Herbal remedies

82. Calotropis - a plant with significant therapeutic value

2017-08-01T19:29:00.000+05:30

Calotropis gigantea

Milk weed or Swallow-wort/ Arbre de Satan, Pommier de Sodome, Arbor-a-soie in French / Ak, Akada, Madar in Hindi/ Mandara, Arka, Raktarka, Alarka and Surya patta in Sanskrit/ French cotton, Crown flower or Bonba in Spanish

Herbal medicines exhibit a remarkable therapeutic diversity. In ancient Ayurvedic medicine the plant Calotropis procera was known as “Rakta arka”.

This plant is taxonomically known as Calotropis, it belongs to the dogbane family, Apocynaceae.

Dogbane, Dog-bane, Dog's bane, and other variations, some of them regional and some transient, are names for certain plants that are reputed to kill or repel dogs; "bane" literally means "death".

For example one of the members of the dogbane family is a Desert Rose (Adenium Obesum) native to Africa, see below.

So, Calotropis is native to southern Asia and North Africa. It occurs frequently in Indonesia, Malaysia, China, and the Indian subcontinent as wasteland weed. In India, it is found from the Punjab and Rajasthan to Assam and Kanyakumari up to an altitude of 1050 m. It grows abundantly in Rajasthan.

Calotropis may be regarded as a succulent shrub, or a bushy tree that grows up to 6 m in height with soft woody stems and thick corky bark. Calotropis is easy to recognize as it has clusters of waxy flowers that are either white or lavender in colour and the thick bladder like spongy fruit.

White milky latex is abundantly found in the whole plant. It contains cardio glycosides, volatile fatty acids and calcium oxalate. This milky latex is poisonous and very dangerous to eyes. Don’t touch it, some people have allergic reactions. This plants sap is toxic and is used as an arrow poison.

Sanskrit texts including Ayurveda make a mention of two principal varieties of Calotropis – Shwet Ark (hindi), Giant Milkweed or the Calotropis with white flowers (C.gigantea), and Raktarka (hindi), Sodom’s Apple or Calotropis with red or purple flowers (C. procera).

Everyday uses & its role in urban ecosystem

The Giant Milkweed plays its part fot the biodiversity - it is the food plant of the Plain Tiger butterfly and the Painted Grasshopper. It is also a beautiful and easy to grow plant. Not only will it add beauty to your garden it will also attract one of the most striking butterflies in India – The Plain Tiger butterfly, see below.

The flowers last long, and in Thailand they are used in various floral arrangements. While in Cambodia, they are used in funerals to decorate the urn or sarcophagus and the interior of the house holding the funeral.

Calotropis yields a durable fiber (commercially known as Bowstring of India) useful for ropes, carpets, fishing nets, and sewing thread.

Religious & spiritual meanings of Calotropis or Madar plant

The plant Calotropis sp. or madar has been in the traditional religious and cultural practice since the time immemorial. The leaves and flowers of this plant are considered to be sacred in Hindu mythology. Its leaf is one of the five leaves used in the Panch Pallava, a ritual assortment of five different leaves used as a totem by the Maratha culture in India.

The leaves were also used for Sun worship in Vedic times. Leaves of madar along with the flowers and fruits of Datura plant are used in the worship of Lord Shiva in various temples of India including the Lingraj Temple of Bhubaneswar in the Indian state of Orissa.

The garlands of flowers of Swetark are used in the worship of Hanuman on Saturdays by Hindus. The ancient Arab Tribes also had specific notions rooted in superstition about this plant in relation to Sun-worship.

So, the leaves, flowers and bark of Madar plants are very dear to Gods. Lord Shiva, the greatest among Gods, accepted it with much love. Madar plant bearing white flowers is very rare and is called Swetark.

It is believed that one who finds this plant is very fortunate to have Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva's blessings, believed to brings prosperity, it acts as a protector also. Lord Ganesha lives in the roots of this Swetark plant. Lord Ganesha is believed to take seat in Muladhar Chakra, hence roots of this plant are held in hands by a woman undergoing childbirth, so that birth occurs with less pain and safely. This practice is followed by many tribals in India.

The root of this plant is worshipped on some auspicious day and then dug out as per vedic rituals. Hindus obtain Swetark Ganapati from the root of this shrub that sometimes takes the shape of Lord Ganesh, see below.

The ancient Hindu texts make mentions that a house where the Swetark Ganesh is worshiped becomes free from poverty, obstacles, quarrels, horror, and all sorts of negative things. While worshipping Swetark Ganapati, the essential mantras to be chanted are – Om Vakratundaya Namaha, and Om Shree Ganeshay Namah.

Medicinal properties:

Calotropis procera is an Ayurvedic plant which is used in several traditional medicines to treat a variety of diseases. In Ayurveda, it is described as a life-giving plant. The extracts from different parts of the plant have significant therapeutic value. The parts of the plant used in Ayurvedic medicine are: the leaves, fresh or dried, the roots and root bark, and the flowers.

The whole plant when dried exhibits good tonic, antihelmintic and expectorant activities.

The roots also have similar activities and also act as an effective laxative.

The leaves are used to treat joint pain, and reduce swelling.

The powdered leaves are used for the fast healing of wounds, as a purgative and to treat indigestion. They are also used to treat skin disorders and liver problems. The dried leaves are used to promote sexual health including penile dysfunction and are reputed to be an aphrodisiac. Hot poultices are made from the leaves and applied to the stomach to relieve pain, and stop headaches and also applied to sprains to ease the swelling and pain.

Remedy for Arthritis relief:
Take warm mustard oil, spread it over leaf of this plant and foment the paining joint by spreading the leaf over the joint and keeping it there for a few hours for arthritis relief. Faster result occurs if electric pad is fitted snuggly over the leaf and fomentation in low heat mode is applied. When beetle leaves are not available, the leaf of madar can be used for fomentation in this manner on pelvic area for relief from fibroids.

The flowers of the plant exhibit hepatoprotective activity, anti-inflammatory,

antipyretic, analgesic, and antimicrobial effects, larvicidal activity.

The flowers are also used as a milk drink to treat a variety of complaints including coughs and catarrh, asthma and indigestion, as well as cholera. They are collected from September to February and are also used to treat piles when prepared in the form of a paste.

The dried latex and dried root are used as an antidote for snake poisoning. It is also used as an abortifacient, for the treatment of piles and intestinal worms.

The capsulated root bark powder is effective against diarrhoea and asthma.

The previous pharmacological studies include reports of anticancer, antifungal and insecticidal activity of this plant.

Besides its Ayurvedic use, Calotropis is also used as a homeopathic medicine.

Traditionally, the powdered root is used to treat bronchitis, asthma, leprosy,

eczema, elephantiasis while the latex is used to, treat vertigo, baldness, hair loss, toothache, intermittent fevers, rheumatoid/joint swellings, and paralysis.

Author to whom correspondence should be addressed. Address:

National Institute of Ayurvedic Pharmaceutical Research, Patiala

147001, Punjab, India; Tel.: +919779953364;

E-mail: ajaysheera@gmail.com

Toxicity

The plant is toxic and is one of the few plants not eaten by grazing animals due to its toxicity. The latex extracted from the stem has traditionally been used to make poison arrows. This latex is highly toxic to human eyes and produces sudden painless dimness of vision with photophobia.

Caution: Eating this plant can cause the heartbeat to slow into hypotension and death!

The preparations of Calotropis procera need to be used under the careful surveillance of a trained medical practitioner.

The World Health Organization has estimated more than 80 % of the world’s population in developing countries depends primarily on herbal medicines for their basic healthcare needs.

In recent years, ethno-botanical and traditional uses of natural compounds, especially those of plant origin, have received much attention as they are well known for their efficacy and are generally believed to be safe for human use. It is best to use the classical approach in the search for new molecules to manage a variety of diseases. A thorough review of the published literature on Calotropis procera shows that it is a popular remedy in a variety of ethnic groups, as well as Ayurvedic and traditional practitioners for the treatment of a range of ailments.

Researchers are exploring the therapeutic potential of this plant as it is likely to have more therapeutic properties than are currently known.

Ayurvedic properties

Rasa	Katu, Tikta	Taste	Pungent, Bitter
Guna	Laghu, Ruksha, Tikshna	Physical Property	Light, Dry, Sharp
Virya	Ushna	Potency	Hot
Vipaka	Katu	Metabolic Property (After Digestion)	Pungent

Because of its ushna veerya it balances Vata and Kapha dosha.

Red type flowers has bitter and sweet taste and used to balance Pitta dosha.

Conclusion

Despite serious safety concerns, calotropis is used for digestive disorders including diarrhea, constipation and stomach ulcers; for painful conditions including toothache, cramps, and joint pain; and for parasitic infections including elephantiasis and worms. Some people use calotropis for syphilis, boils, inflammation (swelling), epilepsy, hysteria, fever, muscular spasm, warts, leprosy, gout, snakebites, and cancer.

Parts used: leaves, fresh or dried, the roots and root bark, flowers, latex.

81. Greater celandine - removes warts, fungous growths etc.

2016-05-27T12:16:00.000+05:30

Chelidonium majus, commonly known as greater celandine, nipplewort, or swallowwort, is a herbaceous perennial plant, the only species in the genus Chelidonium. While the greater celandine belongs to the poppy family, the lesser celandine belongs to the buttercup family.It is native to Europe and western Asia and introduced widely in North America.

The aerial parts and roots of greater celandine are used in herbalism. The above-ground parts are gathered during the flowering season and dried at high temperatures. The root is harvested in autumn between August and October and dried. The fresh rhizome is also used. Celandine has a hot and bitter taste. Preparations are made from alcoholic and hot aqueous extractions (tea). The related plant bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) has similar chemical composition and uses as greater celandine.

Greater celandine (Chelidonium majus) is a plant of the Poppy family (Papaveraceae) which grows wild in Asia and Europe and has been introduced widely in the United States. Leaf extracts may contain up to 20 alkaloids, including benzophenanthridines, protoberberines and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives. For centuries, celandine has been used to treat gastrointestinal complaints, dyspepsia and gallbladder disease. The chemical compound responsible for the antispasmotic activity of celandine is unknown. Celandine also acts as a mild sedative and it has been used to treat asthma, bronchitis and whooping cough. In recent years, celandine extracts have been used largely as therapy for dyspepsia and gallbladder disease, but it has also been claimed to be beneficial for skin conditions, asthma and bronchitis and as a weight loss agent. No human studies have been done that substantiate the benefits of celandine in these conditions or to define its safety, tolerability and adverse effects.

Colonising hedgerows, waste ground and damp areas such as ditches, the greater celandine bears small yellow flowers from April to July. The whole plant is covered in fine bristly hairs. If you snap the stalk or root it exudes dark orange sap.

Its use also extends to traditional Chinese medicine, and it’s become an important part of western phytotherapy. Extracts of greater celandine have exhibited a broad spectrum of toxicity to harmful organisms as well as liver protecting activity. This has led to the inclusion of greater celandine in liver and gallbladder cleansing and support protocols.

Some facts from History

Greater celandine has a long history of herbal use. As far back as Pliny the Elder and Dioscorides (1st century CE) this herb has been recognized as a useful detoxifying agent. The root has been chewed to relieve toothache. John Gerard's Herball (1597) states that "the juice of the herb diluted with milk, is good to sharpen the sight, for it cleanseth and consumeth away slimie things that cleave about the ball of the eye and hinder the sight and especially being boiled with honey in a brasen vessell."

Chelidonium was a favourite herb of the French herbalist Maurice Mességué. Chelidonium majus has traditionally been used for treatment of various inflammatory diseases including atopic dermatitis. It is also traditionally used in the treatment of gallstones and dyspepsia. This plant possesses a well-known power of its fresh juice to remove warts, fungous growths and cancerous excresences.

Ancient writers said that the flower bloomed when the swallows returned and faded when they left…

Medicinal Uses:

This plant's active compounds are alkaloids. The main one in the plant as a whole is protopine, an antispasmodic. The root also contains chelidonine, another antispasmodic alkaloid that also lowers blood pressure. In addition, greater celandine contains organic acids and carotenoids.

Aid for Nervous system

In traditional Asian medicine, greater celandine is used to calm the nervous system - the plant has mild analgesic and sedative qualities. In vitro studies in

Germany

in 1996 suggest that greater celandine could have a role to play in treating illnesses of the nervous system.

Defense against Harmful Organisms

Greater celandine acts against bacteria and viruses.

The whole plant is toxic in moderate doses as it contains a range of isoquinoline alkaloids but there are numerous therapeutic uses when used at the correct dosage. Some alkaloids have shown potential activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

The School of Stomatology at China Medical University studied the effects of greater celandine extract on streptococcus; researchers noted significant activity against harmful organisms. The University of Milan in

Italy

also found greater celandine extracts and isolated compounds to exhibit significant activity against harmful organisms.

The Department of Tropical and Subtropical Crops at Czech University in the Czech Republic tested the activity of extracts from 16 Siberian plants against five species of microorganisms. Greater celandine was among the five plants shown to have the highest activity.

Skin conditions treatment such as warts, ringworm and eczema – fresh sap is applied to the affected area one to three times a day. The latex can also be employed for cauterizing small open wounds. The characteristic latex also contains proteolytic enzymes and the phytocystatin chelidostatin, a cysteine protease inhibitor. These co-constituents could explain the topical use of greater celandine against warts and moles.

Benefits in Eyes disorders

In diseases of the eye celandine has always had a reputation. Dioscorides gives the swallows the credit of curing blindness in their young by feeding them with bits of the leaf. You will probably find it of value in some cases of catarrhal ophthalmia; in amblyopia or amaurosis, especially when traumatic; in traumatic iritis; in muscae volitantes, when they are flickering, sparkling or black; and in absence of better treatment, you might try it in cataract and pterygium, as an alleviative measure.

"I have often proved its efficacy in acute inflammation of the eyes, where they are swollen, injected, with a sensation of burning, as if from the presence of a foreign body. When there is excessive photophobia, lachrymation, abundant sebaceous secretion, agglutination of the eyelids in the morning; shiverings from time to time; pain which generally extends not only to the forehead, but sometimes all over the head; this pain, beginning to be felt towards 2 or 3 P. M., is at its height about 8 or 9, and prevents sleep, or even lying down, till nearly daybreak."—Ferrivat.

Whooping-cough aid

The leaves and the sap are acrid, alterative, anodyne, antispasmodic, caustic, cholagogue, diaphoretic, diuretic, hydrogogue, narcotic, purgative. They are used in the treatment of bronchitis, whooping cough, asthma, jaundice, gallstones and gallbladder pains.

Chelidonium will materially alleviate whooping-cough, when the catarrhal symptoms are prominent (or catarrhal diarrhea); the cough, which is violent and straining, with lachrymation, alternates with burning, shooting and constrictive pains in the larynx, and expectoration. The plant is harvested in the spring as it comes into flower, it is best used fresh, but can also be dried for later use.

http://www.herbal-supplement-resource.com/senega-root.html

Possible Cancer treatment

The roots can also be used, these are harvested in the autumn and dried for later use. The plant has anticancer properties and is analgesic. In 2002 Korean scientists reported that it may also be an anticancer agent. The chemicals in greater celandine might slow the growth of cancer cells, but might also be harmful to normal cells. Preliminary research suggests greater celandine might increase the flow of bile. Greater celandine might also have some pain-relieving properties.

Calendine benefits for Digestive system

The herb's antispasmodic action can ease spasms in the upper digestive tract. Greater celandine extract has been shown to support bile production. Extra bile helps the body’s digestion processes perform more effectively, specifically by breaking down fat and facilitating toxin removal.

Greater celandine contains chelidonic acid, which has been found to relieve discomfort and be aggressive against certain harmful organisms. In one study, chelidonic acid was found to temper indications of ulcerative colitis and provided the foreground for examination into greater celandine’s therapeutic role in relieving other intestinal irritation.

Liver diseases aid

In diseases of the liver that we find the real value of celandine. You will find no better remedy, and none so often indicated in general practice, in the disorders of the liver. Valuable as Podophyllum, Leptandra and Iris are, yet, I believe, Chelidonium is oftener indicated than either of them. Pain under the right scapula, with constipation of whitish stool, or bright, yellow diarrhoetic stool, with acid urine, is diagnostic for it. You will find it of value in the treatment of acute inflammation of the liver, induration of the liver, catarrh of the gall-ducts, cholesteraemia, jaundice of every grade, biliary calculi.

Parts used

Whole plant including root
The plant is dug up and dried when in flower.
Greater celandine is rarely used as an infusion on its own, but is blended with other plants such as dandelion or turmeric.
Dry extract of greater celandine is made into capsules.
The orange sap is used fresh.

Considerations

Greater celandine extract has strong antioxidant potential, specifically from the alkaloid and flavonoid components. The greatest content of the beneficial alkaloids has been found in the root, sometimes achieving 2-3% concentrations. This has prompted greater celandine to be included in preparations designed to support the biliary tract and liver.

The preliminary reports really provide a positive glimpse into the potential for greater celandine. As always, consult your healthcare provider before taking any supplement, especially if a history of liver disease exists in your family. A few reports have been passed around of some people experiencing liver problems as a result of very large amounts; however, these reports are anecdotal. Regardless, if you’re pregnant or nursing, avoid greater celandine for the time being.

CAUTIONS

Greater celandine is poisonous in large amounts and can cause nausea and dysentery: only take this herb under professional supervision.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid this herb.
Avoid if you have low blood pressure.
Do not give to children.
Limit use to two weeks at a time.

Warning: The whole plant is poisonous. It is of very low toxicity and this is greatly reduced by drying the plant. The stem juice is highly irritating and allergenic, it may cause paralysis. Large doses cause sleepiness, skin irritation, respiratory tract irritation, violent coughing and dyspnoea. It also stains the urine bright yellow and may cause ulcers. May cause burning sensation in the mouth, nausea and vomiting. Avoid contact with eyes. Concerns of liver toxicity so avoid in those with liver disease. Not recommended during pregnancy and for children under 12. Greater celandine preparations should only be taken internally in consultation with a qualified medical herbalist.

80. Mahua tree - promotes lactation in breast-feeding mothers

2016-04-14T21:32:00.000+05:30

Mahuwa/ Mahwa/ Iluppai/ Sri Lanka: Mee

Bassia longifolia or Madhuca indica or Mahua tree belongs to the genus Mahuca. The tree is the member of the Sapotaceae family and as such is related to the African Shea tree, which produces the ingredient used in cosmetics, shea butter.

It is an important Indian tropical tree found largely in the central and north Indian plains and forests. It is a characteristic tree of the dry region. It grows in north and central India. It is cultivated in warm and humid regions for its oleaginous seeds (producing between 20 and 200 kg of seeds annually per tree, depending on maturity), flowers and wood. The fat (solid at ambient temperature) is used for the care of the skin, to manufacture soap or detergents, and as a vegetable butter. It can also be used as a fuel oil.

The seed cakes obtained after extraction of oil constitute very good fertilizer. The flowers are used to produce an alcoholic drink in tropical

India

. This drink is also known to affect the animals. Several parts of the tree, including the bark, are used for their medicinal properties. The flowers are a source of food for many tribal people in Central India so it is considered holy by many tribal communities because of its usefulness. The tree is very well known to rural folk since ages in

India

About Mahua Tree

The Mahua tree is more valued for it's flowers than it's timber. Each morning the fallen corollas are swept up from the 'cleared' ground beneath the tree. The flowers don’t remain on the tree for long; they bloom at night and fall to the forest floor at dawn, creating a cream carpet around their parent. At first light tribal villagers make their way through the forests to the trees dressed with new red leaves where the waxy blooms keep coming till the leaves turn green, and carefully collect each fallen flower. Simply distilled in earthenware pots, fiery mahua liquor is drunk in copious amounts but the entire tree is vital to tribal body, mind and spirit, from cradle to grave.

A single tree may yield from 2-4 maunds of flowers which are sometimes fermented & distilled for spirits for local consumption. Deer, jackals & bears in particular are so fond of these flowers that they eat so much that the whole mass of flowers starts fermenting in their stomachs, thus the poor animals get thoroughly intoxicated & start behaving abnormally. Birds such as bulbuls, mynahs, parakeets & flowerpeckers are known to get drunk after sipping the juice from fermented flowers.

The flowers can be eaten raw, boiled, or fried and eaten with salt and chillies. In south India Tamils use the flowers when no sugar cane is available, though with caution as an excess is said to result in unbalanced thought and even complete lunacy.

The seeds are crushed for oil used as a substitute or adulterant for ghee, hence the name Butter Tree, for the manufacture of soaps, candles & for illumination. It`s interesting to know that a moth Anthreae Paphia, lives on its leaves and produce Tussar Silk – a form of wild silk.

Mahua leaves are woven into cups and plates used for festivals, sticks of the tree are placed on the bride and groom’s hands during weddings and a corpse is anointed with mahua oil.

Mahua fruit is eaten as a vegetable.

Medicinal Properties:

Both the flowers and the oil have long been used in traditional medicine as a cure for a myriad of ills.

The flowers before storage are dried. As soon as they are collected they should be dried on polythene sheet. Do not store them in bulk in moist condition. Flowers should be stored in thin layers. They should be turned over from time – to –time to bring the lower layers to the top. Dried flowers after packing in gunny bags are stored in a dry place up to 1 year under ordinary conditions.

The flowers in various forms are used to promote lactation in breast-feeding mothers and to cure cystitis, also heart problems, bronchial and eye problems, to treat TB, asthma, blood diseases, tonsillitis and to get rid of parasitical internal worms.

The seeds are extracted from ripe fruits. They are shelled within a week otherwise they germinate. Once the seeds are germinated, they become unfit for oil extraction. Kernels obtained after shelling should be dried up to moisture content of 8% because seeds containing more than 7-8% moisture are liable to fungal attack. Dried kernels can be utilized for extraction of oil. The kernels can be packed in gunny bags and stored for a year.

The oil. A web site of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India reports: "Mahuwa oil has emollient properties and is used in skin disease, rheumatism and headache. It is also a laxative and considered useful in habitual constipation, piles and haemorrhoids and as an emetic. Tribals also used it as an illuminant and hair fixer."

The bark is used to relieve itching, to heal wounds, fractures and snake bites. Both the flowers and the bark are believed to be aphrodisiacs.

High economic value

Every part of mahua yields economic products of great potential value, hence mahua constitutes most important raw materials for various industries. It is one of the forest based tree-borne non-edible oils with large production potential of about 60 million tons per annum in

India

. Virtually being the lifeline of tribal belt in central

India

, the tree is culturally most identified with Indian life in the plains. Its flowers are sweat, delicious and are consumed besides tasty fruits. But the tree wins in fame due to the liquor distilled from the flowers, which are used to make vinegar. The seeds yield fat known as Mahua butter used in cooking, adulteration of Ghee, manufacturing chocolates and even soaps, besides treatment of rheumatism and constipation. Mahua cake is insecticidal and also used for fishing. The timber is useful variously but neglected.

The wisdom of the tribal peoples is now being taken seriously and scientists are checking out mahua properties. One study has shown that mahua oil has more free radicals than extra-virgin olive oil and it’s also being tested for its potential as biodiesel.

Ayurvedic properties:

In Ayurveda, for medicinal uses the flowers of the tree is used.

Rasa (taste): Madhura (sweet)

Guna (characteristics): Guru (heavy)

Virya (potency): Sheet (cool)

Vipaka (post-digestive effect): Madhura (sweet)

Learn more at: http://www.bimbima.com/health/post/2015/03/17/mahua-madhuca-indica-details-and-medicinal-uses.aspx

http://www.thehindu.com/seta/2005/09/01/stories/2005090100201600.htm

79. Mucuna benefits in Parkinson's disease treatment

2016-02-13T10:56:00.002+05:30

Atmagupta (आत्मगुप्ता) or Kapikacchu (कपिकच्छु) in Sanskrit/ Kooch, Kevach (कोंच) in Hindi/ Mamui (หมามุ่ย) in Thai/ Picapica/ "Devil Beans"

Mucuna pruriens is a tropical legume known as Velvet bean, Lyon bean, Lacuna bean. It is native to Africa and Asia and widely naturalized. It has value in agricultural and horticultural use and has a range of medicinal properties.
The plant is an annual, climbing shrub with long vines that can reach over 15 m in length. Since the plant is a legume, it fixes nitrogen and fertilizes soil. When the plant is young, it is almost completely covered with fuzzy hairs, but when older, it is almost completely free of hairs. The plant is notorious for the extreme itchiness it produces on contact, particularly with the young foliage and the seed pods. The chemical compounds responsible for the itch are a protein, mucunain and serotonin. The seeds are shiny black or brown drift seeds.

Cooked fresh shoots or beans can also be eaten. This requires that they be soaked from at least 30 minutes to 48 hours in advance of cooking, or the water changed up to several times during cooking, since otherwise the plant can be toxic to humans. The above described process leaches out phytochemical compounds such as levodopa, making the product more suitable for consumption. If consumed in large quantities as food, unprocessed M. pruriens is toxic to non-ruminant mammals, including humans.

Uses in Unani & Ayurveda Medicine

Mucuna pruriens is a well known Ayurvedic herb that can be particularly rejuvenating for the nervous and reproductive systems. It is one of the highest natural sources of a unique amino acid called L-dopa (levodopa), an essential precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine. L-dopa helps to increase dopamine in the brain and can be particularly helpful for those with low levels, as is sometimes present in conditions involving motor control disorders, diminished mental focus and depression.

The seed powder have been studied for the management and treatment of Parkinson's disease. In large amounts (e.g. 30 g dose), it has been shown to be as effective as pure levodopa/carbidopa in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, but no data on long-term efficacy and tolerability are available. So, Mucuna may potentially be a great superfood supplement to take over a period of time for anyone with a history of seizures, Parkinson's or drug addictions.

The vitality bestowed by kapikacchu nourishes the entire body and calms the nerves making it an excellent rejuvenative for vata. Kapikacchu is a nutritive tonic commonly used in Ayurveda as an aphrodisiac and to support proper function of the reproductive system. The traditional use of kapikacchu as effective to aphrodiciac is practiced in tribal medicine. A piece of root is kept in mouth during coitus by male partner enjoying with delayed ejaculation.

Ayurveda acharyas` knowledge:

Ayurveda have grouped this plant under Balya (body strengthening herbs), Madhura skanda (herbs with sweet taste) and Vatasamshamana (herbs which normalize vata dosha). So this plant normalizes vata and increases kapha and pitta. Ayurveda acharyas recommend use of this herb to strengthen the body, increase stamina and muscle bulk.

The roots and seeds of kapikacchu help to strengthen the nervous system and reduce stress. Therefore it is used as nervine tonic.

The hairs on fruits help to eliminate intestinal parasites. It is usually administered with honey, butter and jaggery.

The Great benefits for Men`s health:

Seeds of mucuna pruriens act as vrishya (aphrodisiac). The seeds of this plant are eulogized as the best vrishya and vajikara which increase sexual functions in men. They help in conditions like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation and low sperm count. Regular use of these seeds increase libido in men. Hence seeds of kapikacchu are used in vajikarana preparations. Kapikacchu seeds increase sperm count and sperm motility. Studies have shown that Mucuna Pruriens help to increase the male hormone testosterone. Testosterone increases muscle mass, libido and rectifies erectile dysfunction. The seeds improve male fertility by increasing concentration of male hormones. This increases quality and quantity of semen.

Seeds of velvet bean or mucuna are also effective in dysmenorrhea (gynecological condition of pain during menstruation) in women. Texts of ayurveda mention the usage of seeds to strengthen the muscles of vagina.

Roots of velvet bean have diuretic properties.

Dried leaves of mucuna are sometimes smoked.

Uses in snakebites:
The plant and its extracts have been long used in tribal communities as a toxin antagonist for various snakebites. Research on its effects against Naja spp. (cobra),Echis (Saw scaled viper), Calloselasma (Malayan Pit viper) and Bangarus (Krait) have shown it has potential use in the prophylactic treatment of snakebites.

Ayurvedic properties:
In Ayurveda Mucuna is administered in diseases caused due to vitiation of Vata dosha.

Rasa: Madhura, Tikta
Guna: Guru, Snighta
Virya: Ushna
Vipaka: Madhura
Dosakarma: Tridosa samaka
Dosage:
Beeja choorna – 3-5 gms
Mulakwatha – 50-100ml

Roma – 125-250 grains with guda

Learn more about Mucuna through this interesting video on YouTube:

78. Milk thistle - praised herb in Liver Detox

2015-04-28T12:12:00.001+05:30

Silybum marianum has other common names include cardus marianus, Milk thistle, blessed milk thistle, Marian thistle, Mary thistle, Saint Mary's thistle, Mediterranean milk thistle, variegated thistle and Scotch thistle. This species is of the Asteraceae family. This fairly typical thistle has red to purple flowers and shiny pale green leaves with white veins. Originally a native of Southern Europe through to Asia, it is now found throughout the world.

Milk thistle produces nearly 190 seeds for each flower and about 6000 seeds for each full-grown plant. For centuries, the seeds have been used greatly for alternative therapies and natural remedies. In Europe, during the Middle Ages, it was believed that emotional distraction and depression arose from liver malfunction. Thus, in the spring, milk thistle seeds were made into health tonics as relief from the “winter blues” and to aid people in venting pent-up feelings dwelling in the liver. Today, medical science has proven that these beliefs from the past had some amount of truth.

Different Medicinal Properties

The medical use of milk thistle can be traced to more than 2000 years back, for the plant has long been known for its therapeutic effect on the gallbladder and liver. Even ancient philosophers Galen and Pliny praised the effectiveness of this herb in liver detoxification. It can also help in reducing cholesterol levels and the chances of cancer cell growth.

It is believed that early Christians dedicated the plant to Mary, which is why some call it Mary’s thistle, blessed thistle, or St. Mary’s thistle. During the 19th Century, the Eclectics used milk thistle for treating menstrual irregularities, varicose veins and congestion of kidneys, spleen and liver. Today, numerous scientific studies show that active substances in milk thistle guard the liver from the damaging effects of alcohol, viruses, toxins and certain drugs such as antidepressants, acetaminophen and antipsychotic drugs. Many expert herbalists suggest milk thistle for preventing and/or treating various liver disorders that include viral hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, fatty liver associated with alcohol abuse and liver damage.

What is phytochemical Silymarin?

Being a medicinal herb, milk thistle contains important phytochemicals that greatly affects the body. The typical phytochemical found in this herb is flavonolignands, flavonoids, and the main active component of milk thistle herb is - Silymarin, known to protect the liver; hence, this herb has been commonly recommended for the treatment and remedy of liver ailments. The silymarin complex is composed of four phytochemicals, namely silybinin, silydianin, silychristin and isosilybinin. In addition, the term ‘silymarin’ and ‘milk thistle’ are frequently used interchangeably.

Silymarin is a powerful antioxidant, helping the liver rebuild itself. It is even more potent than Vitamins C and E. It has a mild laxative property on some people, but this digestive discomfort usually lasts 2-3 days.

Many milk thistle formulations have standardized silymarin content containing about 70 – 80% of the plant’s active component. Some commonly available forms include liquid extract, capsules and tincture made from milk thistle seed. Another popular form of silymarin supplement is called silymarin phosphatidylcholine which, according to studies, is absorbed more easily compared to other forms. The substance phosphatidylcholine is an important element in cell membranes, allowing the silymarin to attach easily to cell membrane.

How it helps our Liver?

The liver plays a major role inside the body, secreting vital substances for proper maintenance of body functions. It produces substances for breaking down of fats and produces urea that is an important substance of urine. It also helps in manufacturing certain types of amino acids, the building blocks of protein, and also aids in the conversion of glucose, the maintenance of proper glucose levels in the blood and the filtration of toxic substances that enter the body. These harmful substances include drugs at large doses not easily tolerated by the body, alcohol and other toxins in the food we eat. The role of Milk thistle herb in the body is to guard the liver cells from being damaged by these harmful toxins so it stays in good shape and can perform its functions, hence leading to a healthier body. For people suffering from liver damage and diseases such as acute and chronic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis from alcohol abuse, milk thistle herb is one of the recommended herbal remedies that can strengthen liver health. For people suffering from alcohol liver cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis, it is revealed that silymarin can also improve liver function biochemistries, which covers parameters including albumin, bilirubin and liver transaminases (ALT/AST/ALP).

The use of milk thistle for chronic liver disease has been proven effective, evidenced by its potent ingredients. Silymarin, the active component in milk thistle, is a compound with great hepatoprotective properties as shown by the numerous research, clinical studies and trials. Silymarin is considered a potent antioxidant, and can inhibit the formation of lipid peroxide in the hepatic cells. It can also inhibit the inflammation by altering liver Kupffer cell action. It also demonstrates immunomodulatory effect by reducing the activity and number of Cytotoxic T cells (CD8 lymphocytes). On top of that, it also has an antifibrotic property with its effect of transforming matrix gene expression and growth factor – ß by the liver stellate cells.

As of today, no mainstream drug can benefit the people suffering from liver disease as well as milk thistle can. The stem, leaves, fruit and flower buds and even the roots of this plant have medicinal uses and are edible. However, milk thistle herb growing in the wild doesn’t offer enough silymarin compared to the specially cultivated variety used in commercial supplements and standardized extracts. If you are using this herb to treat an ailment, you had better stick to commercial formulations. The common dosage is 200 mg in a standardized silymarin pill or 1 teaspoon of liquid silymarin extract thrice a day.

Recommendations for use

Many studies regarding the use of milk thistle for liver treatment recommend 420 mg daily on a particular product that contained 70 -80% silymarin, the active ingredient of milk thistle. It should be taken twice daily, morning and evening, and swallowed with one glass of water. If used for diabetes, the milk thistle dosage will be 200 mg thrice daily. For daily liver protection, one can take 200 mg of silymarin once a day. Silymarin should also be continuously taken for 2 -3 months for a person to reap its optimum effects, so patients should be patient (no pun intended) during the course of treatment. Standard milk thistle extracts make the active components more effective. It is because they separate the most essential component and extract it to its pure state. In fact, the best selling milk thistle product is the standardized extract. The standard milk thistle dose of a standardized extract containing 70% silymarin is 200 mg 2-3 times per day. There is another form of silymarin that can bind to phosphatidylcholine and should be taken at a dose of 100 – 200 mg two times a day.

With the increasing popularity of milk thistle in promoting liver health, it is now becoming available in a variety of preparations. There are different silymarin products in the form of capsules, tablets, tinctures, seed extract and powder. Milk thistle powder may either be made from the seeds of Silybum marianum or from other parts such as the twigs, roots, berries and other aerial parts, which are believed to help in protecting the liver against harmful toxins. The active components of milk thistle seed powder are silibinin, silychristin and silydianin, collectively known as Silymarin.

Milk thistle seeds are rich in nutrients and powerful compounds. The plant tastes somewhat bitter yet tonic to the spleen, kidney and liver, and can be taken for a long period. The seeds contain essential fatty acids and betaine, which are both proven liver protectors. Historically, milk thistle has been recognized for its potent regenerative effects on liver cells. Almost all parts of the plant can be used for both food and medicine with no reports of toxicity or any serious side effects.

How Liver cleansing helps in improving Menopausal Symptoms?

Do you know that a clean and healthy liver leads to a smoother and stress-free perimenopause and menopause? Many experts claim that poor blood circulation and the build-up of estrogen can be responsible for many women’s health problems including breast, ovarian and uterine cancer. Nowadays, estrogen is present in almost all food types and is even in the insecticides that are sprayed on vegetables and fruits. The liver removes these excess hormones, but if it is weak, the accumulation of estrogens will eventually trap in breast tissues, uterus and ovaries. This leads to growth of abnormal tissues such as fibroids, cysts and cancer in these organs. That is why it is recommended that women take good care of the liver before their menopausal period by detoxifying their liver. Using alternative forms of treatment such as herbal medicine may offer a huge help in cleansing the liver. Silymarin is popular for its hepatoprotective property and as such, taking milk thistle for menopause allows you to detoxify the liver to prevent unpleasant menopausal symptoms.

When a woman is nearing the end of her childbearing years, hormonal changes occur. As such, anxiety and depression may be experienced, not to mention the daily stresses that can be more overwhelming before the beginning of menopause. Milk thistle works as a mood stabilizer and antidepressant, thereby reducing signs of anxiety or depression.

During the menopausal stage, the liver is overworked as it tries to adapt to the transition that the body is experiencing as well as coping with the surge of hormones. Aside from being overworked, it is also overloaded with toxins. Thus, it cannot properly metabolize neurotransmitters and hormones. This is the reason why many women become very sensitive to certain food and chemicals. It is important to cleanse and detoxify the liver by eating nutritious food and taking herbal supplements like milk thistle to support liver function. If you are given prescription medications for your menopausal symptoms, talk to your doctor before taking milk thistle for menopause as it may be flushed out of your system too quickly.

Type 2 Diabetes treatment

Silymarin, the active component of milk thistle, has been used for two thousand years as a support treatment for different types of liver diseases. Recent research reveals that milk thistle also shows significant health benefits for Type 2 Diabetes.

A recent study conducted by a group of Iranian researchers at the Institute of Medicinal Plants shows the effectiveness of milk thistle for diabetes. Researchers recruited 50 patients diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. In this four-month study, they were divided into two groups with one given 200 mg of milk thistle extract per day while the other took a placebo. Both groups continued their diabetes medications while under the study. After four months, results showed reduced fasting glucose levels by 15%, a 12% drop of LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol as well as 25% reduction in the level of triglycerides in the milk thistle group. The placebo group did not show any positive and significant changes. Perhaps the most significant result in this study were the deviations in glycosylated hemoglobin, also called HbA1C. The level of HbA1C reduced by 1% in the control group but increased over one percent in the placebo group.

You may wonder about the significance of HbA1C in connection to diabetics. This test shows the severity of hyperglycemia since it is not influenced by the daily fluctuations of glucose level in the blood. Studies show that for every one percent increase of glycosylated hemoglobin, stroke and heart disease risk increase by about 20%. When it drops, the risks go down as well.

The mechanism of action of silymarin that is responsible for it being able to lower glucose is not clear. Milk thistle for diabetes contains a variety of active ingredients, which includes bioflavonoids with antioxidants that can increase the cellular glutathione levels and cell membrane stabilizing properties. Type 2 diabetics have elevated glucose and free form fatty acid levels that result to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress. These abnormalities not only lead to complications but also to insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion. The powerful antioxidant property of silymarin may induce favorable effects on the metabolic abnormalities of diabetics as well as against oxidative stress. Overall, the results of several studies show that silymarin has beneficial effects in lessening the glycemic state in Type 2 diabetics.

The use of antioxidants such as milk thistle for diabetes as a complementary treatment still needs further research and investigation. People suffering from diabetes with cirrhosis can greatly benefit from taking milk thistle due to its hepatoprotective property. Milk thistle rarely causes side effects except for mild diarrhea or nausea but should talk to your health care provider before supplementing your diabetic medications with milk thistle extract.

Milk Thistle Tea

This tea comes from the seeds of Silybum marianum, is known to help improve one’s health. People suffering from liver damage, jaundice, cirrhosis, hepatitis and fatty liver can benefit from drinking this tea. For people with existing liver or kidney problems or anyone who wants to maintain optimum liver function, milk thistle tea can be a good idea. Due to the components of the milk thistle seed that is used in making the tea, it helps the liver and the entire body by protecting it from different forms of illnesses.

Milk thistle is quite different from other herbal plants in the sense that you cannot make herbal tea out of plain milk thistle seed and water. Silymarin, which is the active biochemical of milk thistle, is soluble only in alcohol. This means that its active ingredient can’t be effectively extracted in water. Research found out that the most effective way of taking milk thistle is through alcohol-based extracts. As such, it is useless for anyone to purchase a bulk package of milk thistle seed to be used in making traditional medicinal tea. So, if you want to make your own, the recommended way is to search for milk thistle extract. However, to achieve the best result, you have to purchase the best quality silymarin tea extract you can find. There are numerous health food stores online, particularly online shops selling only organic products. You can also find milk thistle tea in some drug stores and grocery as well as local food stores or health food shop nearby.

How to make a Milk thistle tea: after getting your extract, you have to boil a cup of water, then add a few drops of extract. After that, you can enjoy your delicious and beneficial cup of silymarin tea. There are several recommended instructions when making your own silymarin tea for specific types of health complaints. For poor digestion, you need to drink the tea 30 minutes before taking meals. To promote the integrity of blood vessels in treating varicose veins, drink 2-3 cups of tea per day. In a cup of boiled water, put 2 teaspoons of crushed seeds. Let it steep and strain. To enhance effectiveness and improve taste, you can add 1 tablespoon of peppermint leaves.

Milk thistle seed can also be brewed as an herbal coffee. Just roast the seed and place the result in the coffee grinder to turn into fine powder. Brew it in your coffee maker and enjoy your milk thistle coffee.

Aside from the milk thistle seeds, you can also make a medicinal tea out of the herb’s leaves. The leaves don’t contain silymarin but they still provide benefits to the gallbladder and liver. The tea can improve digestive function and provides relief for mild digestive complaints. In a cup of boiled water, put 1 ½ teaspoon of chopped leaves. Allow it to steep, then strain. Take 2-3 cups per day.

Drinking tea has always been one of the most effective traditional ways of taking herbal remedies. Milk thistle tea is among the most effective teas in promoting liver health. Just remember to get the best quality milk thistle extract to enjoy optimum benefit of silymarin to your body.

Aid for your Digestive system

When the digestive system functions poorly, it may lose its ability to convert the food you eat into a form usable for the body. Poor digestion isn’t only manifested in terms of heartburn and indigestion. It could also express itself through weight gain, chronic body weakness and a weak immune system. Dyspepsia or indigestion is a common medical condition, often caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Moreover, dyspepsia can cause stomach bloating and gas, recurrent abdominal pain and upper abdomen fullness. It can also be accompanied by nausea, heartburn or belching. Pharmaceutical dyspepsia treatment focuses on the underlying cause and typically involves medications that suppress the production of gastric acid such as H2 antagonist medications or proton-pump inhibitor medications. Some doctors also prescribe antibiotic medications if the cause of your indigestion is peptic ulcer disease, to eradicate H. pylori bacteria. However, there are numerous alternative and natural treatments for dyspepsia or poor digestion. Using milk thistle for indigestion may improve the digestive functioning and alleviate common symptoms associated with this disorder.

Milk thistle is classified as a bitter herb along with other herbs such as chamomile, gentian, flax seed, and the like. Bitter herbs are known to be stomach tonics as they improve the appetite, promote secretion of digestive juices, flow of bile and peristaltic movement. The bitter taste of milk thistle increases the appetite by exciting the taste buds and sends signals to the brain preparing for digestion. This results to an increase in the secretion of saliva, gastric acids and digestive enzymes, which are all necessary to efficiently process the food in the digestive tract.

For an all-natural dyspepsia treatment, a specific herbal preparation containing milk thistle, licorice root and lemon balm leaves has been proven in a 4-week German study to help the symptoms of indigestion. This herbal combination seems to lessen the severity of stomach pain, cramping, vomiting, acid reflux and nausea.

The best way to take milk thistle is by infusion, since drinking milk thistle tea can help in regulating the functions of the digestive tract. Besides its bitter taste, it also acts as a gentle laxative. Milk thistle for indigestion can enhance the movement of the intestinal tract and as such, help in lubricating and encouraging bowel movement, promoting regularity. This also aids in the overall detoxification because in case of any build-up of waste material in the gut, it will naturally be removed. This lets you feel lighter and demands less work from your digestive system.

In order to make an infusion/tea of milk thistle for indigestion, you can purchase commercially prepared milk thistle teabags for the most convenient solution. A bag can be steeped in boiling water for at least 5 minutes and the tea sipped several times daily. Also, keep in mind not to take this tea for than two to three weeks without asking your healthcare provider first. It is due to the herb’s innate laxative property, as continuous use of laxatives can lead to dehydration or dependence on them, making it hard for the bowels to function normally without any aid. This tea is only for short-term use, especially for liver support and indigestion relief.

Cancer-protection

Currently, over 200 different cancer types may affect the human body and some can be more serious than others. There are types that can easily be treated while other types seem to throw up blockades against every medical advancement made in aid of their treatment; hence, survival rate varies among these types. Cancer symptoms and signs also vary depending on the type of cancer. There are two categories of cancer – sarcoma and carcinoma cancer. Carcinomas develop on the surface linings of an organ while sarcoma develops in the cells. The use of herbal medicine as an adjunct treatment in certain types of cancer is widely recognized by numerous medical experts. Currently, the use of milk thistle for cancer has been extensively studied due to its yet unproven claim of reducing the growth of cancer cells in breast, prostate and cervical cancers.

Nowadays, taking milk thistle for cancer is considered as an adjunct treatment in cancer therapy. According to cancer research using the effects of silymarin, the herb has a potent antioxidant activity and shows anti-carcinogenic, cytoprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. Even though its hepatoprotective property has been well documented, its effect on T lymphocytes remains unknown.

Laboratory studies using cancer cell lines demonstrated the effectiveness of silibinin in enhancing the action of chemotherapeutic drugs doxorubicin and cisplatin against breast and ovarian cancer cells. It also influences the cycle of cancer cells by reducing the speed of cell growth, as shown with the cancer cell lines of the prostate. In addition, silibinin did not stimulate the growth of leukemia cells. Other anti-cancer effects of silibinin include effects on human colon cancer cells, small and non-small lung carcinoma cells, human ecto-cervical carcinoma cells and both estrogen dependent and independent breast carcinoma cells.

Believed to be an antioxidant with great anti-cancer properties, studies on milk thistle show that silymarin and its other active components have the ability to prevent cancer cells from reproducing and replicating. Test tube samples even showed the herb’s ability to cut off the blood flow to the tumors, hence causing the death of the growth neoplasm or reducing its life span. But further research is still necessary to confirm the results and check for other potential effects.

Does it excrete the cholesterol?

The body requires sufficient cholesterol for different body functions such as hormone production, cell membrane creation and nerve function. But high cholesterol levels in your blood can result to serious health disorders including heart disease, mental impairment, hypertension, stroke and gallstones. Although one should be cautious when taking herbal supplements, using milk thistle for high cholesterol may help, as the herb possesses natural cholesterol-lowering effects.

Silymarin is the active component of milk thistle. However, further research suggests that it is silibinin, one substance in silymarin, which is responsible for most of the herb’s health benefits. Recent evidence reveals that silibinin displays huge potential in reducing bad cholesterol levels in the body. Milk thistle for high cholesterol helps the liver by improving its ability in metabolizing lipids. It regulates lipids in the bloodstream and inhibits cholesterol synthesis. Because silybinin encourages bile production, it excretes the cholesterol that builds up in the bile ducts in the liver. In addition, the increase in bile enhances emulsification, absorption and elimination of dietary fats.

Besides the great benefits of silibinin in lowering cholesterol level in the body, milk thistle also contains tocopherol sterols, which are known to have an effect in the body’s cholesterol level. Plant sterols, which are found in the plant cell membrane, are structurally comparable to the cholesterol in our bodies. The efficacy of plant sterols in reducing blood cholesterol was revealed in the 1950s. Because the body does not readily absorb plant sterols, it is quickly flushed out from the system. However, when they are combined in fat-containing foods such as yogurt and margarine, the body can use them for lowering LDL levels.

In a 2006 study conducted in Czech Republic, milk thistle extract greatly reduced the cholesterol absorption rate in mice under a high cholesterol diet, while significantly causing a reduction in LDL and triglycerides, both harmful forms of cholesterol. The growing prevalence of cases with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is another reason to add milk thistle for high cholesterol in a healthcare routine. In terms of both liver support and cholesterol lowering, only a few drugs cover as many benefits as milk thistle does. Being the most potent component of silymarin extract, silibinin’s ability in protecting liver cells, reducing death of liver cells, inhibiting absorption and production of cholesterol and enhancing the excretion of excess cholesterol, taking silibinin is a wise option for people with both cholesterol and liver concerns.

Mushroom poisoning

This usage of milk thistle was reputed in traditional medicine since time immemorial. Milk thistle is used as an immediate antidote for people who have ingested Amanita phalloides, commonly known as death cap mushroom, a deadly poisonous fungus. Milk thistle herb has the ability to completely and immediately negate the deadly effects of the mushroom. It is highly effective when given 10 minutes after the mushroom is taken. If the herb is given with 24 hours, the risk of liver damage is greatly reduced and death may be averted.

The herb’s antidote mechanism has been demonstrated by medical research and its clinical use has revealed its extreme importance. Currently, more and more European countries are using milk thistle for mushroom poisoning with hospitals in Germany, Austria, France and

Switzerland

claiming that Silymarin cut the mortality rate by about 50%.

Taking milk thistle for mushroom poisoning, particularly Amanita phalloides, can dramatically reduce the mortality rate, which normally ranges from 30 to 50%, to a mere 10 to 13%. Silymarin aids both human and animal livers in preventing and fixing the damage caused by the hepatoxic effect of phalloidin and alpha-amanitin. It counteracts the attack by obstructing membrane binding sites and by supporting regeneration of liver cells. Results may vary upon the period of ingestion and the treatment as well as the amount of liver damage.

Currently, milk thistle for mushroom poisoning is not used in the

United States

since the introduction of a new medicine would need a huge amount of money for research and tests to meet the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards. However, in

Germany

, it is already used as a specific antidote for Death Cap mushroom poisoning. The form of silymarin that is used for researches and treatment is an intravenous infusion. Oral ingestion tends to be ineffective due to the plant’s low bioavailability.

Uses for Skin problems

For the most part, milk thistle is taken internally but it can also be applied topically to treat different forms of skin disorders such as acne, psoriasis or rosacea. For topical application, you have to make milk thistle paste from milk thistle powder. To make a paste from the powder form of milk thistle, combine water and powder at a ratio of 1:3 and mix it, adding water if necessary. The powder you buy may affect the thickness of your paste so it is best to add oatmeal to your paste as well. Oatmeal is also a soothing substance to the skin, making it an excellent addition to your paste. Add a few drops of castor oil to make your paste gooey. It also helps the milk thistle extract penetrate deeply into the skin.

There are different ways to use milk thistle powder, whether you mix it in food, turn it into a coffee powder or create an herbal paste for skin diseases. Adding milk thistle to food can be beneficial to your liver but always consult your healthcare provider before taking any herbal remedies.

How to use it safely?

Only if you follow the recommended dose and the dose that has your doctor’s approval. Taking anything in doses larger than prescribed or suggested is harmful and this is the same with milk thistle. Don’t use a larger dosage than what your body requires. It poses a risk of overdose and might cause health problems. Don’t forget to consult your healthcare provider before starting milk thistle therapy. If you feel that your doses have to be lowered, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about it. Unpredictable side effects of milk thistle are also possible because of contaminants that may be in your milk thistle product. Since herbs and supplements are not strictly controlled by FDA, they are sometimes contaminated by foreign substance, other medications, herbs and even metals. For you to avoid this incident, always buy milk thistle products from a reputable manufacturer.

When searching for the best milk thistle supplement, find one that binds silymarin to phosphatidylcholine, a member of the Lecithin group. This substance is proven to enhance milk thistle benefits up to ten times. This new form can also be easily absorbed by the body, providing more health benefits.

Because most milk thistle capsules and silymarin products are sold as herbal supplements, they are not subjected to the same strict standards imposed on synthetic drugs. The quality, safety and purity may vary from one brand to another. In rare circumstances, milk thistle pills can cause upset the stomach or cause joint pains and headaches. Silymarin is not prescribed for pregnant and nursing women. A dose of more than 1.5 grams per day may cause diarrhea due to its mild laxative property. As such, it is best to consult your health care provider or doctor before taking milk thistle supplements.

There are two ways to increase the bioavailability of milk thistle. One is by means of enteric coating, allowing the nutrient to be absorbed completely in the upper intestine. There are milk thistle tablets sold today that are enteric-coated. The second way is the use of an appropriate combination of compounds or nutrients. When talking about silymarin, the most suitable co-nutrient is phosphatidylcholine, which increases the bioavailability of silymarin by ten times.

Besides increasing the bioavailability of silymarin, phosphatidylcholine also has a number of benefits. It aids in lowering cholesterol and prevents build-up of fat deposits in the arteries. This can be attributed to its high linoleic acid content, which is an essential healthy form of fatty acid. It is also a co-factor needed to produce acetylcholine, which is important in transmitting nerve signals. Low levels of acetylcholine may lead to depression and anxiety.

If phosphatidylcholine is combined in milk thistle supplements, the suggested dose is 100 mg per day. Of course, the best supplement will be a combination of various ingredients, including vitamins and minerals. Other important nutrients for liver health include choline, n-acetyl cysteine and selenium. If taken alone, milk thistle may enhance liver health but when taken with combined nutrients, it can greatly improve overall health.

Safety for children & pregnant women

Because the safest and most effective milk thistle has not been established yet, there are basic dosing guidelines based from different clinical studies on milk thistle that have to be observed. Whether it is for prescription or non-prescription drugs, researchers establish the safest doses in what is known as dose-range studies. These studies are established as early as the development and approval of the drug. However, since dietary supplements don’t need approval from FDA, dose-range studies are hardly even done for herbs like milk thistle. As such, the only to find out the safe dose is through trial-and-error.

Milk thistle can also help in promoting clear skin conditions for adolescents suffering from acne. Children undergoing chemotherapy for cancer have experienced the positive effects of milk thistle in strengthening and protecting liver function. The recommended dose for children depends on their weight. Oftentimes, the recommended adult dose is 420 mg. Therefore, if the child weighs 20 -25 kg, the suggested dose of milk thistle would be 140 mg per day, or 1/3 of the adult dose.

Currently, there is little evidence to support whether milk thistle is safe or unsafe for pregnant women. Side effects of milk thistle are rare and it is better to take extra caution if you want to detoxify during your pregnancy. Milk thistle contains certain compounds that are similar to the hormone estrogen. Generally, herbal supplements and other substances that could possibly affect the endocrine system must be avoided during pregnancy, but there are still exceptions to the rule. As such, it is perhaps a good idea to consult your healthcare provider before taking any sort of supplement, including milk thistle. Although scientifically unproven, there are possible dangers of taking milk thistle during pregnancy. In theory, due to its hormonal effect, it may lead to changes in the fetus’s developing reproductive organs and endocrine system. To add to that, it may also stimulate premature contractions, leading to preterm labor or miscarriage.

There are many herbs that can be taken for a healthy liver and milk thistle tops this list. Indeed, milk thistle can effectively help in treating health problems especially to the elderly in promoting smooth function of the vital organs. The liver-detoxifying effects of milk thistle lessen the risk of liver damage and malfunction as well the debilitating and sometimes painful medical conditions that may arise from liver failure. The herb helps in stimulating the bowels and kidney into functioning better and improves blood circulation. Hence, it may improve motor function and memory. In turn, these health benefits can uplift the quality of life of the elderly.

Know more about Silymarin at: 37. Artichoke - great detoxofier and blood cleanser

77. Tawa-tawa - a herb to treat Dengue Fever

2014-10-12T21:30:00.002+05:30

Euphorbia hirta/ Dugadhika/ Asthma Weed/ Bearing spurge/ Snakeweed

It is commonly called as Amman Pachirisi in Tamil, snake weed, asthma weed, Tawa-tawa, etc. In Philippines, this herb is known as tawa-tawa and used to treat Dengue fever. The herb grows widely in tropical countries like Australia and widely found in India. The herb is a native to India. It is often found as a weed growing in neglected areas around the house. Many people do not recognize it and do not know its medicinal benefits and hence weed it out. The herb is full of milky latex and hence one should be careful when plucking it. The specialty of the herb is that it bears flowers and fruits in all seasons and throughout the year and grows in damp regions. It grows heavily during rainy season.
In the test tube, Euphorbia hirta has been shown to kill various types of pathogenic bacteria, Helicobacter pylori (albeit weakly), and Plasmodium (potently).

Tawa-tawa has been claimed to have a curative effects on dengue patients, based on personal testimonies, particularly in the Philippines. Despite its widespread use, there is no evidence to support this claim. Still Euphorbia Hirta has been known to keep the body temperature under control and helps to keep the body cool. It cures the thirsty feeling often faced by people and increases body resistance. It also keeps the body strong.

Tawa-tawa Tea from fewer:
In preparing tawa-tawa tea, 100 grams of the fresh whole plant (including roots) are washed and boiled in half a liter (500 ml) of water for 15 minutes. After cooling and paper-filtration, the decoction is taken by the patient at one glass every hour until the fever subsides.

Medical indications:

Traditionally this herb is used to treat female disorders, respiratory ailments (cough, coryza, bronchitis, and asthma), worm infestations in children, dysentery, jaundice, pimples, gonorrhoea, digestive problems, and tumours.

Skin infections

If you have skin infections like rashes, warts, swellings or Molluscum, take the milky extract of the herb and apply it over the affected area. The skin gets cured very soon. If you have sore eye, apply the latex on the eyelids below the eyes. The problem gets cured soon. Applying around the wart results in its fall when applied for a week. If you have cracked lips, take the milky latex of the plant and apply it on the lips. The lips get cured very soon.

Leucorrhoea

Some women are often faced with the problem of white discharge. For such people, take the leaves of the herb, grind it till it becomes a paste and drink it along with butter milk or a cup of milk. The problem gets cured.

Euphorbia Hirta or Snake Weed for Dengue

The herb has the potential to cure dengue. But it has not been recognized officially as a medicine to cure dengue. It has been found that medicines are prepared using the extract of the herb and sold as medicines for curing dengue. Though relying on this herb alone is not recommended, it is better to consume this herb along with your regular medicines. This hastens your healing process.

Procedures in making Tawa-tawa tea for Dengue treatment:

Take 5 to 6 full whole Tawa-Tawa plant
Cut of the roots
Wash thoroughly
Fill a boiling pot with 1 liiter of clear water
Boil the Tawa-Tawa for 1 (one) minute in slow rolling boil
Cool
Let the Dengue victim drink only the Tawa-Tawa water for 24 hours
Slip 1 to 1.5 glasses of Tawa-Tawa water for every hour

Tip: to lessen the bitter taste of Tawa-tawa, add a little brown sugar

Gastrointestinal disorders

The herb is widely used in treating a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders. If you are having Diarrhea, consuming a decoction of the herb cures you of the disease. Similarly consuming it kills the intestinal parasites.

Respiratory problems

Tawa tawa or amman pachirisi has the potential to cure various respiratory disorders like asthma and bronchitis.

Increased milk for lactating mothers

When decoction of the herb is consumed, mothers get benefited by increased production of milk.

Mouth infection

If your mouth gets infected with fungus resulting in whitish patches (thrush), gargle your mouth with decoction of the herb 2 times a day. You get recovered soon.

Family planning

The herb is very effective in reducing the sperm mobility and density. Consuming it regularly results in infertility. You need to discontinue consuming it for about 10 days so that you become fertile again.

Snake root for snake bites

Another name of the herb is snake root. The decoction of the herb when consumed kills the germs and expels the toxic agents from the body.

69. Which herbs to use in emergency for Snake bite?

Often, the juice of the crushed leaves is applied over the affected skin area to heal the infection in a fast manner.
Precautions:

Pregnant women should not consume the herb, since it induces miscarriage.
Men who want to bear babies should not consume it, since it makes you infertile.
Do not consume more than the prescribed amount, since it induces vomiting

There are many other traditional uses of E. hirta in Ayurveda which serves as the basis for further studies. This review will definitely help the researchers to know its different properties.

http://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/21355

Learn more about: preventive measures to control dengue fever

76. Chironji seeds - useful in GU problems-Gleet

2014-08-28T16:01:00.002+05:30

Buchanania lanzan/ Almondette tree/ Buchanan’s Mango/ Cheronjee, Chiraunji/ Priyala, Piyala, Piyar

Buchanania lanzan is popular with its local name Chironji. This tree grows about 50 feet tall, and is commonly found in dry deciduous forests throughout India, up to an altitude of 900 metre. It has a dark grey crocodile bark with red blaze. Fruits are black, sweetish drupes. The tiny almond-flavoured dried seeds are known as charoli (Hindi: चारोली; chironji or chiraunji, चिरौन्जी).

These seeds are used as a cooking spice primarily in India.After the hard shell is cracked, the stubby seed within is as soft as a pine nut. The charoli seed is lentil-sized, is slightly flattened and has an almond-like flavour. Though they can be eaten and used raw they are often toasted or roasted before use, as this intensifies the flavour. They are commonly used in sweets in India. However, they are also ground into powders for thickening savory sauces and flavoring batters, and stewed into rich, meaty kormas. In India a traditional sweet dish called " Chironji Ki Barfi" is made from these seeds and is especially given to newly wed couples.

Often used as a substitute for almonds, Chironji is an almond-flavored nut with blood purifying and life force enhancing qualities. Called as Charoli or Chironji in Ayurveda, these dried modest seeds have been in use in the Ayurvedic medicine for treating digestive disorders like diarrhea, ulcers and irregular bowel movements. It was also recommended to enhance the secretion of semen, increase vigor and vitality, reduce fever, clear acne, skin blemishes, cold and blood disorders. Chironji oil is extracted from the dried seeds by steam distillation method and is scientifically called as Buchanania lanzan.

All the parts of the charoli tree are used in traditional Indian medicine. The fruit, roots, leaves, seeds, gum and oil are used in different ways to treat a variety of health issues. Charoli seeds are used in the Ayurveda and Unani systems of medicine.

Health Benefits Of Chironji:

· The juice of the leaves is used in digestion problems, as an expectorant, a purgative and also as an aphrodisiac. Powdered or crushed leaves are applied to wounds. Leaves are used in the treatment of skin diseases. Chironji leaves act as a tonic, relieve fatigue and tiredness and have cardiotonic properties as well.

· Charoli seeds are cooling and are used to remove burning sensation from the body. The seeds also act as a tonic to the brain and are useful in many genito-urinary problems like gleet etc.

· The edible seed kernels of chironji contain a pleasant, slightly acidic flavour, and are eaten raw or roasted. The seed kernel and bark of Priyala is used in the form of decoction to treat intrinsic haemorrhage, diarrhoea with blood and as tonic. Kernels of the priyala made into a powder and used with milk as an aphrodisiac, in case of fever and burning sensation. An ointment made from the kernels is used to relieve itch and prickly heat, and also to remove facial blemishes and other skin related problems. A face pack made with the seeds and milk brings a glow to the face.

· The seeds yield an oil that is comparable to olive and almond oil in their medicinal properties and is also substituted for these oils in the pharmaceutical products. It is often used to reduce glandular swellings of the neck.

· The bark yields tannin which is used in the leather industry, in clarification of wine and beer, in pharmaceutical industry etc. The presence of alkaloids, saponins and reducing sugars is also reported. Powder of the bark mixed with honey is useful in dysentery with blood.

· The gum oozed from the cut bark is used to treat diarrhoea. This gum is mixed with goat`s milk for effective and curative results in intercostal pains. The tribal inhabitants of southern Bihar blend the powder of the stem bark and Syzygium cumini (Mvrtaceae) together and the powder is given to treat infantile diarrhoea. To treat rheumatic pains, the inhabitants of Andhra Pradesh consume a blend of the gum dissolved in cow`s milk.

· The fruits are used in treating cough and asthma.

· The roots are acrid, astringent, cooling, depurative and constipating, and are useful in treatment of diarrhoea. The extract of the roots is used as an expectorant, to treat blood infections and correct digestive disorders caused by liver or gall bladder dysfunctioning.

· The gum (stem exudate) is used to treat diarrhea and also chest pain related to the parietal nerves. The gum is dissolved in cow's milk and used to treat rheumatic pains.

More uses:

Grown up child who has left the breast-milk should be given sweet bolus prepared of priyala (kernels), madhuka (Glycyrrhiza glabra - Licorice) honey, parched paddy and sugar candy. It acts as saturating and tonic (AH.U.139)

Ayurvedic properties:

Plant pacifies vitiated Pitta and Kapha
Rasa: Tikta, Kashaya
Guna: Lakhu.
Virya: Ushna

Useful part: Bark, Seed kernel, Fruit, Leaves
Dosage: Stem bark: 5–10 g

You can also read more useful & interesting info about Indian Sacred healing Trees:

Indian Almond - improves memory and weakness of the brain

Sacred Ficus - a thousand years medicinal treasure

God Blessed Nature...

75. Indian Almond - improves Memory & boosts Energy

2014-08-03T16:02:00.000+05:30

Terminalia catappa is a large tropical tree in the leadwood tree family, Combretaceae, that grows mainly in the tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. It is known by the common names Bengal almond, country almond, Indian almond, Malabar almond/ Jangli badam, Bangla badam/ Ketapang. Also known as the Sea Almond or Tropical Almond, this Almond tree is among one of the most common trees throughout India, Malaysia and many other parts of SE Asia, growing wild as well as cultivated for its striking features as well as its tasty nut.

This tree has a characteristic pagoda shape because it sends out a single stem from the top centre. When the single stem reaches a good height, it sends out several horizontal branches. It can get very large reaching 30m in ideal conditions. Indian almonds bear fruit during the winter months in India.

The fruits are almond-shaped and green turning brown to purple when ripe. The fibrous shell surrounds an edible nut. This shell helps the fruit to float as the seed is dispersed by water. The nuts are edible, taste very much like almonds although it can be a challenge to remove the flesh from the hard stone. Unlike the commercial almond, the Sea Almond can be eaten raw. Oil extracted from the dried nuts is edible and used in cooking (South America).

Indian almonds have a nutty taste similar to almonds thanks to its oil content, and are considered important foodstuff in Vanatu. Villagers sometimes eat the aromatic fleshy fruit, though the taste is not particularly pleasant or noteworthy. Sometimes the fruit tastes sweet; other times bitter. The ever-resourceful Filipinos occasionally make wine from the fruits.

Some Indian almonds can be cracked opened with the teeth. Others require cracking open with a knife or hitting with a stone. Extraction is a cumbersome process, but the nut requires no additional processing in order to consume.

Terminalia catappa fruits at various stages of ripeness

Fresh nuts grow moldy at room temperature in a day or two. Preserve the life of the nuts up to a year by roasting them.

Health Benefits of Indian Almond:

Some of these traditional remedies have been affirmed by scientific studies as well.

According to the book, “The Encyclopedia of Fruit and Nuts”:

the leaf extract from Indian almonds have been used traditionally to sickle cell anemia and boost liver function. Additionally, the oil from the leaves treat skin problems when applied as a salve. The seeds are believed to treat liver cancer and act as an aphrodisiac. The dried root has been used for their effective antimicrobial activities against e-coli and staph outbreaks.

According to a study in “The Indian Journal of Pharmacology and Therapeutics”:

The leaf extract exhibited potent anti-diabetic effects.

A study published in the “Indian Journal of Pharmacology” reveals that fruit extracts had antitumor activities on fibrosarcoma induced rats.

The “Journal of Nutritional Science Vitaminology” states that leaf extracts suppressed bone weight loss in ovariectomized mice.

A study published in “Food and Chemical Toxicology” affirmed that Indian almond leaves may be a potent chemopreventative agent against types of oral cancer. Other studies from the same publication reveal benefits against lung cancer as well.

According to a study published in the “International Journal of Pharmacology,” ethanol leaf extracts displayed analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities.

Almonds are considered to be the healthiest and most nutritious nuts of all. Almonds have a vast number of health benefits and these beneficial properties are used via various forms like almond oil, almond paste or whole almonds. Here are all the health benefits of almonds that you should know about:

- Almonds provide you with brain power as they contain many essential nutrients, which can actually help you improve the way you think!

- They are great for the skin. If you add almond oil or almond milk to your skincare regime, it will make your skin softer, more supple and flawless. You can also massage almond oil into your skin.

- Almonds contain minerals like potassium, folic acid, protein, monosaturated fats and vitamin E. One ounce of almonds contains 35 percent of the daily intake of vitamin E. Vitamin E is believed to protect the body’s cells from cancer, heart disease, and aging. Hence eating them can significantly reduce your chances of heart diseases.

- If you are in the habit of consuming cups of coffee and energy drinks to get a boost of energy, try eating almonds instead! Riboflavin, copper and manganese in the nuts will give you stamina.

- Like blueberries and pomegranates, almonds are superfoods that can help reduce weight significantly. Drink unsweetened almond milk for faster weight loss.

- Almonds regulate your blood pressure because they are high in potassium and low in sodium. They also help in keeping your cholesterol levels in check.

- Studies carried out by the American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Cancer Research Fund have revealed that almonds had several substances as their chemical constituents which could be useful in the prevention of cancer.

Uses of almond oil:
Indians believe that use of almond oil has following benefits:
· Strengthens brain and nerves, is a nutrient,
· Relieves tension
· Strengthens brain power
· Good for heart
· Keeps body warm in winter
· Nourishes skin
· Prenatal and postnatal care
· Helps build stronger bones as it contains higher content of Ca, Fe and P
· Good for infants
· Improves body strength and removes constipation in a natural way:

How to use almonds for a good health?

People use almonds in different ways in India as a remedy for following ailments:

Improves memory and weakness of the brain if:
1. 5-10 ml of almond oil is mixed with 250 ml of milk at night and consumed.
2. Soak 10 pieces of almond nuts overnight in water and Remove the hard covering in morning and grind with 10 g butter and sugar and eat for one or two months.
3. Alternately 5-6 pieces of almonds are ground with 10 g sugar and Saumf and taken with hot milk in night.
4. Almond oil can also be applied on the forehead.
Improvement in eye-sight:
·Make a paste of 5 almonds with water in night and use it with warm milk in the morning
· Also heals the spots caused due to small pox
Dry lips:
·Intake of 5 grains of almonds
Dry cough:

Almonds are excellent for dry coughs. Soak about seven almonds in water and keep them overnight.
Next morning peel off the brown skin. Now grind them to form a powder and add twenty grams each of butter and sugar and form a paste. Consume it twice a day, once in the morning and the second time inthe evening.

·Grind 5 pieces of almonds and make a paste with sugar. It will remove cough

Increase in weight:

·Soak overnight 12 almonds in water and grind in morning after removing scalp. Make sandwich with bread butter and sugar and drink a glass of water for six months

Stammering:

·Eating with butter or black pepper corrects speech problems. Eat 10-12 almonds, the equivalent of two aspirins, for a migraine headache. Almonds are far less likely to upset the stomach.

Almond milk is the most useful health tonic. It should be prepared by grinding the blanched almonds with milk, adding some more milk and little sugar to it. Almond fat is in an unsaturated form. Besides, it has also 11 gms of a fatty acid (linolenic acid) in 100 gms of almonds. Thus, almonds help to lower serum cholesterol level.
Almonds help to raise haemoglobin, form new blood cells, and enable liver, heart, brain and nerves to perform their respective functions normally. It prolongs life, tones up and energises muscle function, energises brain power and strengthens health. Take equal quantities of raisins, almonds and roasted black grams. If 50- 100 gms of this recipe is taken with milk, it will meet all food requirements of body and brain.
Almond is laxative, removes skin disorders, respiratory problems, rejuvenates sexual power and system, does away with constipation but, for all such or any other disorder or to derive tonic effect, only sweet almond should be used, but not the bitter variety.

For healthy skin - Mix equal quantity rose petal's paste, almond paste (of blanched almonds) and milk cream. If applied daily over face, it will beautify the face, by nourishing the skin, it will also provide glow, softness and lustrous look to skin, remove wrinkles, black-heads, pimples, dryness of skin and retard pre-mature aging effects on face.

To remove constipation - Mix half teaspoonful of almond oil to hot milk but, those who have sensitive stomachs should not use the oil, in stead they can chew the almonds (blanched) to be followed by hot milk drink. Almond oil with rose water can be applied to face for facial tenderness.

For relief in asthma, bronchitis and whooping cough - Mix ten to fifteen drops each of ginger and lemon juices to a spoonful of almond oil and take for 10-15 days at a stretch once or twice a day, depending on severity of the symptoms.

In pregnancy - Almonds being highly nutritive are an ideal source of energy for pregnant women. For best results, soak almonds in milk, add a pinch of saffron and drink the tasty preparation everyday for nourishment both to the mother and the to-be child.

To increase vitality - Almonds in milk also increase libido and enhance general sexual performance in cases of frigidity too.

As a brain tonic - Almond is popular for its property as a nerve tonic. Rich in nourishment and essential fats, almonds serve to enhance memory and intelligence. Soak 4-6 almonds in water and eat after removing the kernel.

As a body coolant - Badam kheer is a well known preparation made by grinding almonds and mixing in milk. This cools the body apart from relieving brain exhaustion and improving functioning.

74. Sacred Ficus - assures Fertility to human progeny

2014-06-19T14:30:00.000+05:30

Ficus is a genus of about 850 species of woody trees, shrubs, vines, epiphytes and hemiepiphytes in the family Moraceae. Collectively known as fig trees or figs, they are native throughout the tropics with a few species extending into the semi-warm temperate zone.

The Common Fig (F. carica) is a temperate species native to southwest Asia and the Mediterranean region (from Afghanistan to Portugal), which has been widely cultivated from ancient times for its fruit, also referred to as figs. The fruit of most other species are also edible though they are usually of only local economic importance or eaten as bushfood. However, they are extremely important food resources for wildlife. Figs are also of considerable cultural importance throughout the tropics, both as objects of worship and for their many practical uses.

Fig trees have profoundly influenced culture through several religious traditions. Among the more famous species are the Sacred Fig tree (Pipal, Bodhi, Bo, or Po, Ficus religiosa) and the Banyan Fig (Ficus benghalensis). The oldest living plant of known planting date is a Ficus religiosa tree known as the Sri Maha Bodhi planted in the temple at Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka by King Tissa in 288 BCE. The common fig is one of the two sacred trees of Islam, and there is a sura in Quran named "The Fig" or At-Tin (سوره تین). In East Asia, figs are important in Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism. The Buddha is traditionally held to have found bodhi (enlightenment) while meditating under a Sacred Fig (F. religiosa).

Ficus Religiosa

Bodhi Tree, Peepal Tree, Sacred Tree/ Ashwathya, The Plaksa tree

In Hindu texts, the Plaksa tree is associated with the source of the Sarasvati River. The Skanda Purana states that the Sarasvati originates from the water pot of Brahma flows from Plaksa on the Himalayas. According to Vamana Purana 32.1-4, the Sarasvati was rising from the Plaksa tree (Pipal tree).

This sacred tree is found throughout india and also cultivated.

Medicinal uses:

Ficus religiosa is used in traditional medicine for about 50 types of disorders including asthma, diabetes, diarrhea, epilepsy, gastric problems, inflammatory disorders, infectious and sexual disorders.Peepal tree is of great medicinal value.

The bark is cooling and astringent and is useful in inflammations and glandular swellings of neck. An infusion or decoction of the bark is used with some honey for the treatment of gonorrhoea, ulcers, skin diseases and scabies. Its power bark has been used to heal the wounds for years.

Root bark is good for stomatitis, clean ulcers and it is astringent in leucorrhoea and promotes granulations. According to Unani system of medicine, root, bark is aphrodisiac and also good for lumbago.

Roots are said to be good for gout. The roots are chewed to prevent gum disease.

The fruit is laxative, promotes digestion, aphrodisiac and checks vomiting. Ripe fruits are alexipharmic (an antidote or defensive remedy against poison, venom or infection), are good for foul taste, thirst and heart disease. The powdered fruit is taken for asthma.

The seeds are cooling, laxative and refrigerant. Seeds are useful in urinary troubles.

The leaves. A study shows that the leaves of Ficus religiosa shows significant antioxidant, wound healing and anti-inflammatory activity with a strong antibacterial activity.
Its leaves serve as a wonderful laxative as well as tonic for the body. For constipation problem, there can be no better remedy than the consumption of leaves of Peepal. Dry the Peepal leaves in sun and powder them. Add a solution of jaggery and anise to it. Mix it with water and consume it. This concoction will ensure proper bowel movement. It is especially useful for patients suffering from Jaundice. It helps to control the excessive amount of urine released during jaundice. The leaves of Peepal are highly effective in treating heart disorders. It helps to control the palpitation of heart and thereby combat the cardiac weakness. Ayurveda makes an extensive use of the leaves of peepal due to the numerous benefits it provides.

The Indian basil peepal works wonders in treating dysentery. Prepare a mixture of grinded coriander leaves, peepal leaves and sugar and chew it slowly. The leaf of a peepal plant is also considered valuable in the treatment of various kinds of skin disorders.

Pipal leaves are of great use in getting rid of mumps. All one needs to do to avail the benefits of peepal plant is smear the leaves of Peepal with ghee and then warm it on low flame. After that, bandage it over the swollen inflamed part of the body. It is surely going to provide the patient with a great relief. Even for boils, this remedy will prove to be quite effective. In case of formation of pus, bandaging the leaves of Peepal will ensure that the growth subsides. But, it will give beneficial results only if the problem is in its preliminary stage. This tree of life has also got the medicinal value. The juice of its leaves extracted by holding them near the fire can be used as the ear drop.

Part Used : Bark, Leaves, Tender Shoots, Latex, Seeds, Fruits.

Product offered : Leaves, Seeds,Bark,Fruit

Ficus Benghalensis

Bengal fig/ Indian fig/ The Vata Tree

The Great Banyan (scientific name: Ficus benghalensis, family: Moraceae) tree at the botanical garden, Howrah. The garden was known as ‘East India Company’s Garden’ or the ‘Company Bagan’ or ‘Calcutta Garden’ and later as the ‘Royal Botanic Garden’ which after independence was renamed as the ‘Indian Botanic Garden’ in 1950. It came under the management of the Botanical Survey of India on January 1, 1963. From June 25, 2009 it was renamed as ‘Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden’. Ficus benghalensis, the Indian Banyan, is a large and extensive growing tree of the Indian subcontinent. Ficus benghalensis produces propagating roots which grow downwards as aerial roots. Once these roots reach the ground, they grow into woody trunks that can become indistinguishable from the main trunk.

Ficus means figs and benghalensis pertaining to Bengal. Vata is the Sanskrit for surround or encompass. The Banyan Tree along with Ganga and the Himalayas symbolize the image of India. This tree is venerated and considered to be a symbol of fertility.

This tree is considered sacred in India, and often shelters a little or larger temple underneath, but is offered worship on its own generally too, and especially so on one particular full moon day in summer when the full moon occurs near the last star of the constellation Scorpius but definitely before beginning of Sagittarius.Even apart from the worship, it is one of the most sheltering trees in the heat of the land, with a large and deep shade, and is thus extremely useful for travellers of the old sort - on foot, bicycles or oxcarts, or horse riders - travelling for hours or days; traditionally it was found almost ubiquitously on roads and in village centres, the latter very useful for any formal or informal gathering to be conducted in a cool place or even for any poor person or a traveller to sleep under.The respect for this and other trees of this nature is thus linked both to the use and the worship as sacred.

The giant banyan trees of India are the largest trees in the world, as measured by canopy coverage. In these trees, a network of interconnected stems and branches has grown entirely by vegetative, "branching" propagation. One individual, Thimmamma Marrimanu, in Andhra Pradesh, covers 19,107 square metres, making it the largest single tree by two-dimensional canopy coverage area. This tree is also the world's largest known tree by a related measure, perimeter length, with a distance of 846 metres required to walk around the edge of the canopy. Thimmama Marrimanu is likely also the world's largest tree by three dimensional canopy volume.
Various parts of the plant are considered medicinal:

Food is often served on Banyan tree leaves. The extracts of the Banyan Tree are used to treat gum and mouth disease. It is also effective in treating dysentery, diarrhea and chronic stomach ailments.The milky juice is externally applied for bruises and as a pain reliever in rheumatism and back pain. It is also used as a remedy for toothache. The leaves are heated and applied as a poultice to abscesses. Banyan Tree leaves also help heal skin abscesses The bark is astringent, while the seeds have a cooling effect. The root bark lowers blood sugar levels. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends using the aerial root in lipid disorders.

Banyan in Indian`s sacred mythology

The tree can survive for over a thousand years, carrying along with it a priceless live ecosystem, all its own, that reminds us of the famous pond and its suroundings described in Thoreau's "Walden".
The Banyan tree is indigenous to India and South Asia. It prefers humid air and moist soil, has broad oval leaves and a white latex exudes from the bark when injured.

Vata vriksha is worshipped all over India as a representative of the Trimurthis - Brahma (roots) Vishnu ( bark) and Shiva (branches)). Vishnu is also compared to the seed of the Banyan tree, by our ancient poets, as the entire universe is said to have emanated from him, just as the gigantic Banyan tree originates from a single minute seed.
According to Hindu mythology, contemporary to the birth of human civilization, before grain became the staple food of man, mankind found, in the milk of the Banyan tree, a source of nourishing food.
According to mythology, Savitri, soon after her marriage, had to face the loss of her spouse, as predicted astrologically. When Sathyavaan's spirit was dragged away by Yama, while he was resting, tired and unprotected, under a banyan tree, after he had cut wood for the family fire, Savitri followed Yama, impresssed him with the power of her paativratya and won back her husband fromh him. In honour of this victory of the great sati, a vrata known as Vata-Saavithri-Vrata came into being. On the poornima of the month of Jyeshta, the sumangali fasts and circumambulates the Vata Vriksha praying for her husband's longevity. It is interesting to note, in this context, that the Jains have also included Sati Savithri in their roll-call prayers as one of the satis to whom prayers are to be offered every day.
In addition to the above, the vata vriskha has also the mystic power to stimulate a barren woman overcome her socially ostracising condition. The Banyan Tree is believed to have had its origin in Vasuki's garden. Vasuki is one of the divine Navanaagas or nine snake gods. It may be noted that, in India, the snake is regarded as a symbol of fertility. The tree is said to have been brought to earth by the power of Goddess Amba. Amba wanted it on earth for the benefit of her human progeny. When her battle with Vasuki did not bring victory to her, she invoked Lord Shiva's assistance, and managed to bring the banyan tree to our earth to assure fertility to her human progeny.

Ficus Racemosa

Cluster Fig Tree, Indian Fig Tree or Goolar (Gular) Fig/ Udumbara

This tree is native to Australia, Malesia, South-East Asia and the Indian Subcontinent. It is unusual in that its figs grow on or close to the tree trunk, termed cauliflory. In India the tree and its fruit are called gular in the north and atti in the south. The fruits are a favourite staple of the common Indian macaque. It serves as a food plant for the caterpillars of the butterfly the Two-brand Crow (Euploea sylvester) of northern Australia.

In ancient times both Hindu and Buddhist ascetics on their way to Taxila, (Original name is Taksha Sila) travelling through vast areas of Indian forests used to consume the fruit during their travels. One challenge to vegetarians were the many fig wasps that one finds when opening a gular fig. One way to get rid of them was to break the figs into halves or quarters, discard most of the seeds and then place the figs into the midday sun for an hour. Gular fruit are almost never sold commercially because of this problem.

Health benefits:

Ficus Racemosa is styptic, tonic and useful in the treatment of leucorrhoea, blood disorders, burning sensation. The bark of Audumbar/Oudumbar tree is said to have healing power. In countries like India, the bark is rubbed on a stone with water to make a paste and the paste is applied over the skin which is afflicted by boils or mosquito bites. Allow the paste to dry on the skin and reapply after a few hours. For people whose skin is especially sensitive to insect bites; this is a very simple home remedy.

Ayurvedic properties:

Roots are useful in hydrophobia whereas bark is cooling, galactagogue and good for gynaecological disorders. Fruits are styptic, tonic and useful in the treatment of leucorrhoea, blood disorders, burning sensation, fatigue, urinary discharges, leprosy, menorrhagia, epistaxis and intestinal worms. According to Unani system of medicine, leaves are good in case of bronchitis whereas fruits are useful in treatment of dry cough, loss of voice, diseases of kidney and spleen. Bark is useful in asthma and piles. Latex is applied externally on chronic infected wounds to alleviate edema, pain and to promote the healing.

Need to understand the sanctity of this tree and use its parts for medicinal purposes only in urgent cases.

Much Love & Care.

For additional info, please refer to:

http://www.indiadivine.org/news/science-and-nature/the-sanctity-of-the-banyan-tree-in-hinduism-r723

To know more of ancient history:
The Immortal Banyan Tree at Kurukshetra

73. Vasaka or Malabar nut - Tuberculosis perfect aid

2014-05-17T18:50:00.001+05:30

Justicia adhatoda/ Malabar nut/ Adhatoda Vasica / Vasa, Vasaka /Adulsa

Justicia adhatoda, commonly known in English as Malabar Nut grows in plains & in lower Himalayan ranges up to 1000 m above sea level. The plant's range includes Sri Lanka, Nepal, India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and China, as well as Panama where it is thought to have been introduced. It is the unofficial provincial flower of the Punjab province of Pakistan.

The plant has been used in India for over 200 years and in Ayurvedic Medicine Adhatoda leaves have been used extensively for over 2000 years primarily for respiratory disorders.
A sweet preparation of Vasaka flowers known as Vasaka Gulkand, is used in Ayurveda to treat tuberculosis.

Recipe and Process for making Vasaka Gulkand:

For preparing Gulkand, you will need fresh Vasaka petals, sugar, and a china clay jar to store the preparation. Take fresh petals of vasaka flowers. Clean all petals using soft cloth. Crush the petals and put in the jar of china clay. Add sugar and keep jar in the sun. Stir every morning and evening. After a month Gulkand will be ready. Vasaka gulkand is traditionally indicated in treatment of tuberculosis, but this preparation is also useful in treatment of respiratory infections such as cold, cough, bronchitis etc.
The dose of Vasaka Gulkand is 1 to 2 teaspoonful with a glass of lukewarm milk.

Uses & Benefits of Malabar Nut:

The shrub is the source of a drug well known in indigenous systems of medicine for its beneficial effects, particularly in bronchitis.
The leaves of Malabar nut are rich in vitamin C and carotene and yield an essential oil. Its leaves, flowers, fruits and roots are extensively used for treating cold, cough, whooping cough, chronic bronchitis and asthma. The leaves are known to moderate the hypotensive activity, by lowering the blood pressure. They assist in conditions like uterine involution, menorrhagia (excessive menstural bleeding), post-childbirth hemorrhage and uterine stimulant activity.
The fresh juice obtained from leaves of Malabar nut has been used to treat tuberculosis. Its local use gives relief from pyorrhea and bleeding gums.
Malabar Nut helps to increase the platelets in the body of the victims of snakebite.

Gastrointestinal Conditions

• dyspepsia

• local bleeding due to peptic ulcer and/or piles

Respiratory Tract Conditions

• acute and chronic bronchitis often combined with the herbs Licorice and Marshmallow for soothing the respiratory tract

• allergic asthma, often combined with the herbs Tylophora, etc.

• antihistamine effects (the leaves may be dried and smoked to relieve asthma)

• broncho-dilation effects

• emphysema

• obstructive airway disease (chronic)

• phthisis (wasting of the tissues as in tuberculosis)

• relieves cough and breathlessness

Other Conditions

• Bleeding gums (applied locally) • Diphtheria • pyorrhea, a gum disease (applied locally) • Fever • Tuberculosis • Typhus fever

Ayurvedic pharmacology:

Taste (Rasa) : Bitter, Astringent.

Quality (Guna) : Light, Unctous.

Post Digestion Effect (Vipak) : Pungent

Potency (Virya) : Cold

Action:

• Anti-asthmatic • Antispasmodic • Antitussive

• Bronchodilator • Expectorant • Febrifuge • Mucolytic

• Oxytocic • Uterotonic

Dosage:

• 1-3 g/day of dried leaves

• 0.5-1.5 g/day dried root

Caution:

Consumption of Malabar nut has been contraindicated during pregnancy, except at the time of the birthing process, due to its anti-implantation properties.
The herb possesses oxytocic properties, which stimulate contractions of the uterus and also have abortifacient effects.
Larger doses of this plant material can cause diarrhea, irritation of the alimentary canal and vomiting.
The leaf extract is considered safe, the oil has low toxicity.

Contraindicated in pregnancy except at birth. Large doses can cause Diarrhoea, Vomiting, Irritation of the alimentary canal.

72. Moringa - a source of over 90 nutrients and 46 antioxidants

2014-04-14T23:22:00.001+05:30

In East Africa moringa is called "mother's best friend”.

“Without Moringa Oleifera There Is No Life” goes the saying of the Konso people who inhabit the lowlands of southern Ethiopia, expressing the ancientlink that unites them to the Moringa oleifera tree.

Moringa oleifera (synonym: Moringa pterygosperma) is the most widely cultivated species of the genus Moringa, which is the only genus in the family Moringaceae. Moringa derives from the Tamil word murungai. In Sanskrit it is called Madhu Shigru. English common names include: moringa, drumstick tree(from the appearance of the long, slender, triangular seed-pods), horseradish tree (from the taste of the roots, which resembles horseradish), ben oil tree or benzoil tree(from the oil which is derived from the seeds), clarifier tree. Imagine a tree in your backyard that will meet all your nutritional needs, take care of you medicinally, and purify your water for you. This tree actually exists. For centuries, the natives of northern India and many parts of Africa have known of the many benefits of Moringa oleifera.

It is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree, native to the southern foothills of the Himalayas in northwestern India, and widely cultivated in tropical and sub-tropical areas. Moringa is especially promising as a food source in the tropics because the tree is in full leaf at the end of the dry season when other foods are typically scarce.

In developing countries, moringa has the potential to improve nutrition, boost food security, foster rural development, and support sustainable landcare. It may be used as forage for livestock, a micronutrient liquid, a natural anthelmintic and possible adjuvant.

Moringa tree can reach a height of 10–12 m.The flowers are fragrant and bisexual, surrounded by five unequal thinly veined yellowish-white petals.

"India is the largest producer of moringa, with an annual production of 1.1 to 1.3 million tonnes of tender fruits from an area of 380 km². Tamil Nadu is the pioneering state in so much as it has varied genotypes from diversified geographical areas and introductions from Sri Lanka." India's ancient tradition of ayurveda says the leaves of the Moringa tree prevent 300 diseases.

Moringa is grown in home gardens and as living fences in Southern India and Thailand, where it is commonly sold in local markets. In the Philippines, it is commonly grown for its leaves which are used in soup. Moringa is also actively cultivated by the World Vegetable Center in Taiwan, a center for vegetable research with a mission to reduce poverty and malnutrition in developing countries through improved production and consumption of vegetables. Tamil Nadu, Southern India has moringa in its folk stories and use in home gardens. This tree, though little known in the Western world, is nutritional dynamite. There are literally hundreds of uses for this tree.

Many parts of the moringa are edible. Regional uses of the moringa as food vary widely, and include:

The immature seed pods, called "drumsticks", popular in Asia and Africa.

Leaves, particularly in the Cambodia, Philippines, South India, Sri Lanka and Africa.

Mature seeds

Oil pressed from the mature seeds

Flowers

In some regions, the young seed pods are most commonly eaten, while in others, the leaves are the most commonly used part of the plant. The flowers are edible when cooked and are said to taste like mushrooms. These flowers are considered a delicacy in many places on the planet. They contain good amount of both calcium and potassium. Just one note, be careful how much you eat, because they have laxative effect on the body.

The bark, sap, roots, leaves, seeds, oil, and flowers are used in traditional medicine in several countries. In Jamaica, the sap is used for a blue dye.

The leaves are the most nutritious part of the plant, being a significant source of B vitamins, vitamin C, provitamin A as beta-carotene, vitamin K, manganese and protein, among other essential nutrients. When compared with common foods particularly high in certain nutrients per 100 g fresh weight, cooked moringa leaves are considerable sources of these same nutrients. Some of the calcium in moringa leaves is bound as crystals of calcium oxalate though at levels 25-45 times less than that found spinach, which is a negligible amount.

The leaves are cooked and used like spinach. In addition to being used fresh as a substitute for spinach, its leaves are commonly dried and crushed into a powder used in soups and sauces. As with most foods, heating moringa above 140 degrees Fahrenheit destroys some of the nutritional value.

Moringa flowers could be either dry in the shade, or in the oven under low temperature to be stored for tea making. The flowers sit in hot water for at least five minutes to let the distinctive flavor brew. After that tea could be sweetened with honey or sugar.

Moringa tea has both nutritional benefits and works as a medicine. In some countries people drink very strong Moringa flowers tea on a first sign of the cold to boost their immune system, or to treat a sore throat. In Puerto Rico the flowers are made into an infusion and used as an eye wash. For a long time in Ayurvedic medicine, Moringa flowers are used to treat inflammations, muscle diseases, tumors and enlargement of the spleen. Be aware: flowers can act an abortifacient so do not use in pregnancy. These flowers are very good source of nectar for bees.

The immature seed pods, called "drumsticks", are the most valued and widely used of all the tree parts. The pods are extremely nutritious, containing all the essential amino acids along with many vitamins and other nutrients. The immature pod can be eaten raw or prepared like green peas or green beans, while the mature pods are usually fried and possess a peanut-like flavor and are commonly consumed in South Asia. The seed pods/fruits, even when cooked by boiling, remain particularly high in vitamin C (which may be degraded variably by cooking) and are also a good source of dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium and manganese.

The seeds, sometimes removed from more mature pods and eaten like peas or roasted like nuts, contain high levels of vitamin C and moderate amounts of B vitamins and dietary minerals (right table, USDA).

Mature seeds yield 38–40% edible oil called ben oil from its high concentration of behenic acid. The refined oil is clear and odorless, and resists rancidity. Overall, its nutritional value most closely resembles olive oil. The seed cake remaining after oil extraction may be used as a fertilizer or as a flocculent to purify water. Moringa seed oil also has potential for use as a biofuel.

The roots are shredded and used as a condiment in the same way as horseradish; however, they contain an alkaloid, potentially having nerve-paralyzing properties.

Culinary uses:

There are several traditional Cambodian dishes using leaves (sluc) of the moringa tree known as daum m'rum, such as korko (a mixed vegetable soup). As it is a favorite vegetable, Cambodians traditionally grow moringa trees close to their residences.
In South India, Sri Lanka and Java, it is used to prepare a variety of sambar, is fried, or made into curry dishes by mixing with coconut, poppy seeds, and mustard or boiled until the drumsticks are semisoft and consumed directly without any extra processing or cooking. Tender drumstick leaves, finely chopped, are used as garnish for vegetable dishes and salads. It is also used in place of or along with coriander. In some regions, the flowers are gathered and cleansed to be cooked with besan to make pakoras.

The green pods, the leaves and the flowers are used in a variety of Thai dishes, such as curries, stir-fries, soups, omelets and salads. One of the most traditional dishes is sour Thai curry made with the drumstick pods and fish.
In the Philippines, moringa is widely eaten, and its leaves are available in many markets at affordable prices. The leaves are most often added to a broth to make a simple and nutritious soup. The leaves can be processed with olive oil and salt for a pesto-like pasta sauce that has become popular on the Filipino culinary scene. Moringa juice may be mixed with lemonsito juice to make ice candies or cold drinks, possibly more palatable to those who dislike vegetables.

Scientific research:

Moringa is undergoing preliminary research to investigate the potential properties of its nutrients and phytochemicals, some of which include antibacterial effects in vitro, improved glucose tolerance in a rat model of diabetes, inhibition of Epstein-Barr virus activity in vitro and reduction of skin papillomas in mice.

Another area of folklore which research supports is in cancer treatment. Moringa species have long been recognized by folk medicine practitioners as having value in the treatment of tumors. Studies examined certain compounds for their cancer preventive potential. Recently two of these compounds were shown to be potent inhibitors of activation of lymphoblastoid (Burkitt’s lymphoma) cells. One of these compounds also inhibited tumors in mice bred to be prone to tumors. In another study, Bharali and colleagues examined skin tumor prevention following ingestion of drumstick (Moringa seedpod) extracts. In this mouse model, which included appropriate positive and negative controls, a dramatic reduction in skin tumors was demonstrated. More rigorous study is required in order to achieve a level of proof required for full medical endorsement of Moringa as, in this case, a cancer preventative plant.

Scientific research confirms that these humble leaves are a powerhouse of nutritional value. Gram for gram, Moringa leaves contain: SEVEN times the vitamin C in oranges, FOUR times the Calcium in milk, FOUR times the vitamin A in carrots, TWO times the protein in milk and THREE times the Potassium in bananas.

Medicinal uses of Moringa:

Moringa has been used in folk medicine,including Siddha medicine and Ayurvedic traditional medicines and in the Philippines. In Ayurvedic traditional medicine, the leaves are believed to affect blood pressure and glucose levels. In Africa, Indonesia and Philippines moringa leaves are given to nursing mothers in the belief that they increase lactation. People in India and Philippines drink Moringa tea regularly for nutrition and general wellness. Women drink Moringa tea for cramping and bloating connected to their menstrual cycles, and man report increasing in stamina during their working day.

Moringa Oleifera and Cancer

Cancer is the result of free radicals taking control of your tissues and bloodstream, damaging your cells and causing cancer growth. The anti-oxidants in moringa oleifera supplements go on a search and destroy mission, squashing all the free radicals that increase your risk of certain types of this deadly disease.

Moringa Oleifera and Gastric Ulcers

Gastric ulcers are not only painful, but can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. Several medical studies have been performed which identify the positive effects of moringa oleifera leaves for not only relieving the symptoms of this condition, but also for improving it. Doctors believe the anti-inflammatories reduce the inflammation in the capillaries, while the anti-oxidants remove free radicals, allowing for healthy cells to move in and take over.

Moringa Oleifera and Mood

This all-natural supplement helps relieve stress and improve your mood, making for a healthier you. The secret is in the tryptophan it contains, an amino acid your body requires for serotonin and niacin production; you know, those feel-good hormones. The combination of the tryptophan, calcium and protein in moringa oleifera makes it a virtual powerhouse of happiness. Finally, since moringa oleifera helps improve your mood, you may be less likely to eat even when not hungry. Some emotional eaters will tell you they eat whether the urge is present or not. You do not have to worry if stress is not resting on your shoulders.

Moringa Oleifera and Mental Clarity

The ability to think clearly and concentrate is a must no matter what your job. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom, or a CEO of a large corporation, you must be on your toes every minute. Your level of mental clarity depends on two minerals: iron and zinc. The iron is responsible for the amount of oxygen your brain receives, while the zinc controls the amount of activity between the right and left hemispheres of your brain. Moringa oleifera supplements contain both of these, and in astonishing amounts.

Moringa Oleifera and Anti-Aging

The older you become, the less your cells regenerate. You also produce less collagen and elastin, the two most important elements of firm skin. The anti-oxidants in moringa oleifera stop free radicals in their tracks, while the numerous proteins accelerate the regrowth of new cells. Additionally, the vitamin A it contains assists in the production of collagen and elastin, helping firm your skin and rid it of unsightly wrinkles.

How to prepare Moriga leaf powder:

Collect moringa leaves from tree. Wash thoroughly to remove dust and soil.
Spread on clean cloth to remove water.
Dry leaves in shade. You can use thin cloth to cover leaves to avoid dirt.
When leaves are completely dried, pulverize and sieve them.
Store this green powder in air tight container for future use.

Health Benefits of Moriga leaf powder:

Cures anaemia
Treats malnourishment in children
Good for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers
Improves overall health and gives nutrition and energy
Cures recurrent infections such as diarrhoea, dysentery, skin diseases etc.
Rich in protein, minerals and vitamins
Low cost and easily available

Dosage of Moriga leaf powder: 1 teaspoonful thrice a day with meals

Ayurvedic properties: Based on principles of ayurveda this plant is light to digest and causes dryness of tissues. It is hot and bitter to taste. On consumption increases the body temperature. Due to these properties the usage of plant vitiates pitta and alleviates vata and kapha.

Potential for water purification: In preliminary research, moringa seed powder is being assessed for its potential to make river water potable. Research showed that filtering with seed powder may diminish water pollution and bacterial counts.

This tree is truly a “miracle” tree offering hope; nutritionally, medicinally and economically to devastatingly poor 3^rd world countries. It has just recently begun being used as a supplement in a juice form and in powdered leaf tablets.

Sources: Ramachandran,C., Peter,K.V. and Gopalakrishnan,P.K., 1980, Drumstick (Moringa oleifera): A multipurpose Indian Vegetable. Economic Botany, 34 (3) pp276-283.

Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/022272_Moringa_medicinal_herbs.html#ixzz2qkt0GOoL

Warning and Precaution:
Some people may experience severe allergic reaction to drum stick. When you experience such reactions never try to use it again. Use of drumstick or moringa tree roots and its extract can cause paralysis and death. Hence use only leaves, fruits and seeds.
It is unsafe to use drumstick fruits and leaves during pregnancy and lactation period as it causes uterine contraction.This vegetable is not recommended for persons suffering from kidney diseases.Consult a qualified ayurvedic physician before using this plant as medicine.

You can check the possibility to buy Moringa supplements in India : http://www.vaidyamishra.com/
in USA: http://shop.healthychoicenaturals.com/Maximum-Moringa-Capsules-p/moringa.htm

71. Aparajita - good Tranquilizing and Sedative agent

2014-03-24T18:21:00.001+05:30

Clitoria ternatea/ butterfly-pea, blue-pea/ bunga telang (Malay)/ Asphota, Girikarni Koyala (Hindi)

Clitoria ternatea belongs to Fabaceae family. The flowers of this vine have the shape of human female genitals, hence the Latin name of the genus "Clitoria", from "clitoris". (Synonyms: Clitoris principissae). Aparajita is an ancient Indian medicinal herb. According to Ayurveda, aparajita is believed to be a Medhya drug which enhances memory and intelligence, it is also nootropic, antistress, anxiolytic, antidepressant, anticonvulsant, tranquilizing and sedative agent. Charaka Samhita – Shiro virechanopaga – Group of herbs that are used in Nasya panchakarma treatment.

This plant is native to tropical equatorial Asia, but has been introduced to Africa, Australia and America. Almost throughout India, wild or cultivated.

In Southeast Asia the flowers are used to colour food. This plant’s root is specially used for leucoderma.

Medicinal internal uses:

Circulatory system: Being haemostatic and blood purifier, it is useful in haemorrhagic disorders and vatarakta. Hot infusion of dhamasa is given to prevent small pox.

Respiratory system: It is used in common cold, cough, asthma as it acts as an expectorant and reduces the irritation of respiratory organs. Besides this, whole plant is used for smoking. Decoction is used for gargling in throat manifestations.

Nervous system : It has a tranquillizing effect on the brain hence it is used in symptoms like syncope, vertigo and brain weakness.

Digestive system : It is an antiemetic, antidypsetic, mild-laxative and cholagogue. Therefore it is used in emesis, dyspepsia, constipation jaundice and piles. Kapha and pitta work together in the lower part of the stomach. It is used in healing ulcers of pylorus duodenum etc.

Reproductive system: Being spermatogenic, it is given in semen debility.

Urinary system: It increases urination. Decoction is used in dysuria.

Skin: It can be used in various skin disorders.

Fever: Febrifuge and refrigerant by bitter and cold properties. Bitter taste is the best for fever. It can be used for cooling effect. It alleviates symptoms like vomiting, thirst and burning sensation etc. which are caused by vata and kapha in fever.

Anti-microbial properties: The leaf extracts of Aparajita also displayed anti-microbial properties. Tests on various bacterial strains displayed significant growth inhibition of bacterial species such as E. coli and V. cholera. Apart from anti-bacterial properties, Aparajita extracts showed notable larvicidal and insecticidal properties as well, suggesting its use in killing intestinal worms.

External uses:

It alleviates swelling and pain. It has haemostatic action hence it is used in piles specially bleeding piles. Piles are cleaned with the decoction and the paste of whole plant is applied over it. Leaf juice is used as nasal drops in headache. Oil boiled with dhamasa is used for massage in rheumatoid arthritis.

Decoction is used for gargling in stomatitis and for cleaning wounds. It prevents pus formation.

Recently, several biologically active peptides called cliotides have been isolated from the heat-stable fraction of Clitoria ternatea extract. Cliotides belong to the cyclotides family and activities studies show that cliotides display potent antimicrobial activity against E. coli, K. pneumonia, P. aeruginosa and cytotoxicity against Hela cells. These peptides have potential to be lead compound for the development of novel antimicrobial and anti-cancer agents.

Owing to its similarity to a human body part, this plant has been ascribed properties affecting the same (a phenomenon also found in connection with the mandrake, among other plants). It was used traditionally in an attempt to treat sexual ailments, like infertility and gonorrhea, to control menstrual discharge, and also as an aphrodisiac. This practice aligns with an ancient belief recorded in the Doctrine of Signatures.

Ayurvedic uses:

Medhya - Improves intelligence
Kanthya – Improves voice, good for throat
Sudrushtida – Improves vision, good for eyes
Kushta – Useful in skin diseases
Mutra - Cleanses bladder,
Tridosha – Balances Tridosha
Ama – Relieves indigestion, malabsorption
Shothavrana – Acts as natural anti inflammatory herb
Vishaapaha - Detoxfying, effective in cases of poisoning.
Smruti-buddhida - Improves memory and concentration.

It is also used in:
Rakta atisara – diarrhoea with bleeding
Daha – burning sensatin
Jvara – natural antipyretic
Chardihara – anti-emetic
Unmada, madabhrama hara – useful in psychiatric conditions like mania and schizophrenia.
Shwasakasahara – useful in cough, asthma and related respiratory conditions.

Ayurvedic Properties:

Dosha Alleviates kapha, pitta (sweet and bitter - favorite food for pittaprakruti person). Rasa - Katu, Tikta, Kasaya

Guna - Laghu, Rüksa

Virya - Sita

Vipãka - Katu

Karma - Tridosahara, Medhya, Visaghna

Part used: Root bark, root, seeds.

Dosage: Root powder 1-3g, seed powder 1-2 g.

Learn how to naturally cope with stress at: 38. Stress as the disorder of the Central Nervous System

70. Health benefits of Touch-me-not family herbs

2014-02-28T17:42:00.000+05:30

In this article we will learn about four interesting plants of Mimosaceae family or Touch-me-not family, these are: Babool (Arabic tree), Shirisha (East India walnut), Vellantaru (Sickle Bush) and Lajalu (Mimosa pudica).

Acacia nilotica/ Babul/ Black babool/ Indian gum/ Arabic tree/ Barbura, Shimbi kul (a word of sanskrit language which means “that which binds stool”)

The botanical name of Babool is Acacia nilotica and it belongs to Mimosaceae family. The herb is highly beneficial in Ayurveda. Babul or Acacia Arabica tree is considered to be native of Africa, Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. This evergreen tree is of medium height around 25 to 30 feet. It looks like a bush, it has dark grey bark with yellow flowers in spherical heads. The tree has thorns on its branches and hence the Greek name Acacia. The leaves of the tree are very small and the seeds come in pods of 8 to 12.

Babul tree is of significant importance in Ayurveda, Unani medicine and African folk medicine. One of the early records about this tree can be found in Materia Medica by Pedanius Dioscorides. In Ayurveda, numerous health benefits of this tree have been reported.

Babool has various Ayurvedic properties as it is a kaph and pitta suppressant. It aids in blood clotting in hemorrhages and excessive bleeding. It is also used to cure fevers. Various other important uses of babool tree are discussed in this article.

Babool Health Benefits

It is used to treat bronchitis, asthma, meningitis, hypoglycemia and pneumonia. Bark decoction is used to cure leucorrhea. Studies have shown that babul bark extracts resulted in lipid peroxidation or cholesterol control. On the other hand, the antioxidant properties also showed hepatoprotective properties or liver protection from carbon tetrachloride by free radical scavenging.

The bark also is found to be useful in treatment of eczema; about 25% of Acacia Arabica bark and manginifera indica bark are boiled in a 1 liter of water and the vapors allowed to forment the affected part, after fomentation, the ghee is applied on an-affected part.

The stem bark extracts of babul or Acecia Arabica showed significant antibacterial properties against S. viridans, S. aures, E coli, B subtilis, S sonnei and against fungi such as C albicans, A niger.

Baboo tree is also beneficial for the health of teeth and gums. In ancient times the branches of babool tree was used by people to brush teeth. Even today many rural and tribal people use babool branches to brush teeth. Babool gives strength to gums and reduces plaque. It also gives freshness to breath. Studies on the babul gum have yielded positive results in removing plaque, gingivitis and periodontitis. The gum was found to be effective in inhibiting the growth of periodontitis bacteria such as Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Capnocytophaga spp., Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia and Treponema denticola.

Gum of babool is also used to cure sore throat, stop bleeding and also to cure vaginal and urinary discharge. Gum of babool is used as a substitute for true gum Arabic. Gum of babool leaves is helpful in stopping the flow of blood from wounds.

Babool pods are used to cure impotence and other urinogenital disorders. Babool flowers, pods and gum resin are used to cure dysentery and diarrhea. For curing diarrhea, tender leaves of babool tree are suggested to be eaten with black and white cumin seeds for better relief. The decoction of the gum can be made for the same.

Leaves of Babool are eaten in infections of throat, its poultice is applied on sore eyes. Burnt leaves are made into paste form and applied over itching area. Babool leaves are also good for the health of hair. To control hair fall, apply the paste of babool leaves on sclap. After 30 minutes wash your hair with a good quality shampoo. Always use warm water to wash your hair.

Experiments on the seeds resulted in significant control of diabetes. The seeds were activating insulin production and that in turn controlled diabetes. The experiments showed that the seeds did not have any toxic effect when taken in significant amounts. Also the seeds and pod extracts of babul have been shown to significant control the arterial blood pressure. Antispasmodic effects were also observed in the extracts. The antispasmodic effects were very similar to the control of arterial blood pressure.

Role in nervous system and Alzheimer’s disease: Babul demonstrated acetylcholinesterase inhibitory effects. Acetylchlinesterase inhibition has been named critical in proper functioning of the nervous system and in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

Due to its nutritive, cooling and aphrodisiac properties babool acts as a tonic for liver.
Babul plant is also beneficial for maintaining a young look. It nourishes skin and gives it a shiny appearance. It is used by cosmetic companies to make astringents and skin cleaners. You can also dip the leaves of babool in your bath water for a refreshing bath.
For treating waterining eyes problem, which is scientifically known as epiphora, 250 gram of babool leaves are advised to be boiled in two litres of water. Boil the leaves till one quarter of water is left. Filter this water and keep it in a water tight bottle. Paint your eyes with this water twice a day for 40 to 45 minutes, preferably in the morning and at night before sleep. Then wash your eyes with fresh water.

So, Babool is used to treat following ailments:

Teeth problems

Cough, cold and asthma

Throat problems

Diabetes

Vaginal discharge

Menstrual problems

Diarrhea

Dysentery

Skin ailments

Impotency

Ayurvedic Properties of Babool

Rasa: Kashaya
Guna: Guru, Ruksha, Vishada
Virya: Sita
Vipaka: Katu
Karma: Grahi, Kaphahara, Vishaghna
Dosha effect: Reduces Pitta and Kapha
Srotas: Raktavaha

Parts used: Pods, seeds, flower, bark, gum, roots and leaves are used to prepare various medicines.

Main Classical Uses: Babularishta, Lavangadi vati.

Albizzia lebbek/ Lebbek Tree, Flea Tree/ East India walnut / Siris, Kattuvaka

Vedic literature extensively quoted sirisa among the Sãnta Vrksas. In sustra stana describes it is one of the best plants for Danta Kãsthas (tooth brushes). It is one of the main herbs indicated as anti-toxin in Ayurveda. It is common throughout India, from the plains up to 900 m elevation in the Himalayas, is found throughout India, in roadsides, and moist forests. It belongs to the Mimosaceae family.

In Unani medicine and in Ayurveda, the astringent root of East India walnut or Sirisa is used to treat ophthalmia, hemicrania; the acrid bark is regarded as anthelmintic, also used to treat diseases of the blood, leucoderma, itching, skin diseases, piles, scabies, syphilis, inflammation, erysipelas and bronchitis; and used to relieve toothache and to strengthen the gums and teeth. The powdered root bark and root-gum are used as a dental powder for strengthening the gums; the leaves are used to treat ophthalmia, useful for treating night blindness, leaf juice or decoction is dropped in the eyes. The flowers are used as a cooling medicine and as an external application to relieve boils, skin eruptions and swellings and are beneficial for asthma; the seeds are used to treat gonorrhoea and tuberculous glands, their oil applied locally for leucoderma. The seed oil is used externally to promote healing of lesions in leprosy among the Irulars of Tamil Nadu.

Shirisha is a herb to relief the bronchial asthma because it expels all the toxins out of the body and also purifies the blood. In athma the flower juice is given with honey and piper longum (pippali) powder. Shirisha opens the channels of the body by removing the Ama and this took place in lungs mostly and that makes Shirisha a herb of choice for respiratory disorders. Because it removes the toxins so relieves in inflammatory conditions also so effective in inflammatory joint disorders too. Shirisha is beneficial in poor semen quality, seed powder with milk is given for virilization.

Shireesha is an important anti-poisoning herb of Ayurveda. Its use is even indicated in snake bite poisoning. Shirisha acts as an antitoxic so that it recommended in all toxic conditions. In organic and inorganic poisoning, bark decoction or seed powder are used. Shirisha improves complexion of skin.

Effect on Doshas: Tridoshashamak. It reduces Vata by its ushna veerya and Kapha Pitta by kashaya and tikta rasa. Its overall action is to reduce all the three Doshas. Very few dravyas have such action.

Ayurvedic properties:
Rasa: Tikta, Madhura, Kashaya
Guna: Lakhu
Virya: Anushnaseeta
Vipaka: Katu

Ayurvedic medicines with Shirisha ingredient:
Dashang Lepa – useful in wounds, eczema etc.
Ayaskriti - useful in obesity, anemia, vitiligo etc.
Brihat Marichadi Taila - used in low back ache, spondylosis etc.
Devdarvarishta – used in skin and urine disorders
Vajraka Thailam - used in sinus and abscess.

Usage in poisoning:
Its flower is squeezed and juice is extracted. It is triturated with black pepper and sugar and is used for nasal instillation, and for oral intake in snake bites. (Charaka Samhita, Chikitsathana 25th chapter)

Part Used: Bark, seeds, leaves, flowers. We prefer the use of the bark and supply Shirisha Bark.
Dose: Bark powder 3-6 gm., seed powder- 1-2 gm., leaf juice- 12- 24 ml.

Dichrostachys cinerea/ Sickle Bush, Bell mimosa, Chinese lantern tree, Kalahari Christmas tree/ Vellantaru, Viradru, Kunali

Dichrostachys cinerea is a legume of the genus Dichrostachys in the Fabaceae family, Mimosaceae subfamily. Other common names include acacia Saint Domingue (French), el marabu (Cuba), Kalahari-Weihnachtsbaum (German of former South West Africa), kéké or mimosa clochette (Réunion).
It is native to Africa but has been introduced to India, the Caribbean and parts of Southeast Asia. In Ethiopia the species is common in the Nechisar National Park.
The species tends to grow in rainforest zones that are clearly defined and in altitudes up to 2,000 meters. It often occurs in areas with a strong seasonal climate with a wide ranging mean annual temperature. In India it can occur in dry deciduous forest.

Fruit and seeds that grow on Viradru are edible. Cattle, camels and game such as giraffe, buffalo, kudu, hartebeest, nyala, red forest duiker and Damara dik-dik feed on the juicy pods that fall to the ground. Such animals also feed on the immature twigs and leaves of the tree which are rich in protein (11-15%) and minerals. The flowers can be a valuable source of honey. The wood is of a dense nature and burns slowly with no toxicity, so it is often used for fuelwood. The species yields a medium to heavy, durable hardwood and is often used in smaller domestic items as walking sticks, handles, spears and tool handles particularly in central Africa.

Medicinal uses
In traditional medicine, the bark is used for headache, toothache, dysentery, elephantiasis, root infusions are used for leprosy, syphilis, coughs, as an anthelmintic, purgative and strong diuretic, leaves are used for epilepsy and also as a diuretic and laxative, and a powdered form is massaged on limbs with bone fractures. The roots are also sometimes used for bites or stings. In Siddha medicine of the Tamils in southern India, Dichrostachys cinerea is called vidathther and used for gonorrhea, syphilis and eczema.
Viradru is also used for the treatment of wounds, rheumatism and renal troubles. Pharmacological report on D. cinerea has shown antibacterial effect and antiviral. Several authors have shown that the species inhibit protein farnesyl-transferase activity . Moreover, chemical studies revealed the presence of a new isomer of mesquitol (a main active principle), which shown free-radical scavenging property and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities.
Despite its various uses, it is generally regarded a threat to agricultural production and is listed on the Global Invasive Species Database.

Mimosa pudica/ Bashful Mimosa,Touch-me-not/ Chhui-Mui ("that which dies upon touch")/ Lajwanti, Lajalu

Mimosa pudica (from Latin: pudica "shy, bashful or shrinking"; also called sensitive plant, humble plant, sleepy plant, is a creeping annual or perennial herb often grown for its curiosity value: the compound leaves fold inward and droop when touched or shaken, to protect them from predators, re-opening minutes later. The species is native to South America and Central America, but is now a pantropical weed. It grows mostly in shady areas, under trees or shrubs.

Mimosa pudica is well known for its rapid plant movement. Like a number of other plant species, it undergoes changes in leaf orientation termed "sleep" or nyctinastic movement. The foliage closes during darkness and reopens in light. The leaves also close under various other stimuli, such as touching, warming, blowing, or shaking. These types of movements have been termed seismonastic movements.The stimulus can also be transmitted to neighboring leaves. It is not known exactly why Mimosa pudica evolved this trait, but many scientists think that the plant uses its ability to shrink as a defense from herbivores. Animals may be afraid of a fast moving plant and would rather eat a less active one. Another possible explanation is that the sudden movement dislodges harmful insects.

Lajalu contains the toxic alkaloid mimosine, which has been found to also have antiproliferative and apoptotic effects. The extracts of Mimosa pudica immobilize the filariform larvae of Strongyloides stercoralis in less than one hour. Aqueous extracts of the roots of the plant have shown significant neutralizing effects in the lethality of the venom of the monocled cobra (Naja Kaouthia). It appears to inhibit the myotoxicity and enzyme activity of cobra venom.

According to Ayurveda, root is bitter, acrid, cooling, vulnerary, alexipharmic and used in treatment of biliousness, leprosy, dysentery, vaginal and uterine complaints, inflammations, burning sensation, fatigue, asthma, leucoderma, blood diseases etc. According to the Unani system of medicine, root is resolvent, alternative, useful in diseases arising from blood impurities and bile, bilious fevers, piles, jaundice, leprosy etc.

Know more:
Touch-Me-Not Family Herbs

69. Syrian Rue may be the 'Soma' of the ancients

2014-01-29T18:37:00.002+05:30

Peganum harmala/ Syrian rue/ Esfand/ Sanskrit: Haramala, Soma

This herb is commonly called Esfand, wild rue, Syrian rue, African rue, or Peganum harmal. It belongs to the family of Nitrariaceae. It is native from the eastern Iranian region west to India. Its common names refer to its resemblance to rue (which is not related).

It is a perennial plant which can grow to about 0.8 m tall, but normally it is about 0.3 m tall. The roots of the plant can reach a depth of up to 6.1 m, if the soil where it is growing is very dry. It blossoms between June and August in the Northern Hemisphere. The flowers are white, the round seed capsules measure about 1–1.5 cm in diameter, have three chambers and carry more than 50 seeds.

Syrian rue is known in North America as Mexican Rue, African Rue and in Turkey is yüzerlik or üzerlik. It may be native to the Middle East but is native to the Mediterranean region and south east Europe. It was formerly placed in the Zygophyllaceae family of plants which would have made it a relative of puncture vine (Tribulus terrestris) and aak, but it is now in the Nitrariaceae family in the order Sapindales. However it is not a relative of rue, but its young leaves do resemble that plant.

Peganum harmala was first planted in the United States in 1928 in New Mexico by a farmer wanting to manufacture the dye "Iranian red" from its seeds. Because it is so drought tolerant, African rue can displace the native saltbushes and grasses growing in the salt-desert shrub lands of the Western U.S.

Harmal may have been used as an entheogen in the Middle East in ancient times, and is used as an entheogen in modern Western cultures. It is occasionally used as an analogue of Banisteriopsis caapi to create an ad hoc of a South American religious sacrament known as Ayahuasca, when traditional methods are unavailable. However harmal has distinct aspects from caapi (Banisteriopsis caapi, also known as ayahuasca) and a unique entheogenic signature.

Some scholars have tried to identify Harmal with the entheogenic 'Soma' or Haoma (Avestan), from Proto-Indo-Iranian 'sauma-', which was a ritual drink of importance.

In Turkey, dried capsules from this plant are strung and hung in homes or vehicles to protect against "the evil eye". It is widely used for protection against Djinn in Morocco (see Légey "Essai de Folklore marocain", 1926).

In Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, Turkey, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, dried capsules mixed with other ingredients are placed onto red hot charcoal, where they explode with little popping noises, releasing a fragrant smoke that is wafted around the head of those afflicted by or exposed to the gaze of strangers. As this is done, an ancient prayer is recited. This prayer is said by Jews (more specifically, Bukharian Jews and originally coming from ancient Iran and no specific religion) and Muslims as well as by Zoroastrians. This Persian practice dates to pre-Islamic, Zoroastrian times. In Iran, this ritual is sometimes performed in traditional restaurants, where customers are exposed to the eyes of strangers. It is also used in India in the region of Kashmir, where the seeds are ignited in charcoal fire pots to ward off evil on occasions like marriages.

The seeds of this plant contain harmala alkaloids which are Monoamine Oxidase inhibitors (MOAI). They have hallucinogenic properties and that is why the plant is a contender for being the Soma of the ancient Persian and Indian shamans who used it to gain a more profound understanding of the meaning of life. The seeds got ripen in September.

An edible oil can be extracted from the seeds after the outer hull has been removed, and this is said to be an aphrodisiac. It is also used, as are the seeds, to rid the body of tapeworms and to stimulate lactation in breast-feeding mothers. It has also been used as a truth drug. It is also used for eye problems and as a mild sedative.

Medicinal value: The plant may have been rightly revered by the ancients for its spiritual and medicinal properties.

Several scientific laboratories have studied possible uses for Peganum harmala through studies in laboratory animals (in vivo) and in cells (in vitro). In large quantities, it can reduce spermatogenesis and male fertility in rats.

Peganum harmala has been shown to have antibacterial and anti-protozoal activity, including antibacterial activity against drug-resistant bacteria. One of the compounds found in P. harmala, vasicine (peganine), has been found to kill Leishmania donovani, a protozoan parasite that can cause potentially fatal visceral leishmaniasis. Another alkaloid, harmine, found in P. harmala, has appreciable efficacy in destroying intracellular parasites in the vesicular forms.

Peganum harmala has been used to treat pain and to treat skin inflammations, including skin cancers. Peganum harmala has been used as an emmenagogue and abortifacient agent.
It is also used as an anthelmintic (to expel parasitic worms). Reportedly, the ancient Greeks used the powdered seeds to get rid of tapeworms and to treat recurring fevers (possibly malaria).

Seed extracts also show effectiveness against various tumor cell lines, both in vitro and in vivo. "The beta-carboline alkaloids present in medicinal plants, such as Peganum harmala and Eurycoma longifolia, have recently drawn attention due to their antitumor activities. Further mechanistic studies indicate that beta-carboline derivatives inhibit DNA topoisomerases and interfere with DNA synthesis."

Syrian Rue has antioxidant and antimutagenic properties. Both the plant and the extract harmine exhibit cytotoxicity with regards to HL60 and K562 leukemia cell lines.

The "root is applied to kill lice" and when burned, the seeds kill insects and inhibits the reproduction of the Tribolium castaneum beetle.

In traditional medicine systems:

The fruit and seeds have been used for stomach problems, to aid digestion and promote the flow of urine, for a variety of sexual problems, epilepsy, mental and nervous afflictions and menstrual problems. Externally the seeds are used for baldness and to relieve piles.

A decoction of the leaves is used for rheumatism and the root kills body lice. This is applied externally, although an infusion is taken internally too for rheumatism. The whole plant is used to treat female problems and as an aphrodisiac.

In Iranian traditional medicine the plant is used for plumbago, asthma, colic and jaundice as well as for menstrual problems.

The seed hulls contain the alkaloid harmine which is toxic if ingested. However this substance is being investigated for its possible effectiveness in mental diseases, including encephalitis which is an inflammatory disease of the brain. Harmine depresses the central nervous system but small quantities are believed to be therapeutic.

The ripe seeds contain the alkaloids, harmine, harmaline, harmalol and peganine, which are not effective on contact, but their vapour is effective against fungus, bacteria, intestinal parasites and algae. Because of some of these properties there is hope that the plant extracts could be used for the control of pests on crops, rather than a chemical pesticide in the future.

The most common side effects of using harmal for medical purposes include weak muscles and hallucinations. It also can cause pregnancy complications. The plant might have a dangerous interaction with other drugs or supplements. Children under the age of 2 and women who are pregnant, nursing or planning to become pregnant are advised not to use it, in most cases.

Please read more about SOMA: The Quest Is On
http://healing-hearbs.blogspot.com/2011/12/is-harmal-peganum-harmala-soma-harmal.html

68. Vidhari Kand - fights all toxic substances in the body

2014-01-05T16:16:00.001+05:30

Ipomoea mauritiana/ Vidari-kanda/Ksheeravidari/Bhilayakand/ Palmudukan kizhangu/ Bhumikusmanda

Ipomoea is the largest genus in the flowering plant family Convolvulaceae, with over 500 species. Most of these are called morning glories, but this can also refer to related genera.The giant potato (Ipomoea mauritiana) is a type of morning glory plant. Like the sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), it belongs to the Ipomoea genus. It grows as a vine.

Its origins are uncertain, but it has been recorded in West Africa, including in Gambia and the riparian forests of Benin, as well as Australia's Northern Territory. It is naturalised in many parts of the world, including Taiwan and Hawaii. Giant potato is used the preparation of linctus to fight against all toxic substance in the body.

Vidari Kanda is a nutritive tonic that is rejuvenating for both body and mind. As is the case with many nourishing herbs, it has a special affinity for supporting the reproductive system. In men it supports healthy production of semen. In women it supports healthy menstruation and healthy lactation. In both sexes it is a strengthening aphrodisiac that supports fertility and vitality.

In Ayurveda it is used as a general tonic. It clears voice. It is used in the treatments of cough, liver disorders. It also is used in the treatment of several gastro-intestinal disorders, fungus attack, indigestion, hemorrhoids, respiratory problems, ulcers, obesity, and worms. Vidari Kanda is also traditionally used to pacify excess vata. It is an excellent herb for supporting healthy aging in seniors and for supporting healthy weight gain in vata type children.

Tuberous roots contain a resin similar to Jalap resin and are considered tonic, aphrodisiac, demulcent, lactagogue and cholagogue. Powdered root is given in diseases of spleen and liver, debility, fatty deposition and menorrhagia (S. Bidyadhar).

Therapeutic Uses:

-debility
-increases secretion of milk
-enlarged liver and spleen
-increases weight
-moderates menstrual discharge
-poor digestion

Action: alterative, aphrodisiac, cholagogue, demulcent, diuretic, emmenagogue, galactogogue, mucilaginous, rejuvenative tonic.

Ayurvedic properties:

Rasa (taste): sweet, bitter
Virya (action): cooling
Vipaka (post-digestive effect): sweet

Effect on Doshas (constitutions): balancing for vata and pitta, increases kapha
Safety: Ayurvedic herbs are often taken in combination with others to neutralize the toxicity one herb with the opposing effect of other. Do not take except under the supervision of a qualified professional

Dosage: powder, confection, decoction, milk decoction
Parts Used: tuberous root.

Ipomoea Digitata

Ksheervidari (Ipomoea digitata) is a well known medicinal plant used in Ayurveda for its health promoting effects in human beings.

Yaogika cikitsa and Dravya guna has mentioned its usefulness in patients with hypertension and heart disease. Their recommendations are based on ethnomedicinal observations in Rarh region. A teaspoonful of powdered tuber if given twice a day with honey is beneficial for the patients of high blood pressure and heart disease.

"Ipomoea Digitata for Lowering Blood Pressure, Cholesterol and as Immune Enhancement" By Dr. Paul Haider
Ipomoea digitata is a flowering plant that grows in Asia and especially in India and has been used in Ayurvedic Medicine for hundreds of years, it has many health benefits. Ipomoea digitata given over a period of time in clinical trials decreased systolic blood pressure by almost 40 points and diastolic blood pressure by almost 20 points. This is a very significant finding and it took place over a period of 2 months.
This herb is a good stimulant thus helping to increase vitality and energy. At the same time Ipomoea Digitata regulates menstrual periods and can be used for treatment of enlarged liver and spleen.
Also Ksheervidari helps to prevent fat from accumulating in the body and thus helps with obesity. Ipomoea Digitata contains powerful antioxidants such as beta-sitosterol which can help get rid of free radicals and thus help with preventing disease by boosting the immune system. Plus it can also lower cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular events and strokes, the studies show a significant lowering of LDL or bad cholesterol and triglycerides with Ipomoea Digitata.
This herb contains lots of healing compounds including phenolic compounds, saponins for boosting the immune system and preventing cancer, sterols that lower cholesterol, alkaloids for pain and inflammation, tannins which are polyphenols which help to boost the immune system, carbohydrates, oils, and glycosides that are important for preventing cancer.
And Ipomoea Digitata has been used for regulating menstrual periods because it contains ergonovine and powerful alkaloid. It is also used for stimulating milk production, and for increasing libido and semen production. Ksheervidari also promotes oxytocin which helps with bleeding after child birth, lowers blood pressure, helps with stress, and gives one a feeling of calmness and connectedness.

67. Cassia or Senna - beauty remedy for many illnesses

2013-12-04T00:26:00.004+05:30

There are hundreds of Cassia species, but it is unclear just how many. Over 1000 species have belonged to Cassia over the years. Because the name Cassia is not precise, it is sometimes difficult to know what is meant by references to plants known as "cassias". Cassia gum, for example, is made from Senna obtusifolia, a species formerly included in genus Cassia.

Genera Cassia and Senna are both known in systems of traditional medicine. Cassia fistula, for example, is used in Ayurvedic medicine.

Cassia fistula/ purging cassia/ golden shower tree/ Aragwadha/ Amaltas/ Indian laburnum/ Swarnapatrika/ Tinnevelly senna

In Tamil, it is called as Konrai. Other names include Konai, Shrakkonnai, Irjviruttam.The botanical name of the herb is Cassia fistula and belongs to the family Fabacea. Cassia fistula is native to South Asia. It has been found widely in India, Pakistan, Myanmar, SriLanka, etc. This tree is the national tree of Thailand and its flower is its national flower. It is also the state flower of Kerala in India.

The herb, Cassia fistula is having great medicinal uses and its bark, fruits and leaves have been used since ancient times. It has been referred to as “Aragvadha” or “disease killer”. It is the best Ayurveda herb mild purgation. So it expels out both the feces and unwanted toxins from the body. When the digestive system is evacuated properly it will ignite the digestive fire and also alleviate the digestive problems. It is also beneficial in skin diseases as it helps in removing the toxins from the body. It also benefits in fever and associated discomfort.

Medicinal Uses:

Stomach disorders: Cassia Fistula is very effective in treating constipation. Cassia fistula is very effective in treating ulcers. The herb is very effective in treating piles. The pulp of the tree can be soaked in water for about an hour or so and consumed at bedtime. It also kills the intestinal worms.

Common Cold and Cough: the roots of the herb have great curative effects against common cold. Some people inhale the smoke of the roots. This cures the mucous that is found along the respiratory tract. The pod of the tree is powdered and mixed with honey and consumed. This is very effective in curing cough.

Fever: when infected with fever, a tonic is prepared from the roots of Cassia Fistula.

Skin Problems: the herb is very effective in treating skin disorders like irritation, swelling, etc. The herb is very great in curing fungal infections of the skin. Some of them are athlete’s foot, ringworm, jock itch, etc.

Immunity Booster: the bark and fruits of the tree have great antioxidant properties and hence boost the immunity system of the body.

Blood Purification: the bark of the tree and fruits help in purification of the blood.

Wounds: Cassia Fistula is great in treating wounds. The specialty of the herb is that it promotes tissue regeneration. In many countries, the juice extracted from the juice of the leaves or a paste of the leaves is used for dressing the infected skin areas.

Blood Sugar: the roots of Cassia fistula have the property to reduce blood sugar by about 30 percent.

Purgative: in some countries like Philippines, a decoction is prepared from the leaves and fruit pulp of the tree. This serves as a great purgative.

Other uses: in many countries, people are use this tree as a firewood. The tree has been grown in many countries as a ornamental tree.

Precautions: this herb is considered safe for consumption by children. It is often used for treating constipation. Still the herb needs to be taken in small quantities. Consuming excess of the medicine results in stomach pain and vomiting. This herb can be used by pregnant women, unlike most of the other herbs. The only catch is that the External pod should not be consumed.

Effect on Doshas:

Amaltas pacifies all the three Doshas. It pacifies the Vata Dosha within the body while expels the Kapha and Pitta out of body. So it can be used in diseases resulting from aggravation of all the three Doshas.

Cassia auriculata/ Avartaki/ Avaram/ Tarwar/ Ranawara (SL)/ Tanner's cassia.

Senna auriculata is a legume shrub and belongs to the Caesalpiniaceae family. It is commonly known by its local names ranawara or “avaram” in Tamil language, also as tanner's cassia or the English version Avaram Senna.

It occurs in the dry regions of India (particularly in Maharastra, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madya Pradesh) and Sri Lanka. It is common along the sea coast and the dry zone in Sri Lanka. The shrub is specially famous for its attractive yellow flowers which are used in the treatment of skin disorders. The flower, leaves, stem, root, and unripe fruit are used for treatment, especially in Ayurvedic medicine.

People use Cassia auriculata for diabetes, eye infections (conjunctivitis), joint and muscle pain (rheumatism), constipation, jaundice, liver disease, and urinary tract disorders.

Medicinal values:

This plant is said to contain a cardiac glucoside (sennapicrin) and sap, leaves and bark yield anthraquinones, while the latter contains tannins.

· The root is used in decoctions against fevers, diabetes, diseases of urinary system, constipation and skin diseases. It is also used for the treatment of ulcers, leprosy and liver diseases. It posseses antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties.

· The leaves have laxative properties. In case of constipation powder of the leaves is taken in a dose of 2 Gms twice a day. It was also observed that flower and leaf extract of Cassia shown to have antipyretic activity.

· The dried flowers and flower buds are used as a substitute for tea in case of diabetes patients. It is also supposed to improve the complexion in women.

· The powdered seed is also used in diabetes and applied to the eye, in case of chronic purulent conjunctivitis.

· The bark and seeds are said to give relief in rheumatism, eye diseases, gonorrhea, diabetes and gout. In case of gonorrhea, gout, diabetes powdered seeds are taken in a dose of 2 gms twice a day. Cassia auriculata might increase the body's production of insulin.

Every part of this plant has been tested as a good condition for men’s urinary system. Ranawara helps to develop sperm counter and ejaculation. It is also ideal and healthy for other sexual disorders.

The plant has been shown to have antibacterial activity in the laboratory:

Antibacteriall activity: S. Maneemegalai and T. Naveen et al: Studies on the antibacterial activity of ethanol, methanol and aqueous extracts of dry flower and ethanol, methanol and acetone extracts of fresh flower of Cassia auriculata was conducted using agar disc diffusion method. The microorganisms used include Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella typhi, Salmonella paratyphi A, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Vibrio cholerae and Shigella dysentrae. The maximum activity was observed against all organisms except Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The minimum inhibitory concentration ranged between 12.5 mg/mL and 75mg/mL depending on microorganism and various extract. Presence of phytochemicals such as terpenoids, tannins, flavonoids, saponin, cardiac glycosides and steroids were observed. Cassia auriculata was observed to have antibacterial activity and can be used for medicinal purposes.

Ayurvedic Properties of Cassia auriculata:

Rasa - Kashaya, Tikta

Guna - Guru

Virya - Seeta

Medicinal Properties of the Plant as per Ayurveda: Plant pacifies vitiated pitta, kapha, skin diseases, ulcers, diabetes, diarrhea, worm infestation, conjunctivitis, and nocturnal emission.
Do not use Cassia auriculata if:

You are pregnant or breast-feeding.
You are scheduled for surgery in the next two weeks.

Parts used: Root, Bark, Leaves, Flowers, Seeds

Cassia occidentalis/ Kasamarda/Arimarda/Kasari/ Kasaundi/ Chakunda/ Ponnaveeram/Coffee Senna/Negro coffee
Senna (from Arabic sana) is a large genus of around 250 species of flowering plants in the family of Leguminosae. It is known as “Negro Coffee” or Strinking weed in English, and Kasondi in Hindi.

Kasamarda is a herb which grows up to 2 meters and is used for landscape gardening. It is found all over India on road sides as weed. As for uses in medicine, Senna is currently used in medicine as a laxative, acts as purgatives and is similar to aloe vera and rhubarb in having active ingredients.

The Kasamarda herb is used in the indigenous system of medicine since long time.

Charak mentioned its use for curing cough, also as appetizer, aphrodisiac, stomachic and diuretic.

Kasamarda is an Ayurvedic plant which is used in several traditional medicines to cure various diseases.

· Leaves of Kasamarda plant have ethno medicinal importance like paste of leaves is externally applied on healing wounds, sores, itch, cutaneous diseases, bone fracture, ringworm, skin diseases and throat infection.

· The plant itself is used for fever, menstrual problems, tuberculosis, diuretic anaemic, liver complaints, and as a tonic for general weakness and illness and is also reported to cure leprosy.

· An infusion of the plant bark is given in diabetes in alternative medicine.

· The seed powder is externally applied in cutaneous diseases and eruptions.

Ayurvedic Medicinal Properties:

Rasa: Tikta, Madhura

Guna: Lakhu

Virya: Ushna

Vipaka: Madhura

Medicinal Properties of the Plant as per Ayurveda:

Plant pacifies vitiated vata & kapha; treats cough, bronchitis, allergy, asthma, fever, constipation, diabetes, skin diseases, wounds and ulcers.

Parts used: leaves, root.

Cassia tora or Senna tora/ Foetid Cassia/ Ring worm Plant/ Tora, Tovara/ Sickle Senna, Sickle Pod, Coffee Pod/ Chakvad, Chakramarda

Senna tora is a legume in the subfamily Caesalpinioideae. Its name has been derived from Sinhala language, in which it is called Tora. In Sri Lanka it is easily found in many places. In some parts of Sri Lanka, people add its flowers in cooking which makes delicious food.

Cassia is an Ayurveda herb and is also used extensively in Chinese medicine. Cassia grows in hot, wet, tropical climates both wild and commercially. It grows in dry soil throughout tropical parts of India. The stems are cut down when the bark is mature. The bark is removed in short lengths and then dried. Cassia bark is aromatic similar to Cinnamon, but differing in both strength and quality. Cassia bark is darker, thicker and coarser.

Chakramarda or Cassia Tora improves the metabolic rate of the body; thus helps in expelling out the unwanted fats from the body and also maintaining it in healthy limits. It also nourishes the skin and useful in skin infection specially the ring worm infestation. Chakramarda also benefits in cough an drespiratory distress.

Traditional Chinese Medicine:
This herb is especially good for conditions of the eyes. Using this herb, it will brighten them and relieve pain, congestion, itchiness, redness or sensitivity to light when caused by wind-heat conditions. It can also be used when there is headache along with some of the above conditions in cases of liver yang rising. It is useful when there is either chronic or acute constipation accompanying liver yin deficiency. It has been shown to be effective in lowering cholesterol and reducing blood pressure.

Uses: It is Aperient, Germicide, Mucilaginous & Laxative. It is used as a coffee substitute and has a maturant and anodyne action. Useful in treating skin diseases like ring worm and itch and psoriasis.

Effect on Doshas: Chakramarda pacifies the Kapha Pitta Doshas

Part Used: Seeds

Cinnamomum cassia, called Chinese cassia or Chinese cinnamon, is an evergreen tree originating in southern China, and widely cultivated there and elsewhere in southern and eastern Asia (India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam). It is one of several species of Cinnamomum that are used primarily for their aromatic bark, which is used as a spice. In the United States of America, Chinese cassia is often sold under the culinary name of "cinnamon". The buds are also used as a spice, especially in India, and were once used by the ancient Romans.

Saigon cinnamon (Cinnamomum loureiroi, also known as Vietnamese cinnamon or Vietnamese cassia and Quế Trà My or Quế Thanh or " Quế Trà Bồng" in Vietnam) is an evergreen tree in the genus Cinnamomum, indigenous to mainland Southeast Asia. Despite its name, it is more closely related to cassia (C. cassia) than to cinnamon (C. verum, “true cinnamon”, Ceylon cinnamon), though in the same genus as both. Saigon cinnamon has 1-5% essential oil in content and 25% cinnamaldehyde in essential oil, which is the highest of all the cinnamon species. Consequently, out of the three species, it commands the highest price.

Saigon Cassia is one of the important cassias in international trade and a distinguished Bark type spices in India. The best and the most expensive bark `Que-thanh` or Royal cinnamon comes from the province of Thanh-hoa in North Annam. Barking, that is removal of bark, is usually carried on the standing tree, starting with the main branches and working down the trunk, not by climbing but by erecting bamboo scaffolding around it. A string is tied round the trunk and main branches at intervals of 40 cm and the bark is cut through at these points with a sharp pointed knife. Then vertical cuts are made between the horizontal incisions at intervals of 25 to 35 cm and the slabs of barks are eased off with the aid of thin spatulas made of bamboo or buffalo horn. Each ring of bark is removed in this way until the bottom of the trunk is reached; the tree is then felled after which small branches and twigs are harvested.

You can read more here:

http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=newtip&dbid=31

66. Kushta is as precious as lingzhi mushroom and old ginseng

2013-11-01T20:28:00.000+05:30

Saussurea costus/ saw-wort/ kut root/ puchuk/ koshet/ kushta

Saussurea is a genus of about 300 species of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, native to cool temperate and arctic regions of Asia, Europe, and North America, with the highest diversity in alpine habitats in the Himalaya in the vicinity of Kashmir and central Asia. Common names include saw-wort and snow lotus, the latter used for a number of high altitude species in central Asia. Its root was known as costus to the ancient world. The root of Saussurea costus is a bitter tasting herb, its root is also known as putchock, puchuk, koshet (Hebrew: קשט‎), kuth, kut, koot or kushta in Ayurveda.

It has long lyrate leaves and heads of purple florets. The flowers form in a dense head of small capitula, often surrounded by dense white to purple woolly hairs; the individual florets are also white to purple. The wool is densest in the high altitude species, and aid in thermoregulation of the flowers, minimising frost damage at night, and also preventing ultraviolet light damage from the intense high altitude sunlight.

In most Chinese martial arts literature, the snow Lotus was classified a rare herb as precious as lingzhi mushroom, and old ginseng. In traditional Chinese medicine, the root is one of the 50 fundamental herbs. It has the name (pinyin: yún mù xiāng, meaning “wood aroma”). It forms a main ingredient in the Chinese pastille rods known as joss sticks. It is also used as incense.

In Tibet the root was and is used extensively as incense and medicine.

In Ayurveda the name Kushta refers to an ancient Vedic plant god mentioned in the Atharvaveda as a remedy for takman, the archetypal disease of excess or jvara (fever). In ancient India Kushta was considered to be a divine plant derived from heavenly sources, growing high in the Himalayas, considered to be the brother of the divine Soma.

Saussurea obvallata, known as "brahmakamala" in India is one of the most sacred species, and it has been used for offerings to goddess Nanda Devi for time immemorial.

In Ayurveda Kushta is a rasayana for Vata, helping to normalize and strengthen digestion, cleanse the body of toxic accumulations, enhance fertility, and reduce pain. In India it is also given as a medicine for cough, asthma, fever, and cholera. Its dried powder is the principal ingredient in an ointment for ulcers; it is also a hair wash. Costus rhizome is used for curing woolen cloth in hill area of Uttarakhand. “Costus” in Greek means “from the East” referring to the Indian lower Himalaya from where the spice was imported into Rome and Greece. Costi amari radix or costus root was an important item of Roman trade with India, and is believed to have been the dried root of Saussurea lappa.

A number of the high alpine Himalayan species are grown as ornamental plants for their decorative dense woolly flowerheads; they are among the most challenging plants to grow, being adapted to harsh climates from 3500–5000 m altitude, demanding cool temperatures, a very long (up to 8–10 months) winter rest period, and very good soil drainage in humus-rich gravel soils.

Several varieties of snow lotus are used in traditional Tibetan medicine. It is used a component of the traditional Tibetan medicine Padma 28. Research conducted on the Himalayan medicinal plants by C.P. Kala reveals that the practitioners of Tibetan medicine living in the Pin Valley of Himachal Pradesh use its root for curing dysentery and ulcer. Saussurea involucrata flowers and stems have long been used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, cough with cold, stomachache, dysmenorrhea, and altitude sickness, and has been found to have antiinflammatory, cardiotonic, abortifacient, anticancer, and antifatigue actions.

Medicinal values:

Kushth (Costus) is recommended for the rejuvenation of each and every part of the body. It specially nourishes the reproductive organs i.e. why it is often recommended as a supplement in infertility. It also works well in menstrual disorders especially painful menstrual cycle. Kushth is also beneficial in skin diseases. It is also useful as an anti ageing supplement.

Kushth removes foul smell; possesses antibacterial, analgesic, complexion enhancer properties and benefits in skin diseases, therefore it is used in chronic ulcers, headache, toothache, synovitis, rheumatoid arthritis, dermatitis as a poultice or fumigation.
Kushth is applied locally in alopecia. Kushth oil is used for massaging the gums.
Kushth is appetizer, digestive and carminative i.e. why it is used in loss of appetite, indigestion, ascites, colicky pain, diarrhea and cholera.
In rheumatoid arthritis, castor oil + Kushth are given orally.
Kushth pacifies the Kapha Dosha and is expectorant and hence used in cough, asthma pleurisy hiccups and dyspnoea.
Kushth is used as a diuretic in renal disease.
Kushth is uterine stimulant, enhances ovulation, breast milk, improves semen quality, aphrodisiac and therefore used in amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea and as a uterine tonic in post partum conditions.
Kushth is a galactogogue. It acts as an aphrodisiac by improving semen quality. It produces stimulant action on the reproductive organs of both sexes when given along with turmeric, honey and ghee. Kushth powder should be taken as a supplement in male infertility.
Kushth improves blood circulation and complexion of the skin.
Kushth is febrifuge and therefore useful in Vata Kapha fevers.
Kushth powder should be taken with honey and ghee in routine for long and healthy life.

Effect on Doshas:

Kushth pacifies the Kapha and Vata Doshas; hence it is used in many Vata Kapha diseases.

Rasa: Tikta, Katu, Madhura

Guna: Laghu, Ruksha, Tikshna

Virya: Katu

Vipaka: Ushna

Parts Used & Dosage: Kushth root powder should be taken in dosage of ½ - 1 gm.

Uses: The roots are bitter, acrid, sweet, thermogenic, aromatic, deodorant, aphrodisiac, anodyne, carminative, digestive, stomachic, diaphoretic, stimulant, alternate, depurative, galatagogue, diuretic, disinfectant, antibacterial, antispasmodic, expectorant, febrifuge, skin stimulant and tonic. Roots are useful in chronic and foul ulcers, cough, asthma, bronchitis, flatulence, cholera, leprosy, leucoderma, jaundice, liver problems, skin diseases, ringworm, diarrhea, dysentery, fever, hiccough, hysteria, cardiac disorder, gout, and general debility. Aromatic roots are also used in obtaining essential oil, which is used in perfumeries, incenses, and in hair tonic. Oil from the root is very beneficial in the treatment of rheumatism. It is used in the treatment of swelling and fullness of the stomach.

65.Tumbai herb - aid for Skin Eruptions & Worm infestation

2013-10-20T08:12:00.002+05:30

Tumbe, Tumba, Thumbai/ Bimb/ Kanturi/ Chotta halkusha/ Kova, Koval. Sanskrit names include: Dronapushpi, Chitrapatrika, Phalepushpa, Karabhapriya, Drona

This plant belongs to Lamiaceae family, it's Latin name is Leucas aspera. It is a small erect, much branched annual herb grows up to 60 cm in height, flowers white, in dense axillary whorls. Fruits nut lets, brown and smooth. Grows in open, dry sandy soil, abundant in waste lands. The plant is distributed from the Himalayas down to the south and grows throughout India and is seen in the plains of Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Java and Philippines.

The plant is known by various names in different parts of India. In Sanskrit it is known as Dronapushpi, Chitra patrika, phalepushpa, karabhapriya, and Drona. It is called halkusha in Bengali, Guldora in Punjabi, kulnnphul in Gujarati, Goma madhupati in Hindi, Kubo in Sindhi, Bhutamari in Oriya, Bahuphul in Marathi, Thumbai in Tamil, Thumbe in Kannada, Thummi in Telugu and Thumba in Malayalam.

Folkloric medicine

· Decoction of leaves and bark is used to hasten menstruation and after childbirth. Used for fever, cold and scabies. Bruised leaves used for bites of snakes and poisonous insects. Juice of leaves used for psoriasis and other disorders; leaves used in rheumatism.

Traditional medicine

· In India it is used in traditional medicine for cough, cold and painful swellings and skin eruptions, as an antipyretic. Plant pacifies vitiated kapha, pitta, inflammation, skin diseases, worms infestation and arthritis. The plant is reported to possess wound - healing properties. Used as a remedy for eye complaint. Plant has insect - repulsive properties.

· Flowers are valued as stimulant, expectorant, aperient (tending mildly to stimulate the bowel, laxative), diaphoretic (the power to cause increased perspiration), insecticide and emmenagogue (an agent that stimulates the menstrual flow).

Siddha medicine

· Samoolam ( whole - plant ) of the plant is crushed and boiled in water and the steam used for inhalation in treatments for nasal congestion, cough, cold, fever, headache, etc; flower juice for sinusitis, Flower oil is used for headache and sinusitis; juice or decoction of flowers and leaves used for intestinal worms in children; leaves are rubbed over scorpion bites.

Chemical composition

The crude methanol extract of leaves show antioxidant properties of a novel flavonoid - leucasin which could be the basis for its alleged health - promoting potential. Studies have yielded L C aliphatic compounds (aliphatic compounds are opposite to aromatic compounds) and a phenolic compound, a liquid alkaloid and nicotine from the aerial parts. Leaves contain a volatile oil .

Medically proven to possess various pharmacological activities like antifungal, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antinociceptive (reducing sensitivity to painful stimuli - analgesic) and cytotoxic activity. Further studies reveal the presence of various phytochemical constituents (mainly triterpeniods, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid and b - sitosterol), nicotine, sterols, glucoside, diterpenes, phenolic compounds.

These studies reveal that Lucas aspera is a source of medically active compounds and have various pharmacological effects, hence, these drugs encourage finding its new therapeutical uses.

The fragrant herb is used in cooking by certain communities, as all the parts of the plant are used in medicine. This plant is a good Expectorant, Stimulant, Laxative, Anthelmintic. As it was mentioned Chotta halkusha is famous in traditional, folkloric and Siddha and Ayurvedic medicines. It cured inflammation, skin diseases, worm infestation, arthritis, cough, amenorrhea, intermittent fever, migraine, and ulcer.

Preparations

The samoolam of this plant is crushed and boiled with water; the steam is used for inhalation in conditions like nasal congestion, cough, cold, fever, headache etc.

For unconsciousness due to the toxicity of snake bite, the juice of leaves is used as nasal drops. Also the leaves are given internally for best results.

For sinusitis, the flower juice is used for nasiyam.

For continuous headache, juice of flower is used for nasiyam.
Also the juice of the flowers, is applied on the burns, boils, scalds will sooth the wound and heal soon.

For muppini, the flowers are soaked in breast milk and then applied over eyes.

The oil prepared by using the flowers are effective in headache, sinusitis etc.

For intestinal worms in children, the juice of flowers and leaves are given internally or a decoction is prepared of it.

For scorpion bite, the constant rubbing of leaves over effected area can provide relief.

Ayurvedic properties: Plant pacifies vitiated kapha, pitta

Rasa: Katu, Lavana

Guna: Guru, Rooksha, Teekshna
Virya: Ushna

Useful Parts: Leaves, Flowers.

Gumma at flowering. Gumma grows as Kharif (Rainy) season weed in Indian state Chhattisgarh. It is considered as weed by the weed experts but for the natives and traditional healers it is valuable medicinal herb. It is popularly consumed as potherb. It is common belief among the natives that the one season use of this herb as potherb develops specific smell inside the humanbody that repels the snakes away. This is the reason it is specially consumed by the Rice workers. Its all parts are used as medicine in traditional healing. The insects and spider collected from this herb are also used as source of medicine. There is a good demand of this herb in national market as medicinal plant. The farmers collect this herb from crop fields and by selling it to local herb traders earn an additional income from these socalled unwanted plants.

The details of medicinal properties are based on internet and I don ' t claim any authority.

Also: You can read some additional info about this herb on this nice blog:
http://tamilmaruthuvammooligaisiddhavait.blogspot.com/2012/12/thumbai-medicinal-uses-tamil-herbal.html

Thank you, all our dear friends. For your support, the information you kindly shared with us to reveil the increadible World of Plants…_/\_

64. Polpala - a strong curative agent for Urolithiasis

2013-07-08T12:18:00.001+05:30

Aerva lanata/ Mountain knotgrass/ Paashaanabheda, Shatkabhedi/ Gorkhabundi, Kapurijadi/ Polpala/ Astmabayda.

It is a woody, succulent, perennial herb in the Amaranthaceae family of the genus Aerva that sometimes flowers in the first year. Aerva lanata is a common weed which grows wild everywhere in the plains of India and at altitudes from sea level to 900 metres. It is native to Afrotropic, Indomalaya, Australasia and Indian Subcontinent

Aerva lanata is a medicinal plant which is used by Ayurvedic practitioners in Sri Lanka to treat various conditions such as lithiasis, headache and renal disease. This plant is used in other countries too as a diuretic and anthelmintic. It is also used in malarial fever, diabetes and gonorrhea.

Polpala (Aeroa lanata) is a medicinal plant that is extensively used for the treatment of renal disease in Ayurvedic medicine. The root has a camphor-like aroma. The dried flowers which look like soft spikes, are sold under the commercial names as Buikallan or Boor. It is one of the plants included in Dasapushpam, the ten sacred flowers of Kerala.

In Spiritual attitude it gives protection against evil spirits, is a good-luck talisman for hunters, and safeguards the well-being of widows.

The whole plant, especially the leaves are edible. The leaves are put into soup or eaten as a spinach or as a vegetable.

The photochemical constituents present in the plant include alkaloids, flavanoids, methyl grevillate, lupeol, lupeol acetate benzoic acid, β-sitosteryl acetate and tannic acid. Pharmacological studies reported diuretic, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, anti-diabetic, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, hepoprotective, anti-urolithiasis, antiasthmatic, antifertility and hypolipidemic properties of Aerva lanata.

The root is demulcent, diuretic, useful in strangury (slow to be and painful discharge of urine). The roots are used in the treatment of headache. The plant is regarded as a demulcent on the Malabar Coast. It is valued for cough in Ceylon; also as a vermifuge for children. The Meena tribals of the Sawaimadhopur district of Rajasthan give orally the juice of the roots to patients of liver congestion, jaundice, biliousness and dyspepsia. They also give decoction of the whole plant to cure pneumonia, typhoid and other prolonged fevers.

PHARMACOLOGICAL STUDIES

Antimicrobial

Aerva lanata whole plant ethyl acetate and methanol extracts showed interesting antimicrobial activities against Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Shigella dysenteriae, Shigella shiga, Shigella sonnei, Shigella flexneriae, Shigella boydii, Klebsiella, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans, Hensinela californica and Rhizopus oligosporum and petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts showed significant cytotoxic properties.

Antiparasitic

The antiparasitic activity of the seed and leaf extracts of Aerva lanata were tested against a tapeworm and an earthworm, particularly the ethanolic extract proved to be better against tapeworms and earthworms than the Albendazole, which is used for treating parasite infections.

Diuretic and anti-urolithiasis

The alcoholic extract of Aerva lanata was tested for diuretic activity. The study indicated that the alcoholic extract at a dose of 800 mg/kg acted as a diuretic, with respect to control. Aerva lanata aqueous suspension (2 g/kg body wt/dose/day for 28 days) to CaO₂ urolithic rats had reduced the oxalate-synthesizing enzymes, and diminished the markers of crystal deposition in the kidney. The results of the study confirmed that Aerva lanata can be used as a curative agent for urolithiasis.

Acute renal failure

The ethanol extract of the entire plant of Aerva lanata was studied for its nephroprotective activity in cisplatin- and gentamicin-induced acute renal injury in albino rats of either sex. In the curative regimen, the extract at dose levels of 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg showed dose-dependent reduction in the elevated blood urea and serum creatinine and normalized the histopathological changes. In the gentamicin model the rats in the preventive regimen also showed good response to the ethanol extract at 300 mg/kg. The findings suggest that the ethanol extract of Aerva lanata possesses marked nephroprotective activity with minimal toxicity and could offer a promising role in the treatment of acute renal injury caused by nephrotoxins like cisplatin and gentamicin.

Antiasthmatic

The ethanolic extract of the aerial parts of Aerva lanata showed antiasthematic at 100 μg/ml in the isolated goat tracheal chain preparation. When administered orally 30 and 60 mg/kg of extract demonstrated antiastmatic activity against clonidine -induced catalepsy and it also inhibits mast cell degranulation in mice.

Anti-hyperglycemic and anti-diabetic

In the oral glucose tolerance test, Aerva lanata (400 mg/kg) increased the glucose threshold at 60 min after the administration of glucose. The alcoholic extract of Aerva lanata was found to reduce the increased blood sugar level of alloxan-induced diabetic rats (42% at 375 mg/kg and 48% at 500 mg/kg body weight). Aerva lanata (400 mg/kg) treatment prevented a diabetic mice weight loss in. In the subacute study, repeated administration (once a day for 28 days) of glyburide and Aerva lanata caused a significant reduction in the serum glucose level as compared to the vehicle-treated group.

Hypolipidemic

The hypolipidemic activity of Aerva lanata was assessed on ethylene glycol-induced calcium oxalate urolithic rats. Total lipids, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels were significantly increased in the serum, liver and kidney of calcium oxalate urolithic rats. Besides, phospholipids (PL), high-density lipoproteins (HDL), low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) levels were altered in calcium oxalate urolithic rats. On supplementation of Aerva lanata aqueous suspension, the above changes were reverted to near normal. These results indicate that the Aerva lanata aqueous suspension acts as a hypolipidemic agent in calcium oxalate urolithiasis.

Hepatoprotective

Petroleum ether extractable fraction of the whole plant Aerva lanata was evaluated for the protective effect against liver damage induced by carbon tetra chloride (CCl₄) in Sprague Dawley rats. Aerva lanata administration significantly reversed the histopathological changes, reduced hepatic lipid peroxidation and increased the serum total protein and albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio.

Immunomodulatory and antitumor

Petroleum ether extract of Aerva lanata showed significant cytotoxicity against Daltons lymphoma ascites (DLA) tumor cell lines in vitro and stimulated lymphocyte proliferation in in vitro and in vivo conditions. DLA-bearing animals when treated with A. lanata showed increase in lifespan compared to control animals. Partially purified fraction was also found to be hepatoprotective as evidenced from the normal levels of liver marker enzymes compared to the elevated levels of these enzymes in DLA alone inoculated animals.

The partially thin layer chromatography-purified fraction of the petroleum ether extract of Aerva lanata proved to be cytotoxic to DLA, Ehrlich ascites (EA) and B16F10 cell lines in vitro. Since partially TLC-purified fraction was found to be more cytotoxic to DLA cell lines, it was used to study the pharmacological effect and its potential to reduce solid tumor induced by DLA cell lines in mice.

Anti-diarrheal

Ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Aerva lanata and A. javanica were screened for anti-diarrheal activity. All the extracts showed significant anti-diarrheal activity in charcoal meal test. reduction of the intestinal transit is suggested as mechanism of action.

Conclusion: Aerva lanata has been ethnomedicinally used as a therapeutic agent for a variety of diseases. Alkaloids and flavonoids which were isolated from this plant may be responsible for its pharmacological activities. The road ahead is to establish specific bioactive molecules, which might be responsible for these actions. Therefore the cultivation, collection, and further pharmacological exploration of Aerva lanata are essential.

Investigations also showed that long term administration of the aqueous extract of this plant had no toxicological effects on renal structure and function of rats.

Parts used: The whole plant or parts of it is used as a diuretic, herbal drink, tea, porridge, extract or as a decoction with other herbs.

63. Black walnut and its miraculous properties

2012-10-08T23:31:00.000+05:30

Juglans nigra, the Eastern black walnut, a species of flowering tree in a wellknown walnut family, Juglandaceae. Its primary native region is the Midwest and east-central United States. The black walnut is a large deciduous tree attaining heights of 30–40 metres. The whole fruit, including the husk, falls in October; the seed is relatively small and very hard. The tree tends to crop more heavily in alternate years.

Its generic name Juglans means "the nut of Jupiter." According to the legend, the gods descended on earth to eat this magic walnuts. The other name of this kind of walnut is "Food of the Gods" - an inherent recognition of its excellent properties. The indigenous people of North America - the Indians regarded black walnut as the elixir of life, they also treated snake bites with the help of this strong natural remedy.

Active ingredients in the black walnut hull include omega-3 fatty acids, sterols, tannins and iodine. Black walnut shells are very rich in vitamin C, and beta-carotene, B1, B2, and B6 are found in the leaves. The peel and leaves of black walnut has much more polyphenolic compounds than Persian wallnut. The tannins in the walnut hull has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, thus accelerate healing of skin wounds, prevents further infection. Young blach wallnut leaves are used in the treatment of chronic eczema, diathesis, festering wounds, boils, carbuncles, acne and skin tuberculosis. Tannins also has antidiarrheic, antihepatoxic, chelator, antihypertensive, antitumor, cancer preventive, antiulcer. Biologically active iodine resolves the problems with thyroid hypofunction, has antiseptic and antibacterial properties.

The main active ingredient of black walnut is juglone. Juglone posseses antibacterial, antifungal and antihelminthic properties, has a normalizing effect on the gut, acting as a mild laxative for constipation and as an effective remedy for diarrhea. Has antitumor activity. Linolenic acid is not produced by our body, but is very important as it helps break down fat cells, reducing low density cholesterol, leading to the development of atherosclerosis, and fatty degeneration of the liver. So, the black walnut has much more to offer than the extract of green skin or leaves of regular wallnut, because its concentration of polyphenolic and yuglon compounds are several times higher.

Increadible Black walnut composition: among main nutrients, it also contains :

Polyunsaturated omega‑3, omega‑6 fat, Vitamin A, Thiamine (vit. B₁), Riboflavin (vit. B₂), Niacin (vit. B₃), Pantothenic acid (B₅), Vitamin B₆, Folate (vit. B₉),Vitamin B₁₂, Vitamin C (50 times more than in citrus), Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sodium, Zinc.

Nutritionally similar to the milder-tasting English walnut, the black walnut kernel is high in unsaturated fat and protein. An analysis of nut oil from five named J. nigra cultivars (Ogden, Sparrow, Baugh, Carter and Thomas) showed that the most prevalent fatty acid in J. nigra oil is linoleic acid, followed by oleic acid, linolenic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid.

Health Benefits, Therapeutic Uses and Claims of Black Walnut

The bark and leaves of the black walnut are alterative, anodyne, astringent, blood tonic, detergent, emetic, laxative, pectoral and vermifuge.
Black walnut is especially useful in the treatment of skin diseases such as herpes and eczema. Traditionally it is used as a natural remedy for acne, canker sores, psoriasis and other fungal infections. Externally it has been used for skin complaints such as jock itch, ringworm, athlete’s foot, blisters, scabbing pruritis, varicose ulcers, and even syphilis sores.
The juice of the fruit husk may be applied externally as a treatment for ringworm, or applied as a poultice for inflammations.
The oil from the ripe nuts is a traditional remedy for gangrene, leprosy and wounds.
Black walnut is believed to be very beneficial as a remedy for poor digestion or diarrhea. It has been used as a natural laxative and is believed to be helpful for cleaning the intestinal tract.
Black walnut is used in traditional herbal medicine to expel worms, parasites and harmful pathogens from the body. It is suggested that the natural tannins present in black walnut alters the pH of the intestine which may help in killing fungus, parasites and yeast, and expel worms and parasites.
Studies have shown that black walnut may be useful in treating cell damage caused by liver injury due to exposure to certain environmental toxins such as carbon tetrachloride.
The nuts of the black walnut are believed to aid in decreasing cholesterol levels and to improve overall heart health and function.
Some studies have shown that black walnut significantly reduced total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol concentrations, and may be useful as a treatment for high blood pressure. It is high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
The iodine in black walnut shells has antiseptic properties which can increase the immune system’s response time when fighting bacteria and infection.
The nuts of black walnut may be helpful as a natural control for diabetes, due to the Omega-3 fatty acids which lower the level of triglycerides (bad cholesterol) and increase the level of HDL (good cholesterol) which in turn may help in controlling the level of sugar in the blood.
The presence of Omega-3 fatty acids in fruit of the black walnut can help reduce inflammation and promote the function of the lungs; this may give relief from asthma.
The presence of juglone, omega-3 fatty acids, phytosterols, polyphenols, carotenoids and melatonin in black walnut may have anti-tumor properties which may help in the treatment of cancer.

Excellent anti-parasite activity of Black walnut:

According to approximate statistics, over 85% of the world population is infected with worms. And most of these people are not aware of this fact, some of them are not willing to admit it or to simply check. The fact of presence of parasites in the body is difficult to determine. After thousands of years, during which parasites accompanied man everywhere, they have learned to be discreet, disguise and adapt.

However, there are indirect indications of parasites presence in the body. Among them are: problem skin, pain and excessive gas in the stomach, constipation or loose stools, chronic fatigue of no apparent reason, frequent colds, long-lasting diseases which becomes chronic, painful joints, cough with no apparent reasons – these are just some symptoms of helminthic infestation.

Unfortunately children are particularly affected by the presence of parasites in their bodies. While living in young body worms rob most tasty and healthy from the growing organism. In such cases child may have no appetite (especially in the morning), trouble sleeping (crying in his sleep, turning, crunching teeth), complains of pain in the stomach, lose weight (not gaining weight even having good meal), becomes lethargic or moody. The child may experience excessive salivation, always slightly elevated temperature, there may be long-term cold which cures hard. In severe cases the child (and adult too) may suffer from severe vomiting and toxic damage of the body.

In order not to face such problems one must regularly reorganize the internal organs to get rid of "unwanted guests." Treatment of parasites can be performed using either the pharmaceutical drugs (which is justified only in extreme cases, because they are highly toxic) or using homeopathic remedies, natural remedies (such as garlic, onion, cloves, and other products with astringent properties and intense flavor and aroma) or try special dietary supplements.

No doubt that our ancestors used only natural remedies to prevent the helminth infestations. They used leaves and peel of black walnut. With the development of technology, people have found a way how to extract the maximum amount of useful active substances and accumulate them in convenient pill. Thus was created the "black walnut leaves" renmedy, which is currently the most powerful antiparasitic agent, and allows us to undergo the de-worming treatment at simple and convenient way for a modern man.

This high activity natural remedy due to its remarkable chemical composition offers:

Treatment of Central Nervous System disorders

Cures avitaminosis

Inflammation of the larynx, lungs, sinusitis, bronchitis, tonsillitis

Lowers cholesterol

Helps in hemorrhoids

Lowers blood pressure, if the pressure is normal, it does not go down

Has tonic, blood-forming action due to beta-carotene

Has an antihelminthic, antiulcer, anti-Lamblia effects, inhibits fungal flora

Good for any gastrointestinal pathologies

Cures eczema, psoriasis, diathesis, acne, allergic skin diseases.

Effective in gynecological diseases, syphilis

Lowers blood sugar

Strengthens the thyroid as it contains a lot of iodine, which is beneficial in hypothyroidism

Strengthens the teeth and gums

Stimulates the immune system, antioxidant, enhances the antitumor protection, contains vitamin C 50 times more than citrus

In Chinese medicine, it is used for the treatment of potency

Dosage and Administration

Commercially available tablets or capsules contain usually around 500 mg - 1000 mg of powdered black walnut. The oral doses are generally taken three times a day but no longer than 6 weeks because of the high tannin content of black walnut. Otherwise the manufactures instructions should be followed carefully.

Side Effects and Possible Interactions of Black Walnut

In rare cases, black walnut may cause rashes, swollen skin, hives and skin irritation. Rarely, chest pain, tightness of the airways, and breathing difficulties have been associated with the use of black walnut. Black walnut is not advised for use during pregnancy or while breast feeding. It may interact with certain medications, so always inform your health care professional of any medications, vitamins or herbs that you are taking. Be sure to get your herbs and supplements from a reputable source to ensure you are getting a high quality product.

For additional info on: Ayurvedic Treatment for Intestinal Worms

Find us at: http://sattviklife.com/contacts.html

62. Daruharidra - is particularly good at Reducing Allergies

2012-09-16T16:47:00.002+05:30

Berberis aristata/ Indian Barberry/ Daruharidra/ Tree Turmeric

Berberis aristata, also known as Indian Barberry or Tree Turmeric, belongs to the family Berberidaceae and the genus Berberis. The genus comprises approximately 450-500 species of deciduous evergreen shrubs and is found in the temperate and sub-tropical regions of Asia, Europe, and America. The plant is native of the whole range of Himalaya mountains at an elevation 2000 to 3500 metres. It also occurs in Nilagiri range in Southern India and also naturally found in the wet zone of Sri Lanka. The plant produces bunches of succulent, acidic, edible berries that are bright red in color and have medicinal properties. The fruits are the small berries, ovoid and smooth, start ripening from the second week of May and continue to do so throughout June.

The fruits of the species are eaten by people living in areas where the plant is found, often as a dessert. They are juicy and contain plenty of sugars and other useful nutrients that supplement their diet. Its stem, roots, and fruits possess medicinal properties and are used in many ayurvedic treatments of ailments, such as urinary problems. The roots can also be used for making an alcoholic drink. The plant as a whole is a good source of dye and tannin which is used for dyeing clothes and for tanning leather.

Daruharidra is very powerful herb. It is not well known in the world today, but it has been used for ages in Ayurveda. Charak Samhita, the oldest Ayurvedic text, describes its use in many formulations. According Charak Samhita, daruharidra is the best herb for supporting the immune system, and is particularly good at reducing acquired intolerances, or allergies. Acquired intolerances are allergic reactions to foods such as wheat or dairy that are acquired over time. These kind of intolerances stem from an overactive immune system, with a root cause of too many toxins in the body.

Latest Medicinal Researches:

The root bark contains berberine, quaternary ammonium salt of isoquinoline alkaloid. Berberine has antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antioxidant properties. It can possess anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and anti-diabetic activities.

A women’s university in India, Shri Padmavathi Mahila Viswavidyalayam Tirupati, conducted a study to evaluate the effectiveness of ayurvedic medicine. They designed a study to provide scientific evidence for the use of Berberis aristata in the treatment of urinary troubles caused as a side effect of the anti-cancer chemotherapy drug, cisplatin. Cisplatin is known to cause nephrotoxicity which is a renal disease or dysfunction.

In conclusion, the researchers found that the side effects of cisplatin were reversed by the antioxidant properties of the decoction of root bark of Berberis aristata.

Other research universities in India also studied the medicinal properties of Berberis aristata. In a scientific study of the anti-diabetic activity of the plant, diabetic rats treated with the ethanol extract of the roots showed a significant reduction of serum glucose level, however, it also showed a significant increase in the level of HDL cholesterol. Additional research must be conducted to determine if the hypolipidemic properties of the plant could serve as a protective mechanism against the development of atherosclerosis, which is usually associated with diabetes.

Daruharidra is useful both, internally as well as externally.

External uses of Daruharidra:

· Externally, the wounds are dressed with the medicated oil of the decoction of daruharidra. The paste applied on painful and swollen parts effectively mitigates the symptoms, it reduces the pruritus (itching) also.

· The popular preparation of daruharidra, called Rasanjana is a crude extract, prepared from the root bark. The decoction of rootbark, mixed with equal quantity of milk is then beated until it forms a solid substance. This is useful in infections of the ear like otitis media; for which its solution (1 in 32 of water) is instilled in the ears. The same is beneficial also as a wash for piles. Its ointment made with camphor and butter is applied to pimples and boils.

· Rasanjana mixed with honey is a useful application to aphthous sores, abrasions and ulcerations of the skin. In the diseases of the eyes (inflammatory conditions, opacities in eyes, for rejuvenation) it is applied on the eyelids and mixed with rose water, can be instilled into the eyes.

· The gargles of rasanjana with water, are beneficial in the ailments of the mouth and throat. Its enema is beneficial in leucorroea.

Internally daruharidra is useful in a vast range of the diseases:

· The properties like cholegogue, hepato-stimulant and astringent are very effective in treating anorexia, dysentery, hepatitis and liver disorders, with daruharidra.

· It relieves the phlegm in cough effectively.

· As a blood purifier decoction of daruharidra and rasanjana used in combination, is salutary in the secondary stage of syphilis. Rasanjana is extremely valuable in bleeding piles. The decoction of herb helps reducing swellings in hepato-splenomegaly. It also works well, when given with honey, in jaundice.

· Daruharidra, as an adjunct, is effective in the treatment of obesity to reduce excessive fats – meda.

· The decoction along with haridra, is good anti-diabetic combination. It also effectively reduces the uterine inflammations, hence is valuable medicament for leucorrhea and menorrhagia. The decoction also helps in healing the ulcers of the cervix.

· Rasanjana alleviates the diseases of the eye and ear, and has a lactodepurant property.

· Daruharidra works well as a bitter tonic. It is very useful for remittent and intermittent fevers. For that, the decoction is given with rock candy twice a day. It is used as a general tonic in debility, especially due to fever.

Caution. In higher doses it gives rise to symptoms like vomiting, severe diarrhea, excessive sweating etc. In such cases, withdraw the drugs which contain daruharidra.

Classical Ayurvedic Preparations:

Darvyadi kavatha
Darvyadi leha
Darvyadi taila
Rasanjana
Dasanga lepa

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Ayurvedic properties & effect on doshas:

Daruharidra is bitter and astringent in taste , pungent in the post digestive effect and hot in potency. It alleviates kapha and pitta dosas. It possesses light and dry attributes. The fruit is sweet and sour in taste and has a cold potency. Daruharidra has diaphoretic, rejuvenating, antipyretic properties and is a bitter tonic. (Raja Nighantu)

Parts used: The fruit, root bark, stem, wood and extract are used for medicinal purpose.

61. Bamboo as a Natural Healer

2012-08-26T20:19:00.001+05:30

Bambusa arundinacia/ Thorny bamboo/ Vamsha (in Sanskrit)

Bamboo is a group of perennial evergreens in the true grass family Poaceae, so it is related to rice, black rice, Kans grass, maize, sorghum, millet, rye, barley, oats and wheat.

Giant bamboos are the largest members of the grass family. There are 550 different kinds of bamboo. It is the fastest growing plant in the world. Some varieties grow at a peak rate of 5 cm (2 inches) per hour; more typical rates are 10 cm per day. Thanks to the strong stems, bamboo can tower several meters; the tallest reaching about 20 meters (over 60 feet).

Useful Bamboo plants:

Bamboo is available in all parts of India, but it is mainly found in southern India and the states of Orissa, Assam, lower Himalayas, the plains of Ganges and Indus. It grows naturally in the forests, but is cultivated in the cities. Soft bamboo shoots, stems, and leaves are the major food source of the giant panda of China, the red panda of Nepal and the bamboo lemurs of Madagascar. Mountain gorillas of Africa also feed on bamboo.

According to recent estimates, there are 36 bamboo forests still present in China despite intensive harvesting for centuries; they cover 4-7 million hectares (11-19 million acres) making up 3-5% of China's forests. China has an estimated 300 species of bamboos in 39 genera. India is second to China in bamboo harvest; it has larger bamboo forests, making up nearly 13% of the country's forest area. The annual global bamboo harvest is 10 million tons, and growing. Bamboo could be the timber of the century as it can grow to its peak in 5 years and can be harvested after one, so is a sustainable crop. Bamboo can also absorb more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than an equivalent stand of trees, so if more were planted, it could help with the world’s pollution problem.

It is useful as fibre as it absorbs sweat and has antibacterial and anti-odour properties. Now you can even get socks made from bamboo fibre.The material made from bamboo is UV resistant and so can block those harmful rays, and it is also hypoallergenic and heat regulating.

Bamboo vinegar is a by-product of the charcoal-making process and this has anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties, and is added to bath water, used for eczema and other skin problems.

Bamboo has been used in traditional medicine systems in Asia for thousands of years. In Chinese medicine Bamboo is used for treating infections and healing.

Bamboos shoots, the tender young ones are edible and used extensively in South-East Asian cuisine. They taste sweet and are ubiquitous in stir-fries in the UK. These are rich in minerals and a useful source of the B-complex vitamins. Bamboo is also used to stop vomiting, and mainly for coughs, bronchitis and other respiratory complaints. In some countries it is also thought to be an aphrodisiac and is also used to remedy STDs. The leaves of bamboo contain flavonoids which have antioxidant properties. It is thought that these flavonoids may promote blood circulation, reduce inflammation and inhibit allergic reactions. The leaves are used in traditional medicine for their cooling, astringent properties, for fevers, wound healing, for eye problems and to regulate a woman’s menstrual flow. Juice from the leaves is also used to make bamboo-flavoured beer.

The white fluid inside the bamboos dries up and forms into a solid sugary substance and is therefore known as Banshlochan (Banslochan). In English, it is called "bamboo manna". The real banshlochan (manna) is white in color or has bluish stripes, opaque, irregular in shape and small to large big pieces found between each node. It is very hard and does not break easily. It is not easily soluble in water. When water is poured on this manna it becomes transparent. The real manna is very expensive and can also be manufactured through a chemical process. Bamboo Manma was earlier obtained from Melocanna bambusoides and is very hard to get. In most Indian literature, Bambusa arundinacea is described as the source of bamboo manna or bamboo silica. In Ayurveda, the Indian system of traditional medicine, the silicious concretion found in the culms of the bamboo stem is also known as Tabashir (Tawashir) in Unani-Tibb the Indo-Persian system of medicine.

Vamsa lochana, Vamsa rochana, Tavakshiri – are the names of bamboo manna in Sanscrit. Although all parts of the bamboo are used in Ayurveda, true Vamsa lochana is found inside the hollow bamboo at the internodes as a silica-like secretion. Vamsa rochana literally means ‘bamboo eye’ referring to the exudates of the silica appearing through an eye-like crack in the bamboo. It is rare due to its difficulty to harvest, but it’s especially good at clearing lung infections.

This substance contains more silica than is found in horsetail and it is the richest source of organic silica known. It is believed that silica can help protect against Alzheimer’s disease, cardio-vascular disease.

Bamboo can help delay the aging process of the skin as it provides a boost to the collagen and elasticin, which maintain the skin’s flexibility and elasticity so preventing wrinkles forming. It also assists in healing bones which have been fractured, and in promoting healthy hair, nails, lessening bone mass loss, helping joints retain their flexibility and easing joint pains.

This concretion is said to be a tonic for the respiratory diseases. In Tibet, formulas with tabasheer as the main ingredient are used for treating lung diseases.

A major source in India is Bambusa arundinacea, though other species of Bambusa are also used. An Ayurvedic remedy, Sitopaladi Churna, it was used traditionally for tuberculosis and other wasting diseases and has been adopted as a popular remedy for common cold, sore throat, sinus congestion, and for cough with excess sputum. It is a powder (churna) made with tabasheer as the main ingredient, plus small amounts of long pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon in a base of sugar.

Medicinal Uses of Bamboo:

Bamboo and bamboo with a hole are beneficial in curing painful discharge of urine, excretion of vital humors from the body, and burning sensation of piles. The bamboo containing hole increases the fire in the stomach, cures indigestion, helps in digestion of food, relieves pain and enlargement of the heart and improves appetite.

Banshlochan (Manna):

It has a sweet astringent taste, sweet when ripe and cold in strength. It is healthy for the different humors of the body. It is beneficial in thirst, cough, fever, respiratory disorders, bile due to tuberculosis, blood impurities, leprosy with jaundice, wounds, ulcers, jaundice, vata dosha and painful discharge of urine. Besides it has other uses in pregnancy and post delivery.

Offshoots of bamboo:

Spicy, sour, pungent, bitter, slightly cold and beneficial in bleeding piles, for burning sensations and gonorrhea.

Rice:

The bamboo rice is pungent, sweet, strong, and nutritious. It cures kapha, pitta dosha, removes toxic substances from the body and cures the disease in which the vital humors of the body are excreted through urine.

Baldness:

1. Burn the skin and roots of bamboo and mix it in vinegar. Apply this lep (pack) on the head. Hair will begin to grow on a bald head. 2. Take the ash of the roots of bamboo and mix it in chameli (Jasmine flower) oil. This is very beneficial to cure baldness. 3. Burn the roots and skin of bamboo and mix equal quantity of turmeric powder in their bhasma (ash) and make a fine powder. Apply this on the scalp, it makes the hair strong and prevents hair loss. 4. Grind the roots of bamboo and apply on the face and small-pox marks. The skin becomes beautiful.

Itching:

Burn the bamboo leaves and apply the ash on the area, where it is itching. This is a very effective medicine to stop itching.

Bleeding Wounds:

1. Burn the bamboo wood coals and make a powder. Sprinkle this powder on the wounds to stop bleeding and for fast healing. It also reduces swelling. 2. Pour the juice of tender shoots of bamboo to kill worms. Tie a poultice of tender shoots of bamboo to heal the wound quickly.

Sore throat:

Old folks remedy advices to pick bamboo shoots before sunrise, soak in water and drink this water. It is one sore throat pain relief idea, probably it helps because of some beneficial bacteria on the bamboo shoots.

Eye Problems:

1. Banshlochan (manna) -1.250 mg, 1 small cardamom seed (powdered) - 10 gm, avala (mylobaran) - 750 mg, black pepper—500 mg, small pippali - 250 mg. Mix all the ingredients and add pure surma (collyrium, black substance applied as eye-liner) equal to half of the sum total of all the ingredients. Sieve with a thin cloth and apply in the eyes. This prevents all types of eye problems. 2. Apply the oily substance accumulated on the stem and leaves of bamboo in the eyes. This is an effective medicine to cure cataract.

Dental Problems:

1. Burn the roots of bamboo and massage the teeth with the ash. The teeth become clean and shining. 2. Take equal proportions of banshlochan (manna), small cardamom seeds and samamstangi. Grind all the ingredients together and store in a safe place. Massage the teeth with this powder twice daily. It cleans plaque and dirt on the teeth and makes the teeth sparkling white.

Disease of the Umbilical Tube:

Tie the poultice of the bamboo shoots on the umbilical tube. The disease will be cured.

Hip Pain:

1. Rub the fresh shoots of bamboo leaves in vinegar and apply on the back and hips. This reduces the pain. 2. Burn the roots of bamboo and mix the bhasma (ash) in water. Apply this on the hip bones to relieve pain.

Expulsion of the Placenta:

It is necessary to clean the uterus properly post delivery. Boil 10 bamboo leaves in 200 gm of water and make a thick decoction till it reduces to 50 gm. Sieve it and add 10 gm of jaggery and drink it hot (as per convenience). This eases the process of childbirth and expulsion of placenta. It reduces the pain in the uterus and prevents excessive loss of blood.

Mild Menstruation:

1. If the female does not get proper menses or if the cycle is irregular, decoction of fresh bamboo leaves is highly beneficial. 2. The same medicine is good for cleaning the uterus.

Painful and Mild Menstruation:

Make a coarse powder of the bamboo knot. Take 20 gm of this powder and 40 gm of soy seeds. Boil both the ingredients in one litre of water and reduce it to one-eighth of the quantity. Add 25 gm of jaggery and give it to the patient. This is beneficial in curing painful and mild menstruation.

Urinary problem:

1. Decoction of fresh bamboo leaves is beneficial in reducing the burning sensation and pain in the bladder. 2. Boil 25 gm of bamboo leaves in 200 ml of water. Reduce it to 40 ml. Give this medicine to the patient with 5 gm of honey. This is beneficial to cure urinary problems.

Gonorrhea:

Bamboo leaves are extremely beneficial to cure Gonorrhea. Dry the bamboo leaves in the shade, take 6 gm of the dried leaves and mix it with 6 gm of Anantmool powder. Boil both the ingredients in 400 ml of water till it reduces to 100 ml. Add 3 to 4 grams of sugar candy in this decoction and give to the patient regularly for one or two weeks.

Increasing the fire in the stomach:

Bamboo shoots are used as food in various ways. Boil the fresh leaves or shoots and prepare pickle, vegetable or soup and include it in your diet. This is very beneficial in curing indigestion and the digestive system will function properly.

Poison Antidote:

Extract the juice of bamboo leaves and add jaggery powder. Give one dose of this medicine to reduce the effect of poison.

Dog Bite:

1 .When a dog bites someone, its poison (bacteria) enters-the body. Grind the roots of bamboo in milk and give it to the person, the poison will be removed. 2. Grind bamboo shoots and roots in cow milk and give to the person every morning for 15 days. This will remove the effect of poison in the body.

Dry Cough:

Soak the bamboo knot in water and heat it lukewarm. Give this to children suffering with dry cough.

Jointpain:

Grind the knots of bamboo, heat them a little and tie a poultice on the painful area.

Injury:

1. In case of any type of injury, grind the bamboo skin and make a fine powder. Give one dose with grounded jaggery. 2. If injury causes acute pain and burning sensation in the blood and on the skin. In this case make a decoction with bamboo skin. Let it cool, add honey and give it to the person twice or thrice daily. This is very beneficial to reduce dehydration due to consumption of excess liquor and burning sensation due to the effect of toxic substances.

Uses of Banshlochan (Manna):

Dry cough:

1. 1.250 to 2.500 mg of banshlochan with honey.

2. One gm banshlochan powder, 395 mg of Pippali powder. Add both these ingredients in honey and give two to three doses daily to cure breathing and cough problem.

Fever due to indigestion:

500 gm banshlochan, 500 gm of Giloy satva (extract), 250 gm of pippali powder. Add all these ingredients with honey and give three doses daily. This medicine cures fever due to indigestion.

Wounds:

Take 500 gm of banshlochan with ghee or honey thrice daily. This will heal all wounds.

Secretion of vital humors from the body:

Banshlochan rasa (essence), pure nagkesar and seeds of cardamom. Take equal proportion of these things, grind them and sieve it with a thin cloth. Grease it with sandal oil and make small pills. Give one pill each in the morning and evening with 50 ml water mixed with 6 gm of grounded jaggery. This dose reduces the burning sensation in case of Gonorrhea and completely cures the disease within seven days. This pill is beneficial in all types of secretions of the vital humors.

Burning Sensation in Urine:

1. In the above mentioned pill do not grease it with sandal oil and give only one and a half or three gm of powder with sugar candy and milk. 2. A dose of banshlochan with Gokharu drops with swarasa (essence) of Gokharu reduces the burning sensation of the urine. 3. Make curds with raw milk, add banshlochan powder, Gokharu and sugar candy. This medicine cures burning sensation in the stomach.

Bleeding piles:

Take 2 gm of banshlochan powder and 10 gm of bamboo rasa and mix it with sugar candy.

Mouth ulcers:

Mix banshlochan, small cardamom, white catechu (katha) and geru in equal quantities and make a powder. Put a small quantity of this powder in the mouth at small intervals. Take 40 gm of rose petals and make Gulkand, add 2 to 3 gm of banshlochan and give twice or thrice daily. Mix banshlochan with honey and apply the lep (pack) on the mouth ulcers.

Increasing sperm:

Consume one gm of banshlochan everyday or take it with praval pishti, abhrak bhasma (ash of mica), shilajit and other medicines.

Miscarriage:

If there is a chance of miscarriage, take one gm of banshlochan, add 125 mg of Kalbul Haj. Grind both these ingredients separately and then mix them. Take this medicine twice or thrice to prevent miscarriage.

Other Uses:

1. Take out the green portion of the lotus stem, which lies in the middle of the stem, and add equal quantity of banshlochan. Make a fine powder with both the ingredients and add sugar candy in double proportion. Take this medicine twice or thrice daily with cow milk to be blessed with a baby. 2. The children have the habit of eating sand. Give them a cake of banshlochan to get rid of this habit.

Sitopaladi Churna:

Dalchini 10 gmSmall cardamom seeds: 20 gmSmall Pipal : 40 gmBanshlochan: 80 gmSugar candy: 160 gm. Grind all these ingredients separately, sieve it with a cloth and store it safely. Give two to four gm of this powder with honey to cure phlegm related diseases.

In case of wind and bile related problems, consume banshlochan first with ghee and then half quantity of honey. This powder cures dry cough, respiratory disorders, bleeding from the mouth, burning sensation in the hands and legs, pain in the ribs, fever due to indigestion and humors, weakness in children, burning sensation in the eyes, throat etc. A pregnant lady should take this powder for 4 to 6 months to give birth to a healthy baby. The same preparation can be used in the last month of pregnancy to induce labor. 10 gm of sitopaladi churna10 gm of pure ghee made out of buffalo milk. Keep both the things in glass or mud vessel and pour the freshly extracted buffalo milk and consume it twice daily for two months.

Harm:

Excess consumption of banshlochan is harmful for the lungs. Honey, Mastangi (a kind of gum), saffron, Unnav (jejube fruit used in medicine) and eluva (wormwood) have the capacity to remove the harmful effects.

Ayurvedic Classification:
Rasa (taste): Sweet, astringent
Virya (action): Cooling
Vipaka (post-digestive effect): Sweet
Guna (quality): Dry, light
Dosha effect: VPK-, K+ in excess
Dhatu (tissue): Plasma, blood, nerve
Srota (channel): Respiratory, nervous

Culinary uses of Bamboo:

It is a low-calorie source of potassium. It is known for its sweet taste and as a good source of nutrients and protein.

Pickled bamboo shoots (Nepali: tama) are cooked with black eyed beans as a delicacy food in Nepal. Many Nepalese restaurant around the world serve this dish as aloo bodi tama. Fresh bamboo shoots are sliced and pickled with mustard seeds and turmeric and kept in glass jar in direct sunlight for the best taste. It is used alongside many dried beans in cooking during winter months. Baby shoots (Nepali: tusa) of a very different variety of bamboo (Nepali: Nigalo) native to Nepal is cooked as a curry in Hilly regions.

In Sambalpur (Orissa state), India, the tender shoots are grated into juliennes and fermented to prepare kardi. The name is derived from the Sanskrit word for bamboo shoot, karira. This fermented bamboo shoot is used in various culinary preparations, notably amil, a sour vegetable soup. It is also made into pancakes using rice flour as a binding agent. The shoots that have turned a little fibrous are fermented, dried, and ground to sand-sized particles to prepare a garnish known as hendua. It is also cooked with tender pumpkin leaves to make sag green leaves.

Bamboo sprout (Sanskrit name Kareera)

Kashaya, madhura rasa
Katu vipaka
Kaphahara, vata and pitta janaka
Rooksha(dry), guru(heavy), sara
Vidahi(causes burning sensation)

Qualities and Benefits of Bamboo According to Ayurveda By Acharya Balkrishan

Its properties include: stimulant, astringent, febrifuge, tonic, antispasmodic, and aphrodisiac.

Madhura, kashaya rasa
Sheeta veerya
Kaphaghna, pittaghna
Chedana, sara
basti shodhana (purifies the bladder), kushta(skin disorders), asra roga (blood disorders),
vranashodhana (purifies the wound)

Bamboo seed:

Kashaya rasa
Katu vipaka
Sara, rooksha (dry)
Vata, pitta kara, kaphahara.
Ushna veerya
Baddha mootra janaka (causes urine retention)

Bamboo manna:

Brumhana (nourishing)
Vrushya (aphrodiciac)
Balya (strength promoting)
Madhura, kashaya rasa
Sheeta veerya
Vatahara
Used in conditions like:
Trushna (thirst), kasa (cough), jwara (fever), shwasa (Breathing difficulty)
Kshaya (emaciation)
Pittasra (bleeding disorders)
Kamala (jaundice)
Kushta (skin disorders)
Vrana (wounds)
Paandu (paleness of the body)

Useful parts of Bamboo: Roots, leaves, offshoots, fruits, manna.

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60. Apamarga - a good Hemorrhoids Remedy

2012-07-27T20:31:00.002+05:30

Achyranthes aspera/ Prickly chaff flower/ Chirchita, Apamarga, Kadaladi/ Adhahsalya, Sikhari, Mayhuraka (Sanskrit)/ "Karal heba"(Sinhala)/ Jarong (Indonesia)/ herbe à Bengalis, herbe sergen, and queue de rat (French)/ cadillo chichoborugo, cadillo de mazorca, and mazotillo (Spanish)/ grootklits, angklitskafblom (Afrikan)

Apamarga is an important herb in Ayurveda. It is also known as Chirchita, Latjeera, Onga, Apang. It belongs to the family amaranthaceae. It grows as wasteland herb throughout tropical Asia, Africa, Australia and America. It is an abundant weed in dry places and wastelands, from the seashore to 2,100 m high.

Since time immemorial, it is in use as folk medicine. It holds a reputed position as medicinal herb in different systems of medicine in India. The flowers, seeds, leaves and roots of the herb are used for medicinal purpose.

This plant has been mentioned in manuscripts of Ayurveda and Chinese medicines. In Ayurveda, two varieties, red and white are mentioned. It is described in 'Nighantas' as purgative, pungent, digestive. It is a good remedy for inflammation of the internal organs, piles, itch, abdominal enlargements and enlarged cervical glands. Plant is used in piles, skin eruptions, opthalmia, dysentery, eye and liver complaints, rheumatism, scabies, bronchial affections and in leprosy.

Leaves are useful in gonorrhoea. Roots in cancer, stomach troubles and bladder stones. The decoction of seeds is useful in renal dropsy, bronchial affections and in leprosy. The flowers, ground and mixed with sugar, are given for menorrhagia. Branches and roots are useful as tooth brushes. The ash of this plant is rich in potassium. Indian people use ashes for preparing caustic alkaline preparations. The diuretic properties of the plant are well known to the natives of India and European physicians.

Different parts of the plant form ingredients in many native prescriptions in combination with more active remedies.

Healing properties:

Fevers/Astma:
-Take Prickly flower leaves, pepper and garlic in equal proportion and grind them to paste. Prepare pea size tablets and dry them in shade. For ordinary fevers, take 2 tabs. For cold fevers take 3 to 5 tabs with warm water. One gets relieved from fevers.

-Dry entire Prickly flower plant, fry it to powder. Add 2 times equal quantity of sugar and take 3 gms three times a day. Phlegm, breathlessness, continued cough, heaving etc. will be relieved. Use less quantity if used for children.

-If Prickly flower root powder or seeds powder is stuffed in a smoking pipe and its smoke is breathed in, cough and Asthma is relieved.

Piles (bleeding):

Hemorrhoids is not exactly the disease of the rectum, although it may hurt. If such problem occures first you need to clean the liver. The liver as well as kidneys are cleansed on sorbents (microcellulose, white clay). In cleansing the liver it is also very healthy to eat black whole grains bread with natural watermelon, or drink an infusion of oats.

-Take red Prickly flower leaves juice 50 gm and together with 50 gm of cow’s ghee Bleeding piles will subside. Avoid food items causing excess heat.
-Take Apamarga, Nagakesara (Mesua ferrea), Satavari (Asparagus racemosus) and Vasa (Adhatoda vasica). Make decoction, it will be beneficial in bleeding piles (40-60ml) (VD.5.8).

Here are some more beneficial suggestions to ease this uncomfortable feeling:

- Drinking radish juice twice a day is a common remedy for piles. Start with 1/4 th cup and gradually increase it to half a cup, twice a day.
- To reduce the pain felt due to piles, drink buttermilk to which rock salt, ginger and peppercorns (kali Mirach) added. Have this twice a day.
- Powder dried mango seeds. Mix two teaspoons of this powder with a little honey and eat this twice a day.
- Add juice of bitter-gourd (karela) mixed with some buttermilk (lassi). This should be taken every morning.
- Offshoots of bamboo are a bit spicy, sour, pungent, bitter, slightly cold and beneficial in bleeding piles, for burning sensations and gonorrhea. Bamboo as a Natural Healer

Anemia:
Take 10 gm of Prickly flower root extract with one cup cow’s butter milk. Anemia will be eliminated. Digestive system improves, blood increases, skin glows. Avoid food items causing excess heat.

Uterus problems:
-Pound Prickly flower leaves and roots taken in equal proportion and powder. Add equal quantity of candy sugar powder and store. Take 3 pinches with water one hour before food. Uterus gets cleaned, periods get regularised, new blood is generated, skin glows, in addition to many other benefits.

-In Dysuria, Apamarga root powder (10-15 gms) taken with milk overcomes dysuria (VD.7.4).

Tooth Powder:
Make powder of 100 gm Prickly flower seeds and sieve. Add 10 gm salt powder and store in a bottle. If one brushes his teeth with this powder, teeth will strengthen and also whiten. Worms in the teeth will die and decayed teeth get set right.

Other Uses: Useful for reclamation of wastelands. Seeds are rich in protein, cooked and eaten. Leaf is consumed as potherb.

Ayurvedic properties:

According to Ayurveda, the herb is vata and kapha suppressant.

Rasa : Katu, Tikta
Guna : Laghu, Ruksha, Sara, Tikshna
Virya : Ushna
Vipaka : Katu
Karma : Dipana, Vatahara, Pacana, Rucya, Kaphanasaka, Medohara,Mhutrala, Vantihara.

Ayurvedic Preparation: Apamarga Taila, Agnimukha Agastya Haritaki Rasayana, Maha Pancagavya Ghrita, Vastyamayantaka Ghrita, Maha Vishagarbha Taila, Panaviraladi Kshara, Apamarga, Kshara Taila, Ksara Taila

Useful Parts: Root, seed and leaf

Dose: 5-10 g

Chemical Constituent: Plant yields achyranthine.

You can find some additional information here: http://www.siddhaquest.com/blog/the-right-way-to-weaken-hemroids-from-your-home/

59. Kale - strong Cancer Protector

2012-06-28T16:20:00.002+05:30

Brassica oleracea/ Borecole/ Karam Kala (in Urdu)

Why meat is unable to compare with Greens?

Environmentalists cite meat production as one of the biggest contributors to global warming, and the USDA's new food pyramid suggests the healthiest choice is making vegetables and fruits the biggest part of every meal by reducing consumption of animal proteins. Nature granted us with such varieties of leafy greens not to say of vegetables and fruits, that we can’t remain indifferent.

Kale is one more Nature’s magic. This leafy green is a precursor of the ‘head’ cabbage which has been developed by human cultivation. It shares its genus with the cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, brussel sprouts, and kohlrabi, all of which are Brassica oleracea variants.

Kale has ruffled, crinkly leaves which may be reddish as in the Red Russian Kale which was introduced into the USA from Siberia back in the 19^th century. The fact that it can grow in such a cold place as Siberia illustrates the point that it was a popular green vegetable in northern Europe in the Middle Ages because it can withstand severe weather conditions. Although it grows well in cold climates it is in fact a native of the eastern Mediterranean and perhaps of Turkey. It also grows wild in Pakistan and is used in saag dishes. It has been cultivated and grown wild for millennia so it is difficult to ascertain where exactly it originated.

Why do we call it another Nature’s superfood along with kiwi fruit, pomegranates and cranberries?

Because it has 4 times more magnesium and 5 times more calcium than an equal amount of brussel sprouts, 17 times more vitamin C than carrots, almost double the magnesium content of spring greens and more folate than broccoli. When kale and cabbage are raw, kale has 7 times more carotene than cabbage too. Kale is low in calories and has no fat or cholesterol in it. It is at its most nutritious when steamed, even though it can be eaten raw. If it is steamed it has cholesterol lowering effects in the body.

Scientists have identified 45 different flavonoids in kale and these have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects. This means that the free radicals which damage healthy cells are combated and so kale can help in our fit against some cancers, notably, breast, colon, bladder, ovarian and prostate ones. The bioflavonoids kaempferol and quercetin are present and kale also is a source of Omega-3 fatty acids which are usually found in oily fish such as salmon and mackerel.

Kale, also known as borecole, is considered as the most nutritious vegetable. A cup of cooked, boiled and drained without salt contains a massive 1062 mcg of vitamin K and 9620 IU of vitamin A – almost double the daily value. It is an excellent source of vitamin C and manganese and a very good source of fiber, copper, calcium, iron and potassium. It also has the B-complex vitamins, B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin) and B6 (pyridoxine). Amino acids are also present, including tryptophan. Its phytonutrients include glucosinolates and flavonoids and is well known for its carotenoid content, especially lutein and zeanthin.

This information was granted with kind permission from this nice blog:
herbs-treatandtaste.blogspot.com/search?q=kale

If we speak about health benefits from using kale in our diet, so it posseses:

1. Anti-inflammatory: Inflammation is the number one cause of arthritis, heart disease and a number of autoimmune diseases, and is triggered by the consumption of animal products. Kale is an incredibly effective anti-inflammatory food, potentially preventing and even reversing these illnesses.

2. Iron: Despite the myth that vegetarians are anemic, the number of non-vegetarians with iron-deficiencies is on the rise. Per calorie, kale has more iron than beef.

3. Calcium: Dairy and beef both contain calcium, but the U.S. still has some of the highest rates of bone loss and osteoporosis in the world. Kale contains more calcium per calorie than milk (90 grams per serving) and is also better absorbed by the body than dairy.

4. Fiber: Like protein, fiber is a macronutrient, which means we need it every day. But many Americans don't eat nearly enough and the deficiency is linked to heart disease, digestive disorders and cancer. Protein-rich foods, like meat, contain little to no fiber. One serving of kale not only contains 5 percent of the recommended daily intake of fiber, but it also provides 2 grams of protein.

5. Omega fatty acids: Essential Omega fats play an important role in our health, unlike the saturated fats in meat. A serving of kale contains 121 mg of omega-3 fatty acids and 92.4 mg of omega-6 fatty acids.

6. Immunity: Superbugs and bacteria are a serious risk to our health. Many of these come as a result of factory farm meat, eggs and dairy products. Kale is an incredibly rich source of immune-boosting carotenoid and flavanoid antioxidants including vitamins A and C.

7. Sustainable: Kale grows to maturity in 55 to 60 days versus a cow raised for beef for an average of 18-24 months. Kale can grow in most climates and is relatively easy and low impact to grow at home or on a farm. To raise one pound of beef requires 16 pounds of grain, 11 times as much fossil fuel and more than 2,400 gallons of water.

Please, enjoy this wonder-veg!

How to fight the Cancer cells?

58. Purslane - the record-holder in Omega-3 fatty acids

2012-06-24T17:43:00.001+05:30

Portulaca oleracea/ pusley/ pigweed/ verdolaga/ Brhallonika, Brhatloni (in Sanskrit)/ Badi noni (in Hindi)

Purslane is native to Indian sub-continent and now widely distributed across the continents actually as a wild weed. There exist different varieties of pusley with variation in leaf size, thickness and leaf arrangement and pigments distribution. It is actually hard herb plant requiring comparatively less water and soil nutrients and grow well in sunny conditions. The plant grows up to 12-15 cm in height as a low-lying spread.

Weeds may be an unwelcome sight in your garden, but some weeds are worth keeping around. Many weeds are edible, and some even have an array of health benefits! Purslane is one such weed. A food favored by Ghandi, purslane can and should be eaten.

Purslane is a succulent low-growing plant which is very tasty and crunchy. The entire plant can be used, the stems being most succulent. Purslane can be used as the main salad ingredient, lightly seasoned with diced onion, vinegar, and oil. The plant is good cooked with soups, steamed, sauteed, or pickled. It is better to cook this herb under low temperature for shorter period in order to preserve majority of nutrients. Although antioxidant properties are significantly decreased on frying and boiling, its minerals, carotenes and flavonoids may remain intact with steam cooking.

Soft, succulent Purslane or "Pusley" has more omega-3 fatty acids than in some of fish oils. If you are a vegetarian and want to avoid all forms of animal products, then here is the answer!

Omega-3 fatty acids: Purslane contains more Omega-3 fatty acids than any other leafy vegetable. This essential fatty acid plays a key role in maintaining heart health; it can lower cholesterol, regulate blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart attack and stroke. Omega-3 fatty acids also enrich brain health and can be useful in preventing and treating depression. This herb also contains high amounts of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).

Research studies shows that consumption of foods rich in ω-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and help prevent development of ADHD, autism, and other developmental differences in children.

Antioxidants, Vitamins and Minerals: Purslane is high in vitamins A, C and E, which are known for their antioxidant powers. This edible weed also contains two betalain alkaloid pigments, beta-cyanins and beta-xanthins. Both of these pigment types are potent anti-oxidants and have been found to have anti-mutagenic properties in laboratory studies. [Proc. West. Pharmacol. Soc. 45: 101-103 (2002)].

It is an excellent source of Vitamin A, (1320 IU/100 g, provides 44% of RDA) one of the highest among green leafy vegetables. Vitamin A is a known powerful natural antioxidant and is essential for vision. This vitamin is also required to maintain healthy mucus membranes and skin. Consumption of natural vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin A is known to help to protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.

Purslane is also a rich source of vitamin C, and some B-complex vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine and carotenoids,

Purslane is low in calories and fat, but this weed does contain high amounts of dietary minerals such as iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium and manganese.

Traditional Chinese medicine uses purslane to treat a variety of diseases from urinary and gastro-intestinal tract problems to the relief of sores. It is also very effective in treating oral lichen planus. The herb also has anti-inflammatory properties, especially useful in joints complaints.

In the store, buy fresh and healthy looking purslane; look carefully for mold, yellow or dark spots as they indicate inferior quality. Go for organic product whenever feasible.

Wash fresh leaves and stem in clean cold running water in order to remove any soil and insecticide/fungicide residues. After removing from water, mop it with soft cloth to remove any moisture in them before storing in the refrigerator. Pusley can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days but should be eaten while the leaves are fresh and not wilted.

Cautions:

Purslane contains oxalic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in some vegetables, which may crystallize as oxalate stones in the urinary tract in some people. 100 g fresh leaves contain 1.31 g of oxalic acid, more than in spinach (0.97 g/100 g) and cassava (1.26 g/100 g). It is therefore, people with known oxalate urinary tract stones are advised to avoid eating purslane and certain vegetables belonging to amaranthaceae and brassica family. Adequate intake of water is therefore advised to maintain normal urine output.

If you’re pregnant, avoid purslane as it can make the uterine muscles contract.

Herbal remedies

82. Calotropis - a plant with significant therapeutic value

Milk weed or Swallow-wort/ Arbre de Satan, Pommier de Sodome, Arbor-a-soie in French / Ak, Akada, Madar in Hindi/ Mandara, Arka, Raktarka, Alarka and Surya patta in Sanskrit/ French cotton, Crown flower or Bonba in Spanish

81. Greater celandine - removes warts, fungous growths etc.

Medicinal Uses:

Defense against Harmful Organisms

Parts used

Considerations

CAUTIONS

80. Mahua tree - promotes lactation in breast-feeding mothers

79. Mucuna benefits in Parkinson's disease treatment

Uses in Unani & Ayurveda Medicine

Ayurveda acharyas` knowledge:

78. Milk thistle - praised herb in Liver Detox

77. Tawa-tawa - a herb to treat Dengue Fever

76. Chironji seeds - useful in GU problems-Gleet

75. Indian Almond - improves Memory & boosts Energy

74. Sacred Ficus - assures Fertility to human progeny

73. Vasaka or Malabar nut - Tuberculosis perfect aid

The plant has been used in India for over 200 years and in Ayurvedic Medicine Adhatoda leaves have been used extensively for over 2000 years primarily for respiratory disorders. A sweet preparation of Vasaka flowers known as Vasaka Gulkand, is used in Ayurveda to treat tuberculosis.

Recipe and Process for making Vasaka Gulkand:

72. Moringa - a source of over 90 nutrients and 46 antioxidants

Potential for water purification: In preliminary research, moringa seed powder is being assessed for its potential to make river water potable. Research showed that filtering with seed powder may diminish water pollution and bacterial counts.

Read more about water purification using Moringa here: http://www.treehugger.com/clean-water/miracle-tree-seeds-help-produce-inexpensive-clean-water.html

71. Aparajita - good Tranquilizing and Sedative agent

70. Health benefits of Touch-me-not family herbs

Ayurvedic Properties of Babool

69. Syrian Rue may be the 'Soma' of the ancients

68. Vidhari Kand - fights all toxic substances in the body

67. Cassia or Senna - beauty remedy for many illnesses

Medicinal values:

66. Kushta is as precious as lingzhi mushroom and old ginseng

65.Tumbai herb - aid for Skin Eruptions & Worm infestation

64. Polpala - a strong curative agent for Urolithiasis

63. Black walnut and its miraculous properties

Health Benefits, Therapeutic Uses and Claims of Black Walnut

Dosage and Administration

Side Effects and Possible Interactions of Black Walnut

62. Daruharidra - is particularly good at Reducing Allergies

61. Bamboo as a Natural Healer

Qualities and Benefits of Bamboo According to Ayurveda By Acharya Balkrishan

60. Apamarga - a good Hemorrhoids Remedy

59. Kale - strong Cancer Protector

58. Purslane - the record-holder in Omega-3 fatty acids

The plant has been used in India for over 200 years and in Ayurvedic Medicine Adhatoda leaves have been used extensively for over 2000 years primarily for respiratory disorders.
A sweet preparation of Vasaka flowers known as Vasaka Gulkand, is used in Ayurveda to treat tuberculosis.