बला BALA

 बला  (बल्य, रसायन) 

FAMILY-Malvaceae

LATIN NAME- Sida cordifolia

पर्याय -वाट्यालिका, खरयष्टिका, बरि यार, खिरैंटी, बीजबन्द

Eng. Name -Country mallow

MORPH-क्षुप

Chem. Compo-Ephedrine, Steroid,mu cin, KNO3

 गुण-लघु, स्निग्ध, पिच्छिल

रस-मधुर

विपाक-मधुर

वीर्य -शीत

आमयिक प्रयोग -रसायन, मूत्रजनन, वाजीकर, प्रदरहर, बल्य, क्षय, श्वासहर

DOSE-3-6 Gm

विशिष्ट योग-बलाद्य घृत-रिष्ट, चन्दनबलालाक्षादि तैल

Description of Bala plant

Bala botanical name is Sida cordifolia. Sida cordifolia is perennial herb that grows 30mts in height. Bala Leaves are oblong or ovate and are 2.5-7cm long and 2.5-5cm broad with 6-7 veins. Bala leaves are serrate, truncate and heart-shaped. Plant bears small, solitary, axillary and white or yellow colored flowers, Both Bala roots and stems are stout and strong. Bala Roots are bitter in taste, odorless and grayish yellow in color. Tap roots are generally branched at the tip. Bala Fruits are moong sized, disc-shaped and velvety in upper half about 6-8mm in diameter. Bala Seeds are smooth and grayish black in color and are called bajibanda in Ayurveda. Flowering season of plant is August to December and fruits appear from October to January.

Bala Habitat

Sida cordifolia is commonly known as bala, it is a common weed that grows along wastelands and roadsides and is native to India. Bala is found throughout tropical and sub-tropical regions of India and Sri Lanka. It is considered as invasive weed in Africa, Australia, Hawaiian island, Southern United States and New Guinea.

Practical Uses of Bala (Sida Cordifolia)

Bala is anti-inflammatory in nature and it is used to reduce the inflammation of wounds and eyes, its external application is used to reduce arthritis pain and other joint stiffness. Its external paste is used in ophthalmic disease and wound healing.

Oil prepared from this herb is very effective for the sufferers of cervical spondylitis, paralysis and facial paralysis.

Helps in the absorption of both water and nutrients from the intestine and very effective to control the motility of intestine. Due to these properties this herb is very effective in irritable bowel syndrome or grahani.

It is also used to reduce petechial hemorrhage and is used as cardiac tonic

Bala is used to treat both male and female infertility. In males it increases sperm count and used to increase motility of sperms. In Ayurveda this herb is called vrishya ie. Aphrodisiac. It is used teatreat mate erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.

It helps to rejuvenate urinary system and this herb act as diuretic and helps to treat cystitis.

Bala herb is used to reduce chest congestion and it is very useful for bronchitis, asthma and stomatitis.

Root infusion of Sida cordifolia is very effective for nervous and urinary system disorders. It is also used for treating blood and bile disorders.

It is used to pacify all three dosha vata, pitta and kapha.

Part used

Bala Roots,Bala Bark,Bala Leaves,Bala Flowers,Bala Seeds,

Dosage

Powder-3-6gms

Juice extract-10-20ml

Decoction-50-100ml

Cautions

Sida cordifolia contains ephedrine and excessive use of these herb causes:-

Insomnia

 Anxiety

Nervousness

Rise in blood pressure

Memory loss

 Stroke

भृंगराज BRUNGRAJ

 

भृंगराज (केश्य)

Bhringaraj, popularly known as ‘false daisy’ in English is a traditional wonder herb, that is hugely recommended for growing long, silky and strong hair. Clad by the vernacular names as karisalankani in Tamil, gunta galagaraaku in Telugu, kesuriya in Bengali, kannunni in Malayalam and bhangaro in Gujarati, this herb belongs to the sunflower family and is widely used all over the world for its immense benefits towards hair and overall health.

FAMILY -Compositae

LATIN NAME- Eclipta alba

पर्याय-मार्कव, केशराज, केशरंजन

Eng. Name -False daisy

MORPHLOGY-क्षुप

Chemical Composition - Ecliptine

गुण-रूक्ष, लघु

रस-कटु, तिक्त

विपाक-कटु

वीर्य -शीत

आमयिक प्रयोग-केश्य, रसायन, त्वच्य, कृमि, का स, शोथ, पाण्डु, दन्तरोग, बल्य, कुष्ठ, शिरोरोगहर

प्रयोज्यांग-पंचांग

DOSE- 5-10ml

विशिष्ट योग-भृंगराज तैल, षडबिन्दु तैल

Bhringaraj is a natural herb that has many beneficial properties. It has been used for centuries to improve hair growth, stimulate digestion, treat eye problems, and help destroy toxins in the body. Bhringaraj is also known to reduce inflammation, treat bleeding disorders, and improve eyesight. Its many benefits make it a popular choice for treating a variety of health issues, including hair problems, skin and tooth infections, worm infestations, cough, cold, asthma, anaemia, inflammation, leprosy, and other infections.

Effect On Doshas

Shankhpushpi characterizes Katu and Tikta Rasa (pungent and bitter taste). It shows Laghu (light) and Rukshna (dry) gunas, Ushna Virya (hot potency) and Katu Vipaka (pungent metabolic property). It balances the Vata (air) and Kapha (earth and water) doshas and aggravates the Pitta (fire and air) doshas. Also Read: Introduction To Ayurveda: Learn About Vata, Pitta And Kapha Doshas

Phytochemical Constituents

Bhringaraj being a potent hair vitalizer has a host of bioactive constituents including flavonoids and phytochemicals like ecliptic, wedelolactone, coumestans, polypeptides, polyacetylenes, thiophene derivatives, steroids, sterols like stigmasterol, heptacosanole, hentriacontanol, and triterpenes.

Bhringaraj Formulations

Bhringaraj is widely available in the market in various forms like powder or churna, juice or kashayam, juice or asava, oil or tailam. But mostly it is used in the form of oil.

Bhringaraj Oil

It is a classic ayurvedic hair tonic that is extremely beneficial for hair fall, grey hair and dandruff. Apart from benefitting the hair, it is also useful for skin problems, headaches, and mental weakness. Massaging your hair with bhringaraj oil provides a calming effect on the head, increases memory, improves blood circulation on the scalp. It is one of the amazing hair oils that can prevent hair fall and effectively promote hair growth. Although there are several varieties of bhringaraj oil available in the market, this article brings you one of the best formulations in Ayurveda that can bolster immunity and also hair growth as mentioned in Siddha Yoga Sangraha, an ayurvedic organization founded by Swami Muktananda which aims in benefitting the hair and overall health.

Benefits Of Bhringaraj Oil

Bhringaraj is a herbal remedy that provides multiple benefits for hair care. It is known to promote hair growth and prevent baldness by increasing blood circulation in the scalp and hair follicles, which enriches the roots with nutrients and stimulates hair growth. Regular use of bhringaraj oil also helps to treat dandruff and scalp itchiness, as it has powerful anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties that can penetrate deep into the scalp. Additionally, bhringaraj oil reduces hair fall by cooling the scalp, nourishing hair follicles, and preventing dryness, which are the main causes of hair fall. It is also effective in stopping premature greying of hair and treating various scalp infections caused by bacteria. Overall, bhringaraj oil is a valuable natural solution for maintaining healthy and strong hair.

Amalaki

 

 Amalaki(रसायन)

Amla is considered the powerhouse of nutrients because it is loaded with various nutrients and is the richest source of vitamin C. Regular use of this herb helps to boost immunity and treats various health problems. As per Ayurveda, it is considered one of the best Ayurvedic Rasayan tonics that brightens the skin, improves eyesight, and purifies the blood. It is used as a medicine and food because it is stuffed with various miraculous health benefits that we can’t even imagine. It is the best fruit for maintaining equilibrium in three main doshas i.e., Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.

FAMILY -Euphorbiaceae 

LATIN NAME- Embilica officinalis 

SYNONYMS -Vayasya, vrishya, jatiphalarasa, shiva, dhatriphala, shriphala, amrutaphala, tishyaphala

MORPHOLOGY - 15-20 meter, medium to high tree

chemical composition -Galic acid, elaigic acid, vitamin C

गुण-  गुरु, रुक्ष, शीत 

रस-  पंच रस लवण वर्जित 

अम्ल प्रधान 

विर्य-  शीत 

विपाक-  मघुर

आमयिक प्रयोग -  रक्त पित्त, प्रमेह, रसायन, त्रिदोषहर, 

प्रयोज्यागं- फल 

DOSE-  3-6gm

FORMULATION -  च्यवनप्राश, धात्रीलोहा

    Medicinal uses according to Ayurveda:

1. Raktapittaghna- It is used in bleeding disorders
2. Daahahara- It relieves burning sensation in the body
3. Rasayana- Acts as rejuvenation and anti-aging
4. Jwaharahara- Used to treat fever
5. Sarvadoshaghna- Balances three doshas i.e., Vata, Pitta, and Kapha
6. Balances vata dosha because of sour taste
7. Balances pitta dosha because of its coldness and sweetness
8. Balances Kapha dosha because of its astringent and dry nature
9. Pramehaghna- Used to treat diabetes and urinary tract disorders
10. Vrushya- Works as aphrodisiac
11. Kanthya- Improves voice, treats throat diseases, and is good for throat
12. Hrudya- It is good for the heart and its related diseases
13. Its churna is used to prepare a type of salt named Vida Lavana

Therapeutic uses of Amla:

Detoxification and elimination:

Amla promotes healthy detoxification because of its rich antioxidant property. Detoxification is not only done in the GI tract but also in tissues that help to balance agni throughout the body. Proper detoxification maintains bowel health.

Digestion:

Amla is a very effective herb in stimulating and tonifying the first stage of digestion. As its predominant taste is sour, Amla increases the digestive fire without aggravating pitta dosha. Being a natural cleanser, it helps to clean and protect the liver from harmful toxins which plays a major role in providing nourishment to the body.

Diabetes mellitus:

Amla can stimulate microcirculation and increase immunity that helps to maintain blood sugar levels mainly in those of pitta imbalance. This herb also balances urine excretion and balance blood sugar levels. It also increases the production of insulin naturally in the body through the pancreas.

Rejuvenation:

It acts as a rejuvenating (rasayana) for the entire body as it promotes youthfulness, boosts immunity, and promotes the overall health of an individual. As a natural brain tonic, it increases memory power, awareness, and balanced emotion.

Shalparni शालपर्णी

 

Shalparni(Anga marda prasamana)

Shalparni is bitter as well as sweet in taste. The root of this plant is one of the constituents of the famous Ayurvedic preparation called Dasmoola.
Shalparnia helps to manage fever due to its antipyretic property. It is also useful for respiratory problems like bronchitis as it helps to relax the respiratory passages and decreases inflammation due to its bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory properties. This allows free flow of air to respiratory passages and eases breathing.
According to Ayurveda, Shalparni is beneficial for male sexual health as it helps to manage problems like premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction due to its Vrishya (aphrodisiac) property. It helps to increase the blood flow to the penis and helps maintain the erection. Taking Shalparni powder along with water regularly helps in improving male sexual health.

Family- leguminosae

Latin name-Desmodium gangeticum

Synonyms-shalparni,bidari gandha,soumya

Morphology- 2-4 ft herb 

Chem.comp- gangetin,desmodin

Guna- guru,snigdha

Rasa-madhura,tikta

Birya- ushna

Bipaka- madhura

Dosa karma- Tridosa samaka

Amoyik prayog- sotha,jwara,atisara,chardhi

Part use- panchanga

Dose- kwatha- 50-100 ml

Formulation- Dasamularista

BENEFITS OF SHALPARNI

1. Bronchitis:

Shalparni is helpful in managing bronchitis, also known as Kasroga in Ayurveda. Poor digestion leads to the formation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the form of mucus in the lungs, causing bronchitis. Shalparni has Ushna (hot) and Kapha balancing properties that reduce Ama and expel excess mucus from the lungs, providing relief from bronchitis symptoms. Here are the tips to use Shalparni to manage bronchitis:

a. Take dry Shalaparni root.

b. Grind and make powder.

c. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon of this powder.

d. Add 2 cups of water to it and boil.

e. Wait for 5-10 minutes or till the volume is reduced to 1/2 cup to form Shalparni Kwath.

f. Take 4-6 teaspoons of this Kwath and add the same quantity of water to it.

g. Have it once or twice a day after taking light food.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis:

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is called Aamavata in Ayurveda. Amavata is caused by vitiation of Vata dosha and accumulation of Ama in the joints. Weak digestive fire leads to the accumulation of Ama, which is carried to different parts of the body through Vata and gets accumulated in the joints, causing RA. Shalparni helps to reduce Ama due to its Ushna (hot) potency and has Vata balancing property, providing relief from RA symptoms like joint pain and swelling. Here are the tips to use Shalparni to manage Rheumatoid Arthritis:

a. Take dry Shalaparni root.

b. Grind and make powder.

c. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon of this powder.

d. Add 2 cups of water and boil it.

e. Wait for 5-10 minutes or till the volume is reduced to 1/2 cup to form Shalparni Kwath.

f. Take 4-6 teaspoons of this Kwath and add the same quantity of water to it.

g. Have it once or twice a day after taking light food.

3. Male Sexual Dysfunction:

Sexual Dysfunction in men can be in the form of loss of libido, low erection time or premature ejaculation. Shalparni powder can help in proper functioning of male sexual performance by increasing the quality and quantity of semen, due to its Vrishya (aphrodisiac) properties. Here are the tips to use Shalparni to manage male sexual dysfunction:

a. Take dry Shalaparni root.

b. Grind and make powder.

c. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon of this powder.

d. Add 2 cups of water and boil it.

e. Wait for 5-10 minutes or till the volume is reduced to 1/2 cup to form Shalparni Kwath.

f. Take 4-6 teaspoons of this Kwath and add the same quantity of water to it.

g. Have it once or twice a day after taking light food.

PRECAUTIONS WHEN USING SHALPARNI

• Due to insufficient scientific evidence, it is recommended to avoid consuming Shalparni while breastfeeding. It is advisable to consult your doctor before taking any such herb..
• It is advisable for diabetic patients to consult a doctor before taking Shalparni as it can lower blood glucose levels when taken with antidiabetic drugs.
• Due to insufficient scientific evidence, it is advisable to avoid using Shalparni in heart disease patients. Consult with a doctor before use.
• Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable to avoid or consult your doctor before taking Shalparni during pregnancy.

BENEFITS OF SHALPARNI

1. Headache

Shalparni helps to manage stress-induced headaches when applied topically. This is due to its Vata balancing property. Applying a paste of Shalparni leaves powder on the forehead or the fresh juice from the leaves in the nostril might help alleviate stress, fatigue and relax the tense muscles. This gives relief from headache.

Tips:

a. Take Shalaparni dried leaves.

b. Grind them to make powder.

c. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon of this powder or as per your requirement.

d. Mix with rose water or plain water.

e. Apply it on the forehead once a day.

f. Leave it for 20-30 minutes.

g. Wash with plain water.

h. Repeat to get relief from headache.

मुशली MUSLI

 मुशली (वृष्य)

Safed Musli is a rare herb that originates from India. It has been used in traditional systems of medicine such as Ayurveda, Unani, and homeopathy. People commonly use Safed Musli for various purposes such as enhancing athletic performance, treating obesity, erectile dysfunction (ED), and other conditions. However, there is no solid scientific evidence to support these uses.

FAMILY -Liliaceae

LATIN NAME- ASPARAGUS adscendens

पर्याय-सफ़ेद मूसली

English Name 

MORPHOLOGY-क्षुप

Chemical composition- ASPAREGIN

गुण -गुरु, स्निग्ध

रस-मधुर

विपाक-मधुर

वीर्य -शीत

आमयिक प्रयोग-वृष्य, बृंहण, रसायन,

रुपाकी, अर्श, वातशामक

प्रयोज्यांग -कन्द

DOSE-3-6 gm

विशिष्ट योग-मुसली पाक

Benefits of Safed Musli:

What are the benefits of Safed Musli for Erectile dysfunction?

Modern Science view: Safed Musli has spermatogenic properties that help improve sperm quality and count. It also boosts testosterone levels, enhancing blood circulation to the genitals, resulting in longer erections. Thus, it can be effective in male infertility and other sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction.

Ayurvedic view: Safed Musli acts as an aphrodisiac and might lower the risk of impotence and sexual disorders. It also improves the quality of sperm and quantity of semen due to its Guru and Sita virya properties.

Tips:

1. Take 1/2 teaspoon of Safed Musli in the form of churna (powder) with 1 glass of milk or 1 teaspoon honey.

2. Repeat twice a day.

3. Continue this for at least 1-2 months for better results.

What are the benefits of Safed Musli for Improving sexual performance?

Modern Science view: Safed Musli might help improve sexual performance by increasing libido. It also helps enhance testosterone levels. A study states that Safed Musli can also be used to prevent premature ejaculation as well as to improve the sperm count. Another study states that it enhances strength and stamina. Thus, Safed Musli is used as a good aphrodisiac and a revitalizer agent.

Ayurvedic view: Safed Musli acts as an aphrodisiac and Rasayana (rejuvenating) which makes it effective to improve sexual performance.

Tips:

1. Take 1/2 teaspoon of Safed Musli in the form of churna (powder) with 1 glass of milk or 1 teaspoon honey.

2. Repeat twice a day.

3. Continue this for at least 1-2 months for better results.

What are the benefits of Safed Musli for Stress?

Modern Science view: Safed Musli might help manage stress due to its anti-stress and adaptogenic activity. It also has antioxidant properties that reduce free radicals in the body and minimize the risk of oxidative stress-induced disorders.

Ayurvedic view: Stress may be due to an imbalance of Vata dosha in the body. Safed Musli has a property of balancing Vata dosha in the body, thus reducing stress.

Tips:

1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Safed Musli in the form of churna (powder) or 1 capsule twice a day with 1 glass of milk after taking light food.

2. Continue this for at least 2-3 months for better results.

What are the benefits of Safed Musli for Oligospermia (low sperm count)?

Modern Science view: Safed Musli is used as an aphrodisiac agent due to its spermatogenic property. Safed Musli might improve the sperm count and thus might be useful in reducing the risk of oligospermia.

Ayurvedic view: Safed Musli acts as an aphrodisiac and Rasayana agent and helps to improve the sperm count.

Tip:

1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Safed Musli in the form of churna (powder) with 1 glass of milk after taking food once or twice a day.

2. Continue this for at least 1-2 months for better results.

What are the benefits of Safed Musli for Increased breast milk production?

Modern Science view: Although not enough evidence is available, Safed Musli is known to improve the quantity and flow of milk in breastfeeding mothers.

What are the benefits of Safed Musli for Muscle building?

Modern Science view: Although not enough evidence is available, a dietary supplement of Safed Musli might help in the building of muscles by improving the level of growth hormone in exercise-trained people.

What are the benefits of Safed Musli for Arthritis?

Modern Science view: Saponins present in Safed Musli have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activities. It inhibits the inflammatory mediators like histamine and prostaglandins that are responsible for pain and inflammation in arthritic patients.

What are the benefits of Safed Musli for Cancer?

Modern Science view: Safed Musli contains certain compounds such as steroidal glycoside which has anticancer properties. It might also help in cell apoptosis (cell death) and reduce the tumor size and weight if used in the initial stage of cancer development.

What are the benefits of Safed Musli for Diabetes?

Modern Science view: Safed Musli might help manage diabetes by lowering blood glucose levels. It also has antioxidant properties that prevent damage to the pancreas, helping improve the insulin level.

Ayurvedic view: Safed Musli has a property of Rasayana which helps to control high blood sugar levels.

Tips:

1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Safed Musli in the form of churna (powder) with 1 glass of milk after taking food once or twice a day.

2. Continue this for 1-2 months for better results.

Please keep the following safety precautions in mind when using Safed Musli, as advised by experts and Ayurvedic practitioners:

1. It is recommended to take Safed Musli only in the recommended dose and duration under the supervision of a doctor.

2. Those with a poor digestive system should avoid Safed Musli due to its heavy properties.

3. Using Safed Musli for an extended period is not advisable as it can cause weight gain due to its Kapha-increasing properties.

Breastfeeding:

If you are breastfeeding, it is only safe to take Safed Musli under the supervision of a doctor.

Pregnancy:

Similarly, if you are pregnant, it is also recommended to take Safed Musli only under the supervision of a doctor.

चित्रक Chitraka

 

चित्रक 

FAMILY -Plumbaginaceae

LATIN NAME-Plumbago zeylanica

Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica) is a medicinal herb belonging to the family Plumbaginaceae. Due to its medicinal properties, it is grown in most parts of India, majorly in West Bengal and the southern regions. It is also distributed worldwide in tropical and subtropical countries.¹

The root is the plant part that contains many of its bioactive components responsible for most of its therapeutic properties. Plumbagin, a naphthoquinone, is a major component present in the root, which is responsible for its therapeutic activity.²

पर्याय-अग्नि

Eng. Name -Leadwort

MORPHOLOGY -क्षुप 4 फीट

Chem. Compo -Plumbagine

गुण-लघु, रूक्ष, तीक्ष्ण

रस -कटु

विपाक -कटु

वीर्य-उष्ण

आमयिक प्रयोग-   ग्राही, ग्रहणी, मन्दाग्नि, कुष्ठ, शोथ, अर्श, कृमि, कास, वातक फहर, आमवात

प्रयोज्यांग -मूलत्वक

Dose-1-2 gm

विशिष्ट योग- चित्रकादि वटी, चित्रकहरीतकी

Nutritional Value of Chitrak: 

Nutritional value                                Crude extract (mg/grams) 

Protein                                                            42  

Starch                                                               45 

Sugar                                                               55  

Lipids                                                                    41  

Phenol                                                               3 

Benefits of Chitrak:  

Kidney Disorders and the Benefits of Chitrak:

Chitrak extract has been shown to be effective in reversing kidney damage caused by the drug cisplatin. It has also been found to have protective properties against the nephrotoxic effects of cisplatin.

Cancer Prevention and the Benefits of Chitrak:

Research has shown that Plumbagin, a compound found in Chitrak, has the potential to inhibit the growth of pancreatic cancer cells. This makes it a promising candidate for providing therapeutic effects against pancreatic cancer.

Benefits of Chitrak for Heart: 

An animal study showed that the root extract of Plumbago zeylanica can help lower the blood cholesterol level and low-density lipoproteins (LDL). Plumbagin, a compound found in the plant, can also help prevent the accumulation of cholesterol and LDL in blood vessels and the liver.

Benefits of Chitrak in Wound Healing: 

The root extract of Plumbago zeylanica has been found to possess wound healing properties in several preclinical evaluations. This activity is attributed to the presence of phytochemicals such as saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids. Additionally, the plant extract's antioxidant nature is also believed to contribute to its wound healing activity.

Benefits of Chitrak in Preventing Liver Damage:  

In an animal model, the root extract of Plumbago zeylanica has been shown to have protective benefits against paracetamol-induced hepatic damage.

Chitrak Benefits in Treating Microbial Infections:

A study found that the root extract of Plumbago zeylanica can fight against several bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, multi-resistant strains of E. coli and Shigella, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella typhi, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The crude extract of leaves can also prevent the growth of E.coli, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida.

Chitrak Benefits in Managing Arthritis:

An animal study showed that the root extract of Plumbago zeylanica can reduce the severity of collagen type 2-induced arthritis. Applying the root extract can improve the symptoms of arthritis.

Chitrak Benefits in Birth Control:

Boiled aqueous extract of the root can be used for fertility control. The leaf extract of Plumbago zeylanica can also prevent pregnancy in rabbits. This effect is reversible once the treatment with the extract is stopped.

"How to use Chitrak?"

Chitrak can be applied externally as a paste and can be administered orally as well. There are various marketed dosages available that contain Chitrak.¹² Your Ayurvedic physician will prescribe you the form and dosage as per your health condition.  

The side effects of Chitrak are as follows: 

• Plumbagin, found in the root extract of Plumbago zeylanica, produces abdominal colicky pain and irritation when administered in high doses. Other symptoms include redness and itching of the skin, dilated pupils, myotonia, hypotonia, irregular pulse and respiratory failure.  
• Roots or twigs, when applied externally, cause skin redness and blisters.⁴    

Gambhari

Botanical Name:Gmelina arborea

Common Names Of Gambhari

Gambhari is one such medicinal plant that has found its way into different cultures. Some of its common regional names include:

English: Coomb tree, Cashmeri teak, Candhar Tree, Candahar tree, White Teak, Coomb Teak, and Gamari

Sanskrit: Kasmari, Bhadraparni, Kashmari, Kashmarya, Gambhari, Katphalah, Krishnavrintaka (black stalk), Kambari (of variegated color), Sarvato-Bhadra (auspicious in every quarter), and Shri-parni (fortune-leaved)

Hindi: Gamari, Gambari, Gambhar, Gamhar, Khammara, Kumar, Kumbhar, Sewan, Shewan, Shiwan, Gumbhar, Kambar, and Khambhari

Gambhari is a significant ayurvedic plant that possesses a variety of medicinal values and is used to cure numerous conditions. The respective parts of the plant have different medicinal properties that can be used to treat various ailments. 

Stem Bark: The stem bark of Gambhari has galactagogue, laxative, anthelmintic, and stomachic properties. It is useful in treating low milk supply, low appetite, hallucination, burning sensations, fevers, piles, abdominal pains, and urinary discharge.

Root: The roots of Gambhari have blood-purifying, demulcent, tonic, stomachic, laxative, galactagogue, antibilious, and centrifuge characteristics. It can be used to treat constipation, dyspepsia, hyperdipsia, hemorrhoids, cough, rheumatism, fever, heart diseases, nervous disorders, piles, burning sensation, and hallucination.

Leaf: The leaves of Gambhari have carminative and pain-relieving properties that help in treating stomach problems and headaches.

Flower: Gambhari flowers have an acrid, astringent, and bitter taste. They are useful in treating leprosy, blood, and skin diseases.

Fruits: Gambhari fruits have aphrodisiac, astringent, diuretic, and tonic properties. They are used for promoting hair growth, quenching excessive thirst, treating fever, ulcers, anemia, leprosy, and vaginal discharge.

Ayurvedic Indications

Since ancient times, the use of Gambhari has been widely mentioned in several ayurvedic scriptures and textbooks by the sages. Some of its ayurvedic indications as mentioned in Charaka Samhita include:

Amavata (relieves rheumatoid arthritis)

Vedana (treats body pain)

Sandhi shula (treats osteoarthritis)

Kati prishtha shula (treats pain in the spinal column and lower back)

Mamsagata Vata (relieves muscle pain and myalgia)

Deepana (enhances stomach fire)

Pachana (helps in digestion)

Amahara (treats indigestion)

Dahahara (relieves burning sensation)

Rochana (stimulates appetite)

Kasha hara (treats respiratory disorders)

Shwasha (relieves breathing difficulties)

Anulomana (improves breathing)

Prameha (manages diabetes)

Trutahara (relieves excessive thirst)

Mehahara (treats urinary tract disorders)

Gulmajit (useful in abdominal tumours)

Vrushya (treats erectile dysfunction)

Kantya (relieves sore throat)

Hridaya (treats heart problems)

Shonitasthapana (prevents bleeding)

Kustha (treats skin disorders)

Krimihara (relieves intestinal worms)

Health Benefits Of Gambhari

Relieves Pain And Inflammation

Gambhari innately retains powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory qualities, which plays a significant role in curtailing joint and muscle pain, thereby lessening the chances of chronic autoimmune inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (Amavata) and osteoarthritis (Sandhivata). 

Treats Male Sexual Disorders

Thanks to the powerful Vrushya and spermatogenic properties and the presence of natural antioxidants, Gambhari is a blessing for treating sexual disorders in men. Right from treating erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, hypospermia (i.e., low volume of semen), asthenozoospermia (i.e., sperm motility), oligospermia (i.e., low sperm count), teratospermia (i.e., abnormal sperm shape) and enhancing spermatogenesis (i.e., sperm production), the wonder herb does it all.

Improves Digestion

Valued for its terrific carminative and digestive traits, Gambhari confers an absolute solution for all digestive woes. Being a Pitta pacifier, it relieves the formation of gas in the alimentary canal and diminishes flatulence, bloating, constipation, and abdominal distension. 

Bttles Respiratory Issues

Gambhari showcases powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-biotic, and anti-asthmatic properties, that help in managing all sorts of respiratory agonies.  It is extensively used for treating and managing the common cold, sore throat, cough, and flu symptoms. It also actively reduces phlegm deposits within the chest and nasal cavities, and thus promotes easy breathing.

Augments Cardiac Functioning

Gambhari is extremely beneficial in treating various heart ailments owing to its strong antioxidative nature. It fortifies the heart muscles and diminishes lipid build-up in the blood vessels. The cardiotonic property of the herb reduces the risk of heart attacks, heart blocks, blood clots, etc. Additionally, it also plays a crucial role in lowering the levels of cholesterol in the blood.