeric juice is 10 to 20 ml in adults and 5 to 10 ml in children.
3. Normally two doses a day should be taken with water or mixed with honey.

Precautions, Contraindications, Interactions, and Side Effects

1. Turmeric as a spice in food is safe for everyone. But avoid its use as medicine in pregnancy and for small children.
2. It has heating and emmenagogue action. It causes dryness.
3. It can cause some side effects such as upset stomach, gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea, if taken in more than the recommended doses.
4. Persons suffering from bile duct blockage, blood-clotting disorder, gallstones, hyperacidity and stomach ulcers should not take turmeric in excessive quantity.
5. Take cautiously while taking aspirin or warfarin as the combined use may aggravate bleeding tendency.
6. Consult physicians before using in gallstones.
7. Pitta people should use this cautiously.
8. Do not take empty stomach.

Centella asiatica is known as Brahma-manduki, Mandukaparni in Sanskrit and Brahmi in Hindi. Nowadays it is commonly known as Gotu Kola. It is a medicinal plant found in marshy places throughout India up to 600 meters. For medicinal purpose the leaves of the plant are used.

Overview

By Forest & Kim Starr, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6116886

---

This herb is a tonic for brain. Traditionally it is used for treating brain disorders, skin diseases, neural disorders and insomnia due to its adaptogen, central nervous system relaxant, sedative, antibiotic, detoxifier, blood-purifier, laxative, diuretic, emmenagogue properties.

It reduces tension, stress, anxiety and sleeplessness due to its sedative, tranquilizing and relaxant activities. Mandukaparni is used in Ayurveda, for improving memory, intelligence and speech. The intake of herb overcomes mental confusion and supports better thinking.

It is known as Vallarai in Tamil and widely used as leafy vegetable in Tamil Nadu-Karnataka region. It is an important herb as described by Ramalinga Vallalar “Vallarai vella Vallarayai Ninai”. The leaves, after removing the petiole, are made into pickles or included in dhal preparations (sambar) and is commonly used within the traditional communities. The leaves are used in chutney, salads and with buttermilk. 1-2 fresh green leaves are chewed by children in the morning on an empty stomach to improve memory. Externally, the herb is applied to rheumatic joints.

In Unani, it is generally used in treatment of skin diseases, leprosy and syphilis. The leaves are given to improve memory. The plant is used both internally and externally for medicinal purpose.

General Information

Mandukaparni is a soft herb found all over India near marshy areas. Its leaves have shape and appearance like a webbed feet of frog (Mandook= frog, and Parni=leaf). It is a creeper plant with roots on the nodes of branches. The new roots from the internodes enter the soil to generate a new plant. Thus it spreads on the available soil. The margin of leaves is toothed, and flowers are whistish-pinkish. It bear small fruits.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Mandukaparni is Centella asiatica. Its synonym is Hydrocotyle asiatica. It belongs to plant family Apiaceae / Umbelliferae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Rosidae
7. Order: Apiales
8. Family: Apiaceae ⁄ Umbelliferae – Carrot family
9. Genus: Centella L. – centella
10. Species: Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. – spade leaf

Another plant which is known as Brahmi is Bacopa monnieri (Thyme-leaved Gratiola in English), belonging to plant family Scrophulariaceae. Both the plants are creeper, found in wet lands and are used as brain tonic, and for treating brain disorders and improving intellect. This could be reason why both are named Brahmi.

• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Leaf/Whole Plant
• Plant type: herb
• Habitat: In marshy places throughout India up to 600 m.
• Origin: Native to India, and found in Sri Lanka, south China, and southwest Asia.

Vernacular names/Synonyms

1. Latin name: Centella asiatica
2. Ayurvedic: Manduukaparni, Mandukaparni, Manduki Saraswati, Brahma-manduuki, Kapotabanka,
3. Siddha: Vallaarai
4. Assamese: Manimuni
5. Bengali: Jholkhuri, Thalkuri, Thankuni
6. English: Gotu kola, Asiatic Pennywort, Indian Pennywort
7. Gujrati: Khodabrahmi, Khadbhrammi
8. Hindi: Brahma Manduki, Brahmi, Brahma-Buti
9. Kannada: Ondelaga, Brahmi soppu
10. Malayalam: Kodangal
11. Marathi: Karivana
12. Punjabi: Brahmi
13. Tamil: Vallarai
14. Telugu: Saraswati Aku, Vauari
15. Urdu: Brahmi

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Mandukparni is used in Ayurveda as is Medhya Rasayana and works on mind for the improvement of intellect. It is also indicated in swelling, low appetite, fever, skin diseases, bleeding disorders, urinary disorders, asthma, anemia and diseases due to vitiation of blood.

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Kasaya (Astringent), Madhura (Sweet), Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Sara (Unstable)
• Virya: Sita (Cooling)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Madhura (Sweet)
• Karma: Balya, Dipana, Hridya, Medhya, Varnya, Vishaghna, Svarya, Rasayana, Ayushya, Smritiprada
• Therapeutic uses: Shotha, Aruchi, Jvara, Kasa, Kandu, Kushtha, Pra Raktapitta, Meha, Svasha, Pandu, Raktadosha.

Few adverse effects may occur in certain cases on internal use. As an antidote to side effects of Gotu kola, dried coriander is prescribed in Ayurveda.

Medicinal Properties of Gotu Kola

Constituents of Mandukaparni

Mandukaparni contains triterpenoid saponins—brahmoside, thankuniside, alkaloids (hydrocotyline), bitter principles (vellarin) and asiaticoside. It contains not less than 0.5 per cent of asiaticoside, calculated on the dried basis.

Asiaticoside, shows beneficial effects in leprosy and skin diseases. It reduced the number tubercular lesions in the liver, lungs, nerve ganglia and spleen in experimental animals. It seems to elevate blood glucose, triglycerides and cholesterol levels and to decrease blood urea nitrogen and acid phosphatase levels.

Brahmoside, is reported to exhibit tranquilizing and anabolic activity.

Gotu Kola is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it has anti-fertility, spermicide and emmenagogue (period stimulating) properties.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Adaptogen: help the body adapt to stress.
2. Analgesic: relieve pain.
3. Angiogenic: helps formation of new blood vessels.
4. Anticonvulsant: prevents or relieves convulsions.
5. Antidepressant: alleviate depression.
6. Antifertility: reduces fertility.
7. Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
8. Antipyretic/antifebrile/febrifuge: Effective against fever.
9. Antirheumatic: alleviating or preventing rheumatism.
10. Antistress: reduces stress.
11. Antitumor / anticancer: preventing or inhibiting the formation or growth of tumors.
12. Antiulcer: tending to prevent or heal ulcers.
13. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
14. Depurative: Purifying agent.
15. Emmenagogue: stimulate blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus, some stimulate menstruation.
16. Immunomodulatory: modifies the immune response or the functioning of the immune system.
17. Nervine: used to calm the nerves.
18. Restorative: ability to restore health, strength, or well-being.
19. Sedative: promoting calm or inducing sleep.
20. Spermicide: kills spermatozoa.
21. Tranquilizer: reduce tension or anxiety.
22. Tonic: Restore or improve health or well-being.

Health Benefits of Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola offers numerous health benefits. It is a bitter, cooling herb. It is the main herb for the brain and nervous system. It promotes memory, cognitive function, focus, and voice. It induces sound sleep. Gotu kola reduces swelling, improves circulation and supports better wound healing.

Gotu Kola is available in market as powder, extract, and capsules.

1. It is a brain tonic, improves memory and strengthen the brain.
2. It is reputed to improve the power of speech and poetic imagination.
3. It is useful remedy for mentally retarded and emotionally disturbed children.
4. It reduces stress, insomnia, ADHD, depression, mental fatigue, and anxiety.
5. Regular intake of the leaves in a limited quantity strengthen the nerves.
6. The plant paste and juice are effective in mental weakness and skin diseases.
7. The leaves has immunomodulator properties. Immunomodulator modifies the immune response or the functioning of the immune system (as by the stimulation of antibody formation or the inhibition of white blood cell activity).
8. The juice of plant shows good result in scrofula and syphilis.
9. The fresh juice significantly inhibits gastric ulceration. The juice has protective effect against alcohol- induced and aspirin-induced ulcers.
10. It detoxifies the liver and blood.
11. It improves energy levels and strengthens the kidneys.
12. It has diuretic properties and increases passing of urine.
13. It improves blood flow.
14. It balances Vata and Pitta.
15. It is found to reduce feelings of heaviness in the lower legs, numbness, night time cramps, swellings, spider veins and skin ulcers.
16. It helps with Alzheimer’s, acne, urticaria, eczema, arthritis, gout, wounds, cirrhosis of the liver, periodontal disease, peripheral vascular disease, scleroderma, vascular fragility and inflammation.

Medicinal Uses of Mandookparni

Mandookparni / Gotu Kola is an important medicinal herb. It is a tonic for brain and used in treatment of variety of disorders. It has cooling, sedative and relaxing effect. The tea prepared from Gotu kola induces sleep and gives relief in insomnia. Below is given few home remedies that can be done at home using Gotu Kola fresh leaves or powder.

1. Anxiety

Make a paste of 3 gram leaves. Add Black pepper powder and take.

2. Appetizer, Hyperacidity

Few fresh leaves (5-10) of plant are chewed daily in the morning for one month.

3. Dysuria, burning urination, painful urination

Make a paste of Gotu kola and Bhui Amla leaves. Take this is dose of 1/4 teaspoon with Dahi / curd or Chachh / buttermilk.

4. Improving brain power, memory, intelligence

1. Prepare a medicated ghee by boiling the fresh juice of herb in equal amount ghee. Daily eat one teaspoon as brain tonic.
2. Chew few leaves in the morning empty stomach.
3. Take dried powder in dose of 3-6 gram.

5. Insomnia, Chicken pox

• Take dried powder in dose of 3-6 gram.
• Extract 5-10 ml juice of fresh leaves of Gotu Kola and mix it in one cup milk and drink before going to bed.

6. Hair loss, premature hair graying, hair care, massaging scalp for sleeplessness, stress and headache

Extract juice of Gotu kola leaves. Mix with equal amount of coconut oil. Boil the mixture till all the water is evaporated. Filter and store in bottle to use as a hair oil.

Contraindications, Interactions, and Side Effects of Gotu Kola

1. It should not be given to people suffering from epilepsy, particularly children.
2. It is better to avoid in pregnancy.
3. It affects the menstrual cycle (emmenagogue).
4. It may also lead to itching and redness of skin. Dermatosis, pruritus has been reported in some patients.
5. Hazards and/or side effects not known for proper therapeutic dosages.
6. Always take in recommended amount.
7. Excess intake may lead to problems such as headache, intoxication, hallucination and giddiness.
8. May interact with other blood pressure, cholesterol, and depression medications.

Talispatra is a coniferous medicinal tree found in Himalaya. It is known as Talispatra in Ayurveda, Talispatri in Siddha and Talisapattar in Unani. For therapeutic purpose the leaves of the tree are used. The leaves can be used fresh, dried, as tincture, infusion or confection. They are mainly indicated in infections of upper and lower respiratory tract. The leaves powder along with Vasaka leaf juice and honey is given to treat asthma, cough, and blood vomiting. Externally the leaves are used in rheumatic and neuralgic pains.

By Darekk2 - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=29086077

---

General Information

Abies webbiana is a tall, evergreen fir tree with thick, spreading, horizontal branches. It reaches height of 60 meters. It is a coniferous tree found in Himalayas at high altitude of 2800-10000 feet. It is most common at higher range of Himalaya. The dark-brown cones appear in October-November.

The wood of the tree is used in constructional work.

Abies webbiana leaves are single, spirally, arranged all-round the branchlets, flat, narrow, linear, one to three inches long, with narrow short terete petiole. The flowers are monoecious, either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant. The pollination of flower is done by Wind. It prefers moist soil and grow well in heavy clay soils. It can be grown in shade or sun.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Talispatra is Abies webbiana Lindl. It belongs to plant family Pinaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Coniferophyta – Conifers
• Class: Pinopsida
• Order: Pinales
• Family: Pinaceae – Pine family
• Genus: Abies Mill. – fir P
• Species: Abies webbiana

Synonyms

1. Abies spectabilis (D. Don) Spach.
2. Pinus webbiana Wall. ex Lamb.
3. Pinus spectabilis D. Don.

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Leaves

Plant type: Pine Tree

Distribution: The great Himalaya, Kashmir to Assam, Sikkim, Darjeeling, Bengal, Nepal.

Vernacular names

1. Latinname: Abies webbiana
2. Ayurveda: Patradhyam, Patradhya, Talisa, Talisapatra, Talisha, Dhatriparni, Dhatripatra तालीसपत्र, तालीस, धात्रीपत्र
3. Unani: Talisapattar
4. Siddha: Talispatri
5. Assamese: Talish
6. Bengali: Talish Pala, Taleesh Patra बर्मि
7. English: Himalayan Siver, Indian Silver Fir, The West-Himalayan High-Level Fir, The East-Himalayan Fir
8. Gujrati: Talish Patra
9. Hindi: Talish Patra तालीसपतर
10. Kannada: Tales Patra, Talisapathra, Shukodara
11. Malayalam: Talisapatra, Taleesapatri
12. Marathi: Laghu Taleespatra
13. Oriya: Talis
14. Tamil: Talispatra, Taleesapatri
15. Telugu: Taleesapatri
16. Urdu: Zarnab
17. Folk: Badar, Chilrow, Morinda, Raisalla, Talispatra
18. Bhutia: Dunshing
19. Nepali: Gobray salla

In many parts of India the leaves of Taxus wallichiana and Rhododendron anthopogon are used as Talispatra.

Constituents of Talispatra

The leaves contain biflavonoid, abiesin, n-triacontanol, beta-sitosterol and betuloside.

Essential oil from leaves contains alpha-pinene, l-limonene, deltacarene, dipentene, l-bornyl acetate and l-cardinene. The oil is used in respiratory ailments both internally and externally.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action of Talispatra

In Ayurveda, Talis / Talisha consist of dried needle like leaves of Abies webbiana. It has sweet, bitter and pungent taste and hot in potency. It is mainly indicated in respiratory disorders, phthisis and excessive phlegm. It is good for heart, improves appetite and balances Vata and Kapha.

Talisadi Churna which is prepared from Talisa patra (Abies webbiana leaf), Trikatu, Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), ela (Elettaria cardamomum), Vanshalochna (Bambusa arundinacea) and Misri, is given to treat acute-chronic allergic bronchitis, asthma, cough and digestive disorders. In chronic asthma it reduces the frequency and severity of asthmatic attacks.

1. Rasa (taste on tongue): Madhura (Sweet), Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
2. Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Tikshna (Sharp)
3. Virya: Ushna (Heating)
4. Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)
5. Action: Dipana, Hridya, Vatakaphapham, Shleshmapittajit

Therapeutic uses: Swasa (chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases), kasa (cough), gulma (tumor), Agnimandya (hypochlorhydria), amadosha (amoebiasis), hikka (hiccup), chhardi (vomiting), krimi (helminthiasis) and mukharoga (mouth disorders).

Important formulations: Drakshadi Churna, Talisadi Churna, Bhaskara Lavana, Talispatra churna, Pranada Gutika, Jatiphaladi Churna, Puga Khanda, Talisadi Modak

Important Medicinal Properties

Talis leaves are rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb / plant. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it has contraceptive and thermogenic properties and therefore should not be used while trying for pregnancy. Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Aromatic: pleasant and distinctive smell.
2. Anticatarrhal: remove excess mucous from the body.
3. Antitussive: prevent or relieve a cough.
4. Antispasmodic: used to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.
5. Antirheumatic: alleviating or preventing rheumatism.
6. Antiseptic: Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of infectious agents.
7. Appetizer: improves appetite.
8. Aphrodisiac: stimulates sexual desire.
9. Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body
10. Antipyretic/antifebrile/febrifuge: Effective against fever. Significantly lowers body temperature in fever.
11. Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
12. Decongestant: used to relieve nasal congestion.
13. Expectorant: promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
14. Blood purifiers: removes toxins.
15. Female antifertility: capable of or tending to reduce or destroy fertility / contraceptive.

Medicinal Uses of Talispatra

The leaf powder / juice of Abies webbiana or Talispatra is indicated in Asthma, Bronchitis, Cough, Fever, Gas, Headache, Hemoptysis, Hoarseness, Neuralgia, Phthisis, and Splenosis (acquired condition defined as autotransplantation of viable splenic tissue throughout different anatomic compartments of the body).

The essential oil obtained from the leaves is used to treat colds, rheumatism and nasal congestion.

Low appetite

The leaf powder is taken in dose of 2-3 grams to improve appetite.

Cough, hoarseness of voice, fever, congestion

2-3 grams of leaf powder is mixed with equal amount of Mishri / Rock candy. Mishri consist of big white, sweet lumps of crystals. It has demulcent and cooling properties.

Fever, Headache

1. The leaf powder is taken in dose of 2-3 grams
2. The leaves are applied topically.

Dosage of Talispatra

The recommended dose of leaf powder is 2-3 gm for treatment of diseases.

In infants, the fresh leaf juice is given in dose of 5-10 drops in water or mother’s milk for fever, malaria, teething, and cough.

Contraindications, Interactions, and Side Effects (Talispatra / Himalayan Fir)

1. It is hot in potency.
2. It should be used cautiously in pitta prakriti people.
3. It has antifertility effect.
4. Avoid taking in ulcers, acidity, burning sensation, and ulcerative colitis.
5. Excess use can cause vomiting, faintness, convulsions and many other side effects.
6. Always take in recommended amounts.

The Latin name of False Ashok tree is Polyalthia longifolia. In Ayurveda, it is known as Ulkatah and Kashtdaru. It belongs to plant family Annonaceae, the custard apple family of flowering plants consisting of trees, shrubs. It is a tall evergreen tree with a straight trunk and dense, slim, glossy, long leaves.

Overview

By Original uploader was Omoo at en.wikipedia - Transferred from en.wikipedia, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2142799

---

Polyalthia longifolia is also a medicinal tree and has been commonly used by people in treatment of fever, skin diseases, diabetes, hypertension and intestinal parasites.

False Ashok tree, is wrongly equated with the name Asoka by some and is often used as a substitute or as an adulterant to the genuine Asoka bark. But it is not advisable to use false Ashok as substitute of True Ashok. It is completely different from true Ashok tree, which is Saraca asoca. Saraca asoca bears yellow-orange, large bunch of sweet smelling flowers throughout the year. The bark of Ashok is used in treatment of gynecological disorders, flowers and leaves are rubbed on the skin to get relief from skin diseases. Ashok is well-known scientifically proven female tonic.

General Information

Fake Ashoka / Fake Devdaru, is an ornamental tree cultivated throughout the hotter-drier parts of India. It has straight trunk, drooping branches and broadly columnar shape. The entire length of the tree is covered by dark green leaves. The leaves are simple, alternate, lanceolate, up to 8.7 inches long and 1.75 inches wide with a short petiole. The leaf margin is upturned and undulating. Emerging leaves are coppery, soft and delicate to the touch.

The flowers which are not clearly visible appear in spring or early summer. They have 5 narrowly triangular, star-like, yellow-green petals. They are arranged in pendulous racemes or umbels. The flowers last only for a short period, usually two to three weeks. They are not fragrant. The fruits are initially green and turn purple to black. They are ovoid and are clustered in groups of 10 to 20. They contain a single seed.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Fake Ashok is Polyalthia longifolia. It belongs to plant family Annonaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom Plantae
• Division Magnoliophyta
• Class Magnoliopsida
• Subclass Magnoliidae
• Order Mognoliids
• Family Annonaceae
• Tribe Annoneae
• Genus Polyalthia
• Species Longifolia

Synonyms

1. Uvaria longifolia Sonn.
2. Guatteria longifolia (Sonn.) Wallich
3. Unona longifolia (Sonn.)

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Bark, leaves and seeds

Plant type: Tall tree

Habitat: It is Native to Sri Lanka and grown as ornamental tree in gardens throughout the warmer parts of India.

Propagation: cuttings, layering and seeds.

Vernacular names/Synonyms

1. Latin name: Polyalthia longifolia
2. Sanskrit: Ulkatah, Kashtadaru, Kasthadaru उल्कट, काष्टदारु
3. English: Mast tree, Fake Asoka tree, False Devadaru, Cemetry tree
4. Hindi: Devdaru, Ashupal, Debdari, Ashok देवदारी, अशोक
5. Bengali: Debdari
6. Tamil: Nettilingam
7. Kannada: Ubbina, Kambadamara, Assoti
8. Telugu: Nara maamidi

Constituents

It mainly contains diterpenoids, alkaloids, tannins, and mucilage.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

1. Rasa (taste on tongue): Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
2. Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)
3. Virya: Ushna (Heating)
4. Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)
5. Action: Dipana (promote appetite but do not aid in digesting undigested food), Kaphahar, Pittahar, Kriminashak, Virechak, Vrishya, Visphotnashini, Jwar, Kushtha
6. Dosage:The decoction is taken in dose of 50-100 ml in a day.

Medicinal Properties of Polyalthia longifolia

Polyalthia longifolia is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it.

1. Antibacterial: leaves possess potent antimicrobials against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella typhi.
2. Antioxidant: stem bark, leaves exhibits antioxidant properties.
3. Anti-inflammatory: the methanolic and aqueous leaves extract of P. longifolia possess a significant anti-inflammatory activity.
4. Anticancer: The stem bark has antitumour activities.
5. Antihyperglycemic: It has glucose lowering activity.
6. Antibacterialandantifungal: The seeds have reported antibacterial and antifungal activities.
7. Hepatoprotective / liver protective effect: The leaves administration reduces SGOT, SGPT, ALP and bilirubin.

Medicinal Uses of False Ashok / Polyalthia longifolia

The bark of Polyalthia longifolia is most commonly used medicinal part of the tree. It has bitter, acrid, cooling, febrifuge, and anthelminthic properties. In many parts of India, it is used for treating fever, mouth ulcers, rheumatism, menorrhagia, scorpion sting, diabetes, vitiate conditions of vata and pitta and skin disease. The bark is given to treat excessive mensuration and white discharge.

1. The tribal of Andhra Pradesh, use the bark of the tree in treatment of fever and to prevent abortion.
2. In Tamil Nadu, it is known as Nettilingam and the juice extracted from the fresh bark is used to treat indigestion.
3. For gonorrhea, the stem bark is powdered and mixed with butter to apply genital region.
4. In Madhya Pradesh, the stem bark is given in malignant tumor treatment.
5. In west Bengal, the bark is used in treatment of diabetes and high blood pressure.
6. The leaves, possess antifungal and antibacterial properties.
7. The decoction of bark is used for curing mouth ulcers.
8. The stem bark along with Sesamum indicum / Til and Piper nigrum / Pippali, is used to treat bone fractures.
9. In Uthiramerur, the stem bark extract is given orally for indigestion.

The toxicological studies done on Fake Ashok shows, acute oral administration of the leaf is not toxic and safe in a single dose. The concluded that crude powder and the extracts of P. longifolia leaf are considered as safe in acute condition up to 3.2 g/kg dose level.

The clinical study done by Nair et al. (Nair R, Shukla V, Chanda S. Indian Drugs) in mice shows the crude powder and the extracts of P. longifolia leaf is safe.

They were administered orally five different dose levels of P. longifolia leaf extract to the animals. The 5 dose levels studied were 400 mg, 800 mg, 1200 mg, 1600 mg and 3200 mg/kg. From safety assessment in acute condition and gross behavioral studies it is concluded that all extracts produced mild to moderate hypo activity and also exhibited analgesic activity to some extent.

They concluded that crude powder and the extracts of P. longifolia leaf are considered as safe in acute condition up to 3.2 g/kg dose level.

Vidari / Vidari Kanda and is a rejuvenating drug of Ayurveda. It is mainly used as reproductive tonic that promotes sexual desire, treats nocturnal emission in males and for females, treats menstrual disorders, menopause syndrome and uterus weakness. It is cooling, nourishing, and tonic. Vidari cures weakness. Due to cooling nature it helps in burning sensation in body, excessive heat and bleeding disorders. It is aphrodisiac and improves sperms in males. In some parts of country it is used as female contraceptive and to cause abortion.

Vidari is tonic for heart. It lowers the high blood pressure and gives relief in angina. Due to refrigerant and tonic action, it is useful in fever. Vidari is also used as Substitute for Jivak (Microstylis musifera) and Rshabhaka (Microstylis wallichii).

General Information

Von Genmewcaugsa - Eigenes Werk, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=20910833

---

Vidarikanda consists of the dried tuber of Pueraria tuberosa DC. It is a large climber or twiner with tuberous roots, up to 60 cm long and 30 cm thick. The tuberous roots may even weigh up to 35 kg.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Vidarikanda is Pueraria tuberosa DC. It belongs to plant family Fabaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Rosidae
7. Order: Fabales
8. Family: Fabaceae – Pea family
9. Genus: Pueraria DC. – kudz
10. Species: Pueraria tuberosa

Synonym : Hedysarum tuberosum Willd

1. Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Tuber
2. Plant type: climber
3. Distribution: widely distributed in India.
4. Habitat: Himalaya, Sikkim, Kumaon, Mount Abu, Punjab, Western Uttar Pradesh, Central India
5. Flowering Period: March-April

Plant Description

Pueraria tuberosa is perennial twiner. It roots are tuberous. The young branches are grey pubescent. The Leaf is pinnately trifoliolate with petiole 10-20 cm long. The leaflets are 12.5-20.0 cm long, 11.0-17.5 cm broad. The terminal leaflet broadly ovate, equal sided, acuminate. The lateral leaflet is ovate-oblong, very oblique, acuminate, silky pubescent below, glabrescent above, stipels small, stipules c. 5 mm long.

Inflorescence is axillary or terminal raceme or panicle. Pedicel 2-3 mm long. Bracts and bracteoles are small. Calyx is 6-8 mm long, densely silky. Corolla is blue. Vexillum c. 12.5 mm long and broad, auricled at the base. Fruit is 5-7.5 cm long, constricted between the seeds. Seeds are densely pilose, hairs brown and silky.

Vernacular names/Synonyms of Vidari

1. Latin name: Pueraria tuberosa (Willd.) DC.
2. Sanskrit: Ikshugandha, Vidari, Vidarikanda, Swadukanda, Bidari, Bidarikand विदारी, बिदारी, इक्षुगंधा, वाराही कंद, चर्मकारालुक, स्वादुकंदा
3. Bengali: Shimiya, Shimiabatraji, Bhui Kumdo, Bhumikushmanda
4. Assamese: Bhedeleton, Bhuikumra
5. English: Indian Kudju, Indian kudzu
6. Gujrati: Khakharvel, Vidaree, Vidareekand
7. Hindi: VidareeKand, Bilaikand, Sural, Patal Kand, Patal Kohda, Patal Kumhra
8. Marathi: Bendriya bel, Bindree, Vendrichavel
9. Punjabi: Siali
10. Tamil: Nilpushni Kezhugu
11. Telugu: Nelagummuda, Darigummadi
12. Folk: Bhui-kumhadaa, Suraal

Medicinal Properties Information

Constituents of Pueraria tuberosa

Pterocarpan-tuberosin, pterocarpanone-hydroxytuberosone, two pterocarpenes-anhydrotuberosin and 3-O-methylanhydrotuberosin, and a coumestan tuberostan. An isoflavone-puerarone and a coumestan-puerarostan. Tuberosin, puerarin and diadzein have significant anti-implantation activities.

Dosage of Vidarikand powder for therapeutic purpose

The recommended dosage of the dries ground tuber powder is 3-6 grams with milk.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Vedari is nourishing tonic, diuretic, anabolic, alterative and Vajikarak. It reduces Pitta-Vata and increases Kapha. It mainly works on plasma, blood, muscles and reproductive system. It stimulates milk production in nursing mothers. It increases Shukra dhatu.

Vidari is indicated in shula / pain, Kasa / cough, Kshaya, Mutrakricchra / painful urination, Raktadosha / vitiation of blood, Raktapitta / bleeding disorder, Vishamajvara / intermittent fever, Visarpa, Shukrakshay.

1. Rasa (taste on tongue): Madhura (Sweet)
2. Guna (Pharmacological Action): Guru (Heavy), Snigdha (Unctuous)
3. Virya: Sita (Cooling)
4. Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Madhura (Sweet)
6. Action
7. Balya: Strengthening
8. Brahmana: Anabolic
9. Hridya: Good for Heart
10. Jivaniya: Promotes Life.
11. Mutral: Diuretic
12. Pittahara: Balances Pitta Dosha.
13. Svarya: Good for Voice
14. Vajikarana: Aphrodisiac
15. Vatahara: Balances Vata Dosha
16. Varnya: Promotes Complexion.
17. Stanyavardhana: Increases Breast Milk.
18. Rasayana: Rejuvenator

Important Formulations containing Vidarikanda

1. Shatavaryadi Ghrita
2. Maha vishagarbha Taila
3. Marma Gulika
4. Nityananda Rasa
5. Saraswatarishta
6. Ashwagandharishta

Important Medicinal Properties of Vidarikand Powder

Vidari is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it has contraceptive properties. It is abortifacient and can cause miscarriage. So its use should be avoided while trying for baby and in early pregnancy.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Abortifacient: induces abortion.
2. Antiemetic: useful in the treatment of vomiting.
3. Antiandrogen: capable of inhibiting the biological effects of androgens.
4. Antitumor / Anticancer: used against or tending to arrest or prevent cancer.
5. Anti-implantation: preventing attachment of the fertilized egg to the uterine lining.
6. Choleretic: stimulates the liver to increase output of bile.
7. Contraceptive: prevent pregnancy.
8. Cardio-tonic: Tonic for heart
9. Diuretic: causing increased passing of urine.
10. Estrogenic: Estrogen or oestrogen like effect.
11. Galactagogue: promotes breast milk.
12. Hypotensive: Lowers blood pressure.
13. Spermatogenic: promotes sperm production.
14. Uterustonic: tonic for uterus.
15. Refrigerant: cooling.
16. Tonic: Restore or improve health or well-being.

Health Benefits of Vidarikand Churna / Powder

1. It is tonic for reproductive organs.
2. It treats low breast milk.
3. It gives strength to body.
4. It gives relief in symptoms of alcoholism.
5. Its use after delivery, gives new mother strength and energy.
6. In any urinary disorders, it gives relief in swelling, dryness of urinary system.
7. It clears speech.
8. It protects liver.

It has estrogen like properties. Estrogen is the female hormone responsible for development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. In males estrogen helps in maturation of the sperm and maintenance of a healthy libido.

Synthetic Estrogen is commonly used in birth control pills, contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy.

It is highly effective in menopausal syndrome due to estrogenic properties.

Medicinal Uses of Vidarikand

Vidari is an important medicinal herb of Ayurveda. For medicinal purpose the tuberous roots of plant is used in form of powder and slices. The root powder is either used alone or in combination with other medicinal herbs.

It is used in combination with Shatavari, Ashwagandha for debility and deficient breast milk. For urinary disorders, it is used with Gokhru and for dry cough with Mulethi, Sunthi and Bala.

Vidari is used for treating weakness, acidity, burning sensation, bleeding disorders and urinary discharges. It has cooling, alterative, aphrodisiac, emetic, and tonic properties.

1. Boosting memory

For enhancing memory take the powder of Vidari + Chitrak root + Brahmi / Madukaparni (whole plant), is taken in equal amount and mixed. This powder is taken in dose of half teaspoon with milk for one month.

2. Cancer

The root powder is taken two times a day for two months.

3. Cuts, Swelling

The root paste in applied externally on affected area for five days or more.

4. Daily contraceptive गर्भनिरोधक for women

Half teaspoon of powder is taken daily.

5. Epilepsy

The root powder is given.

6. For causing abortion / miscarriage

The root powder is taken in dose of 2 teaspoon in the morning for three day.

7. Fits, convulsions

The root powder is taken in dose of five grams for two months.

8. Impotency नपुंसकता

Make herbal powder by mixing Vidarikand (20 gram) + Ashwagandha (10 gram) + Kevanch beej (20 gram) + Shatavari (10 gram) + Bala / Sida cordifolia (10 gram) + Gokhru (20 gram) + Mulethi (10 gram). Take one teaspoon twice a day with milk.

9. General health tonic

Make herbal powder by mixing Vidarikand (10 gram) + Ashwagandha (20 gram) + Mulethi (10 gram) + Shatavari (10 gram) + Amla (15 gram) + Gokhru (10 gram) + Arjun Bark (15 gram) + Mandukaparni leaves (10 gram). Take one teaspoon twice a day with milk.

10. Low breast milk

The root powder of Vidari is given to promote breast milk.

Mix Vidarikanda + Ashwagandha + Mulethi + Shatavari + Mishri in equal amount. Take this powder in dose of one teaspoon, twice a day with milk.

11. Leucorrhoea / safed pani / shwet pradar, low back pain सफ़ेद पानी की समस्या

Mix Vidarikanda root powder (40 gram) + Lodhra powder (40 gram) + Ashwagandha (50 gram). Take this powder in dose of one teaspoon with milk.

12. Weakness, Nocturnal emission / Swapn dosh / Night fall, Joint pain स्वप्न दोष

Prepare a powder by mixing the root powder of Vidari + Ashwagandha + Shatavari (each 10 gram). Add to this 30 gram powdered Mishri / rock candy. This powder is taken in dosage of one teaspoon two times a day for a month.

Vidari is available as Vidarikand Powder / Vedarikand Churna, Vidarikand Juice and tuber in the market.

Adverse Effects / Contraindications / Side Effects of Vidari

• It is a contraceptive and suppress ovulation.
• It causes miscarriage.
• It exerts post-coitus antifertility effect in women.
• It is safe to take in therapeutic dosage.

Tagar is known as Indian Valerian in English. Its botanical name is Valeriana wallichii. It is indigenous to India and is mainly found in temperate Himalayan regions. The actions and uses of Indian Valerian are comparable to those of Valerian (Valeriana officinalis). Valerian is a folk medicine used in Europe, for nervous disorders and as a sleep aid. It is also used as general tonic. The British Herbal Pharmacopeia, describe it as sedative, hypnotic, carminative and hypotensive and indicated its use in sleeplessness, headaches, migraine, joint pain, rheumatic pain, cramps etc.

It belong to genus Valeriana which comprise of large number of species distributed throughout the world. Another species of this genus which is used therapeutically in many countries is Valeriana officinalis, an herb found in North America, Europe and imported to India.

Indian Valerian, is used in Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani for treating brain related disorders such as insomnia, hysteria, nervous unrest, and emotional troubles. It is a mild sedative-hypnotic herb that has calming and sleep-inducing effect on brain. It balances Vata and has carminative action. Tagar is used in form of powder, extract and tincture.

General Information

Valeriana wallichii DC is a hairy perennial herb. It grows in temperate Himalayas from Kashmir to Bhutan and Khasia hills up to an altitude of 3,000 meter. The rhizomes are dug from the soil in autumn. These are cleaned and dried for medicinal purpose.

The roots and rhizome of plant has depressant action on Central nervous system.

Indian Valerian is said to be a good substitute for Valeriana officinalis.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Tagara is Valeriana wallichii. It belongs to plant family Valerianaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Asteridae
7. Order: Dipsacales
8. Family: Valerianaceae – Valerian family
9. Genus: Valeriana L. – valerian
10. Species: Valeriana wallichii

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Rhizomes and roots

Plant type: herb

Habitat: Himalayan temperate regions, Kashmir, Bhutan; Afghanistan.

Vernacular Names/Synonyms

1. Latin name: Valeriana wallichii DC. (V. leschenauitic, V. brunoniana)
2. Ayurvedic: Tagar, Kala, Sugandhabala, Kalaanusari, Kaalanusarika, Kalanusari, Kalanusarika, Nata, Tagarpaduka तगर, सुगंधबला, बलातगर
3. Unani: Asaarun, TagarReshewaalaa.
4. Siddha: Tagarai
5. Folk: Taggar, Balaka,Mushkbala, Asaarun, Tagar-ganthoda
6. Assamese: Tagar
7. Bengali: Tagar Paduka
8. English: Indian Valerian
9. Gujrati: Tagar Ganthoda, Tagar Gantho, Ghodawaj
10. Hindi: Mushkbala, Sugandhabala
11. Kannada: Mandibattal, Mandyavanthu, Mandibattalu, Tagar
12. Kashmiri: Bala, Mushkbala
13. Malayalam: Thakaram
14. Marathi: Tagar, Ganthode
15. Oriya: Tagarapaduka, Jalashiuli
16. Punjabi: Mushkobala, Sugandhbala
17. Tamil: Tagarai
18. Telugu: Grandhi Tagaramu
19. Urdu: Tagar

Constituents of Tagar

Rhizomes and roots contain cyclopentapyrans (sedative, tranquilizing and bacteriocidal properties), acacetin-7-O-rutinosides, valtrate, didrovaltrate, linarin iso-valerinate, valepotriates, iridoid ester glycoside, valerosidatum. Cyclopentapyrans.

Indian Valerian oils which is extracted from roots contains calarene, betabargamotene, valeranone, ar-curcumene, maalioxide and maalitol.

The unpleasant odor of roots is due to isovaleric acid.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action of Tagara / Indian Valerian

Tagar is bitter, pungent, sweet, astringent- hot- pungent in energetics. It reduces Vata and Kapha. It mainly works on nerves, plasma and muscles. The intake of Tagar, affects respiratory, digestive and nervous system. It has nervine and sedative effect on brain. It is indicated mainly in Apasmara (apa = loss of; smara = consciousnes; Epilepsy), Unmada (insanity), and Shiro roga (disease of the head).

1. Rasa (taste on tongue) रस: Kasaya (Astringent), Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
2. Guna (Pharmacological Action)गुण: Laghu (Light), Snigdha (Unctuous)
3. Virya (Action)वीर्य: Ushna (Heating)
4. Vipaka (transformed state after digestion)विपाक: Katu (Pungent)

It is an Ushna Virya herb. Ushna Virya or hot potency herb, subdues Vata (Wind) and Kapha (Mucus) and increases Pitta (Bile). It has property of digestion, vomiting and purging, and gives feeling of lightness. It is considered bad for sperms and fetus. Due to hot and unctuous (oily) properties, it cures diseases of Vata / wind and pain.

Ayurvedic Action

1. Vishaghna: विषघ्न poison-destroying
2. Tridoshahara: त्रिदोषहर corrects the imbalance of Vatta, Pitta and Kapha
3. Raktadoshahar:रक्तदोषहर blood purifying
4. Manasadoshhara: मानसदोषहर cures psychological disorders.

Health Benefits of Tagar or Valerian Roots

1. It has sedative and tranquilizing effect on brain.
2. It gives relief in temporary mild anxiety, nervousness, and insomnia.
3. It removes obstruction from nerve channels.
4. It is one of the best herbs for Vata nervous disorders.
5. It diminishes irritability of the brain and spinal marrow.
6. It cleanses Ama (undigested toxins) from the colon, blood, joints, and nerves.
7. It relieve spasmodic conditions of smooth muscles.
8. It reduces Vata and Kapha.

Important formulations containing Tagar

1. Bala Taila
2. Dhanvantara Taila
3. Mahanarayana Taila
4. Devadarvadyarisha
5. Jatiphaladi Churna
6. Prabhanjan Vimardana Taila

Important Medicinal Properties of Tagar

Indian Valerian is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it has peripheral analgesic action via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis on acetic acid induced writhing. It exerts hypotensive effects possibly through KATP channel activation. It is radio protective and protect against radiation damage. It induces good sleep by improving monoamine (amine neurotransmitters with single amino group) level.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Analgesic: relieve pain.
2. Antispasmodic: used to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.
3. Antimicrobial: active against microbes.
4. Anthelmintic: antiparasitic, expel parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body.
5. Anticonvulsant: prevent or reduce the severity of epileptic fits or other convulsions.
6. Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
7. Radioprotective: protect or aiding in protecting against the injurious effect of radiations.
8. Tonic: give a feeling of vigour or well-being.
9. Tranquilizer: reduce tension or anxiety.

Medicinal Use of Valerian

Valerian is used mainly in treatment of brain and nerves related disorders. It has been used as a sedative and antianxiety medicine for more than 2000 years. It is taken in form of powder, tincture or infusion. Intake of Valerian roots shown beneficial effect in following conditions.

1. Insomnia
2. Hysteria, Epilepsy
3. Neurosis, Failing reflexes
4. Anxiety
5. Restlessness
6. Muscle twitching, Spasms
7. Nervous weakness

Dosage of Indian Valerian

1. The root powder is prescribed in dose of 1-3 grams in dry powder form.
2. Tincture (1:1), is taken in dose of 1-3 ml thrice daily.

Contraindications, Interactions, and Adverse Effects (Tagar or Indian Valerian)

1. Excessive use may dull the mind and can cause pain and heaviness.
2. It should not be taken long term as it can cause mental depression in some people.
3. It has stimulating effect rather than a relaxing effect in high dose.
4. Avoid use in pregnancy.
5. Overdose may cause central paralysis and other severe conditions.

In Ayurveda, Pushkarmul (Inula racemosa) consists of the dried root of plant Inula racemosa. This plant grows in temperate and alpine Western Himalayas. It is also known as Kashmira, as the plant is abundantly found in Kashmir.

Pushkarmoola has been mentioned in all Ayurvedic treatise as expectorant, anodyne, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and hikka nigrahana (stops hiccups). It highly acclaimed to treat breathlessness, asthma and pleurisy (Parshvashula).

Pushkarmula is used in the treatment of cough, bronchial asthma, contagious fevers, angina pectoris, heart disease, ischemic heart disease and anorexia.

General Information

Inula racemosa is a stout herb reaching up to height 0.5 to 1.5 meter. The stem is grooved, rough and very hairy. The leaves are elliptical, large, 3-6 cm long and 2-3 cm broad, and have long petioles. The fruits, slender achene’s, 0.4 cm long, bearded with 0.75 cm long pappus hairs. The flowers are yellow, many in heads, 0.5-1 cm in diameter.

The fresh root has dull brownish skin with yellowish colour inside. It becomes grayish on drying. It has sweet and camphoraceous odour and have a bitter taste. In Kashmir, the roots are used as adulterant of Saussurea lappa.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Pushkara is Inula racemosa Hook. f. It belongs to plant family Asteraceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Asteridae
7. Order: Asterales
8. Family: Asteraceae – Aster family
9. Genus: Inula L. – yellowhead
10. Species: Inula racemosa

Synonym: Inula royleana auct. non-DC

1. Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: roots
2. Distinct quality: root powder has strong aromatic odour resembling orris and camphor.
3. Plant type: herb
4. Distribution: It is mostly found in Western Himalayas from Kashmir Kumaon, Afghanistan to Nepal at 1500–4200 m.
5. Habitat: temperate and alpine western Himalaya.
6. Status: Endangered

Vernacular Names

1. Latin name: Inula racemosa hook.f.
2. Sanskrit : Kashmira, Poushkara, Puskara mula, Sugandhikam
3. Assamese : Pohakarmul, Puskar
4. Bengali : Pushkara, Pushkaramula
5. English : Orris Root, Indian elecampane, sunspear
6. Gujrati : Pushkarmula
7. Hindi : Pohakar Mul, Pokharmul
8. Kannada : Pushkara Moola
9. Malayalam : Puskara
10. Marathi : Pokhar Mool
11. Oriya : Puskara
12. Punjabi : Pokhar Mool
13. Tamil : Pushkarmulam
14. Telugu : Pushkara Mulamu

Constituents of Inula racemosa Root powder

Major constituents inulin (10%) and being inulin sesquiterpene lactones, Alantolacton, Isoalantolactone, Dihydroalantolactone, Dihydroisoalantolactone, Beta sitosterol, Daucosterol, Inunolide. Roots contain volatile oil, about 1-4 %.

Alantolactone and others in the mixture known as helenalin (sesquiterpene lactones) are toxic constituents of the root.

Dosage of Pushkarmula for medicinal purpose

1-3 grams in dry powder from.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action of Pushkarmula

Pushkarmula is extensively used in Ayurveda. It is one of the ingredient of famous Dashamoolarishta, an Ayurvedic tonic. Acharya Charak described it as one which cures hiccups and asthma.

It is pungent, bitter in taste (Ras) and light in action (Guna). Its post-digestive effect (Vipak) is pungent. It works on all Dhatus except for the reproductive system. It helps in respiratory, nervous, and digestive disorders.

It is an Ushna Virya herb. Ushna Virya or hot potency herb, subdues Vata (Wind) and Kapha (Mucus) and increases Pitta (Bile). It has property of digestion, vomiting and purging, and gives feeling of lightness. It is considered bad for sperms and fetus.

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light)
• Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Action:

• Pitta vardhak: increases Pitta.
• VataKaphahar: mitigates Vata and Kapha.
• Kasa, Shwashara: cures cough and asthma.
• Hikkanigrahana: alleviates hicups.
• Parshvashula hara: gives releif in pain in chest.
• Shophaghna: gives releif in edema.
• Pandunhar: useful in anemia and its complications.
• Arditvinashanam: useful in conditions involving nervous system like facial paralysis.

THERAPEUTIC USES: Aruchi, Adhyaman (gas), Hikka (hiccups), Jvara (fever), Kasa (cough), Svasa (asthma), Parsvashula (chest pain), Sosh (edema), Ardit (facial paralysis), Pandu (low hemoglobin level)

Important Formulations

1. Kankayan Gutika
2. Kumaryasava
3. Mahanarayana Taila
4. Manasamitra Vataka
5. Dashamularishta
6. Lodrasava
7. Rasnadi Kvatha Churna

Important Medicinal Properties

Pushkarmula is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it has hypotensive (blood pressure lowering) and analgesic properties.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Antibacterial: effective against bacteria.
2. Anticatarrhal: remove excess mucous from the body.
3. Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
4. Antimicrobial: active against microbes.
5. Analgesic: relieve pain.
6. Antidiabetic: controls blood sugar in blood.
7. Antispasmodic: used to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.
8. Antiseptic: Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of infectious agents.
9. Antihistaminic: neutralize or inhibit the effect of histamine in the body.
10. Beta-blocker: prevent the stimulation of the adrenergic receptors responsible for increased cardiac action, used to control heart rhythm, treat angina, and reduce high blood pressure.
11. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
12. Expectorant: promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
13. Cardioprotective: protects heart.
14. Stomachic: promoting the appetite or assisting digestion.
15. Hypotensive: Lowers blood pressure.

Medicinal Uses of Pushkarmula (Elecampane)

Pushkarmula is used both internally and externally. Internally, it is used traditionally to treat respiratory ailments such as asthma, cough, throatinflammation and sore throat due to its hot, pungent and expectorant action. It is a Rasayan or tonic with rejuvenator and immunomodulator properties. It is especially useful in cough, dyspnea, asthma, pleurisy, tuberculosis and chest pain.

Pushkarmula is good for heart. It is coronary vasodilator agent with antianginal and anti-ischemic properties. It lowers blood pressure. Itis a tonic for heart.

It is bitter and pungent in taste and generally taken in combination of jaggery, sugar or honey.

The recommended dosage of Pushkarmula is 1 -3 grams three times a day.

To prepare its tea, half teaspoon of Pushkarmula is added to one cup of water. To this milk or sugar can be added. This tea should be taken thrice a day.

Externally, it is used in treatment of sprain and bruises.

1. Cough, Asthma

1. The root powder is taken in dose of 1-3 grams.
2. The root power is taken in combination with Dashmoola decoction.

2. Dental problems

The root powder is used as tooth powder.

3. Edema, as diuretic

Root powder is taken with lukewarm water.

4. Heart diseases, Chest pain

1. The powder of Pushkarmula should be taken with honey.
2. The root paste is applied on the chest in chest pain.

5. Sprain, bruises, boils, absess

The paste of roots is applied externally on affected body area.

Side-effects

1. It lowers blood pressure.
2. It may cause allergy in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family plant.
3. It is s safe when taken in usual medicinal amounts. It is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken in large amounts.
4. It is hot in potency.
5. Avoid use in pregnancy.
6. It may interfere with blood sugar control.
7. It increases Pitta / bile.

Revand chini, Archu or Indian Rhubarb is a medicinal herb found in Himalaya from Kashmir to Sikkim at high altitude. It is a perennial shrub with rhizomes roots. Indian Rhubarb is known as Amlavetasa in Ayurveda. For medicinal purpose the roots of plant are dug up and dried. The dried roots are ground to make powder which is used in low doses. Its primary action is of mild purgation. But it has also astringent property, so that its secondary effect is to prevent the bowels.

By Ken Freeze - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=41950941

---

The roots of plant are used both internally and externally. It is bitter, pungent, and reduces Vata – Kapha, but increases pitta. Revand chini works mainly on plasma, blood and fat. Revand Chini, when chewed produce yellow colour and have gritty-bitter taste. It imparts yellow colour to the urine, which is harmless. Externally they are used for cleaning teeth and sprinkled over ulcers for quick healing. For freckle and other skin marks, the paste of roots with vinegar is applied topically on affected parts. In Melasma झाई the root powder is mixed in milk and applied.

General Information

Rheum emodi is a stout herb found in Himalayan region. It is a leafy perennial herb of 1.5-3.0 m in height. It has large radical leaves. The leaves are edible and eaten as vegetable. It bears ovoid-oblong, 13 mm long, purple fruits. The roots and rhizomes are the main parts used as drug and are collected in October to November.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Indian Rhubarb / Revand chini is Rheum emodi. It belongs to plant family Polygonaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Caryophyllidae
• Order: Polygonales
• Family: Polygonaceae – Buckwheat family
• Genus: Rheum L. – rhubarb
• Species: Rheum emodi – Indian Rhubarb

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: dried rhizomes

Plant type: herb

Distribution: Kashmir, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, China, Tibet, Russia, Turkey, and many other countries.

Habitat: Himalayan herb, found at 8,000-13,000 feet.

Types of Rhubarbs

There are three main types of rhubarbs— Indian or Himalayan, Chinese and Rhapontic.

1. Indian rhubarb: It consists of dried rhizomes of R. emodi and R. webbianum.
2. Chinese rhubarb: It consists of rhizomes and roots of Rheum palmatum and R. officinale.
3. Rhapontic: It consists of rhizomes of R. moorcroftianum, R. spiciforme mixed with R. rhaponticum.

Vernacular Names

1. Latin name: Garcinia pedunculata, Rheum emodi, Rheum officinale, Rheum acuminatum, Rheum speciforme, Rheum webbianum, Rheum moorcroftianum, R australe
2. Hindi: Revand-chini, Archu
3. English: Rhubarb
4. Ayurvedic: Amlavetasa, Amlavetasa, Amlaparni, Pitamuuli, Gandhini Revatika, Revandachini (roots), Revatchini, Gandhini, Chukri, Archa
5. Unani: Revandchini
6. Siddha: Revalchinikattai, Nattirevaichini
7. Maharashtra & Gujarat: Ladakirevanda-chini
8. Kashmiri: Pumbehakh
9. Telugu: Nattu-revalchini
10. Other common names: Chuchi, Tukshu, Motininai, Rhubarb
11. French: Rhubarb de Perse
12. German: Rhabarber, Emodi-Rhabarber

Constituents of Root

The root gave emodin, emodin- 3-monomethyl ether, chrysophanol, aloe-emodin, rhein, also contain cinnamic and rheinolic acids, volatile oil, starch and calcium oxalate.

In low dose, tannin produces astringent effect and gives relief in diarrhea.

In high dose, anthraquinones stimulates laxative effect and gives relief in constipation.

Indian Or Himalayan Rhubarb Is Useful In Following Conditions:

1. Alcoholism, Anorexia
2. Bronchitis, Asthma
3. Coryza, Catarrh, Cirrhosis
4. Constipation, Dyspepsia
5. Hepatosis, Jaundice
6. Lumbago, Water Retention

Dosage

Amla-vetasa / Rhubarb is taken in form of infusion and powder. The recommended dosage of powder is 0.2–1.0 g powder. 1 gram dose, has laxative effect and 3 grams has purgative action.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

It is sour in taste (Ras) and light, sharp and drying in action (Guna). Its post-digestive effect (Vipak) is sour. It is an Ushna Virya herb. Ushna Virya or hot potency herb, subdues Kapha (Mucus) and increases Pitta (Bile). It has property of digestion, vomiting and purging, and gives feeling of lightness. It is considered bad for sperms and fetus.

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Amla (Sour)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Tikshna (Sharp), Ruksha (Dry)
• Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Amla (Sour)

Action

1. Kapha-Vata Shamak कफवात शामक: pacifies kapha and vata.
2. Pittvardhak पित्तवर्धक: increases pitta / bile.
3. Dipan दीपन: promote appetite but do not aid in digesting undigested food
4. Pachan पाचन: assist in digesting undigested food, but do not increase the appetite.
5. Anulomana अनुलोमना: promote excretions and favour discharge.
6. Bhedan भेदन: drastic purgative.
7. Shvas har श्वासहर: gives releif in asthma.
8. Hikkahar हिक्काहर: Gives releif in Hiccups.
9. Hridyottejak हृदयोत्तेजक: Stimulates heart.
10. Mutrala मूत्रल: promote the secretion of urine.
11. Virechak विरेचक: causes bowel.

Important Medicinal Properties

Amla-vetasa / Rhubarb is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it is purgative and stimulate evacuation of the bowels. So it should be avoided in chronic diarrhea. Rhubarb contains two different constituents, one from which is laxative, other constituent is constipative (Astringent).

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Antipyretic: used to prevent or reduce fever.
2. Astringent: Constrict tissues, styptic.
3. Anthelmintic: used to destroy parasitic worms.
4. Alterative: alter favorably the course of an ailment.
5. Cathartic: agent for purging the bowels, especially a laxative.
6. Emmenagogue: stimulates or increases menstrual flow.
7. Hemostatic: causes bleeding to stop.
8. Laxative: tending to stimulate or facilitate evacuation of the bowels.
9. Purgative: strongly laxative in effect.
10. Stomachic: promoting the appetite or assisting digestion.

Medicinal Uses of Revand chini (Indian Rhubarb)

1. Rhubarb is used in treatment of constipation due to its cathartic, purgative and laxative action in dose depended manner. Laxative is milder, causing elimination of formed stools, Purgative is stronger to the laxative and cathartic is strongest and causes stool in form of liquid. It is milder than Senna leaves.
2. Rhubarb is used in jaundice and liver disorders. It improves liver function by various ways. It act as liver tonic and increase production of bile in liver. It reduces weight and fat.
3. Rhubarb is used alone in combination of other medicinal herbs to treat indigestion and constipation. It increases saliva secretion. It tones up the gastric and intestine. In digestive disorders and constipation the root powder is taken in one gram.
4. For acidity, indigestion, digestive weakness make a powder by mixing equal amount of Revandchini, coriander seeds and Mishri. The intake of this powder in dosage of one teaspoon twice a day, with lukewarm water gives relief.
5. For urticaria / Sheetpitta, root powder is taken in dose of 1 gram, twice a day with Mishri / rock candy.
6. Due to its diuretic action, it is used in scanty urination. In chronic kidney failure, the root powder is taken in very low doses for 1-2 years.
7. The decoction of one gram Revand chini in 100 ml water is used in uremia. Uraemia is an increases level of urea and other nitrogenous waste compounds in the blood that are normally eliminated by the kidneys.
8. Externally, the paste of root powder and Chandan is applied on pimples, acne and pigmentation. The topical application is also used to hasten wound healing.

Precaution / Contraindications / Side Effects

1. Avoid use in chronic diarrhea.
2. Do not use in epilepsy.
3. It should not be used in Vata Vyadhis like gout, rheumatism.
4. It contains oxalic acid so do not use in uric acid diseases, renal or gall bladder stones.
5. Do not use in pregnancy, or while breast-feeding. It may be secreted in milk and induce purgation in baby.
6. It should not be used for long-term.
7. It gives a deep tinge to the urine.

Angelica plant belongs to Genus Angelica and family Apiaceae. Many species of plan have been used traditionally as anti-inflammatory, diuretic, expectorant and diaphoretic, and remedy for colds, flu, influenza, hepatitis, arthritis, indigestion, coughs, chronic bronchitis, pleurisy, typhoid, headaches, wind, fever, colic, travel sickness, rheumatism, bacterial and fungal infections and diseases of the urinary organs.

There are about 60 species of this genus found at high altitudes in temperate and subarctic regions. Many of these species e.g. A. acutiloba, A. archangelica, A. atropupurea, A. dahurica, A. japonica, A. glauca, A. gigas, A. koreana, A. sinensis, A. sylvestris, etc. Angelica species grows up to 1-3 meter tall. They have large bipinnate leaves and large compound umbels of white or greenish-white flowers. The roots are rhizomatous and used all over the world medicinally.

Various herbal preparations containing Angelica species are available over-the-counter, in many countries such as India, USA, UK, Germany, etc.

Species of Angelica Commonly Used Therapeutically

1. Angelica glauca (Choraka, Chora, Chonaka)
2. Angelica archangelica (Angelica)
3. Angelica atropurpurea (American angelica, Purple angelica, Alexanders)
4. Angelica polymorpha var. sinensis (Chinese angelica, dong quai)
5. Angelica gigas (Korean angelica)

In Europe, Angelica archangelica is commonly known as Masterwort, Archangel, Holy Ghost Plant, and St. Michael's Plant, since it blooms on his day (May 8) in many parts of the world. It is named Angelica in English which means Herbs of Angel. It was also used in Europe to ward off evil spirits. The leaves of plant were tied around a child's neck to protect him against witchcraft and evil spells.

It is widely used in treatment of variety of diseases like plague, pleurisy, cough, flu, bronchial catarrh, rheumatism, uterine stimulant etc. In fact, it is the most widely used European plant. It is especially useful in menstrual disorders. It regulates periods, and helps in expulsion of placenta after delivery.

In Homeopathy, the Angelica Root Tincture is used in dose of 5 drops, thrice a day to treat disgust for liquor, atony of different organs, dyspepsia, nervous headache, chronic bronchitis and increase expectoration.

In America, whole root, powdered roots, sliced roots, alcoholic extracts and capsule are available for therapeutic purpose. The extract available in form of capsule of strength 550 mg is given in dose of one to two capsules two times a day.

Chinese angelica, Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis) is the most popular Chinese herbs. It is a tonic that improves hemoglobin level. Chinese angelica is used treat irregular menstruation, fatigue, mild anemia and high blood pressure. It is also used as an aphrodisiac. The rhizome strengthens liver function and has a general antibiotic effect.

Choraka / Chora / Chonaka / Angelica (Angelica glauca), is a medicinal plant found in Himalaya. The aromatic roots and rhizomes of this plant are used in Ayurveda for treating anemia, weakness, fluid retention in joints, dropsy, fever, diseases of lung, constipation and respiratory ailments.

General Information about Angelica glauca

In Ayurveda, Chorak consists of dried mature root and root stock of plant Angelica glauca, a plant found in temperate north-west Himalayas. It is a glabrous herb reaching up to height of 1.5 m. It is tall, erect, grooved and fistular with pinnately divided leaves having compound umbels of white or purple flowers.

Scientific Classification Angelica

The botanical name of Choraka is Angelica glauca. It is found growing in Kashmir, Shimla, Chamba, Sikkim and other Himalayan region. It belongs to plant family Apiaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Rosidae
7. Order: Apiales
8. Family: Apiaceae ⁄ Umbelliferae – Carrot family
9. Genus: Angelica L. – angelica

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Roots of plant

Substitute: Roots of Angelica archagelica Linn.

Distribution: Temperate North-West Himalayas at an altitude ranging between 3000-4500 meters.

Habitat: Kashmir and Chamba in Himachal Pradesh.

Status: Rare

Vernacular Names

• English: Angelica
• Sanskrit: Taskarah, Ksemakah, Choraka, Chorakaa, Kopana, Chorakakhya,
• Nishachara, Dhanhar, Kopana, Corama
• Bengali: Chorak
• Gujrati: Chorak
• Hindi: Choraa, Gandrayan, Rikha Choraa
• Kannada: Choraka
• Malayalam: Choraka Pullu
• Marathi: Corak
• Punjabi: Choraa, Churaa
• Telugu: Gaddi Davanamu
• Chinese: Dang-gui, Pinyin, Wade-Giles, Tang-kuei

Constituents of Angelica glauca

Oxypeucedanin, 3-butylidene phthalide, 3-butylidene dihydrophthalide [(E-and (Z)-ligustilide] and dimers of butylphthalides [angiolide, angelicolide].

Dosage of Choraka

The root powder is used in dose of 3-5 grams. Children of 5-16 are given half of the adult dose.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Therapeutic use of Angelica glauca is mentioned in classical Ayurvedic treatise. Charak prescribed the roots for headaches, insanity, and epilepsy and respiratory ailments. Sushruta, used the leaves internally for skin eruptions and bone fractures. Chorak improves blood circulation and loosen the phlegm. Since it is heating, it gives relief in phlegm.

Chorak is in Sweet-Pungent-Bitter in taste (Ras) and Light-Sharp-Dry in action (Guna). Its post-digestive effect (Vipak) is Pungent. It is an Ushna Virya herb. Ushna Virya or hot potency herb, subdues Vata (Wind) and Kapha (Mucus) and increases Pitta (Bile). It has property of digestion, vomiting and purging, and gives feeling of lightness. It is considered bad for sperms and fetus.

1. Rasa (taste on tongue): Madhura (Sweet), Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
2. Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Tikshna (Sharp), Ruksha (Dry)
3. Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)
4. Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Karma / Action

1. Kaphahara reduces phlegm
2. Medohara antiobesity
3. Vamak (emesis of bile, mucus and other contents of the stomach)
4. Vatahara
5. Deepana (promote appetite but do not aid in digesting undigested food)
6. Pachan (assist in digesting undigested food, but do not increase the appetite)
7. Vranaprasadana wound healing

Important Ayurvedic formulations

1. Guduchyadi Modaka for urinary and gynecological problems

2. Balaswagandhadi Tailam for joint, nerves and muscles

3. Mahanarayana Taila for joint and muscular pain

Therapeutic Uses of Chorak

1. Epilepsy (Apasmara)
2. Asthma (Shvasa)
3. Hiccups (Hikka)
4. Fever (Jvara)
5. Itching (Kandu)
6. Skin disease (Kushtha)
7. Insanity, Schizophrenia (Unmada)
8. Wound (Vrana)
9. Blood impurities (Rakt Dosha)
10. Diseases due to poison (Visharoga)
11. Poor appetite (Agnimandya)
12. Headache (Shirah Shula)
13. Rhinitis (Pratishyaya)
14. Fever due to cold (Shitajvara)
15. Diseases of children (Balaroga)

Important Medicinal Properties of Angelica

Angelica is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb.. For example, it stimulates periods and therefore must not be used in pregnancy. Its use can cause abortion. It is heating, increases circulation and thin the blood.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Abortifacient: induces abortion.
2. Antibacterial: active against bacteria.
3. Cardioprotective: protects heart.
4. Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.
5. Cholagogue: promotes the discharge of bile from the system, purging it downward.
6. Expectorant: promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
7. Diaphoretic: promote sweating.
8. Emmenagogue: stimulates or increases menstrual flow.
9. Expectorant: promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages, used to treat coughs.
10. Phototoxic: sun exposure induced skin irritation.

Health Benefits of Angelica

The roots are general tonic.

1. It is warming herb.
2. It decongests and promotes blood circulation.
3. In respiratory ailments, it gives relief in symptoms of congestion, flu, cold and cough.
4. It is beneficial in poor appetite and digestion.
5. It helps in menstrual irregularities.
6. It stimulates circulation in pelvic region.
7. It stimulates menstruation.
8. It is heating in nature and used in expulsion of placenta after childbirth.
9. It gives relief in pain and cramps during periods.
10. It contains phytoestrogens, and helps postmenopausal women to relieve symptoms especially hot flushes.

For centuries, Angelica roots has been brewed in Carmelite water. It was first made by the nuns of the Carmelite abbey of St Just in the 14th century and which was used all over Europe. Carmelite water, is a good tonic for heart and lungs, and has heating properties.

It is the main ingredient in Swedish bitters, a tonic that is still readily available and used for indigestion, headaches, and general ailments.

Contraindications, Interactions, and Side Effects of Angelica

1. It should not be used in pregnancy and peptic ulcer.
2. People taking blood thinning medicine should not use this herb.
3. It should be taken occasionally.
4. It should not be used over extended period of time.
5. Avoid prolonged exposure to sun. It may cause skin photosensitivity or dermatitis due to the presence of furanocoumarins.
6. They must be identified carefully in the wild because of resemblance to other members of family Apiaceae, which are poisonous, especially poison hemlock (Conium muculatum).

Gingko is the most frequently prescribed herbal medicine in Germany and one of the most commonly used over-the-counter herbal preparations in the USA. It promotes good health by protecting all the important body organs. It is good for brain, memory, sensory organs, eyes and blood. Gingko boosts memory and delays dementia. It is a brain tonic that increases memory and boosts oxygen level in brain. It is a strong antioxidant and protects against free cell damage. Ginkgo leaf extract is believed to improve cognitive function in people with symptoms of age-related mental decline. Ginkgo regulates neurotransmitters, increases blood flow and metabolism. It reduces migraine and vertigo.

Ginkgo biloba is the world's oldest living tree species native of Chekiang in East China. It has remained practically unchanged for over 200 million years in the wild and in sacred Buddhist monasteries of China. It is contemporary of dinosaurs of the Jurassic period. It is known as living fossil because of its primitive characters. In Ginkgo the male and female flowers are borne on separate trees. The fan-shaped leaf, has veins that arise from the stem base, branching dichotomously out to the edges.

This living fossil and its extract are over 200 million years old and are used extensively in Chinese and Japanese medicine. The nuts are edible and used against cancer in China. This tree was introduced into Europe as ornamental tree in parks, gardens and city streets in early 1730 and later in America. Modern researches has discovered a range of medicinally active compounds in various parts of tree.

General Information

Ginkgo is an ancient dioecious slow growing tree with pyramidal form, reaching a height of 30 m. Its leaves are petiolar with lamina fan-shaped and bilobed. It is dioecious. The mature seeds are orange-coloured and are about the size of an apricot.

Ginkgo is a Gymnosperm. Gymnosperms were dominant in the Mesozoic Era (about 252.2 million to 66 million years ago). They are vascular plant that reproduces by means of an exposed seed, or ovule. They bear naked seeds which are borne in cones and are not visible until they are mature whereas in Angiosperms, seeds are enclosed by mature ovaries, or fruits.

Ginkgo is dioecious with separate female and male sexes.

Male tree

Male plants produce small pollen cones with sporophylls, each bearing two microsporangia spirally arranged around a central axis. Male tree leaves has higher phenolic content and higher antioxidant capacity.

Female Tree

Female tree do not produce cones. Two ovules are formed at the end of a stalk, and after pollination, one or both develop into seeds. The seed is 1.5-2 cm long. Its outer layer, the sarcotesta is light yellow-brown, soft, and fruit-like. It is fruits is plum like in appearance but the seed coat contains butanoic acid, and smells like rancid butter when fallen on the ground. The Ginkgo tree does not reproduce until it is about 20 years old and continues to do so after it has reached 1000 years of age.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Ginkgo is Ginkgo biloba Linn. It belongs to plant family Ginkgoaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Ginkgophyta – Ginkgo
5. Class: Ginkgoopsida
6. Order: Ginkgoales
7. Family: Ginkgoaceae – Ginkgo family
8. Genus: Ginkgo L. – ginkgo
9. Species: Ginkgo biloba L. – maidenhair tree
10. Group: Gymnosperm
11. Family: Ginkgoaceae
12. Duration: Perennial
13. GrowthHabit: Tree
14. Specialty: Living fossil

Distribution: Native of China. Only a few trees occur in India, Darjeeling (West Bengal).

Habitat: drought-resistant, adaptable species, and is very cold hardy thriving.

Flowering and Fruiting: Summer

Part(s) used:

1. Seeds are expectorant and sedative. The seeds are cooked and eaten as food.
2. Leaves are used in cardiovascular disorders, increased cerebral blood circulation and Parkinson’s diseases.
3. Nuts are used against cancer.

Why Ginkgo is called Living Fossil?

Ginkgo biloba is regarded as a living fossil.

Living fossils are those species which appeared on earth in prehistoric ages as evidenced by the discovery of their fossils from some places and are stillliving with very little or no change.

Ginkgo has no close living relative. The fossilized ginkgoes which are found are 100 million years old. All species, except this tree are wiped during the last glacial period. This tree is the only existing species of its genus. Some living specimens of this plant may be as much as 3,000 years old.

Since it is the single existing, living species of the plant family Ginkgoaceae, which appeared in Permian age, it is known as living fossil.

Vernacular Names

1. Latin name: Ginkgo biloba
2. English: Maiden hair tree called Living Fossils, Kew tree, Fossil tree, Japanese silver apricot
3. Hindi: Balkuwari
4. Trade name: Ginkgo

Constituents of Ginkgo

1. Root-bark: Ginkgolides A, B, C & M
2. Plant: bilobalide, bilobanone sesquiterpene; Leaf: flavonols, biflavonoids, diterpenes, sesquiterpene bilobalide A, β-sitosterol, ginkgolides A, B & C, shikimic acid, sequoyitol, 1,5-MeObilobetin
3. Fruit: anacardic acids, ginnol, bilobols, cardanols.
4. Leaf: Flavonoids glycosides, terpenoids

Dosage of Gingko Extract

It is most commonly available as capsules, which contains extracts of Ginkgo Biloba. The capsules can be taken in dose of 1-2 capsules daily or as directed by health care professional.

The most suitable dosage according to condition is given below:

1. Age-related memory impairment: 240-600 milligrams extract for many ears.
2. Altitude (mountain) sickness: 160 milligrams of ginkgo once daily or 120 milligrams of ginkgo twice daily 4-5 days.
3. Autism: 100 milligrams of ginkgo for four weeks.
4. Bloodpressurecontrol: 120 milligrams of ginkgo extract for many years.
5. Cancerprevention: 120 milligrams of ginkgo extract twice daily for many years.
6. Cerebralinsufficiency: up to 160 milligrams of ginkgo daily 12 weeks in up to three divided doses.
7. Claudication (leg pain from clogged arteries): 80-320 milligrams of ginkgo extract daily in single or divided doses up to six months.
8. Cocainedependence: 120 milligrams of ginkgo daily 10 weeks.
9. Maculardegeneration (eye disease): up to 480 milligrams in single or divided doses up to six months.
10. Decreased libido and Erectile dysfunction (impotence): up to 240 milligrams of ginkgo extract daily up to 18 months.
11. Hearingloss: 120 milligrams twice daily.
12. Qualityoflife: 120 milligrams extract daily for 4-10 months.
13. Vertigo (dizziness): 160 milligrams daily for three months.
14. Vitiligo: 120 milligrams in two or three divided doses for up to six months.
15. Attention-deficithyperactivitydisorder (ADHD): 40-120 milligrams daily in single or divided doses for six weeks.
16. Dyslexia: 80 milligrams daily for a month.

Important Medicinal Properties

Gingko is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it is thrombolytic, antiplatelet and its oral intake may raise the risk of bleeding especially while taking blood-thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin), clopidogrel (Plavix), and aspirin.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Antiplatelet / Antiaggregant: decrease platelet aggregation and inhibit thrombus formation.
2. Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
3. Anti-allergic: prevents, or relieves an allergy.
4. Anti-asthmatic: treat or prevent asthma attacks.
5. Anticancer: protects against cancer.
6. Anticonvulsant: prevent or reduce the severity of epileptic fits or other convulsions.
7. Antitussive: prevent or relieve a cough.
8. Antiseptic: Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of infectious agents.
9. Antioxidant: neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.
10. Cardioprotective: protects heart
11. Cerebral Stimulant: stimulants act on the central nervous system and provide a temporary sense of alertness and well-being as well as relief from fatigue.
12. Neuroprotective: serving to protect nerve cells from injury or degeneration
13. Radioprotective: protect or aiding in protecting against the injurious effect of radiations.
14. Thrombolytic: destroying or breaking up a thrombus / blood clot.
15. Vasodilator: widening of blood vessels.
16. Vasoprotective: Acting to alleviate certain conditions of the blood vessels.

Health Benefits of Ginkgo biloba Extract available in market

1. It is an antioxidant.
2. It stimulates peripheral circulation or increases blood flow to the hands and feet.
3. It prevents degeneration of sensory organs.
4. It promotesmemory. It can be used as adjunctive therapy for schizophrenia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
5. It increasescerebral blood flow.
6. It increases the flow of glucose and energy unit into all cells.
7. It slowsdementia resulting from hardening of cerebral arteries.
8. It preventsspasm of bronchial smooth muscle.
9. It preventsplatelet aggregation.
10. It reducesplasma and blood viscosity.
11. It decreases the permeability of capillaries and protects the cell membrane by trapping deleterious free radicals.
12. It is good for reproductive health and helps in sexual dysfunction.
13. It has significant neuroprotective effects.

The oil containing Ginkgo is used in treatment of Alopecia as it improves cerebral microcirculation and hence increases oxygen supply. The drug is extracted in coconut oil and is massaged for at least 2 minutes to prevent hair fall.

Medicinal Uses of Ginkgo biloba Extract

Ginkgo biloba Extract is used in treatment of variety of diseases including:

1. As an Antioxidant
2. Alzheimer’s disease or senile dementia
3. Anxiety and depression
4. Attention deficit–hyperactivity (ADHA) disorder
5. Acute mountainsickness
6. Bronchialasthma
7. Cerebral insufficiency, cognitive performance and memory loss
8. Cognitive enhancement
9. Dementia
10. Diabetes and related circulatory disorders
11. Decreased libido
12. Glaucoma and macular degeneration
13. Intermittent claudication (cramping pain in the leg is induced by exercise, typically caused by obstruction of the arteries)
14. Impotence or erectiledysfunction of vascular origin (relating to vessel)
15. Memory enhancement
16. Sexual dysfunction related to SSRI antidepressants
17. Sudden unilateral hearingloss
18. Tinnitus of vascular origin
19. Prevention and treatment of high altitude sickness (hypoxia) and related ailments
20. Prevention and treatment of circulatory system/ heart disease
21. Vitiligo (chronic skin condition characterized by portions of the skin losing their pigment. It occurs when skin pigment cells die or are unable to function)

Availability in India

Ginkgo biloba extract are made from the leaves of the tree. Ginkgo leaf extracts are used in brain disorders such as dementia, disturbance in concentration, depressive emotional conditions, dizziness, tinnitus and headache. The extract has beneficial effects on the circulatory system especially in geriatric patients. Recently a pill containing extracts from Ginkgo has been launched for eliminating excess fat (cellulite) in women.

Ginkgo Biloba extracts are available in India in form of tablets / capsules.

1. HealthVit Ginkgo Biloba Capsules 60mg
2. HealthAid Gingko Vital (Ginkgo Biloba) capsules
3. Vista Nutritions Ginkgo Biloba Capsules 60 mg
4. Zenith Nutrition Ginkgo Biloba 60 mg Capsules
5. GNC Ginkgo Biloba 60 mg Capsules
6. Nature's Bounty Standardized Extract Ginkgo Biloba 60mg
7. Nutrilite Siberian Ginseng with Ginkgo Biloba
8. Schwabe Homoeopathy Ginkgo Biloba Tablets

Contraindications, Interactions, and Side Effects / Adverse effects of Ginkgo

1. Few side effects of Ginkgo include risk of bleeding, gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, and restlessness.
2. The seed contain toxin 4-O-methylpyridoxine. Eating many edible seeds can cause serious problems.
3. It has antiplatelet activity.
4. It should not be taken by people with a clotting disorder.
5. It should not be used by people who are taking the antidepressant drugs, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) or by pregnant women.
6. Very large doses may cause thinning of the blood, restlessness, diarrhea, nausea, and other mild discomforts.

Evolvulus alsinoides is known as Shankhpushpi, Vishnukarandhi, Vishnukrantha, Vishnu-kranta, Vishukarandi, Sankaholi and Morning-glory. It is a brain tonic, alterative, febrifuge, vermifuge and anti-inflammatory. Evolvulus is effective nootropic agent. It is mainly indicated in in loss of memory, sleeplessness, chronic bronchitis, asthma, and in syphilis. It is also used in the treatment of epilepsy, leukoderma, cuts and ulcers.

Shankhpushpi is brain tonic and primarily used for improving brain functions. In Sanskrit, Shankhpushpi means the plant with flowers shaped like a conch or Shankha and there are mainly three such plant species which have Conch shaped flowers and similar nootropic activities. All of the three are used as Shankhapushpi in preparation of various medicines either singly or in combination. These three plant are Clitoria ternatea, Convolvulus pluricaulis and Evolvulus alsinoides.

By J.M.Garg - Own work, GFDL, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4527326

---

In a study, done on rats the alcoholic extract of Evolvulus alsinoides exhibits a potentially superior nootropic effect as compared to alcoholic extract of convolvulus pluricaulis.

General Information

It is prostrate, much branched herb with small woody rootstock. The stem is spreading, wiry, hairy more than 30 cm long. Leaves are numerous, oblong-elliptic or lanceolate, 1.0-3.5 x 0.3-1.0 cm, obtuse at apex, densely covered with appressed silky hairs, petioles is short.

Flowers are light-blue, solitary, axillary, bracts lanceolate. Sepals are 4, lanceolate, densely silky. Corolla is funnel shaped. They are pollinated by insects. Seeds are dispersed by wind. Capsules are globose, 3-4 mm long, 4-valved. Seeds are usually 4, glabrous.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Vishnukraanti / Sankhahuli is Evolvulus alsinoides. The genus name comes from the Latin word “evolvulus” meaning “to unroll” and is referring to the species nonvining habit. It belongs to plant family Convolvulaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Asteridae
• Order: Solanales
• Family: Convolvulaceae – Morning-glory family
• Genus: Evolvulus L. – dwarf morning-glory P
• Species: Evolvulus alsinoides (L.) L. – slender dwarf morning-glory P

Variety:

• Evolvulus alsinoides (L.) L. var. angustifolius Torr. – slender dwarf morning-glory P
• Evolvulus alsinoides (L.) L. var. debilis (Kunth) van Ooststr. – slender dwarf morning-glory

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Whole plant and Leaves

Plant type: herb

Distribution: Open-grassy places, preferably well drained soil

Habitat: Throughout India

FloweringandFruiting: July-November

Vernacular Names

• Sanskrit: Vishnukranta, Laghu vishnukrantha
• Hindi: Sankhapushpi, Vishnukranta,Shyamakranta
• Kannada: Vishnukranti, Shankha vaelu, Vishnugranthi soppu
• Telugu: Vishnukraanthamu, Nalla Vishnukraantha
• Tamil: Vishnukranthi, Vishnukarandi
• English: Common evolvulus, Slender dwarf morning glory

Dosage of Vishnukranta

• Juice of whole plant: 20-30 ml
• Whole plant Dried Powder: 3-6 gm
• Cold infusion / Phanta of plant: 40-60ml

Constituents of Evolvulus alsinoides

Alkaloid; Evolvin, Betaine, Sterols, Proteins, Carbohydrates, Phenols compounds, Tannin.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

It is astringent, bitter and pungent in taste (rasa), sweet after digestion (vipaka), and is cool in effect (virya). This herb works on nerves, plasma, and reproductive system. It helps in mental, nervous, excretory and reproductive disorders.

It balances Vata, Pitta and Kapha. It is a Sheet Virya herb and gives nourishment to body and steadiness. It supports building of body fluids.

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent), Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Snigdha (Unctuous)
• Virya (Action): Sita (Cooling),
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Madhura (Sweet)

Action

• Tridoshhara (Alleviates three dosha Vata, Pitta, Kapha)
• Medya (tonic for brain)
• Majja dhatu Rasayan (Rejuventes nervous system)
• Vajikarak or aphrodisiac (increase the sexual power)
• Chedan (discharges from the body adherent phlegm or other humours)
• Nidrajanan (Promotes sleep)

Important Medicinal Properties

Vishnukranti is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. It promotes intelligence, enhance memory and retention, reduces stress, anxiety, depression, confusion and induces peaceful sleep.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Anti-stress: relaxes mind.
2. Antidepressant: alleviates depression.
3. Anxiolytic: reduces anxiety.
4. Analgesic: relieves pain.
5. Neuroleptic: reduce nervous tension by depressing nerve functions.
6. Immunomodulatory: modifies the immune response or the functioning of the immune system.
7. Nootropic: enhance memory or other cognitive functions.
8. Nervine: calm the nerves.
9. Psychostimulant: antidepressant or mood-elevating action.
10. Sedative: calming or sleep-inducing effect.

Health Benefits of Vishnukranta

1. It is one of the psychotropic drugs that cures nervous debility and dementia.
2. It treats disorders of nervoussystem.
3. It gives relief in anxiety, depression, pain, insomnia, epilepsy and fits.
4. It reduces stress.
5. It detoxifies body.
6. It helps in digestive impairment due to nervousness.
7. It has laxative action.
8. It has aphrodisiac action and strengthens reproductive system.
9. It is one of the best herbs used as a generaltonic and rejuvenative.

Medicinal Uses of Vishnukraanti

Vishnukraanti / Shankhapushpi / Morning Glory, plant is used in Ayurveda and Unani system of medicine to treat mental disorders, nervous weakness, insomnia, fever, cough, asthma and skin diseases. It helps is a general tonic and gives good health.

In nervous and brain disorders, memory loss, low I.Q., mental retardness, the dried powder of plant is given in dose of 3-6 grams or 10 grams of fresh paste is taken along with the cow’s milk for 1 month at bed time.

For cold and cough, the decoction of roots, is given thrice a day for three days.

In fever, with digestive disorder, its decoction with Tulsi leaves juice is given.

In chronic bronchitis and asthma, the leaves are made in to cigarettes and smoked.

As a generaltonic, the decoction of plant is used.

For cuts, ulcers, the paste of whole plant is applied externally to stop bleeding.

In toothache, the paste of plant is applied on the affected teeth

The root powder is used to improve libido.

For hair growth, the leaf paste is applied 30 minutes before bath for 1 month.

The oil containing, Shankhapushpi is used to promote hair growth and as hair tonic. Massaging with this oil strengthens hair and reduces stress.

There are no known side-effects of this herb.

Butea superba, is commonly known as Lata Palash, Belia Palash in India and Red Kwao Krua, in Thailand. It is mainly found in Central and Southern India, China, Vietnam, and hills of Thailand. Red Kwao Khrua is a medicinal plant with tuberous roots. The roots which are mainly used for medicinal purpose are rejuvenative tonic. Internal use of the roots extract / powder cures mental and physical weakness.

In Thailand, Butea superba is used traditionally to boost male sexual performance and prevent erectile dysfunction. Clinical studies, proves it is effective in increasing sperm count, and dramatically treating erectile dysfunction. As it supports better sexual performance in males, it is famous all over the world as Viagra alternative or Herbal Viagra.

Butea Superba products are effective in both internal and external uses. Internally, powder or capsules can be taken and externally the gels can be applied.

General Information

Butea superba, is a crawling woody vine that wraps around the large trees. Due to this characteristic it is known as Lata Palash or Bel Palash. It bears flowers of a yellowish orange color. Its roots are long and tuberous. The fresh tuber yield red sap on cutting.

The dried root powder of Butea superba, is used traditionally for centuries, to improve overall health.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Belia palas is Butea superba. It belongs to plant family Papilionaceae / Fabaceae.

Fabaceae is commonly known as pea family, consisting of 670 genera and nearly 20,000 species of trees, shrubs, vines, and herbs. The tree belonging to this family are distributed throughout the world and mainly characterized by compound leaves and the production of fruits known as legumes.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Rosidae
• Order: Fabales
• Family: Fabaceae ⁄ Leguminosae – Pea family
• Genus: Butea Roxb. ex Willd. – butea
• Species: Butea superba

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Bark, Seeds, Flowers and Roots

Plant type: Woody climber

Distribution: Central-Southern India, China, Vietnam, and hills of Thailand.

Dosage and Administration

Human efficacy study suggests using daily oral dosages of 500 mg - 2,000 mg dried tuber.

Vernacular names/Synonyms

Latin name: Butea superba

Ayurvedic: Lata-Palash (orange or orange scarlet-flowered var.), Belia palas, Palas-bel

White-flowered var. is equated with Butea parviflora Roxb.

Tamil: Kodi murukkan

Thailand: Red Kwao Krua

English: Climbing Pala

Other Common Names: Kwao Krua RougeButeae, Flamme de la Forêt, Kwao Krua Dang, Butea Gum Tree,

Constituents of Butea superba

Organic acid, sterol, sterol glycoside, falvonoid, flavonoid glycosides.

Benefits of Butea Superba for Male sexual Health

The root powder of plant is used to increase sexual vigour and to treat male sexual disorders. Due to high flavonoid and flavonoid glycoside content, it increases blood flow to male genitals and thus promotes normal sexual function and erection which further enhances sensitivity and performance.

1. It is a rejuvenating tonic.
2. It gives energy and stamina.
3. It increases spermatogenesis. Six months treatment with the root extract of plant significantly increases sperm concentration.
4. It induces better penis erection by increasing intracavernous pressure.
5. It is effective in treatment of erectile dysfunction.
6. It increase the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus.
7. It supports testosterone synthesis in the testes.
8. It increases blood flow to reproductiveorgans which helps in more frequent, longer lasting, stronger male sexual arousal.
9. It has aphrodisiac properties.

In a study, 3 male volunteers aged between 20 to 55, were given to 1.6 gram per day of Butea Superba for 2 months. They showed dramatic penile responses such as induction and elevation of early morning erection, erection frequency, penis strength, prolongation of erection, post-ejaculation erection, and intercourse frequency. The response was found to be dose-dependent, while a few volunteers felt neck ache and backache.

Other Benefits and Uses

1. It cures Anemia. For anemia, the fresh bark of the plant is used. The bark is crushed to get the extract. This extract is taken in dose of 3 ml for half month to cure anemia.
2. The oil obtained from the seeds have antiparasitic and blood pressure lowering effect.
3. The plant contains ß-sitosterol which lowers cholesterol levels and relieve symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate gland).
4. It is also used in painful urination, fever and diarrhea.
5. The paste of leaves of is applied topically on cuts, boils and wounds.
6. The paste of roots is applied on skin diseases, eczema and fractured bones.
7. The root powder is given to increase breast milk in mew mother after child birth.
8. The flowers yield yellow dye.

Availability in Market

Butea superba containing capsules and Gel, are available in market (as male sexual enhancement product) to support better sexual performance in males by treating weaker sexual stamina, sensitivity and poor erection.

Butea superba Capsules contain extract of this plant along with other medicinal herbs. The capsules are taken in dose of 1-2 capsules, twice a day after breakfast and dinner to improve sex drive, cure erectile dysfunction ED, premature ejaculation and for improving sperm count and male fertility.

The gel available in market, is applied on whole penis twice a day, in morning and at night and rubbed till it is absorbed. This is done to get better erection, and improve sexual performance.

Side effects

1. It increase testosterone levels and hence should be used by underage person.
2. It increases blood flow and therefore should not be used in hypertension, severe chest pain, and other heart diseases.
3. It should be taken in recommended dosage only.
4. The oral toxicological study using 90-day animal dosing reported adverse changes in hepatic function (increased levels of serum alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase), the androgen milieu (decreased serum testosterone level) and enlarged spleen, with a dose-dependent effect.

Jivanti(Leptadenia reticulata) is an important medicinal plant used in Ayurveda. The mention of Jivanti is even found in Atharva Veda. Charak and Bhavprakash, describe it as best among leafy vegetables. It is included in Jivaniya Gana, which is the group of herbs used for promoting vitality and life.

Jivanti is considered a stimulant and tonic in Ayurvedic literatures. It is indicated in debility due to seminal discharge. It is described as an herb with sweet, cold, aphrodisiac, light to digest and rejuvenative properties. It enhances life, vigour and fertility. Jivanti is Tridoshahara and balances Vata, Pitta and Kapha. This is drug of choice for emaciation, weakness, fever, difficult breathing, burning sensation in body, and fertility issues.

Though it is an important herb but the botanical identity of this plant is highly disputed.

Nowadays, there are many plants which are used as Jivanti.

In Bhavprakash, Dregea volubilis (Synonyms Marsdenia volubilis (L.f.) Cooke., Wattakaka volubilis (L.f.) Stapf.) is described as Jivanti. In Sanskrit this plant is known as Hema, Hemavati, Hemalatha, Swarnika, Swarnalatha, Hemajivanti, Swarna jivanti.

This plant is found growing in moist places. It is a large woody twining perennial shrub belonging to family Apocynaceae. It has pale green flowers in dense drooping umbels. It is a medicinal plant and used as emetic, diaphoretic and diuretic.

In Bengal, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, Dendrobium macraei Lindl., Synonym Flickingeria macraei (Lindl.) Seidenf., belonging to Orchid family is available as Jivanti. The whole dried plant is used as Jivanti. The Panchang is yellow in colour and known as Swarn Jivanti.

In Gujrat, Leptadenia Reticulata is used as Jivanti. It is grown as pot herb and used to treat diseases of eyes and tuberculosis. Leptadenia reticulata is used as Jivanti in preparation of many Ayurvedic medicines. This drug is accepted as real Jivanti by many.

This page is about medicinal plant Leptadenia reticulata, which is most commonly used as Jivanti / Jeevanti.

Leptadenia reticulata is known as Jivanti, Jivniya, Jivapushpa, Jivana in Ayurveda due to its life promoting qualities.

Charak used Jivanti as an important Rasayana. Sushruta used it for increasing sperm count and enhancing breast milk in lactating mothers. Vagabhatta included Jivanti in Jivaniya Gana. It is also known as Shak Shreshtha as it is considered very nutritive as Saag. Jivanti is given to prevent habitual abortion in women.

Jivanti gives life and improves voice. It balances three Dosha, Vata, pitta and Kapha, and cures diseases of eyes, weakness, cough, difficult breathing, burning sensation, prolapse of uterus, habitual abortion and sperm disorders.

General Information

Leptadenia reticulata is a twining shrub with numerous branches. The leaves are ovate to cordate, 4 to 7.5 cm long, 2 to 5 cm and petiole 1 to 3 cm long. They are glabrous above and pubescent below. Stem is rough, longitudinally ridged, wrinkled, furrowed, transversely cracked, bent and cylindrical. It is 5 to 10 cm long, 0.5 to 2.5 cm in diameter. The bark is yellowish brown, corky, deeply cracked.

Its flowers are greenish yellow.Flowering occurs in May and June, and fruiting begins in October and continues up to November. The roots are externally rough, white or buff colored with longitudinal ridges and furros. The tubers contain fructosan of the insulin type and are used as vegetable.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Jivanti is Leptadenia reticulata. It belongs to plant family Apocynaceae (Dogbane family), consisting mainly of trees, shrubs, herbs, stem succulents, and vines. The family Asclepiadaceae (now known as Asclepiadoideae) is considered a subfamily of Apocynaceae and contains 348 genera. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta
3. Division: Magnoliophyta
4. Class: Magnoliopsida
5. Subclass: Asteridae
6. Order: Gentianales
7. Family: Apocynaceae
8. Genus: Leptadenia
9. Species: reticulata

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Whole Plant

Plant type: climber

Distribution: Sub-Himalayan tracts of Punjab to Sikkim, Khasi hills, Utter Pradesh, Gujarat and throughout the Deccan Peninsula up to an altitude of 900 m. Also found in Mauritius, Madagascar, Sri Lanka.

Habitat: Grows in sandy loamy-clay soil

Status: endangered

Vernacular names/Synonyms

1. Latin name: Leptadenia reticulata
2. Ayurvedic: Jivanti, Jivaniya, Jivapushpa, Hemavati, Jivana, Shakashreshtha, Payaswini, Maangalya, Madhusrava
3. Siddha: Keerippaalai
4. Hindi: Dori
5. Bengali: Bhadjivai
6. English: Leptadenia
7. Gujarati: Methidodi, Dodi
8. Marathi: Haranvel, Hiranvel
9. Kannada: Hiriyahalle
10. Tamil: Palaikkodi
11. Telugu: Kalasa
12. Folk: Dodishaak (Gujarat), Dodi saka / Dodi Saag, Dori, Methidodi

Constituents of Leptadenia reticulata

The herb contains n-triacontane, cetyl alcohol, beta-sitosterol, betaamyrin acetate, lupanol 3-O-diglucoside and lepitidin glycoside. Reticulin, Deniculatin and Leptaculatin are three novel pregnane glycosides isolated from Leptadenia reticulata.

Stigmasterol has lactogenic properties on lactating mammary glands. It produces a significant galactopoietic response without any changes in the composition of milk or blood.

Dosage of Leptadenia reticulata

• The dried root powder is taken in dose of 3-6 grams.
• The decoction is taken in dose of 50-60 ml.
• The leaves of plant are used as vegetable. The maximum dose of raw herb that should be taken per day to treat disorders in 10-30 grams.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Jivanti is sweet in taste (Rasa), sweet after digestion (Vipaka), and is cool in effect (Virya). This herb works on all Dhatu.

It is a Sheet Virya herb and balances Tridosha. It supports building of body fluids. Sheet Virya herb gives nourishment to body and steadiness.

Rasa (taste on tongue): Madhura (Sweet)

Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Snigdha (Unctuous)

Virya (Action): Sita (Cooling)

Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Madhura (Sweet)

Ayurvedic medicines containing Jivanti (Leptadenia reticulata)

1. Anu Oil / Taila
2. Chyawanprash
3. Dabur Ratnaprash
4. Himalaya Confido
5. Himalaya Speman
6. Manasamitra Vataka
7. Unjha Sarpalin
8. Leptaden

Important Medicinal Properties

Jivanti is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb.

1. Anti-abortificant: Clinically trials using Leptaden found to be effective in treatment of threatened and recurrent abortion.
2. Antimicrobial: It has strong bactericidal activity.
3. Antiepileptic: It prevents or reduces the severity of epileptic fits.
4. Anti-implantation: It possess strong anti-implantation and uterotropic activity but no anti-estrogenic activity.
5. Anti-cancer: The study shows, ethanolic extract of the leaves significantly increase life span and decrease the cancer cell number and tumor weight. The extract also normalized Hematological parameters.
6. Anti-depressant: Leptadenia is effective in depression along with other herbs without producing any side effect and also showed in marked improvement in hysteria or epilepsy.
7. Antiulcer: tending to prevent or heal ulcers.
8. Diuretic: It increases urine volume significantly.
9. Hepatoprotective: It significantly reduces elevated serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels.
10. Hypotensive: lowers blood pressure.
11. Lactogenic: improve the lactation.
12. Spermatogenic: improves sperm count.
13. Immunomodulatory: It acts as a modulator and alleviates the immunosuppressive conditions.
14. Galactagogue: Leptadenia significantly increases milk flow due to lactogenic, anabolic and galactagogue effect.

Benefits of Jivanti (Leptadenia reticulata)

1. It is a tonic that boosts energy level of the body.
2. It gives the generalstrength to the body.
3. It is galactagogue and stimulates increase in milk production.
4. It has antibacterial and antifungal activities.
5. It promotes production of the male gametes and the male sexualhormones (androgens).
6. It improves sperm count, sperm motility and treats involuntary seminal discharge / spermatorrhoea.
7. It reduces phlegm and used as single drug in treatment of asthma.
8. The roots are antidiabetic due to presence of fructosan of the insulin type.

Medicinal Uses of Jivanti (Leptadenia reticulata)

Jivanti is stimulant, galactagogue, and restorative. It is used as single drug in treatment of Asthma. Jivanti is prescribed as a tonic in debility due to seminal discharges. It is recommended to treat General weakness, Cough, Asthma, Constipation, Abdominal tumors, Piles, Diarrhea, and Sperm Disorders.

1. Externally, the paste is applied topically for various skin diseases, wounds, allergies and inflammation of the skin. It is anti-abortifacient and prevents abortion.
2. The plant is used as a stimulant and tonic.
3. The fruits of plant are used in Kapha Dosha such as chest congestion, cough and cold.
4. The stem reduces blood pressure.
5. The leaves paste and roots are taken orally with water to cure gangrene.
6. The leaves and roots are antibacterial against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
7. Ayurvedic medicine Leptaden, which contains Jivanti as chief ingredient is effective in preventing threatened and recurrent abortion. Leptaden with Progesterone found to be effective against abortion problem and seem to have brought down the incidence of recurrent abortion. It is safe to use throughout pregnancy.
8. Another famous medicine is Himalaya Speman tablets. It is cost effective medicine that treats deficiency of sperm cells in the semen. It shows remarkably improved the total count and the motility of the sperms. It does not show any side effects.
9. In case of diarrhea, the root powder is taken in dose of 3-6 grams with water.
10. In fever, the decoction of root is taken in dose of 20 ml.
11. On cut, bleeding wounds, the leaves are applied.
12. In Gangrene, the paste of leaves and seeds are applied externally.
13. The leaves and roots are given to cattle for increasing milk-yielding capacity.
14. The plant is used as Saag or vegetables. Leptadenia is an edible plant and safe to eat.

Gaultheria Fragrantissima is known by many common names such as Gandhupura (Hindi), Fragrant Wintergreen and Indian Wintergreen (English). It is a fragrant small tree native to India and found in Central and Eastern Himalayas, Khasi Hills, Western Ghats, the Nilgiris and Travancore at the height of 5000 to 6000 meter. Wintergreen is an evergreen tree and bears white- purplish flowers.

The leaves of tree are aromatic due to presence of essential oil which is extracted by steam distillation. The oil is available as Gandhpura Taila (Ayurveda) or Wintergreen oil. It is aromatic, carminative and stimulant oil.

The principle ingredient present in Wintergreen oil is Methyl salicylate (about 97 to 99 %). Methyl salicylate, an organic ester, is a topical analgesic and applied on sprain, backache, arthritis, joint and knee pain. It is aspirin-type and used in preparation of many topical creams which are applied topically to get relief from pain.

By wplynn https://www.flickr.com/photos/warrenlynn/14631732812

---

General Information

Gaultheria is an evergreen Shrub growing up to one meter. It prefers moist, sandy and loamy soils. It bears hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) flowers which are pollinated by Insects. The fruits are purplish-blue, about 8mm in diameter. Its leaves and fruits are edible and used as condiment and tea.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Gandhapura, Gandhapurna is Gaultheria fragrantissima. It belongs to plant family Ericaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Dilleniidae
7. Order: Ericales
8. Family: Ericaceae – Heath family
9. Genus: Gaultheria
10. Species: Gaultheria Fragrantissima

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: leaves, Mainly the Volatile oil distilled from the leaves is used medicinally.

Plant type: Evergreen shrub

Distribution: Central and Eastern Himalayas, Khasi Hills, Western Ghats, the Nilgiris and Travancore,

Habitat: On dry slope, forests and shrubberies,

Vernacular names/Synonyms

1. Latin name: Gaultheria Fragrantissima
2. Ayurvedic: Gandhapura, Gandhapurna, Gandapuro, Gandapura
3. Siddha: Kolakkai
4. English: Fragrant Wintergreen, Indian Wintergreen

Constituents of Gaultheria Fragrantissima

Leaves contain hyperoside (quercetin-3-galactoside), ursolic acid, betasitosterol and essential oil (containing methyl salicylate as a major constituent).

Wintergreen Oil

Wintergreen oil (known as Gandhapura taila in Hindi) approximately 98% to 99.5% of the methyl ester, methyl salicylate. This oil is aromatic, stimulant, antiseptic and pain relieving.

Other names: Oil of Gaultheria, Oil of Wintergreen, Gandhapura Taila, Gandhapura Oil

Composition of Wintergreen oil

1. Methyl salicylate 99.5 percent
2. Paraffin
3. Aldehyde or ketone Ester
4. Secondary alcohol

Important medicinal properties of Wintergreen Oil

Antispasmodic: Used to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.

Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.

Analgesic: Gives relief in pain.

Antiseptic: Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of infectious agents.

Aromatic: Pleasant and distinctive smell.

Carminative: Preventing the formation or causing the expulsion of flatulence.

Stimulant: Induce temporary improvements

Vermifuge: Destroys or expels parasitic worms.

It is massaged on following conditions

1. Joint-knee swelling and stiffness
2. Local inflammatory swellings
3. Rheumatism, arthritis
4. Muscles pain-stiffness
5. Backache, sprain
6. Neuralgic pain
7. Sciatica
8. Tendonitis, cramps
9. Pain and ache

Wintergreen oil is also used as an ingredient in chewing gums, toothpastes and mouthwashes.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Gandhapura is bitter, sweet and pungent in taste (Ras) and sharp, unctuous in action (Guna). Its post-digestive effect (Vipak) is pungent.

Rasa (taste on tongue): Madhura (Sweet), Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)

Guna (Pharmacological Action): Tikshna (Sharp), Snigdha (Unctuous)

Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)

Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

It is an Ushna Virya herb. Ushna Virya or hot potency herb, subdues Vata (Wind) and Kapha (Mucus) and increases Pitta (Bile). It has property of digestion, vomiting and purging, and gives feeling of lightness. It is considered bad for sperms and fetus.

Action: Gandhapura is Svedana (promote the secretion of perspiration), Sangrahi (assimilating), Putihara (removing pus), stimulant, Vatahara (), balances Vata, Vedana-Sthapana (pain relieving), and vatanulomaka (normalizes flow within the body).

Important Formulations

Gandhpura Oil / Wintergreen Oil / Methyl salicylate is present in approximately all the proprietary creams, oil, balms and ointments which are applied on painful body area. Some of them are given below.

1. Himalaya Rumalaya gel
2. Himalaya Rumalaya liniment
3. Amrutanjan
4. Dabur Rheumatil Oil
5. Joint care Gel (DRDO)
6. Tooth pastes, Mouthwashes

Dosage of Wintergreen oil

• This oil is taken internally in very - very small doses. The maximum adult daily dosage is 175 mg.
• It is better to avoid its internal use.
• Generally it is applied topically on inflammatory and painful conditions.

Caution / Warning for Using Wintergreen

1. Wintergreen oil is high in methyl salicylate.
2. People sensitive to aspirin should not take wintergreen.
3. It prevents platelet aggregation.
4. It inhibits blood clotting and should not be taken by a person taking anticoagulant medicines.
5. It must not be taken by children.
6. Do not use in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
7. It causes birth defects when taken in pregnancy.
8. It is contraindicated in surgery, bleeding disorders, and GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease).
9. Topically it should not be applied on cuts, burns etc.
10. Keep away from the reach of the children.
11. The poisoning of wintergreen oil is lethal. It affects heart, liver and kidney.
12. The symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, drowsiness, rapid breathing, craving for water, central nervous system excitation, high temperature, high blood pressure, convulsions, and dehydration.

The medicinal plant Shalparni or Sarivan (Desmodium gangeticum) is extensively used in Ayurveda. It is one of the ten roots of famous anti-inflammatory formulation of Ayurveda, Dashmula. Dashmula is used since time immemorial to treat swelling inside body and intake of Dashmula balances Vata and Kapha, digests the ama and gives relief in pain. For medicinal use purpose whole plant is used.

By J.M.Garg (Own work) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

---

Shalparni roots are bitter alterative tonic with Anti-inflammatory, Anticatarrhal, fever reducing, carminative, digestive, laxative, emmenagogue, and diuretic properties. The roots are used traditionally for treating inflammatory conditions, chronic fever, cough, diarrhea, dysentery, biliousness, vomiting, piles, bronchitis, asthma, intestinal parasites, arthritis, rheumatism and post-delivery disorders. Acharya Charak prescribed the decoction (Kadha or Kwath) of leaves to treat Chardi (emesis), Atisar (diarrhoea), fluid retention, jwar and constipation.

General Information

Shalparni, is a 2-4 feet high erect under shrub with woody stem, branches covered with soft hairs. It is found in the forest and waste lands of India, from the plains and Western Ghats, and upto 1500 m in the north upto Sikkim.

Shalaparni plant leaves are unifoliate, ovate, oblong, obtuse, pubescent beneath and up to 15 * 8 cm long. Its inflorescence is many flowered, terminal or axillary, slender and 15-30 cm long. The flowers are small and of pink-violet colour. Pods are thin, pointed, 1.5 to 2 cm long clothed with minute hooked hairs.

Flowering and fruiting occur in month of August and November.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of is Desmodium gangeticum (L.) DC. It belongs to plant family Fabaceae. Fabaceae, is also known as Leguminosae or pea family and consists of about 20,000 species of plants including trees, shrubs, vines, and herbs distributed all across the world. The fruits are present inside a legume or seed pod.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Rosidae
7. Order: Fabales
8. Family: Fabaceae ⁄ Leguminosae – Pea family
9. Genus: Desmodium Desv. – ticktrefoil
10. Species: Desmodium gangeticum (L.) DC.

Synonyms:

1. Hedysarum gangeticum L.
2. Hedysarum maculatum L.
3. Meibomia gangetica (L.) Kuntze.

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Roots, leaves, Whole plant

Plant type: Perennial Herb

Distribution: Tropical Africa, Indian subcontinent, China, Japan, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Australia.

Group: Dicot

Vernacular names / Synonyms

Latin name: Desmodium gangeticum

1. Ayurvedic name: Salparni, Salaparni, Shaliparni, Shalparni, Shalparnih, Sthira, Somya, Guha, Triparni,
2. Vidarigandha, Anshumati
3. Hindi: Sarivan
4. English: Ticktrefoil
5. Assam: Biyanisaawata
6. Bengali: Salpani
7. Maharashtra, Satpura, Gujarat and Konkan: Salvan / Salwan, Shaalwan
8. Kannada: Murelchonne
9. Oriya: Saloporni
10. Punjabi: Shalpurni
11. Malayalam: Moovila
12. Telugu: Kolakuponna, Nakkotokaponna, Kolaponna, Gitanaram
13. Tamil Nadu: Pulladi, Sirupulladi Moovilai, Orilai
14. Urdu: Shalwan

Constituents of Desmodium gangeticum

The roots contain several alkaloids, flavonoids, pterocarpanoids— gangetin (gives antiinflammatory activity), gangetinin, and desmodin. The aerial parts contain indole-3-alkylamines and their derivatives.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action of Shalparni

The root of plant is astringent, bitter and sweet in taste (Rasa), sweet after digestion (Vipaka), and is hot in effect (Virya).

It is an Ushna Virya herb. Ushna Virya or hot potency herb, subdues Vata (Wind) and Kapha (Mucus) and increases Pitta (Bile). It has property of digestion, vomiting and purging, and gives feeling of lightness.

1. Rasa (taste on tongue): Madhura (Sweet), Tikta (Bitter)
2. Guna (Pharmacological Action): Guru (Heavy)
3. Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)
4. Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Madhura (Sweet)

Karma (Action with meaning)

1. Balya - increases strength
2. Tridoshahara - corrects the imbalance of Vatta, Pitta and Kapha
3. Vrishya - increases the quantity of semen
4. Vishahara - destroyer of poison
5. Angamarda Prashamana - useful in treating pain in body
6. Sukha Prasava kara - Oxytocics, induce labor
7. Sarvadoshahara - kills all diseases
8. Vatadoshajit - balances Vata
9. Rasayana - supports Rasa or plasma
10. Krimighna - destroys worms

Important Ayurvedic Formulations Based on Shalaparni

Dashmula (Group of Ten Drugs: Bilwa, Agnimantha, Shyonaka, Gambhari, Patala, Saliparni, Prishniparni, Brihati, Kantakari, Gokshura) and All Dashmula containing medicines such as Dashamularishta, Dashmula kwath, Dasamula taila etc.

1. Amritarishta
2. Amritaprasha Ghrita
3. Dhanvantara Taila
4. Indukanta Ghrita
5. Mahavishagarbha Taila
6. Mahanarayana Taila
7. Narayana Taila
8. Rasnadi Kvatha Churna

Important Medicinal Properties

Shalparni or Desmodium gangeticum is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

Antioxidant: neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.

Anti-inflammatory: reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.

Anti-nociceptive: inhibits nociception, the sensation of pain.

Anti-rheumatic: alleviating or preventing rheumatism.

Anti-osteoarthritic: Against Osteoarthritis.

Astringent: causing the contraction of body tissues.

Antipyretic / antifebrile / febrifuge: Effective against fever.

Anthelmintic: anti-parasitic, expel parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body.

Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.

Immunostimulant: stimulate the immune system by inducing activation or increasing activity of any of its components.

Laxative: tending to stimulate or facilitate evacuation of the bowels.

Nervinetonic: Anti-stress

Tranquilizer: reduce tension or anxiety.

Dosage of Desmodium gangeticum

5-10 grams as powder and 10-20 grams for preparing decoction.

Medicinal Uses of Shalaparni (Desmodium gangeticum)

Shalparni is used both internally and externally. Internally, it is used as a Rasayan, and to cure cough (Kasa), intestinal parasites (Krimi), fever (jwar), gynecological disorders, loose motion (Atisar), piles (Arsh), Swas (Difficulty to breath), muscle wasting (Sosha), vomiting (Vaman), dysuria (Mutrakricchra), Shotha (inflammation), Prameha (metabolic disorders), Vata roga, intermittent fever (Visham jwar) and disorders due to poison (Vish-vikar).

Scientific study done on aqueous decoction (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg) of roots and aerial parts shows anti-inflammatory activity in-vivo in dose-dependent manner.

The juice extracted from whole plant shows anti-rheumatic and anti-osteo arthritic activity via anti-inflammatory activity.

Diseases of skin

Boil Shalaparni leaves (2-3 grams) + Neem leaves + Tulsi leaves (5-7) and black pepper corn (2-3) in water. Filter and drink 1-2 times a day for few weeks.

Diarrhea and dysentery

The juice of roots or the decoction of leaves is given, twice/thrice a day to cure diarrhea and dysentery.

Eczema

The leaf paste is applied topically.

Hair fall

The leaf paste is mixed with Aloe Vera and applied topically.

Lumbago

The poultice of leaves is applied.

Mouth ulcer

Root powder mixed with honey is applied.

Premature ejaculation

The roots are chewed.

Post-delivery disorders and swelling in the body

The decoction prepared by boiling Shalaparni leaves or Roots powder (5 gram) + Dry Ginger (3 gram) powder and Carom Seeds / Ajwain (3 gram) in water (400 ml), should be taken 1-2 times a day daily.

Piles

The leaves paste is applied on anus once or twice a day.

Snake bite

Half-cup root decoction is taken orally as antidote.

Skin eruptions

The paste of seed powder with water is applied topically.

Vitiation of Vata, pitta and Kapha

The decoction prepared from whole plant is given in dose of 50-100 ml.

Wounds, ulcers

Decoction of plant is used to wash wounds and ulcers.

Caution, Side effects, Warning

1. Shalparni does not produce any toxic effect in recommended doses.
2. It did not show any acute toxicity in mice up to 7g/Kg orally.
3. It exhibits moderate anti-implantation and antifertility, activity in albino rats.

Oak galls / Majuphal or Manjakani are the outgrowth on the tree, Aleppo Oak (Quercus infectoria) native of Greece, Asia Minor, Syria and Iran. The excrescences are formed from the attack and deposit of eggs of female gall-wasp (Cynips gallae tinctoriae) on young twigs, leaves and buds. The galls are imported in India for medicinal use.

Galls are growth of oak tree tissue produced in response of chemical secreted by the larvae of gal wasp. The Oak Galls are hard, bluish green, resinous, spherical and of variable sizes. Various studies done on the galls show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, pain-relieving, skin lightening, anti-venom and anti-amoebic activities.

---

In Ayurveda, Galls are used in treatment of Piles (Arsha), Diarrhea (Atisara), Small Intestine Disease (Grahani), Oral Diseases (Mukha Roga), Dysentery (Pravahika), Dental Disorders (Danta Roga), Vaginal Tumor (Yoni Kanda) And Leucorrhoea (Shwet Pradar).

General Information

Quercus infectoria is a deciduous, semi-evergreen small tree or shrub with elliptical, glabrescent and up to 4 cm long leaves on drooping branches. It grows up to 6 feet at a medium rate. It is mainly found in low lands and mountain valleys. It requires moist soil. The tree bears monoecious flowers (either male or female flowers on same tree). Flowers are in axillary fascicles, pedicels filiform. Fruits are baccate and 8 mm in diameter. They become black while ripening. Root is cylindrical, branched and shows fibrous fracture, 6-10 cm long and 4-8 mm in thickness.

In Ayurveda, Majuphal consists of the dried gall obtained from plant Quercus infectoria Olivo. The galls are formed on the twigs, leaves of the plant from the insect attack. In some galls a small rounded hole leading to a cylindrical canal to the center, can be seen. It is formed by the insect to escape from the gall.

The galls are spherical or pear-shaped, hard and brittle. They are 1.2 to 2.5 cm in diameter and have a short basal stalk and numerous rounded projections on the upper part of the gall. They usually sink in water. The surface of gall is smooth, shining, bluish-green, olive green or white brown. They tastes astringent followed by sweetness. Average weight of ten galls picked at random should not be less than 2.5 grams.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Mayakku is Quercus infectoria. It belongs to Genus Quercus and family Fagaceae. There are about four-hundred fifty plant species belonging to Genus Quercus which are distributed all across the globe. Many of the species are commercially valuable as they provide timber, bark and Galls.

Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom : Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom : Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision : Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division : Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class : Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass : Hamamelididae
• Order : Fagales
• Family : Fagaceae – Beech family
• Genus : Quercus L. – oak
• Species : Quercus infectoria Olivier – Aleppo Oak

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Gall, seeds (edible)

Plant type: Small tree or shrub

Distribution: Native to Iran, Iraq, Turkey, Greece, Lebanon, Syria and Kurdistan. In India, the tree is found in Kumaun, Garhwal

Habitat: Semi-arid to semi-humid

Unani Properties: Cold and dry

What are Galls?

Galls are abnormal overgrowth / tumors caused by various parasites on host plant. There are more than 2,000 kinds of galls formed by wasps, flies, beetles, ants, moths, bacteria and viruses.

The parasite injects chemical in the plant that causes formation of galls. These over growths are used by the eggs and larvae as a house which provides food and shelter to growing insect.

Galls from various plant species are used as food, medicine and for making dyes and inks.

Vernacular Names /Synonyms

1. Latin name: Quercus infectoria
2. Sanskrit : Mayaphala, Majuphul
3. Assamese : Aphsa
4. Bengali : Majoophal, Majuphal
5. English : Oak Galls, Magic Nuts, Mecca Gall, Syrian Gall, Turkey Gall, Gallnut
6. Gujrati : Muajoophal, Mayfal, Maiphal
7. Hindi : Maajoophal, Majuphal, Mazu
8. Kannada : Machikaai, Mapalakam
9. Malayalam : Majakaanee, Mashikkay
10. Marathi : Maayaphal
11. Oriya : Mayakku
12. Punjabi : Maju
13. Tamil : Machakaai, Masikki, Mussikki, Machakai, Maasikkai, Masikkai
14. Telugu : Machikaaya
15. Urdu : Mazu, Mazuphal, Baloot, Mazu Sabz
16. Malaysia : Manjakani, Biji manjakani
17. Burma : Pinza-kanj-si, Pyintagar-ne-thi
18. Persian : Mazu, Mazu-E-Sabz
19. Arabic : Uffes, Afas, Ballut Afssi
20. Indonesia : Manjakani
21. Spanish : Encina De La Agalla
22. Swedish : Aleppoek
23. Thai : Ben Ka Nee
24. Turkish : Mzi Mesesi
25. German : Gall-Eiche
26. Other common names : Gall-Oak, Cyprus Oak, Nut-Galls, Asian Holly-Oak, Aleppo oak

Constituents of Quercus infectoria Galls

The main constituent of gall is Tannic Acid (50-70%), Gallic acid (3%) Starch and Sugars. Saponins, alkaloids, glycosides, triterpenes, sterols, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids are also found.

Aleppo galls contain highest tannic acid.

Dosage of Quercus infectoria Galls

The powder of Gall is given in dose of 500 mg to 1.5 grams twice a day with water / honey.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

It is astringent in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is cool in effect (Virya). It is a Sheet Virya herb. Sheet Virya or Cool potency herb, subdues Pitta (Bile). Sheet Virya herb gives nourishment to body and steadiness. It supports building of body fluids.

Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent)

Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)

Virya (Action): Shita (Cooling)

Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Action

Kaphahara - pacifies phlegm.

Pittahara - pacifies pitta.

Dipan - promote appetite

Grahi - dry the fluids of the body

Important Ayurvedic Formulations

Madayantyadi Churna

Gorochanadi Vati / Gutika

Important Medicinal Properties

Majuphal / Mazoo, is used for therapeutic purpose in Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani due to its certain medicinal activities. It is rich in tannic and gallic acid and has significant astringent action. It checks the bleeding and constricts the tissues.

Oak gall are used in treatment of Bleeding, Cancer, Cough, Dysentery, Eczema, Gonorrhea, inflammation of the gums, Piles, Malaria, Nervousness, Prolapse, Vaginal tightening and rejuvenation and Wound. Below is given medicinal properties of Gall powder.

Analgesic - relieve pain.

Astringent - causing the contraction of skin cells and other body tissues.

Desiccant - Drying agent

Diaphoretic - causes sweat

Hemostaticorhaemostyptic - stops the bleeding

Hypnotic - sleep-inducing

Hypoglycemic - Reducing level of the sugar glucose in the blood.

Sedative - promoting calm or inducing sleep.

TeethandGumTonic

Tonic - Restore or improve health or well-being.

Therapeutic uses of Majuphal / Mazoo / Nut Gall / Oak Gall

Mazoo / Majuphal is used in treatment of internal hemorrhages, diarrhea, gonorrhea, leucorrhoea and other vaginal discharges, to restore postpartum uterine elasticity and to stimulate the contraction of vaginal muscles. Externally it is applied on prolapses of rectum, relaxed, hemorrhoids, etc.

Gall powder is especially used in treatment of dental and oral problems. It is used as an ingredient in dental formulation (such as Gum Tone Charak) for treating gum problems, strengthening gums and teeth.

Anal fissure, vaginal laxity, anus prolapse, piles

Finely powdered gall (1 part) and Vaseline (4-6 parts) are mixed and applied topically.

Chronic diarrhea

In chronic diarrhea, 1 gram of powdered gall is taken, thrice daily with little cinnamon powder.

In advanced stage, the decoction is given in dose of 30-60 ml, thrice daily.

Gonorrhea

The powder of gall is taken 2-3 times a day in dose of 1-2 grams.

Leucorrhoea

Decoction of galls is used to wash the vaginal area.

Oral problems, nasal catarrh, sore throat

Due to high tannic acid content, the decoction / infusion is used as gargle in oral problems.

Poisoning (Nux vomica, Datura, Aconite, Opium, Antimony etc.)

Once the stomach is emptied, the decoction of galls is given in dose of 50-100 ml.

Piles, dysentery, diarrhea

Dry powder is taken in dose of 500mg to 1 gram with honey.

Prolapse of rectum

The decoction of galls is used as an enema.

Or keep a pad soaked in decoction on anal area.

For making decoction, boil 5-10 grams of bruised galls in half liter water for 10-15 minutes.

Sore throat, Tonsils

Gargle with decoction of galls added with alum.

Swelling

The galls are boiled, crushed and applied externally on affected body part.

Wounds

The gall powder is dusted on wounds.

Side Effects of Majuphal / Oak Gall

1. Galls are high in Tannins. In large doses, tannic acid can cause stomach irritation, nausea, vomiting, and liver damage.
2. It is better to avoid use of Oak gall during pregnancy.
3. Do not use if suffering from kidney or liver disorders.
4. Do not use continuously or in high quantities.
5. It can reduce the effectiveness of digestive enzymes.
6. It affects absorption of iron.
7. It aggravates Vata Dosha.
8. It causes constipation.

Cassia alata is a medicinal plant found growing in open wastelands near watery places. It is native to Southern North America and was introduced in India. It is commonly known as Ringworm Bush, Dadrughna, Dadmardan, Dadmari (Daad=Ringworm), etc. due to its effectiveness against ringworm.

---

Cassia alata is one of the oldest known medicinal plant of Central America where people used it for curing skin diseases, worms, fever, bites of insects etc. It is used throughout Asia Pacific to treat ringworms, goiter, hook worm infestation, sexually transmitted diseases, constipation and other skin diseases.

General Information

Cassia alata is a medium growing, soft wooded shrub reaching up to height of 6-8 feet. Its leaves are paripinnately compound with leaflets 8-14 pairs, 3-19 x 2.7-5.7 cm, oblong from an oblique base, entire, obtuse or retuse.

Flowers are bright yellow and are present in racemes. The fruits of plant are present in winged flat black pods. Seeds are quadrangular and of 6-8 x 4.5-5.5 mm in size.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Ringworm Bush is Cassia alata. Its synonym is Senna alata (L.) Roxb. It belongs to plant family Caesalpiniaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Rosidae
• Order: Fabales
• Family: Fabaceae ⁄ Leguminosae – Pea family (Leguminosae is further divided into three sub-families viz. Papilionoideae, Caesalpinioideae and Mimosoideae)
• Genus: Senna Mill. – senna Genus: Senna Mill. – senna
• Species: Senna alata (L.) Roxb. – Emperor’s candlesticks

Synonyms

Herpetica alata (L.) Raf.

Senna alata (L.) Roxb.

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Leaves, root bark, flowers

Planttype: Bush

Distribution: Found throughout India. Grows wild in wet places but is also cultivated as ornamental plant in gardens

Habitat: Humid and sub humid tropics, and on range of soils

Floweringandfruiting: September to February

Vernacular Names/Synonyms

1. Latin name: Cassia alata
2. Ayurvedic: Dadrughna, Dadrumardana
3. Siddha: Malanthakerai, Seemaiagathi
4. English: Ringworm Shrub, Ringworm Bush, Ringworm Senna, Broad-leaved Cassia, Ringworm cassia, Candle Bush (due to long terminal-auxillary racemes of golden flower), Emperor's candlestick, King-of-the-forest
5. Folk: Daadmaari
6. Bengali: Dadmardan, Dadmari
7. Chakma: Dadgach, Dattalong Gach, Dattalong Pada, Dhelong Pata, Dodolong Gach, Kabongfah;
8. Marma: Pouichibang, Pui Chi, Puiho Chiho, Sangko Maijiri, Pou Chi
9. Tripura: Khach Kochak, Khashabubaong, Khasowa
10. Khumi: Ciklaikinga
11. Tamil: Wandu-kolli, semaiagathi
12. Myanmar name: Thinbaw - mezali
13. Japan: Hane-senna
14. Malaya: Gelenggang, Daun Kurap
15. Bolivia: Kota-kota, Yunka mutuillu
16. Sri Lanka: Ath-thora

Constituents of Cassia alata

Leaves contain essential oil (composed of sesquiterpene and phenolic compounds, xanthone, cassiollin and kaempferol, 6-OH-musizin glycoside and tinnevellin glycoside). Roots contain quinine pigments. Leaves and fruits contain anthraquinone glycosides, chrysophanol, emodin, rhein, aloe-emodin and chrysophanic acid. Young pods contain rhein, emodin and aloe-emodin.

Important Medicinal Properties

Cassia alata is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. These also indicate the conditions in which we should avoid it. For example, it has Abortifacient action and therefore should not be taken internally in pregnancy.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

1. Abortifacient: induces abortion.
2. Antibacterial: active against bacteria.
3. Anthelmintic: expel parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body.
4. Antihistaminic: inhibit the action of histamine in the body by blocking the receptors of histamine.
5. Anti-asthmatic: treat or prevent asthma attacks.
6. Antiseptic: Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of infectious agents.
7. Antifungal / fungicidal - biocidal chemical compounds used to kill or inhibit fungi or fungal spores.
8. Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
9. Laxative: tending to stimulate or facilitate evacuation of the bowels.

Medicinal uses of Candle Bush / Ringworm Shrub / Cassia alata / Daadmaari

Senna alata is used traditionally to treat ringworm. Ringworm is a common fungal infection that can cause a red or silvery ring-like rash on the skin. It can occur on any part of the body. Ringworm is a contagious infection and can spread from on person to other by sharing contaminated clothes, towels, direct contact etc.

Asthma, Constipation

Make tea like preparation by pouring one cup of boiling water on one teaspoon of dried leaves of plant. Filter after 10 minutes and drink before going to bed.

Constipation, as laxative

The dried flower is ground and taken with honey to treat constipation.

Diarrhea, flatulence, poor appetite

Decoction of bark is taken with jaggery.

Eczema (Kanda or Kitibh in Ayurveda), herpes (Kaksha)

Eczema is also known as Atopic Dermatitis. It is a non-contagious skin condition in which there are dry, itchy, rashes on the face, inside the elbows, behind the knees, and on the hands and feet.

In eczema, the leaf paste is applied externally on the affected area.

Ringworm (Dadru), poisonous insect bites, blotch, washer man’s itch

1. The leaves are bruised and simply rubbed.
2. Juice of the leaves, mixed with lemon juice can be applied on affected area for 2-3 times a day. The poultice of flowers is also used for same purpose.
3. The leaves are washed and crushed to extract the juice. First the area is washed with plain water and then a layer of leaf juice is applied twice a day for one weak.

Skin disorders

The paste of pounded leaves and vegetable oil is applied externally.

Insomnia, palpitation and over sweating

The decoction is taken orally for insomnia, palpitation and over sweating.

Dosage of Cassia alata

The Dried powder of leaf or flower is taken in a dose of 3 to 5 grams.

Warning

1. Don’t use in pregnancy.
2. Always wash the plant part thoroughly before use.

Cocculus indicus, Levant berries (fruits of the plant), Fish poison, Fish berry, Kaka-mari (one that kills crow) are few synonyms of Anamirta cocculus. It is a climber native to India. It belong to plant family Menispermaceae. The fruits of plant are used medicinally.

By H. Zell - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=10099596

---

The berries / fruits of plant are slightly bigger than full-sized pea and are round shaped. They are wrinkled and blackish brown in colour. The kernel is white, bitter in taste, and oily. The seed contains approximately 1.5 percent of poisonous crystalline principle, Picrotoxin (sesquiterpene glycoside C₃₀H₃₄O₁₃). Picrotoxin is also present in leaves.

Picrotoxin is a convulsant. It is a noncompetitive antagonist at GABA-A receptors. Picrotoxin is used as a central nervous system stimulant, antidote, convulsant, and GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid) antagonist. The fishermen in southern India use the seeds of plant as a poison to stun fish and catch them easily.

Since, Anamirta cocculus seeds are powerful poison they are not used internally. Externally it is used as insecticide.

Homeopathic Remedy Cocculus indicus

In Homeopathy, remedy Cocculus indicus (tincture) is used in treatment of central nervous system disorders, especially vertigo, dizziness, nausea, sea- and travel sickness, vomiting, hypersensitivity to touch, convulsions, neurological disorders and psychosis-related fear.

The remedy is prepared by macerating the powdered seeds in alcohol. Cocculus indicus remedy is most effective for people suffering from severe fatigue, insomnia, nausea due to travel or motion and unconsciousness. The symptom are better by sitting in a warm room or lying quietly. The symptoms are worse by cold, lack of sleep, movement, anxiety and stress.

Therapeutically, Cocculus indicus indications are same as nux vomica, but it is less irritating to the nerves compared to nux vomica.

General Information

Anamirta cocculus, is a shrub native to India. It is a climber having corky shoots, unisexual flowers and seeds in drupe. The leaves are large, simple, alternate, long petiolated, broadly ovate, sub coriaceous, cordate at base, having acute apex. The seeds are known as fish berries, as they are chiefly used to poison fish.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Fish Berry / Levant Berry, Poison Berry / Crow Killer is Anamirta cocculus (Linn.) Wight and Arn. It belongs to plant family Menispermaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Magnoliidae
7. Order: Ranunculales
8. Family: Menispermaceae – Moonseed family
9. Genus: Cocculus
10. Species: Cocculus indicus

Synonyms

Anamirta paniculata Colebr.

Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Seeds

Planttype: Climber

Distribution: The Khasi Hills, Orissa and peninsular India

Distribution: Found in India and Southeast Asia.

Vernacular names

1. Ayurvedic : Kaakaadani, Kaakamaari
2. Siddha/Tamil : Kaakkaikkollividai
3. English : Fish Berry, Levant Berry, Poison Berry, Crow Killer
4. Hindi : Kakamari ke beej
5. Bengali: Kakamari
6. Tamil : Kakkay Kolli varai, Pen Kottai
7. Telugu : Kakamari, Kaki Champa
8. Malyalam : Pollak Kaya
9. Tehran : Marg-i-mahi
10. Iraq : Zahar

Constituents of Anamirta paniculata

Anamirta paniculata contain different active principles such as alkaloids such as berberine, palmatine, mangoflorine, colubamine, picrotoxin, minispremine, paraminispermine, and fatty acids like stearic acid, palmatic acid, fumeric acid, oleic acid and linolenic acid.

Important Medicinal Properties

1. Anodyne: Relieves pain without causing loss of consciousness
2. Antifungal: effective against fungus
3. Antiulcer: tending to prevent or heal ulcers
4. Hypnotic: sleep-inducing
5. Insecticide: kills insects
6. Narcotic: addictive drug affecting mood or behavior
7. Nervestimulant: stimulates nerves
8. Sedative: promoting calm or inducing sleep

Uses of Anamirta cocculus

The seeds of fish berries contain toxic picrotoxin. Picrotoxin, is used as antidote against poisoning of barbiturates and morphine. For this purpose, it is given intravenously. As the seeds are lethal they are used only externally by common people.

1. The seeds preparation as ointment is applied on obstinate skin diseases.
2. The juice of fruits is applied externally on scabies and ulcer.
3. The fruit paste is applied topically to treat tinea/ringworm.
4. For itch and herpes, the fine powder of seeds is mixed with castor oil and applied topically.
5. To kill lice and other parasites, the paste prepared from the seeds (about 5 gram) is mixed with oil (50 ml) and applied.
6. The infusion of roots, is used to treat fever, menstrual problems and indigestion.

Warning

1. Cocculus indicus is a powerful poison. Picrotoxin at 20mg is toxic.
2. Oral intake of berries can kill. Even two to three berries are lethal.
3. When taken orally it causes unconsciousness, delirium, convulsions, gastro-enteritis and stimulation of the respiratory center followed by paralysis.
4. It must not be applied on abraded, ulcerated, cut, bruised or damaged skin.

Bada Gokhru, Brihat Gokhru, Large caltrops, Peru-neranji, Kaitu nerinjil are few common names of Pedalium murex. It is a medicinal plant and used in Ayurveda, for treatment of calculi, spermatorrhoea, amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, inflammation, ulcers, fever and other disorders of genitourinary system. It has significant diuretic properties due to which it increases flow of urine and hence used in urinary, kidney stones and dropsy. The decoction of the fruits is used as demulcent, diuretic, antispasmodic and aphrodisiac. According to Ayurveda, it is cooling, improves appetite, purifies blood, tonic and aphrodisiac. The fruits of the plant are found to be very effective to cure spermatorrhoea.

By Marco Schmidt [1] (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

---

Bada Gokhru is completely different from Tribulus terrestris Linn. which is known as Gokshura or Chota Gokhru, Trikantak, Land caltrops and Puncture vine.

Fruits of T. terrestris are the genuine source of the drug Gokshura. In classical texts the fruits of Brihat Gokhru are mentioned as a substitute but in practice it is considered as an adulterant of Chota Gokhru. Read in Hindi about Chhota Gokharu.

Tribulus terrestris, is a prostrate, annual or biennial plant found growing as a weed in hot, dry and sandy regions in the rainy season. It belongs to plant family Zygophyllacease, the bean caper family and grows in hot, arid landwhereas Pedalium murex belongs to Pedaliaceae, the sesame family and grows in dry and hot coastal areas. When the leaves, fruits, young twigs of Pedalium murex are agitated in water or milk, a viscid mucilage is formed. This mucilage is diuretic, demulcent and tonic.

Perhaps both the plant share the name Gokhru (differentiated by Bada / large and Chota / small) due to similarity in appearance (fruits conical with four spines), medicinal uses (curing diseases of urogenital system) and flower colour (yellow).

General Information

Bada Gokhru is annual, fleshy, succulent diffuse, much branched herb, growing up to 38 cm in height. Its roots are white in appearance and emit musk like sweet aroma. The leaves of plant are fleshy, simple, opposite, alternate, ovate-oblong, 3.2-5.3 cm x 1-2.7 cm. The inflorescence is axillary and terminal. Calyx is deeply 5 lobed. Corolla is yellow in colour, tubular and round lobes. Stamens are four.

Fruits are bluntly four angled with stout, sharp, conical horizontal spines from the angles.

The leaves and stems when agitated in cold water turn into tasteless, colorless thick mucilage. This mucilage is of medicinal importance.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Bada Gokhru is Pedalium murex. It belongs to plant family Pedaliaceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae - Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta - Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta - Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida - Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Asteridae
7. Order: Lamiales
8. Family: Pedaliaceae - Sesame family
9. Genus: Pedalium
10. Species: murex

Synonyms

1. Pedalium microcarpum Decne.
2. Pedalium muricatum Salisb.
3. Rogeria microcarpa Klotzsch
4. Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Seeds and leaves
5. Plant type: Succulent herb
6. Distribution: Found all over India, especially in sea-coasts of Southern India; Also found in many tropical countries such as Sri-Lanka, Tropical Africa, Madagascar, Mexico.
7. Habitat: coastal soil
8. Flowering: May to December
9. Fruiting: June to January

Vernacular names/Synonyms

1. Latin name: Pedalium murex
2. Sanskrit: Brihat Gokshru, Gaja Daunstree, Kshouraka, Trikantaka, Gokantaka, Swadukantaka, Bhakshantaka
3. Hindi: Bara Gokhru, Bada Gokshru, Kadva Gokhru, Pila gokhru, Vilayati gokhru
4. English: Large Cattrops
5. Bengali: Baraghokru, Barogokhur
6. Marathi: Hatticharatte, Mothe Gokharu, Moto
7. Gujarati: Motto Gokharu, Kadvaghokru, Mothan Gokhru
8. Oriya: Gokara, Gokshur
9. Panjabi: Gokru Kalan
10. Telugu: Enugupalleru, Pedda Palleru, Kaitu neinjil
11. Tamil: Anainerinji, Anai nerunji, Peru Nerunji Ananerinnil
12. Arabic: Khasake-Kabir
13. Persian: Khasake-Kalan
14. Burmes: Sulegi
15. Singapor: Ati neranchi
16. Siddha: Peru-neranji, Annaineringi
17. Urdu: Farid Booti / Buti
18. Unani: Khaar-e-khasak Kalan, Gokharu Kalaan

Constituents of Pedalium murex

Leaves contain several flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids, resins, saponins, protein, Dinatoin glycoside, diosmetin glucuronides.

Saponins, herman, phytosterols, tannins and carbohydrates are present in stem.

Roots of the plant contain Reducing sugars, phenolic compounds, saponins, xanthoproteins, alkaloids, triterpenoids and flavonoids.

Fruits contain Alkaloids 3.5%–5%, stable oil, aromatic oil, resins, glycosides, carbohydrates, saponins and triterpenoids. Nonacosane, tritriacontane, triacontanoic acid, sitosterol-beta-D-glucoside, rubusic acid, luteolin are the major constituents of seeds.

Flowers contain dinatin, quercetin and quercetin-7-glucoside.

Important Medicinal Properties

Brihat Gokhru is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb.

Antibacterial: active against bacteria.

Anti-hyperlipidemia: promoting a reduction of lipid levels in the blood.

Anti-nephrolithiatic: Effective against kidney stones

Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.

Antioxidant: neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.

Antiulcer: tending to prevent or heal ulcers.

Aphrodisiac: stimulates sexual desire.

Hepatoprotective: prevent damage to the liver.

Nephroprotective: protects the kidneys

Increases testosterone

Tonic: Restore or improve health or well-being.

Medicinal uses of Bada Gokhru

Bara Gokhru or fruits of Pedalium murex are used traditionally for the treatment of genitourinary disorders, spermatorrhoea, nocturnal emissions, menstrual irregularities, puerperal disorders, ulcers, fever, wounds, other ailments and general debility.

The juice of leaves, or stem is used as sexual tonic, aphrodisiac, and to improve sexual performance. The infusion or decoction of plant is used in spermatorrhoea, painful urination, gonorrhea, calculi, urinary disorders etc. Infusion of the leaves and stem in cold water is demulcent, diuretic and used for the treatment of gonorrhea.

Fresh leaves and young shoots of plant are soaked in in boiling milk for few minutes and used as an aphrodisiac.

Aphrodisiac, Sexual dysfunction

The fruits powder (5 gram) is boiled in milk and taken twice a day.

Boil Shatavari (10 gram) + Bada Gokhru (10 gram) in one glass milk. Take once - twice a day.

Calculi

The powder of fruits (5 grams) is taken with 1 spoon honey, followed by Goat milk, thrice a day.

Diarrhea

The decoction of fruits is given in dose of 50-100 ml twice a day for 2-3 days.

Gonorrhea, painful urination

The infusion of leaves and stem is taken for ten days.

For making the infusion, 4-8 fresh leaves of plant are agitated in one cup water.

Always use freshly prepared infusion.

Impotence, seminal weakness, premature ejaculation, nightfall, spermatorrhoea (involuntary discharge of semen)

For sexual disorders of males, a simple Ayurvedic formulation known as Vriddha Dand Churna is made and taken daily in dose of 5-10 grams with milk.

For making this medicinal powder, 7 ingredients viz. Bada Gokhru + Kevanch beej + Safed musli + Safed Semar ki Jad + Giloy Satva + Anvla / Amla + Mishri, are taken in equal amount and ground to make powder. This powder is stored in air tight container and taken in recommended amount.

Impotence

The plant is boiled in milk and taken orally with honey, twice a day for 30 days.

Rheumatism, lumbago

Powder of fruits are mixed in ladoos (local sweet) and eaten.

Fresh plant crushed and soaked in water is given in rheumatism.

Ashwagandha plant root powder mixed with powder of Bada Gokhru seeds are taken orally.

Decoction of fruits (10-20 grams) and sonth is made by boiling in 400 ml water till water is reduced to 100 ml. This is filtered and taken twice a day.

Syphilis

The decoction of fruits with the roots of Abrus precatorius is taken orally.

Ulcers, swelling, itching

Paste of leaf is applied on affected body area.

Dosage of Pedalium murex

• The recommended dosage of roots / fruits is 3-5 grams.
• The decoction is taken orally in dose of 50-100 ml.
• Powder of leaves is taken in dose of 10 grams.
• Brihat Gokhru is used since time immemorial to treat variety of diseases. All parts of plant are edible and safe for oral intake.

Kalijiri, Ban jira, Vanyajiraka, Somraji, Bitter cumin are few common names of the seeds of a plant, Centratherum anthelminticum. The word anthelminticum in scientific name, clearly suggests the medicinal usage of plant, which is to treat parasites.

Due to hot, sharp, bitter taste and strong bad odour, Kalijiri is not used in preparation of food but mainly as medicine. In Ayurveda, they are especially used in treatment of intestinal parasites and diseases of skin. They are also used in treatment of fever, cough and diarrhea.

In India, the seeds of three plants are known as Kalajiri or Black cumin viz. Nigella sativa (Ranunculaceae), Bunium persicum (Umbelliferae) and Centratherum anthelminticum (Asteraceae).

Also, there are two species of plant which are known as Somraji, one is Psoralea corylifolia and other is Centratherum anthelminticum. Both are used in treatment of skin diseases and leukoderma. In Bengal, mainly Centratherum anthelminticum is referred as Somraji or Bakuchi / Babchi.

General Information

Centratherum anthelminticum (L.) Kuntze (Fam. Asteraceae) Synonym Vernonia anthelmintica, is found throughout India up to 1850 meter. It is naturally found in Himalaya and Khasi hills. It is often cultivated for medicinal purpose.

It is a tall, robust, branched, glandular-pubescent annual plant reaching height of 2-3 feet. Leaves are membranous, lanceolate or ovate-lanceolate, coarsely serrate and 5-9 cm in length and 2.5-3.2 cm in breath. The leaves are covered with hairs. Inflorescence is many, subcorymbos and in cluster. Flower head bear 30-40 minute purplish flowers. Fruits of plant are called achenes. The seeds of plant are 3 to 5 mm long and 1 to 2 mm in diameter. They are blackish-brown to black in colour and taste bitter. The plant bear seeds in May to June.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Kaliziri / Purple Flea-bane / Achenes is Centratherum anthelminticum. It belongs to plant family Asteraceae. Below is given taxonomical classification of plant.

1. Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
2. Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
3. Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
4. Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
5. Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
6. Subclass: Asteridae
7. Order: Asterales
8. Family: Asteraceae – Aster family
9. Genus: Centratherum Cass. – centratherum
10. Species: Centratherum anthelminticum

Synonym: Vernonia anthelmintica Willd.

• Part(s) used for medicinal purpose: Seeds
• Plant type: Herb
• Distribution: Throughout India up to 2000 min the Himalayas and Khasi Hills.
• Habitat: Himalayas and Khasi Hills
• Flowering: Rainy season
• Fruiting: Spring season
• Main disease for which it is used: leukoderma and other chronic skin diseases.

Common names/Synonyms / Names in other languages

1. Latin name: Centratherum anthelminticum (Willd.) Kuntze
2. Ayurvedic: Vanyajiraka, Aranya-Jiraka, Aranyajirakah, Kaalijiri, Karjiri, Brihatpali, Vanajiraka, Somaraji (Psoralea corylifolia is also refered as Somaraji)
3. Siddha: Kaattu seerakam
4. Unani: Kali zeeri, Kamoon barri
5. Folk: Ban jira
6. Bengali: Somaraaj, Babchi (Psoralea corylifolia is also equated with Babchi / Bavchi)
7. Gujrati: Kaaleejeeree, Kadavijeeree, Kadvo-jiri
8. Punjabi: Bukoki, Kakshama, Kala-zira, Kali-ziri, Malwa-bakchi, Malwabakshi
9. Hindi: Kaalijeeree, Karajiri, Soharaai, Bakchi, Bakshi, Buckshi
10. Kannada: Kaadujeerage, Kaarijirige, Kadu-jirage
11. Malayalam: Krimishatru, Kattujirakam
12. Marathi: Kadujire
13. Telugu: Adavijilakaroa, Garetikamma
14. Tamil: Kaattuchirakam, Chittilai, Kaattu Chirakam
15. English: Stone wart, Purple Fleabane, Achenes, Bitter cumin, Black cumin
16. Arabic, Persian: Atarilal, Itrilal, Karoune-bari

Constituents of Centratherum anthelminticum

The major classes of chemical constituent present are glycosides, carbohydrates, phenolic compounds and tannins, flavanoids, proteins, saponins, sterols, lipids and fats.

The seeds contain about 14.7% carbohydrates, 21.4% fat, 22.5% protein, 29.3% fiber and 4.9% moisture. The seeds contain fatty acids viz. linoleic acid (50 %), palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, stearic acid, and oleic acid.

The main active principle of seeds is Delta-7-avenasterol. They also contain demanolide lactone, vernasterol, Sterols, avenasterol and vernosterol, a bitter principle, essential oil, resins and fixed oil consisting of myristic, palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and vernolic acids.

The seeds contain fixed oil 18% and volatile oil 0.02%.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action

Kali zeeri is astringent, bitter, and pungent in taste (Rasa), pungent after digestion (Vipaka), and is hot in effect (Virya). Kali zeeri is an Ushna Virya herb. Ushna Virya or hot potency herb, subdues Vata (Wind) and Kapha (Mucus) and increases Pitta (Bile). It has property of digestion, vomiting and purging, and gives feeling of lightness.

In Ayurveda, Kalijiri is used in treatment of pain, asthma, gulma, hiccups, fever, cough, parasites, skin diseases, retention of urine, vitiation of blood, wound, eczema, and leucoderma.

• Rasa (taste on tongue): Kashaya (Astringent), Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
• Guna (Pharmacological Action): Laghu (Light), Tikshna (Sharp)
• Virya (Action): Ushna (Heating)
• Vipaka (transformed state after digestion): Katu (Pungent)

Karma / Action

• Jantunashak (Kills parasites)
• Deepana (promote appetite but do not aid in digesting undigested food)
• Kaphahar (Remover of the Humor of Kapha)
• Vatahar (Balances Vata)
• Mutral (diuretic)
• Stambhana or constipators have drying, astringent and cooling qualities. They are easy to digest and increase the air.
• Vaman karak: causes vomiting.
• Charmrog nashak: Cures skin diseases.

Famous Ayurvedic medicines containing Centratherum anthelminticum

1. Madhusnuhi Rasayan for Skin diseases
2. Divya Kayakalp Kwath for Skin and Obesity
3. Divya Madhunashini Vati for Diabetes

Important Medicinal Properties

Kalijiri is rich in medicinal properties. The understanding of these properties will help us to better utilize this herb. It has a good anthelmintic property and used for the treatment of various skin infections. It is used traditionally to cure skin diseases, asthma, kidney troubles, cough and to remove blood from liver.

Below is given medicinal properties along with the meaning.

• Antimicrobial: active against microbes.
• Antidiabetic: controls blood sugar level.
• Anthelmintic: antiparasitic, expel parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body.
• Astringents: Constrict tissues; styptic.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reducing inflammation by acting on body mechanisms.
• Antiseptic: Capable of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of infectious agents.
• Antioxidant: neutralize the oxidant effect of free radicals and other substances.
• Antiulcer: tending to prevent or heal ulcers.
• Diuretic: Promoting excretion of urine/agent that increases the amount of urine excreted.
• Digestive: digestant.
• Hypotensive: Reduces blood pressure.
• Insecticide: Kills insects.
• Stomachic: stimulates gastric activity.
• Smooth muscle relaxant

Scientific study show the seeds are effective against:

1. Escherischia coli (Gram-negative bacteria, causes diarrhea, urinary tract infections, respiratory illness and pneumonia etc.)
2. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Gram-negative bacteria, cause disease)
3. Trichoderma piluliferum (fungus)

Benefits of Kalijiri when used as medicine

1. It has significant anthelmintic action.
2. It is used since time immemorial to treat skin diseases.
3. It detoxifies blood.
4. It reduces blood sugar and blood pressure.
5. It has diuretic (increase the rate of urine flow) action.
6. It stimulates insulin secretion.
7. It may help to weight loss.
8. It is astringent to the bowels and helps in diarrhea.
9. It cures ulcer.
10. It reduces cough due to antiphlegmatic action.
11. It has antifialarial action and helps in filaria.
12. It is a good source of antioxidants.

Medicinal uses of Kalijiri

Kalijiri is specifically used in Ayurveda for treatment of skin diseases. It has anthelmintic action and used against threadworm, roundworm, earthworm and tapeworm. Topically, it is used to cure lice, inflammation and skin diseases.

Chronic skin disease, Psoriasis

Kalijiri seeds + black pepper / black sesame seeds are taken in equal amount and ground. The prepared powder is taken in dose of 4 gram daily, once a day in the morning with water after sweating by sun or exercise. This should be taken daily for one year.

Cough, Flatulence

The infusion of seeds is given.

Diuretic, tonic, stimulating gastric activity

Infusion of seed is used.

Expel fleas

The plant roasted in a room, or plant powder sprinkled in room is used to expel fleas.

Infective hepatitis

Powder of dried seeds is taken in dose of 1-3 grams empty stomach for five days.

Leukoderma

Kalijiri powder 4 part + Peeli Hartaal 1 part, is ground to make paste in Gau mutra (Cow Urine) and applied topically on affected skin area.

Loss of appetite

Kalijiri seeds + Ajwain, are taken in equal amount and crushed. This s taken to cure loss of appetite.

Lice

The bruised seeds are ground into a paste and mixed with lime juice and applied.

Leprosy

The seed powder is taken with til seeds.

Malaria

The seeds are used in treatment of malaria.

Paralysis of the legs

The paste of seeds is applied.

Round worms

The seed powder is taken with castor oil (laxative).

Skin Diseases

Take seeds of plant. Ground them to make powder.

3 gram of this powder is taken with Old Gur / Jaggery twice a day.

Dosage of Centratherum anthelminticum

1. The seed powder is taken in dose of 1-3 grams.
2. Caution, Side effects, Warning
3. It is a very hot potency medicine.
4. Do not use in pregnancy.
5. Seeds show anti-implantation activity in rats.
6. In excess, it is harmful for intestine.
7. It can cause cramps in abdomen and vomiting.
8. Internal intake should be taken carefully.

If internal intake causes side-effects, then take Cow milk / fresh Amla juice or Amla Murraba.