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Mulethi is an effective traditional herb that is widely used in Indian medicines, folk medicines, home remedies, and Ayurveda.

It is a classical Ayurvedic remedy and has been used in centuries as grandma’s remedy for sore throat and cough. Mulethi is effective to treat ulcers, joint pains, hyperacidity, general debility and many other diseases.

It provides effective treatments for various diseases due to the medicinal properties. It acts as a good analgesic,  anti-inflammatory agent, aphrodisiac and antiacid agent.

About Mulethi

The Scientific name of Mulethi is  Glycyrrhiza glabra that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The word ‘Glycyrrhiza’ is derived from the Greek word ‘glykos’ that means ‘sweet’ and the word ‘rhiza’ means root, so the name of this plant is ‘sweet root.’

In Tamil, Mulethi is known as ‘Athimathuram.’ Athumathuram is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 1-meter height, and it is commonly found in hot, dry and sunny climates of India, Asia, and Europe regions. The root of this plant is stoloniferous and has a sweet taste.

The leaves of this plant are green in color and contain 10-15 leaflets. The flowers of Mulethi plant are conch shell-shaped and purple to white-blue in color.

The plant contains oblong podded fruits with many small seeds. In Ayurveda, it is known as ‘Yashtimadhu,’ and the meaning of this name is ‘honey-like wood.’ Even the herb is 40-50 times sweeter than sugar, but it is an excellent remedy for maintaining blood sugar.

Mulethi contains many biochemical compounds, that is the reason for its distinct aroma. Due to the compound of glycyrrhizin, it has an excellent sweet taste.

The root of this plant is mainly used in ancient folk medicines to enhance sexual vigor naturally. It is widely popular as ‘Sarvarogaprashamani’ and recommended by many ancient physicians to improve the stamina of warriors.

Apart from this, the root of this Mulethi is widely used in Asian and Middle Eastern cooking. The root powder has been used as a flavoring agent in sweets for decades.

Ayurvedic Indications of Mulethi

According to the holistic science of Ayurveda terms, this root powder is called Yashtimadhu. The root powder of Mulethi is used to treat various diseases such as Rochana, Kashahara, Deepana, Anulomana, Pachana, Vamana, Mehahara, Rasayani, Dahahara, Prameha, Vayasthapana, Trutahara, Vrushya, Sangrahini, Kanthya, Krimihara, Balya, Kustha, Jvara, Shwasha, Kamala, Shonitasthapana, Amahara, Hridaya, Chakushya, Varnya, Arsha, and Krichra.

Common Names of Mulethi (Athimathuram):

Botanical Name: Glycyrrhiza Glabra
English Name: Licorice
Tamil Name: அதிமதுரம் / Athimathuram
Malayalam Name: ഇരട്ടി മധുരം / Earatti Maduram
Telugu Name: యష్టిమధుకం / అతిమధురం / ఇరాత్తిమధురం / Yashtimadhukam / Atimadhuram / Irattimadhuram
Kannada Name: ಲಿಕ್ಕರೈಸ್ ರೂಟ್ / Yashtimadhu, Atimadhura
Hindi Name: मुलेठी / जेठीमधु / Mulethi, Jethimadhu
Marathi Name: मद्यपान / JeshtamadhaTamil – Atimaduram
Urdu: شراب کی جڑ / Mulhati

Medicinal Properties of Mulethi (Athimathuram)

• Anti-inflammatory
• Antacid
• Anti-oxidant
• Anti-adipogenic
• Anti-ulcerogenic
• Anti-Alzheimer’s
• Anti-obesogenic
• Anticancer
• Anti-asthmatic
• Anti-atherogenic
• Adaptogenic
• Anti-angiogenic
• Anti-arthritic
• Antibacterial
• Anti-proliferative
• Antitussive
• Antidepressant
• Analgesic
• Aphrodisiac
• Anti-stress
• Expectorant
• Immuno-modulator
• Demulcent
• Mild estrogenic

Health Benefits of Mulethi (Athimathuram)

Mulethi is mainly used to treat respiratory and digestive systems. It also helps in treating many symptoms such as burning sensation, abdominal colic, heartburn, peptic ulcer duodenal ulcer, GERD, and chronic gastric problems.

Mulethi contains Glycyrrhizin that contains sweet taste and decreases the inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. It used to treat digestion system-related diseases.

Improves Digestion

Mulethi is an effective digestive herb. The root of Mulethi contains an anti-flatulent property that helps to decrease the gas formation in the alimentary canal, so it decreases flatulence, abdominal distension, and bloating.

It increases appetite, decreases indigestion, and enhances better absorption of nutrients in the body. The root powder of Mulethi contains a high amount of fiber that makes it a great remedy to treat constipation and other digestive problems.

Treats Respiratory Troubles

Mulethi is an effective remedy for all kinds of respiratory problems. It contains anti-asthmatic, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic properties, so it plays an important role in treating common cough, cold, and flu symptoms.

It thins the phlegm deposits from nasal cavities and chest so it makes easy breathing and helps to get relief from the mucus.

It is more beneficial to treat asthma and bronchitis conditions. Regular consumption of this herb strengthens your lung tissues and improves your lung health.

• Take one teaspoon of Mulethi powder with pushkarmool powder, honey, and water. Take this regularly to cure asthmatic allergy conditions.
• For sore throat, take a mixture of one teaspoon of Mulethi powder, Sitopaladi churna, and honey with lukewarm water. Consuming this two times per day decreases inflammation, cough, and irritation of the throat.

Reduces Weight Loss

Mulethi contains numerous flavonoids that help to decrease excess weight quickly. Due to the presence of fiber and essential nutrients, the regular consumption of Mulethi soothes hunger pangs and inhibits overeating.

Thus, it plays a vital role in reducing weight. The powder decreases the accumulation of LDL in the body, so improves metabolism and helps to maintain a normal weight.

Treats Gastritis

The Glycyrrhizic acid present in Mulethi contains powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties that help to inhibit toxic bacteria Helicobacter pylori and prevent the growth of it in the gut.

The root powder of Mulethi soothes the stomach lining and maintains balance in stomach ulcers, food poisoning, and heartburn.

Mulethi is a natural antiacid, so it decreases the hydrochloric acid in the stomach. It also reduces gastritis because of peptic mucosa and acidic irritation. Regular consumption of Mulethi powder, coriander powder, nutgrass powder, amla powder, and giloy with lukewarm water helps to provide relief from gastritis.

Reduces High Cholesterol

Mulethi is considered as a rejuvenative cardio-tonic root because of its natural bioactive compounds. This Ayurvedic herb effectively reduces the bad cholesterol level and triglycerides in the body.

It prevents the deposition of plaque in body vessels and also prevents atherosclerosis, so it decreases the chances of strokes, heart blocks and heart attacks.

Treats Ulcer

Mulethi contains anti-inflammatory properties that have powerful effects on treating different types of ulcers, such as peptic ulcer, mouth ulcer, ulcerative colitis, canker sores, etc.

The bioactive compounds carbenoxolone of Mulethi plays an important role in treating gastric and mouth ulcers. It also helps to heal the inflamed mucosal layer quickly and decreases the chances of ulceration.

Mouth Ulcers or Canker Sores

Canker sore is a common type of mouth ulcer with pain and tenderness. The bioactive compound carbenoxolone of Mulethi plays a main role in healing mouth ulcers. The water or tea of Mulethi decreases the tenderness and pain. It is also very effective in decreasing the size of canker sores.

Provides Cognitive Abilities

Mulethi is an effective traditional remedy with brain-boosting properties. The sweet root of Mulethi contains powerful antioxidants and flavonoids that improve your concentration, memory capacity, focus, alertness, and calmness.

Mulethi is a powerful Medhya Rasayana herb, so it enhances memory power, problem-solving capacity, reasoning, and cognitive abilities.

The Mulethi plant contains many neuroprotective elements that help to inhibit loss of memory and relieve stress and tension from your mind.

Consume two gms of Mulethi powder with warm milk that helps to improve your memory power and inhibit the chances of many psychotic disorders such as dementia, epilepsy, and Alzheimer’s.

Treats Diabetes

The Mulethi root powder contains powerful phytoestrogenic compound glabridin that not only provides a sweet taste to root and also plays an important role in controlling the levels of blood sugar in the body.

Consumption of Mulethi powder activates the insulin production from β-pancreatic cells. A sufficient dosage of Mulethi powder helps to decrease the breakdown of starch into glucose and controls diabetes.

Boosts Immunity

Mulethi is also known as an enchanting ayurvedic herb that contains high significance in improving the normal energy and stamina level of your body.

It contains powerful bio-active ingredients that help to decrease weakness, debility, and fatigue and also enhance the vitality of your body.

The anti-microbial property present in Mulethi helps to boost immunity and protects your body from various microbial diseases. It helps to enhance the function of the kidney, liver, and adrenal glands and also helps to decrease the levels of stress.

Promotes Hair Growth

Mulethi Powder is an effective herb for improving hair growth. It increases blood circulation in hair follicles and scalp. By providing more nutrients to the blood supply, it enhances the root of the hair and helps in hair growth.

Ayurveda recommended that consuming Mulethi regularly not only reduces baldness and also inhibits premature greying, hair fall, and various types of scalp infections. Take a mixture of 2 teaspoons of Mulethi, henna, haritaki, reetha powder in water and add one teaspoon of castor oil and almond oil to it.

Apply this hair pack on your scalp and wash your hair using shampoo. Repeat this once per week for enhancing your hair growth and inhibits greying hair and hair loss.

Regulates Hormones

Mulethi is one of the Ayurvedic herbs that are great for its effects on adrenal glands. It contains phytoestrogens bio-active substances that are more beneficial in maintaining hormone balance.

It provides relief from depression, mood swings, insomnia, hot flashes, menstrual cramps, sweating during the menstrual cycle.

Mulethi powder is recommended for the new mom because that helps to increase secretion and production of breast milk by regulating the hormones.

Treats Skin diseases

Mulethi is a powerhouse of antioxidants and rich nutrients that is a rejuvenating herb and plays a major role in treating several skin diseases.

It effectively eliminates the free radicals from your body and prevents the damage of oxidative. Mulethi is a great pacifier of Vata and pitta, so it eliminates the AMA toxins from the skin’s internal layer.

It improves the overall health of the skin and treats several skin infections such as acne, rashes, eczema, boils, pimples, etc.

Mulethi is used in various forms such as toner, cleanser, spot correcting gels to decrease dark circles, hyperpigmentation, and provides a spotless glowing skin. Mulethi can also be used in many ways to enhance skin health.

• Mulethi can be applied in the forms of paster, gel, oil on eczema patches to provide a cool and soothing feeling on your skin. It also helps to reduce swelling, itchiness, redness of inflamed scratchy skin.
• Take one teaspoon of Mulethi powder and Amla powder with a spoon of milk or rosewater and apply it on your face as a face pack. Repeat this for alternative days to enhance the radiance of your skin.
• For oily skin, it is better to apply the paste of sandalwood powder and Mulethi powder as a face mask with rose water to control excess sebum secretion.
• For dry skin, Take two teaspoons of Mulethi powder, add ten drops of Kumkumadi tailam with it and apply it evenly on your face to enhance complexion and decrease spots and blemishes.

Treats Malaria

The Chinese Mulethi contains a compound LICOCHALCONE that helps to prevent falciparum strain, and it has similar effects of chloroquine. According to studies, the newly isolated licorice compound contains powerful anti-malarial properties.

High potassium levels

Research found that Mulethi contains many compounds that help to reduce the level of potassium in the blood. Thus, it may be very effective in the situation of high serum potassium in people who have diabetes and kidney diseases.

Relieves Muscle cramps

Mulethi contains muscle relaxant and antispasmodic effects that help to decrease muscle cramps and tenderness for people who have fibromyalgia. The effect of Mulethi can be mainly used in abdominal spasm in women during menstruation, but it can’t work alone, so you may also take other medicines.

Seminal Weakness

Mulethi is not recommended for people who have a loss of libido but helps men who suffer from early discharge or seminal weakness. Typically, hypersensitivity or hyper-excitement is a cause of early discharge in men. It decreases excessive excitement and helps to treat early discharge in men. The mind plays a major role in early discharge so that Mulethi is an effective remedy for that.

Therapeutic Dosage of Mulethi

The accurate dosage of Mulethi powder for great relief can vary from person to person according to age, condition, and severity of the patient. Before taking this, you should consider the doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner’s advice because they prescribe the effective dosage for a particular period of time by examining the patient’s conditions.

The minimum dosage of Mulethi powder ranges between 1-3 gms for adults two times per day with milk or lukewarm water before food.

Side Effects of Mulethi

Although the magical root of Mulethi is an effective remedy for all health conditions, it is not recommended to take if the doctor did not suggest it.

Without consultation, the overdose of Mulethi powder decreases high potassium and increases the level of sodium in the body so that it may cause water retention and bloat. Excessive consumption of Mulethi powder may lead to hyper that hypertensive encephalopathy and hypertension.

It is strongly recommended not to take Mulethi powder during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting the doctor’s advice because it may cause preterm delivery. It also may cause abnormal allergic effects in the new-born baby through breast milk.

Contradictions

• Loss of libido
• Hypertonia
• Hypertension encephalopathy
• Fluid retention
• Kidney disease
• Patients with high blood pressure
• Congestive heart failure
• Erectile dysfunction
• Hypokalemia

Conclusion

Mulethi is a traditional herbal remedy for treating many health disorders. It provides effective treatments for ulcers, respiratory diseases, indigestion, liver damages, cardiac issues, and many skin diseases. The Mulethi contains many effective health benefits, and it is more beneficial in providing relief from congestion and sore throat. If you consume proper dosage, you can avoid side effects and get an effective health condition.

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Honey is a sweet and healthy liquid substance extracted from flowers by bees, which is collected in honeycombs and then extracted by humans. This is because natural honey tastes sweeter than sugars and has far more medicinal benefits.

Research on various cave paintings shows that humans collected and used honey from hives about 8000 years ago. There is also evidence that honey has been used medicinally and as food for about 4000 years for various medicinal benefits.

Considering the numerous benefits of honey, they have been used in medicine and in healthy food applications since ancient times. Derived from various flowers, they contain beneficial plant compounds that provide energy to the body and protect the body from various diseases.

People prefer to use pure honey instead of refined sugar as all the calories mentioned in honey are empty calories.

Honey is recognized as the main source of powerful antioxidants as it has antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiseptic properties.

Honey is widely used not only as a nutritious food but also in the preparation of medicinal products. Various studies have shown that honey has powerful antibacterial activity.

What makes honey an excellent natural antibacterial agent is its osmotic and low water content capabilities.

Another amazing thing is that we can add honey to any kind of food with all these features, yes, it can be added to everything like breakfast, tea, snacks, lunch dinner, and so on.

Types of Honey

There are totally 10 variety of honey are out there, and here we unveil the top 4 types of honey.

13 Health Benefits of Utilizing Honey In Daily Life

Contains Several Nutrients

The Raw Honey is extracted from the hive honeycomb and poured into a mesh or nylon cloth to separate the honey from impurities such as bees and pellets.

The color, taste, and aroma of honey depend on the type of flower it is collected on, and often the combination of different flowers.

1 teaspoon of honey is about 21 grams, and in terms of nutrition, this amount of honey contains 17 grams of sugar and 64 calories of nutrients such as maltose, glucose, fructose, and sucrose. It does not contain as much protein, fat, and fiber as we expect.

It contains a certain amount of trace elements, less than 1% RDI and high levels of minerals and vitamins. So these give you the energy and strength you need to meet your daily needs.

Naturally sparkling honey is high in antioxidants and bioactive plant compounds. In comparison, all compounds are abundant in denser varieties than in lighter honey types.

Honey is used as the only remedy to fight various infections and diseases of the respiratory organs.

Rich in Antioxidants

As I already said high-quality honey is considered to be the main source of powerful antioxidants as it contains many important antioxidants. Phenolic acid compounds such as flavonoids and organic acids also play an important role in this antioxidant source.

Scientists believe that honey has a high antioxidant power because it contains a certain amount of a combination of these compounds, acids, vitamins, and minerals.

In particular, two separate studies were conducted on buckwheat honey (types of honey), which concluded that the intake of this honey increased the antioxidant value of the blood.

High and healthy antioxidants prevent the growth and development of certain types of cancer. In addition, they protect the body from the risks of stroke, heart attack, and eye-related diseases.

Has Antiseptic Properties

Medications containing hydrogen peroxide are prescribed to clean wounds quickly and disinfect, so they are used in first aid kits and in all hospitals.

But in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine, honey is used more for these types of processes because honey also contains a chemical compound called hydrogen peroxide.

Although this compound is not normally present in honey, hydrogen peroxide is released when honey is diluted with body fluids or water. When honey is applied to burns and open wounds the glucose in the honey releases a small amount of hydrogen peroxide.

This compound actively prevents germs from entering the affected area and helps prevent infections. Due to the viscous nature of honey, they cause a cold feeling, and by applying it to wounds the scars are faded.

High in Calories and Sugar

Consumption of honey as an alternative to refined sugar and jaggery can have many health effects. Generally mountain honey is free from any unadulterated, so buy mountain honey or follow a reliable brand of honey.

Be sure to always consume moderate amounts of honey as it is high in sugar and calories as even high honey consumption can have some side effects.

Honey can be used not only as a medicine but also in all desserts, beverages, and teas. Also, these are sweeter in nature and medicinal properties than high fructose corn syrup.

Best Companion for Diabetics

Honey significantly lowers triglycerides, inflammation, and bad HDL cholesterol by effectively raising good HDL cholesterol. All of the above symptoms can lead to type 2 diabetes and a number of risk factors for worsening heart disease.

Although some studies have shown that high consumption of honey may increase blood sugar levels, they have also been shown to have fewer effects than refined sugar. For this reason, it is often recommended for diabetics to consume honey as an alternative to refined sugar.

However, researchers say that the intake of certain amounts of honey with proper caution may not have any side effects in diabetics.

In general, people with diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can improve their health by reducing their intake of high carbs diets and gaining a stronger immune system.

For greater profit, honey is mixed with plain syrup and sugar syrup, although it is illegal in most countries and it’s very challenging to prevent the process. So be sure to buy unadulterated pure honey.

Promotes Lower Blood Pressure

The abnormal pressure process that occurs in the normal bloodstream is called High Blood Pressure, a condition that becomes a major risk factor for all heart-related diseases in the body.

Honey acts as an excellent agent to reduce these risks and helps to overcome the effects caused by various illnesses.

This is because the antioxidant compounds in them have the ability to lower blood pressure, so not only Ayurveda but all medical systems recommend consuming honey.

Honey-based studies on humans and rats were also carried out for the benefit of the public and for scientific evidence. Its official conclusion is that consuming honey has been shown to drastically lower blood pressure.

Assists Improve Good Cholesterol

The body usually has a type of fat called LDL which is divided into good HDL and bad LDL. Good HDL cholesterol promotes metabolic functions of the body but bad LDL cholesterol is a risk factor for heart-related diseases.

They are also a major cause of atherosclerosis. This type of inflammation causes fat to accumulate in the arteries and can lead to major illnesses, including stroke and heart attack. This is why it is so important to reduce the amount of bad LDL cholesterol.

Studies show that consuming unadulterated honey may increase the levels of “good” HDL cholesterol, which in turn can effectively lower bad LDL cholesterol.

In a study involving 55 patients, they were divided into two groups, and the first group was given table sugar and the other group was given honey.

At the end of the study, it was demonstrated that honey intake in patients had an increase of 3.3% in good HDL and a decrease of 5.8% in bad LDL.

Not only that but their body weight has also been proven to be reduced by about 1.3% because honey generally acts as a weight loss agent.

Provides Stamina

Athletes expect more stamina because they enter the field with the intention of withstanding energy for a certain period of time. Honey is very helpful in meeting such a need.

As honey enhances the body’s resources of minerals and carbohydrates, the honey added drink is consumed by athletes before and after important events, including athletics.

The water content in our body is expelled in the form of sweat when we work out too much or play too much. In this excretion, the minerals in the body gradually decrease, and eventually, we lose energy.

When honey is consumed at that time it gives all the lost minerals to the body. Honey plays an important role in both providing energy to athletes and engaging in muscle building.

Has Capability to Lower Triglycerides

One type of lipids (cholesterol) found in the blood is called triglycerides. After eating, the body ferments food molecules and converts them into energy. The body converts the calories released during this process into triglycerides and mixes them with the blood.

When the level of these fats in the blood is elevated, they can lead to diseases such as heart attack, and stroke. They also affect insulin production and are another risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

Perhaps your body’s triglyceride levels increase when you consume more foods high in refined carbs and sugar. Studies show that when honey is consumed as an alternative to refined sugar, it significantly lowers triglyceride levels.

That is, at the end of the study, triglyceride levels were found to be about 11% to 19% lower in those who ate honey than those who intake refined sugary foods.

Enhances Immunity in the Body

Honey acts as an excellent anti-inflammatory agent that fights the effects of asthma and allergic disorders. Honey is collected from flowers so they contain the flavonoids of the flower.

These flavonoids drastically reduce capillary infiltration and weaken the body, as well as drastically improve the level of antioxidants in the cells.

Various studies have shown that honey has anti-tumor and anti-cancer properties, so honey can help prevent the effects of cancer. Research by Xavier University students in New Orleans has shown that honey can cure allergies.

Some people may be allergic to pollen grains, and doctors say that honey acts as a vaccine. In fact honey also contains pollen grains, so the body can easily adapt to pollen grains by injecting honey as a medicine.

It has the ability to reduce the impact and effects of things like the release of histamines and further strengthens the immune system.

Makes Improvement on Heart Health

Honey is a natural sweetener that contains various beneficial antioxidants and phenols. All of these easily purify the blood by promoting the health of the body’s arteries. They also help to flush out harmful fats and compounds that have accumulated in the blood.

In addition, they are effective in increasing blood flow to the heart. Injuries or cuts can cause excessive bleeding that reacts with air and cause coagulation.

Although such coagulation on the outside of the body doesn’t cause major damage, coagulation on the blood vessels can cause diseases including stroke and heart attack.

Honey plays an important role in preventing blood clots and is called the protector of the blood. In a study of rats, honey was shown to greatly protect the heart by inhibiting the antioxidant effects.

Promotes Burn & Wound Healing

Honey is applied topically to speed up the healing process of burns and wounds, a culture that has been followed since ancient Egypt. A review of 26 studies shows that honey is the best treatment for wounds, burns, swelling after surgery, and thickened skin.

Studies show that leg wounds in diabetics do not heal as easily, but they do heal faster when honey is applied over them. One study found that honey treats successful treatment in 43.3% of affected patients.

In another study, 97% of diabetics were diagnosed with non-healing sores due to the topical application of honey.

Although we know that honey has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, current research has shown that pure honey has the ability to grow tissues.

Honey is recommended to treat herpes sores, psoriasis, and various skin infections. Manuka Honey is considered to be very effective in treating burns caused by wounds.

Help Cure Coughs

Frequent coughing is common in children with a chronic condition called upper respiratory tract infection. The quality of life of both children and parents can be affected by children with this infection.

Although the main medicines for cough are not always effective in preventing this series of coughs that occur in children, taking medicines prepared with natural products will definitely cure various infections.

In that sense, the evidence suggests that honey is a sweetener that can be used to treat upper respiratory infections and for persistent coughs. Pure honey is a better choice for rough cough and cold cough than regular cough medicines prescribed by doctors.

Studies show that consuming honey not only reduces cough but also promotes restful sleep. They are not recommended for children under one year of age as honey contains a mixture of various plant compounds.

Helps in Weight Management

Consuming honey is more helpful in weight management. Honey will burn an excess amount of fat in your body while sleeping. It is one of the best food for weight loss. Doctors are recommended to consume a spoonful of honey before going to bed. You can also take honey with warm water in the morning on empty stomach. Consuming honey with warm water in the morning will help to increase the metabolism level, which helps to quickly reduce body weight. Honey is also very useful to improve your overall health.

Memory Booster

Considering the foods that we consume is very important because it helps maintain our mental health in old age. Honey has a lot of health benefits, boosting your concentration and memory is one of them. It not only increases your memory power but also helps to make you a healthier person. If you consume honey every day it will help you to prevent metabolic stress and it calms your mind. The natural therapeutic and antioxidant properties of the honey will help to boost your brain’s cholinergic system, receding cells, and circulation that are the main reason for memory loss.

Nourish Your Face and Skin

Honey has a good amount of nourishing and moisturizing properties, so it is very helpful for skin. Honey is one of the best natural moisturizers, especially for dry skin. You can easily apply the honey to your skin, raw honey is not only unclogging pores, and also it helps to moisturize the parched skin. It is also used to treat cracked lips during winter. Most people are using honey as a mask to treat their skin tone. Honey is one of the best ways to improve your skin health. Moreover, the antiseptic properties of the honey will help to treat bruises, wounds, burns, cuts, and other infections.

7 Advantages of Bee Propolis

 COMMON COLD & SORE THROAT

500 mg 1-2 times per day

COLD SORES

Apply propolis ointment to the cold sore 4 times per day

GENITAL HERPES

Apply a 3% propolis ointment to the lesions 4 times per day

YEAST INFECTION

Apply an alcohol extract containing 2 g per 25 ml 4 times per day

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Apply a topical product according to package directions

FEMALE INFERTILITY & ENDOMETRIOSIS

500 mg 2 times per day

PARASITES

Consult a qualified health care practitioner on product and dosing

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Lotus is a symbol in many Asian cultures, especially Indian, Japanese, Chinese, and Egyptian. The flower denotes various life values like rebirth, fruitfulness, enlightenment, and spirituality. In Buddhism, the lotus flower signifies purity and desire.

Lotus Seeds are also called Makhanas (In Hindi) or Fox nuts (In English), derived from the Euryale Fox plant that grows in the wetland or ponds or the stagnant water in and around Eastern Asia so the plant is also known as Aquatic Plant that belongs to Nelumbonaceae plant family.

Chinese medicine has been using Lotus seeds for more than 3000 years, which is why they are the largest producer of lotus seeds in the world.

In China, they see the lotus plant as a symbol of health and harmony. The plant has a significant role in Ayurveda medicine too.

In India, Phool Makhana has been used as an essential ingredient in various religious activities and rituals. The roasted lotus seeds are highly consumed during the fasting during Navratri (a famous Indian Religious Festival) and other days.

Other than India and China, the lotus plant’s parts like flowers, seeds, and roots are used in medicinal preparations in various Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

The lotus seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, ground (powder), boiled syrup, and a paste.

The lotus seeds or fox nuts are rich in nutrition (the reason why they added to the fasting diet in India) and possess many health benefits. The seeds play an essential role in the cosmetics industry and are added to various drinks and desserts like tea, juice, honey, and cakes.

What Are Lotus Seeds or Fox Nuts?

Lotus seeds, also known as Lotus nuts, are the seeds derived from the Lotus Plant called Nelumbo Nucifera. The lotus plant has different names like a Chinese water lily, Indian lotus, and Sacred lotus. It is not only an edible plant or symbol of cultures but also a medicinal plant.

The parts of lotus plants are often eaten and used for medical practices in many Asian countries. The plant also grows in popular western countries like America and Australia, where it is used as holistic medicine and healing treatments.

A study published by Frontiers in Plant Science in June 2016 evaluated and showed that lotus plants are entirely edible and nutritious; still, the lotus seeds boast extreme health benefits and properties. The flavonoid content and alkaloid content found in lotus seeds are making it a capable medicinal plant. The seeds also have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-amnesic properties.

How Do Makhanas (Lotus Seeds) Look Like?

Makhanas are nuts or seeds in the round to oval shape. The seeds are present within the head of lotus seeds that are dark green colored and arranged in a row. The color of the seeds is green when fresh, which becomes creamy yellow when dried. The shell over the seeds becomes harder as they grow, and the coating can be removed.

How Is Makhana (Lotus Seeds) Good for Health?

Lotus seeds – aka -Fox nuts are good for heart health as they contain low saturated fat, sodium, and cholesterol levels. The rich source of potassium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and protein in the lotus seeds make it nutrition filled and clinically proven healthy snack food.

The lotus seeds protect the body from various ailments. The seeds are low in calories so they can help in weight loss, and the high calcium content in the seeds improves bone health. The seeds also detoxify the body, regulate the blood pressure, offer better digestion, and have anti-aging properties that help reduce wrinkles, pimples, or scars and slow down aging.

Common Names of Lotus Seeds (Fox Nuts)

• Botanical Name: Nelumbo Nucifera
• English Name: Lotus Seeds, Lotus Nuts, Fox Nuts
• Chinese Name: 蓮子/Liánzǐ
• Japanese Name: 蓮の実/Hasu no mi
• Indonesian Name: biji teratai
• Thai Name: เมล็ดบัว/Mel̆d bạw
• Tamil Name: தாமரை விதைகள் / Thamarai Vidhaigal
• Malayalam Name: താമര വിത്തുകൾ/Tāmara vittukaḷ
• Telugu Name: తామర విత్తనాలు/Tāmara vittanālu
• Kannada Name: ಕಮಲದ ಬೀಜಗಳು/Kamalada bījagaḷu
• Hindi Name: कमल के बीज/kamal ke beej
• Marathi Name: कमळ बियाणे/Kamaḷa biyāṇē
• Punjabi Name: ਕਮਲ ਦੇ ਬੀਜ/Kamala dē bīja
• Gujarati Name: કમળના દાણા/Kamaḷanā dāṇā
• Bengali Name: পদ্মের বীজ/Padmēra bīja
• Urdu Name: کمل کے بیج
• Arabic Name: بذور اللوتس

25 Health Benefits of Lotus Seeds (Makhanas/Fox Nuts)

Lotus seeds or Fox nuts play an important role in Asia’s traditional medicine systems. The lotus seeds dry powder can be added to bread dough that enhances the nutritional properties of bread.

These lotus seeds have been used as traditional medicine in treating inflammation, diuretics, cancer, and skin diseases. It can also handle various ailments like indigestion, insomnia, diarrhea, palpitations, and more.

The size of the seeds may be small, but the health benefits they provide are incredibly high, and that’s why it is the highest-selling dry snack food that anyone can munch on anytime.

1. Weight Loss

Lotus seeds are low in glycemic index and high in protein, so they help you stay full for a long time and prevent adequate eating; thus, it promotes weight loss and helps to avoid sudden increase in blood sugar levels. The protein content of the lotus seeds boosts metabolism.

The low-calorie content of lotus seeds makes it an ideal healthy snack for all ages of people. The saturated fat also lows in lotus seeds that help improve the overall health and well being.

For instance, a cup of lotus seeds contains 83 relatively low calories, so you can put much on the nuts between your meals.

2. Improved Heart Health

Lotus seeds have two trace minerals that are important for heart health. They are Potassium and Magnesium. If the magnesium levels in your body are low, you will be affected by heart diseases, as this mineral is vital to maintain the regular heartbeat. The magnesium also purifies the blood and oxygen in the body.

High potassium in lotus seeds helps lower high blood pressure and maintain cardiac health. At the same time, the low sodium levels help keep the blood pressure level at normal levels.

Folate is an essential vitamin that aids health, and this vitamin is significant to lower the homocysteine levels in your body. If the homocysteine levels are increased, the blood vessels will be damaged, and you will be prone to heart diseases and stroke.

3. Improved Bone Strength

We must have enough calcium content in our body to maintain bone health. Most people nowadays have back pain, shoulder pain, and knee pain due to insufficient calcium in their bones. Luckily, lotus seeds are rich in calcium that can be eaten in any way and improve bone health by giving enough calcium to your body.

4. Anti-aging Properties

Lotus seeds contain Enzymes that can fight against aging. L-isoaspartyl methyltransferase, an enzyme that aids in maintaining and treating the damaged proteins. It boosts collagen synthesis in your body.

You can check that most cosmetics nowadays have included lotus seeds as powder form in their products to prevent aging and give youthful skin by vanishing the fine lines and wrinkles.

The regular consumption of lotus seeds prevents free radicals, healing the dead skin cells and making it smooth and healthy. The natural flavonoid named Kaempferol in lotus seeds helps in anti-aging. The flavonoids help to get rid of aging symptoms like grey hair, hair loss, and wrinkles. The vitamin package of lotus seeds helps heal the early aging symptoms and prevent premature aging.

5. Controls Blood Sugar Levels

Lotus seeds are a source of protein and good carbohydrates. With low glycemic content, lotus nuts can help in managing blood sugar levels. The level of the glycemic index is relatively lower than other staple foods.

As low sodium and high magnesium food, lotus seeds are the right diet to treat diabetes and obesity. Diabetic patients can eat dried or roasted lotus nuts in the evening as a snack. The minerals present in these seeds proved to aid factors that cause Type II diabetes.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) is what causes diabetes; fortunately, lotus nuts can contribute to stabilizing the blood pressure and prevent a sudden spike in sugar levels in the blood.

The seeds control the body’s insulin levels and maintain the right range of glucose levels in the blood.

6. Detox Agents

Lotus seeds have an anti-toxic property and detoxifying agents, so the intake of seeds helps remove toxins from the body. RBCs in the body are recycled by the spleen, and the new WBCs with platelets are retained. Lotus nuts act as a great detoxifier to treat spleen and help in detoxifying the blood.

7. Better Digestive Health

Being a source of Fiber, fox nuts help maintain good digestive health. Adding them in your regular diet helps regulate the bowel movement, avoid constipation, and ingestion.

The antioxidant properties of the lotus seeds make it easy digestive food, and they also improve the respiratory system.

The detoxifying agents of lotus seeds prevent kidneys and liver from their accumulation and maintain wellness.

8. Improved Cognitive Function

Fox nuts contain thiamine contents also. With this, the nuts support the cognitive functions of the nerves. The consumption of these nuts also aids in acetylcholine generation and helps in the process of neurotransmission.

9. Source of Protein

Lotus nuts are a great alternative food of protein for vegans or vegetarians. They usually rely on soya or paneer for the source of protein. Those can now eat lotus seeds as raw, fried, or roasted to increase the protein in your body. For instance, a cup of roasted lotus seeds contains 3.9 grams of protein content sufficient to improve muscular health and cell growth.

10. Gluten Safe

Lotus seeds are free of gluten, so you can add them without any doubt and improve overall wellness.

11. Brimming With Folate

Folate is the essential nutrient for DNA synthesis and cell division in the human body. The nutrient is necessary for pregnant women in their first trimester to promote the baby’s brain development.

It is necessary to prevent neural tube defects in newborn babies since preconception. A cup of lotus seeds has around 50% of the daily requirement of Folate.

12. Prevent Inflammation

Lotus seeds exhibit antioxidant kaempferol that aids in stopping inflammation and remove the free radicals that are harmful to our body.

The seeds are filled with soothing properties, and that is why Chinese medicine practices using the plant to treat buries, wounds, and cuts and prevent the spread of infection.

13. Promotes Sleep

The lotus seeds can treat sleeping disorders like insomnia and sleep apnoea that can make you prone to face various psychological health issues.

Fox nuts can possess a calming effect on our mind when intaking. The seeds also have an antispasmodic property, which helps to relax your nerves; thus, you get better sleep at night. The seeds are helpful in the dilatation process of the blood vessels and provide better relief from anxiety and depression as these are the significant reasons for sleeping disorders. The isoquinoline alkaloids present in the seeds is the reason for this effect.

14. Treats Diarrhea

In Chinese medicine, the sweet taste of lotus seeds nourishes the spleen and treats diarrhea. The seeds are also given to improve the spleen health in the patients. As the lotus seeds work as a great digestive agent, it helps to treat diarrhea also.

15. Reducing Blood Pressure

The embryo present in the lotus seeds has a bitter taste and cooling effect. This bitter component benefits the heart health, and isoquinoline alkaloids that possess calming effect and antispasmodic property and aid dilate blood vessels and reduce high blood pressure.

Additionally, potassium and sodium contents in lotus seeds help stabilize and maintain the blood pressure levels in the right range.

16. Treat Urinary Problem

For urinary problems, lotus seeds are natural remedies that are safe and easy to take. The seeds can be eaten with other ingredients to treat urinary problems like prostatitis and reproductive conditions.

The enzymes present in the lotus seeds promote proper urination and heal infections in the urinary tract. In case of pain while urination, consult your doctor before consuming lotus seeds.

17. Gum Issue

Gum bleeding is a common oral problem that affects anyone. To avoid the excessive gum bleeding, add the lotus seeds in your daily diet. Harsh brushing and gum weakness are the reasons for gum bleeding.

The healing properties of lotus seeds prevent bleeding and reduce the irritation on the gums.

18. Instant Energy

Lotus seeds are a good source of magnesium, calcium, protein, potassium, and phosphorus. They increase the energy level quickly so you can carry them while traveling as they are a healthy, tasty, and nutritious snack that potentially replaces processed and sugar-filled beverages.

The seeds can be eaten raw as pop-corns or roasted with a little oil and eaten. The seeds are easy to eat and digest, so any age of people can eat this. You can give this as a snack to your kids for school also.

19. Pregnancy

Lotus seeds are highly recommended for pregnant women as they have a high amount of protein necessary for the healthy development of the fetus’s brain and nervous system. Pregnant women can eat the seeds 2 to 3 times a day with a specific interval time advised by the doctor.

20. Improves Appetite

Loss of appetite or low appetite is caused due to illness, mostly in children. The high amount of astringent found in lotus seeds naturally helps bring back or develop the appetite in a person. Most pediatricians recommend taking natural remedies to treat appetite problems in children. Adults can also eat lotus seeds to balance irregular appetites.

21. Treats Mouth Sores and Ulcers

Lotus seeds have anti-inflammatory properties that help to treat sore mouth and ulcer. The soothing components of the seeds help alleviate these conditions.

22. Cures Fatty Liver

Sometimes, because of anxieties and stress, we develop unhealthy fat. When the food we take is not digested properly, the fat is gathered in parts of the body. The fat accumulated in and around the body’s organs is called Visceral fat, which causes daunting health issues. The medicinal properties of the lotus seeds can reduce blood lipids and cure fatty liver.

23. Controls Excessive Bleeding

As discussed above, lotus nuts contain flavonoids like quercetin that show anti-hemorrhagic properties and help improve the power of capillary walls and prevent excessive bleeding. The charcoal of lotus seeds enhances the hemorrhagic effect, and it has medicinal properties that can promote blood clotting during excessive bleeding.

24. Treats Ulcers

The anti-inflammatory and cooling effects of lotus seeds helps in reducing the pain due to ulcer and soothing contents of the seeds heals the vigor of ulcer.

25. Alleviates Stomach Problems

Lotus seeds are the most common home remedies in Chinese medicine that are used to cure stomach problems like ingestion, vomit, diarrhea, and upset stomach.

In this 21st century, we can avoid taking processed foods, fried items, and street junk foods, but we can equalize the damage we developed while eating unhealthy foods with natural healthy foods. Lotus nuts are also healthy snacks that improve spleen health and alleviate various digestion and stomach problems.

Traditional Benefits of Lotus Seeds

♣ Lotus seeds are sweet and neutral, so these are mentioned as astringents that improve the health conditions of the heart, kidney, and spleen.

♣ The nourishing properties and sweet taste are why the lotus seeds are highly recommended and effective in benefiting the spleen. The lotus seeds can also prevent chronic diarrhea that is associated with qi deficiency.

♣ Being an astringent, lotus seeds help stop the loss of essence in kidneys, so men who have weak sexual function and women who have leukorrhea can eat lotus seeds.

♣The calming and soothing properties of lotus seeds relax muscles, reduce stress, anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, and palpitations.

Nutritional Values of Lotus Seeds (Fox Nuts)

The nutritional values of 100 grams Lotus Seeds.

By consuming 100 grams of dried Lotus seeds, you can get around 350 calories, 63 to 68 grams of carbohydrates, 17 to 18 g of protein, 1.9 to 2.5 fat, 13% water, and minerals potassium, calcium, sodium, and phosphorus.

One ounce serving of lotus seeds offers 5 grams of protein, so these are a highly rich source of protein.

How to Consume Lotus Seeds

Fresh lotus seeds are also nutty to eat. These are available for sale with their seed heads. We have to remove the seeds from the cone-shaped seed heads, and the shell is rubbery.

In India:

The lotus seeds can be roasted or fried with little olive oil or ghee when popped like popcorn. The roasted seeds, then tossed with little black salt, can be a great snack while traveling.

The puffed or roasted lotus seeds are also added to Indian dishes like Makhana Kheer, Makhana Chops, and Creamy Mushroom Makhana.

Thamchet is the local name of lotus seeds in Manipur, India, where they eat them raw.

In China:

Many Chinese and Japanese desserts include lotus seeds paste as the main ingredient.

Lotus seeds can be dried and soaked in water for a night and added to salads, soups, and other dishes.

Crystallized lotus seeds are the popular Chinese snack that they prepare, especially during Chinese New Year. The lotus seeds are dried and cooked in syrup that gives the crystal look to the seeds.

In Thailand:

The dried lotus seeds are the common snack for sale in Surin. They called the lotus seeds ‘Med-bua-op.’

They use lotus seeds to make various delicious desserts.

In South America:

Colombia people commonly add lotus seeds in their snack list while they head out. Lotus seeds are popular in Cartagena and Barranquilla cities in Colombia.

The unripped lotus seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, or boiled, and the ripped lotus seeds can be roasted or boiled.

The popped, soaked, roasted, boiled, fried, powdered, pasted, or dried lotus seeds can be added to many foods, sweetmeats, desserts, soups, cakes, bread, etc.

How to Store Lotus Seeds

Dried lotus seeds are easy to keep and store for a long time. You can store the dried lotus seeds in a plastic container and keep it in a dry, cool place. Make sure the lid is tightened when not used.

Fresh lotus seeds can be stored in zip lock bags and kept in the refrigerator. It is essential to maintain freshness for a few weeks. But early usage is recommended.

Recipes of Lotus Seeds/Makhanas

The regular consumption of Lotus seeds (Makhana) is highly beneficial to anyone. Try the below delicious recipes at your home and enjoy the incredible taste and benefits.

Popped Makhana

Popped or roasted Makhana or Lotus seeds goes great with a cup of coffee in the evening.

Ingredients:

• Makhana (Lotus Seeds) – 100 grams
• Olive oil – 1 tsp
• Turmeric powder
• Salt and Black pepper to taste

Preparation:

• Take a heavy base pan, roast the seeds without oil on low to medium flame for about 10 minutes.
• Make a paste of oil, a pinch of turmeric powder, salt, and pepper.
• Now, add the mixture into the roasted seeds and stir it for a few minutes to allow spices mixed with the seeds.
• You can eat it hot or cool down and store in a container and tighten the lid.

Makhana Kheer (Sugar-free)

Sugar-free Makhana kheer is one of the best healthy diabetic recipes with 65.1 calories, 3.5 grams of protein, 2 grams of fats, 8.5 grams of Carbohydrates, and 0.6 grams of Fiber in 100 grams of Makhana.

Ingredients:

• Low-fat milk – 1 ltr
• Makhana (puffed) – 1/4 cup
• Dates – 3 to 4 (Finely chopped)
• Pistachios – 1 tsp (Chopped)
• Almonds – 2 tsp (Chopped)
• Green Cardamom Powder – 1 tsp
• Nutmeg Powder – 1/4 tsp

Preparation:

• Rost the lotus nuts till crisp without oil.
• Cool it completely and grind the seeds coarsely.
• Take a non-stick pan and boil the milk.
• After the milk boiled, add chopped dates and coarsely ground lotus nuts, mix everything, and cook the mixture for 2 to 5 minutes on medium heat.
• Add chopped nuts (pistachios, almonds), nutmeg powder, mix well and drink warm or cold.

Makhana Raita

Serving – 3 | Preparation Time – 5 Minutes | Cooking Time – 5 Minutes

Ingredients:

• Makhana – 1 cup
• Low-fat Yogurt – 2 cups
• Cumin Powder (Roasted) – 1/2 tsp
• Red Chilli Powder -1/2 tsp
• Chaat Masala – 1/4 tsp
• Salt – 1/4 tsp
• Coriander Leaves (Chopped) – 2 tbsp

Preparation:

• Take a non-stick pan and dry roast the seeds about 5 minutes till crisp and cool it completely.
• Store the roasted seeds in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin on it and crush the seeds until it becomes coarse but don’t make it to a powder consistency.
• Whisk the yogurt till it becomes smooth.
• Add all the spices and salt with makhanas and stir it for a few minutes.
• Garnish the raita with fresh coriander leaves and serve it cool.

Makhana Curry

Serving – 3 | Preparation Time – 10 Minutes | Cooking Time – 20 Minutes

Ingredients:

• Makhana (Lotus nuts) – 1 cup
• Cinnamon – 1-inch piece
• Cloves – 3
• Cardamom – 1
• Cumin seeds – 1 tsp
• Red Chilli Powder – 1 tsp
• Turmeric Powder – 1/4 tsp
• Coriander Cumin Powder – 1 tsp
• Garam Masala Powder – 1/2 tsp
• Low-fat Yogurt – 1/4 cup
• Coriander Leaves – 1 tbsp (Chopped)
• Ghee – 1 tbsp
• Salt to taste (For onion tomato paste)
• Onion – 1 big (Chopped coarsely)
• Tomatoes – 3 (Chopped coarsely)
• Ginger – 1-inch piece (Chopped)
• Garlic – 3 cloves (Chopped)
• Cashews – 6 to 7

Preparation:

• Take a pan and add a cup of water, put onions, tomatoes, cashews, ginger, and garlic in it, and boil. Cool it down and grind into a paste.
• Take a non-stick pan and dry roast the makhanas for about 5 minutes.
• Add ghee in a pan, add cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and cumin.
• Once the cumin seeds have cracked out, add the onion-tomato paste, and cook for 5 minutes. Stir occasionally.
• Add all the spices except garam masala, saute for a few minutes, then add a cup of water, and boil it.
• Add and whisk the curd.
• Add roasted makhanas and let it cook for 2 minutes and stir in between. Let the seeds absorb the spices and gravy. Add water if needed.
• Add garam masala and coriander leaves. Serve it hot.

Dosage of Lotus Seeds (Fox Nuts)

Dosage of Lotus seeds (in any form) vary based on a few factors such as health conditions, age, medical history, and requirements. But, the general dosage recommended for lotus seed powder is between 250 mg and 3 grams.

Side Effects of Lotus Seeds

Though lotus seeds offer many health benefits and nutritional values, we have to take precautions while eating them to avoid unnecessary side effects.

Allergies

For most of the people, seeds of plants that grow entirely in water are allergenic. If you develop any allergy symptoms in the consumption of lotus seeds, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Moreover, those who have allergy problems better to talk to your physician before taking the seeds.

Anti-Arrhythmic

Lotus seeds are naturally anti-arrhythmic. So, if you are taking treatment for arrhythmia, you should avoid or consult the doctors before consumption.

Blood Sugar Levels

Lotus seeds help reduce the sugar levels in the blood. So, diabetic patients who are on insulin should contact the doctor before eating the seeds.

Digestive Issues

Any healthy food in high dosage can cause digestive problems, so do lotus seeds. Eating excessive nuts in time causes flatulence, constipation, and bloating.

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Have you ever heard of macrotyloma uniflorum? If yes then you’re lucky!! Health Benefits of Horse gram is a must-to-know topic for everyone as it offers tons and tons of values for human health. Black Horse Gram is rich in nutrients and has a lot of minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, and protein.

Is Horse Gram rich in protein? Without any doubts I’d Say Yes!  It’s a nature’s gift to all of us. There are tons of benefits for both human and animal health. The nutrients of the horse bean ensure muscle strength, optimal energy, strong bones, and the synthesis of red blood cell regulation. Moreover, these legumes have a huge amount of vitamin B that helps to the normal function of the metabolic cells. Hence, there is no surprise in consuming the Black Horse Gram over the world today.

It is consumed in the form of health drinks, boiled seeds, and also traditional Indian dishes like soups, dals, and salads.

Health Benefits of aHorse Gram are widely known all over the world and especially South Indian people will definitely make use of this gram at least once in a month. It comes in many colors including black, red, and green, and it is one of the most nutritious legumes.

Other names of these legumes are

• Madras bean,
• Madras gram,
• Dolic biflore,
• Poor man’s pulse,
• Pferdebohne,
• Grain de cheval,
• Pferdekorn, Kerdekorn,
• Kalai, and Gahat hurali.

Common Names Of Horse Gram

• Botanical Name: Macrotyloma uniflorum
• English Name: Horse Gram
• Tamil Name: Kollu
• Malayalam Name: Mudhira
• Telugu Name: Ulavalu
• Kannada Name: Hurule
• Hindi Name: Kulthi / Hulthi
• Bengali Name: Kulthi-Kalai
• Gujarati Name: Kuleeth
• Konkani Name: Kuleetu / Kulith
• Marathi Name: Kuleeth
• Oriya Name: Kolatha
• Tulu Name: Kudu

17 Health Benefits of Horse Gram

1. Treats Diarrhea

Horse gram has a great amount of fiber that helps to maintain proper digestive system and  soak up more fluids from the gut and stomach.  This helps to reduce the loose motion and diarrhea. Moreover, these legumes are responsible for the normal gut movement. Consuming soaked horse gram every day early in the morning will help the proper digestive system.

2. Promotes Weight Loss

In Ayurveda, consuming horse grams every day helps in weight loss.  “Horse Gram is rich in protein and the seeds are completely high in fiber thus the overweight, obese issue can be resolved”.

There are multiple ways to consume black horse gram either as a soup or juice or powder etc.. The Black horse gram juice can be taken in empty stomach for attaining all the benefits.

–> You consume the horse gram in the form of powder with some cumin seeds.

–> Mix the horse gram powder and the cumin seeds in a glass of water and drink it twice per day on an empty stomach. Some people do not prefer this method for weight loss, it depends on the type of person and body condition.

–> In such case, you can eat the soaked and raw legume with the Bengal gram and pepper in the form of crunchy salad for losing the fat.

If you’re a busy worker by the way if you can’t prepare salads or soups just drink black horse gram water which is 100% healthy. Studies prove that consuming the horse gram directly attacks the fatty tissues in the body and burns the body fat so that you can get slim and fit body shape.

3. Treat Conjunctivitis

Are you a kind of person who often suffers from conjunctivitis? No worries!!  You can use rose water for washing your eyes, or you can soak a handful of horse gram overnight, and next morning wash your face using the soaked water.

The soaked horse gram water has a high level of antioxidant that helps to fight against the infection and keep your eyes calm and soothe without any eye irritation. You should wash your face by using this water thrice per day to treat your eyes.

4. Lower The Cholesterol

Researches prove that the horse gram helps to reduce the bad cholesterol or LDL from the bloodstream. The horse gram has a good amount of lipids which removes the bad cholesterol that stuck in the vein.

Consuming the handful of soaked horse gram twice per day in an empty stomach will help to increase the lipid level in the body. It will reduce the LDL cholesterol level from the blood and increase the HDL cholesterol level.

5. Menstrual Disturbances

The women who are suffering from irregular menstrual cycles, or scanty bleeding the horse gram helps to get better relief from the problem.

“Black horse gram bean has a high level of iron”, which helps to maintain the hemoglobin level in the body; it helps to the proper menstrual cycle. The horse gram soup or the salads will reduce the irritation related to the menstrual disturbance. Due to these properties, the holistic experts recommend this horse gram to women for their periods problem.

6. Treats Piles

When the vein in the rectum is swollen and inflamed or painful, it is known as piles. The experts recommended to use horse grams before rushing to the pharmacy for medicine and treatment.

Soak a handful of horse grams overnight and drink the soaked water the next morning and consume the raw horse gram as a salad to treat piles. “The raw horse gram is rich in fiber”, which effectively helps to treat piles.

7. Treat Constipation

Usually, constipation is caused by the lack of fiber in the diet, lack of minerals, lack of intaken water, an unhealthy lifestyle, stress, and many other reasons.

Due to this problem, the stomach line and intestines above the duodenum are not normally contracted and extend to release the waste matter.

The horse gram has a powerful nutrient, and it is rich in fiber; it helps to fight against the constipation problem. Consuming the soaked raw horse gram helps to treat this problem effectively.

8. Common Fever And Cold

If our body has low immunity power and is affected by viruses, it may cause a common fever and cold. In this case, the Ayurveda recommends consuming this horse gram when you are affected by cough, fever, and cold.

It is also recommended to treat asthma and bronchial problems. Consuming the horse gram in the form of soup will help to relieve the congestion soften the mucus membranes and melt so that it opens the nasal tracts for easy breathing. The nutrients of these legumes boost the metabolism level and immunity system of the body.

9. Treat Boils And Skin Rashes

The horse gram powder is also used as a face pack to treat boils, rashes, and other skin problems. The antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties of these legumes help to replicate the healthy lipid layer of the skin.

Black horse gram benefits for skin

Does Horse gram cures skin rashes and boils? Absolutely Yes! You may wonder how! It can be cured by applying on the affected area, the seeds of horse gram is highly beneficial in nutrition, antimicrobial, as well as antibacterial properties. So What to wait for! Just make use of this amazing natural black horse gram and enjoy its benefits. The process of packing in a powdered form is like a piece of cake

• Take a gentle grams of seeds and soak in water for 8 hours.
• Dry it and prepare as a powder or simply crush and apply on face or other exterior body parts.
• Cleanse your face after an hour with ice cubes or cold water
• You can feel the difference because the dead skin cells will be washed out thus exfoliation happens.

10. Treat Diabetes

Research conducted by the scientist from the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology found that the unprocessed horse grain has the anti-hyperglycemic properties, and also it helps to reduce the insulin resistance.

The properties of the horse grain help to fight against the formation of hyperglycemic in the body. It also helps to reduce insulin resistance in the body.

Consuming the horse gram will reduce the carb digestion rate; it helps to reduce the blood sugar level. Due to these properties horse gram is recommended to treat type 2 diabetes.

11. Helps To Treat Urinary Discharge

The women who are suffering from urinary discharge may feel embarrassment too. Especially when the urinary discharges are inconsistent at times, thick, foul-smelling, and continuous in some cases.

Due to the urinary discharges, it may cause infection, pain, and inflammation around the vagina and cervix. This will happen when people feel irritation in the lining of the remembrance, and the discharges may be thick, foul-smelling when the sexual arousal is at peak.

In Ayurveda, consuming the soaked and boiled horse gram water thrice per day will help to treat the symptoms of the urinary discharges.

12. Helps Proper Digestion

Some people may feel acidic after a hearty meal, or they do not feel easy on the stomach for an hour or more. In this case, you may have the chance to suffer from the indigestion problem.

It leads to some problems like acid reflux and GERD, and it will make you uncomfortable. The horse grain is recommended to solve this problem.

Consuming the soaked horse grain in the empty stomach at morning helps to promote the digestive tract and makes easy digestion.

13. Treat Ulcer

Horse grain is more beneficial to treat different types of ulcers, but it is not used to treat gastric ulcers. The horse grain has the lipids; consuming this legume effectively treats the people who are suffering from peptic and mouth ulcer.

It is also said in Ayurveda, the people consuming the mashed horse grain twice per day will release the required amount of lipids to our body, it helps to heal itself from ulcers.

14. Treat Kidney Stones

“Black horse gram is an irreplaceable medicine for treating the kidney stones”, or it will remove it from the body. A kidney stone is a mixture of calcium oxalate compounds.

The horse grain has the ability to remove the kidney stone overnight because it has a rich amount of iron and high content of polyphenols.

Moreover, the high level of antioxidants is also beneficial in treating kidney stones. Soak a cup of horse grain and consume it raw the next morning. Consuming this for a week will show a good result.

15. Protects Liver Function

The raw horse gram is the powerhouse of polyphenols and flavonoids. These components ensure hepatoprotective properties.

This property helps to protect liver and gall bladders, and also it plays a key role in filtering and purifying the detoxifying chemical from blood in the body.

16. Improves Sperm Count

The horse grain is rich in phosphorus, iron, calcium, and amino acid, which helps to boost sperm count. These minerals are acting positively on the male reproductive system, and it increases the blood flow on those organs. The amino acids of the horse grain enhance the enzyme activity that ensures the optimal generation of sperms.

17. Glowing Skin

The horse grain has the astringent property that helps to treat skin diseases such as leucoderma. The facial pack of the horse grain also helps to prevent skin problems, and it cleanses the skin.

Side Effects And Risks Of Horse Gram

The horse gram has a lot of health benefits, but there are few side effects too.

Using the horse gram regularly  may reduce the production of semen, and it lowers the libido.

• The horse gram may worsen the bleeding problem. The people who are suffering from heavy bleeding should consider your doctor before consuming it.
• The horse gram is not suitable for the people who are suffering from hyperacidity and gastric ulcer; it may worsen the condition.
• If you are consuming the medicine for anemia, you should avoid the usage of horse gram; it may cause contraindication.
• The people who are suffering from the case of gout should avoid horse gram consumption. Ayurveda says it will harm the rakta dhatu cycle.
• The horse gram is not good for Tuberculosis and plethora.
• For Future mommies, the horse gram is strictly to be avoided.

Nutritional Facts of Horse Gram

The various nutrition contains and the value of 100 grams of Horse Gram

Health Benefits of Horse Gram Food Recipes

Horse Gram Soup Recipe

Ingredient Needs: 

• Horse Gram – 1/2 cup
• Peppercorn – 1 tsp
• Tamarind Paste – 2-3 tsp
• Mustard Seed – 1/2 tsp
• Cumin Seeds – 1 tsp
• Coriander leaves – 1-2 spring
• Oil – 2 tsp
• Salt – to taste

Direction:

Step 1: Soak the horse gram overnight and cook it until soft.
Step 2: Drain the cooked water and settle it for cooling.
Step 3: Grind the roasted cumin, mustard, and pepper to a fine powder.
Step 4: Mash half of the cooked horse gram.
Step 5: Heat the pan and add 2 tsp oil and swallow the curry leaves.
Step 6: Add tamarind paste, roasted powder, horse gram boiled water, mashed horse gram, and salt.
Step 7: Add the required water and ensure the gravy is not too thick.
Step 8: Add the remaining horse gram.
Step 9: Remove from the flame.
Step 10: Sprinkle the chopped coriander leaves over the gravy.

Horse Gram Masala Curry Recipe

Ingredient Needs : 

• Horse gram – 2 Cups
• Onions – 2 nos
• Ginger – 1/2 tsp
• Tomatoes – 2 nos
• Coconut – 1 Cup
• Fennel seeds – 1/2 tsp
• Cinnamon – 1 nos
• Cloves: 3 nos
• Turmeric powder – 1/2 tsp
• Chilly Powder – 1 tsp
• Coriander Powder – 2 tsp
• Coriander Leaves – 3 spring
• Oil – As required
• Salt – to taste

Direction:

Step 1: Heat the oil in the pressure cooker and fry the onion until brown in color.
Step 2: Add fennel seeds, cinnamon, cloves, and saute it well.
Step 3: Blend the tomatoes and fry it with the onions.
Step 4: Add the turmeric powder, salt, ginger-garlic paste, coriander powder, and chilly powder. Fry it in low flame up until the oil separates.
Step 5: Toss the horse grain as well as grated coconut with the required water.
Step 6: Pressure cook it and garnish it with the coriander leaves.

Wrapping Up

Horse gram is rich in protein, a great energy booster then What else to wait for? Make use of this traditional gram for weight loss, diabetics, urinary diseases, kidney stones, digestion etc.

Most of us would have a doubt on “how much horse gram to eat daily” go through our guide and use the ingredient wisely. We have also shortlisted horse gram recipes try out and tell us which one spurs your taste buds.

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Shikakai is a traditional herb that helps to decrease hair fall, relieves skin diseases, improves hair growth, and controls dandruff.

The soap pods have been used as a natural surfactant for strengthening hair roots, cleaning the scalp, removing dryness, itching,  providing relief from scaling since ancient times.

It is not only the magical herb for hair and also used to treat many health conditions, including swelling in Ayurveda. It also treats fever, piles, abdominal distension, herpes, jaundice, ascites, intestinal worm infection, etc.

It contains rich amounts of vitamins such as Vitamin C, D, E, A, and K and powerful antioxidants that are very effective for quick and healthy hair growth. These vitamins help to provide essential micro-nutrients to your hair follicles for improving the growth and health of your hair.

About Shikakai

Shikakai is a natural herb that can be obtained from the fruit of a climbing shrub that grows in tropical forests of the Indian subcontinent.

The scientific name of Shikakai is Acacia concinna, and it contains thorny branches with smooth brown stripes. The leaves of this plant are stipules not thorn-like, and leaf stalks are 1-1.5 cm long with the prominent gland.

It has double-pinnate leaves with 5-7 pairs of pinnae, and the primary rachis is thorny and velvety. Each pinnae contains 12-18 pairs of leaflets that are 3-10 mm long, oblong-lance shaped, pointed, and obliquely rounded at the base.

The Inflorescence is a cluster of 2 or 3 stalked rounded flower-heads. When the flower is mature, the flower-head has 1 cm in diameter, and the flowers are pink in color.

The pods are thick, stalked, 8 cm long, 1.5-1.8 cm wide and flattened. The dried leaves, fruit pods and bark of Shikakai powder are made into a paste, and it can be applied on the hair.

The regular consumption of Shikakai strengthens your hair and decreases hair fall. It also helps to get relief from dandruff, hair, and scalp problems. Shikakai can be used in shampoos and many hair medicines to strengthen the root of your hair.

Common Names of Shikakai

Botanical Name: Acacia Concinna
English Name: Soap Pod
Tamil Name: சீயக்காய் / Siyakai / Shikakai
Malayalam Name: കമലാന്താ/കാർമലന്തല/ചികക/ചിനിക്ക/സിക്കാക്ക/സിനിക്കാ/സിവിക്ക / Carmalantala, Chikaka, Chinikka, Cikkakka, Civikka
Telugu Name: చికాయ (చీకాయ) / గోగు / శిరికాయ / సీకాయ / Chikaya (cheekaya)/ Gogu/ Shiikaya/ Siikaya
Hindi Name: हिकाकाई / कोची / रिघा /रीठा (रीठा ) / सातला / शिका / शिकाकाई / Hikakai/ Kochi/ Righa/ Ritha (reetha)/ Saatalaa/ Shika/ Shikakai.
Marathi Name: शिकेकाई Shikekai
Kannada Name: ಸೀಗೆಕಾಯಿ Seege kaayi
Bengali Name: বন রিঠে Ban ritha
Sanskrit Name: कण्टवल्ली Kantavalli

Traditional Benefits and Uses of Shikakai for Hair

Shikakai is a natural herb that is considered a great remedy for hair care. It is one of the most popular herbs that is widely used and provides excellent hair results.

Shikakai has been used for hair and skincare since ancient times and contains excellent health benefits in Ayurveda. The Shikakai fruit contains small seeds, and the Shikakai pods or powder contains many effective benefits.

Reduces Hair Lice and Dandruff

Shikakai contains powerful anti-microbial and antifungal properties that play an important role in eliminating lice and dandruff from hair and scalp.

It reduces dandruff effectively but doesn’t remove the essential oils from the scalp, so it helps to prevent dry scalp issues and may cause dandruff and flaking. Thus, you can get rid of the white flakes on your shoulder and scalp.

It also provides relief from clumsiness and itching due to hair lice. Take some amount of Shikakai powder and boil them in water. Squeeze half lemon in it, then wash your hair regularly with water and get rid of lice and dandruff.

Provides Shine and Softness To Hair

Shikakai contains many natural ingredients and effective nutrients that are more beneficial to enhance the texture of your hair during winter.

It is a natural surfactant, so it removes greasiness, cleans your hair follicles, and makes your hair soft and shiny. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Shikakai powder with 2 cups of water and boil them to make a semi-liquid paste.

Add some amount of honey and water to it, then apply this paste on your hair and wash with water. Repeat this remedy two times a week to get beautiful shiny hair.

Provides Stronger and Thicker Hair

Everyone would like to have healthy, strong, and beautiful hair. Shikakai contains effective natural ingredients such as vitamins, essential oils, etc. that are very important for the growth of the hair.

It has many powerful effects to make your hair luster and long. It is used to strengthen your hair from roots and prevent breakage, hair fall and split ends. Make a paste of Shikakai powder using fresh yogurt and apply it to your scalp and hair.

Leave it for 20-30 minutes and wash with the cold water. By regularly using this, you can get thick and strong hair.

Reduces Down Greying

Nowadays, many youngsters suffer from premature greying so that it may cause depression. Shikakai is an effective natural remedy for preventing premature greying.

It not only prevents premature greying and also retains the natural youthfulness of black hair. Make a hair pack using Amla powder, Shikakai, and soap nuts. Apply this pack on your hair once in a week to get excellent results.

Cures Infections

Shikakai contains a calming and soothing effect because of the powerful medicinal properties. Unlike many chemical shampoos that cause irritation on the inflamed area or sensitive scalp, Shikakai is a natural remedy that provides a cooling effect and reduces pain.

Make a paste using roasted Shikakai powder, turmeric, and neem leaves. Apply this paste on scratches, wounds, cuts, or throbbing headache to get great relief from pain and inflammation.

Effective Health Benefits of Shikakai

Treats Jaundice

According to Ayurveda, Shikakai is an effective herb for treating jaundice. It normalizes the secretion of bile, and it acts as a liver stimulant. Take 6-7 leaves of Shikakai and wash them well.

Make a chutney by grinding these leaves with three teaspoons of black pepper, one teaspoon of turmeric pulp, and salt. Eat this pickle two times per day to cure jaundice.

Prevent Constipation

The pods of Shikakai contain purgative and suppository nature that is more effective in treating constipation and relieves abdominal cramps, indigestion, and flatulence.

It enhances the digestion of food and helps the feces movement through your body. To get relief from constipation, immerse the Shikakai pod in water, then filter that and drink regularly.

Treats Skin diseases

Shikakai contains a powerful antibacterial property that helps to treat various skin diseases like scabies, and it decreases the symptoms of aging like fine lines and wrinkles.

Take 1-2 teaspoons of Shikakai powder with one teaspoon of cream, honey, almond powder, and turmeric. Apply this mixture on your face and scrub it. Repeat this for alternative days to get a young-looking glowing skin.

Treats Gum Infections

Shikaki contains anti-bacterial nature that has great significance to treat gum and teeth infections. It also inhibits plaque build-up, tooth decay, and cures gum infections like gingivitis.

Take three teaspoons of Shikakai powder with water and boil them. By taking this regularly, you can get rid of gum and tooth inflammation.

Other Traditional Benefits of Shikakai

• The Shikakai pods can be used to reduce aging symptoms of your skin. Soak the Shikakai pods in water and clean your face. By repeating this remedy, you can get young and healthy skin. It also helps to fight against the symptoms of aging by removing the fine line, wrinkles, and dark spots.
• The decoction of Shikakai and reetha is effective to wash soft clothes such as cashmere, pure cotton, and silk without causing any damage. It also helps to remove the stains from clothes.
• The Shikakai leaves contain acidic taste that is used to make chutneys.
• The Saponin present in the bark of Shikakai contains hormonal effects and spermicidal that are very helpful in contraceptive purposes.
• The extract of Shikakai leaves is traditionally used to treat malaria since ancient times.
• Shikakai is an effective remedy to treat small wounds like cuts and bruises on the scalp. The anti-bacterial property of Shikakai can help to provide great relief.
• It is also effectively used in the treatment of Black fever or the fever that occurs during Malaria fever.
• Shikakai helps to decrease the chances of wrinkles, dark circles, etc., and also decreases the risk of diabetes.
• It is used to reduce the level of your body cholesterol and maintains the proper level of blood sugar.
• It helps to provide relief from many stomach related problems like constipation and also improves the flow of urine from your body.
• Shikakai acts as a mouth freshener because it eliminates the bad smell from your mouth. It also provides great relief from infections, pain, ulcer, or boils in the gums.

How to make Shikakai Shampoo

• Take some dried Shikakai pods, dried amla, and little reetha and soak them overnight.
• Boil them in the water until the pods soften.
• Cool them, after that, filter the liquid and mash. Now, the shampoo is ready so that you can use that.
• Keep in mind that it is not very soft like readymade shampoo, but it provides a better result.
• Alternatively, take some dried Shikakai or Shikakai powder, Fenugreek powder, dried Amla, and Neem leaves.
• Boil them in a cup of water for 15-20 minutes.
• Cool them, filter the liquid, and mash.
• Use it with water as a natural shampoo.

How to make Shikakai Oil

• Take one tablespoon of Shikakai powder with a half cup of avocado/ basil/ coconut oil.
• Put the mixture in the container and leave it for some weeks.
• Give a shake to that occasionally during the period, and the oil is ready.
• Apply this oil in your hair for 2-3 times once in a week and wash them using shampoo.

Conclusion

Shikaki is a powerful traditional herb that provides effective benefits to your hair and skin. It provides effective treatment for many diseases such as gum infection, indigestion, jaundice, etc.

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Atis -aka- Ativisha (in Ayurveda), Atees (in Hindi), Indian Atis Root (in English) or Aconitum Heterophyllum botanically, is a herb plant that grows tall about 2000 feet above sea level and found in the Himalayan regions and colder parts of India, for example, Kashmir and identified as a characteristic species of Nepal, Sikkim, and Chumbi areas.

Atis contains carminative activities so that the herb can help indigestion and constipation problems. The antibacterial property of the plant is also helpful in treating diarrhea by preventing pathogenic microorganisms.

Atis roots can also be useful in healthy weight loss because the herb can reduce the triglycerides levels and increase the HDL-cholesterol levels. Apart from this, the plant also has antipyretic, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, and antitussive properties.

According to Ayurveda, the herb can handle the symptoms of diabetes as it has Tikta (bitter) taste and Kapha balancing activities. Ativisha is one of the common herbs used in ayurvedic pediatric medicine also.

Ground Atis roots can be eaten with honey to relieve the cough and cold as the plant is Ushna (hot) in nature and prohibits the accumulated mucus.

Due to the same reason, the plant roots have been used as the best fever managing natural medicine in children and newborns.

Atis seeds with honey can be used for topical applications to provide instant relief from tonsillitis and throat infections. The Atis roots are recommended for reducing the migraines also.

General Plant Information of Ativisha (Aconitum heterophyllum)

Ativisha is an Ayurveda herb commonly known as Indian Atis Root. The herb has been widely used to treat digestion problems and fever conditions in children. The botanical name of the plant is Aconitum Heterophyllum that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family.

The aerial parts of the plant are annual, and the roots are biennial. The stem is erect and clasping that grows up to 15 – 20 cm. There are no branches or rarely one or two. The leaves of the plant are sessile, glabrous, and different in shape and size.

Plant Parts Used

Ativisha root and tubers are the most widely used part for medicinal use as they contain active constituents.

Roots

The plant roots are tuberous and paired. The shape of the roots is conical or cylindrical, about 2 – 7.5 cm long (maximum) and 0.4 – 1.6 cm thick (maximum). When the plant starts tapering to end, the thickness is gradually reduced. The color of the roots is yellowish and greyish white externally. The scars of fallen rootlets and with a rosette of rudimentary leaves form a wrinkle marks in the external surface.

The roots are starchy and white with a surface pointed to the center with 4 – 7 yellowish to brown dots arranged concentrically, towards the end of fibrovascular bundles. It is odorless, bitter and has no tingling sensation.

The plant has four different classifications such as White, Black, Red, and Yellow. The white variety is considered the best that grows faster and higher.

Flowers

The flowers of Atis are hooded, large, and in white to violet color. They are present in lax leafy panicles or slender racemes. It has hairy corolla and five carpels with 10 to 18 follicles.

Synonyms of Ativisha

Aconitum Heterophyllum, Indian Atees, Atibage, Ativish, Ati Vasa, Aruna, Ghunapriya, Visa, Aatich, Ataicha, Atis Root, Ativishni Kali, Ativikhani Kali, Ativisha, Athihage, Atividayam, Ativisha, Atushi, Atisa, Atees, Ativasa, Kashmeera, Shuklakanda, Bhangura, Vishva.

Ayurveda Names: Ativisha, Aruna, Shuklakanda, Bhangura, Ghunavallabha, Ghunapriya, Kaashmira, Vira, Visha, and Shishubhaishajya.

Sanskrit Names: Ativisha, Bhangura, Ghunapriya,Ghunavallabha, Kashmeera, Mahaushadham, Peetavallabha, Shishubhaishajya, Shuklakanda, Shphahaa, Shrungi, Shyamakanda, Vishva, and Visha.

Scientific Classification

All the plants in the world are classified as seven main levels scientifically. They are the Kingdom, Division, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species.

A genus contains many species that are related and have similarities. The botanical name of the plant is formed Genus (in uppercase), followed by Species (in lowercase).

Species is the bottom level that shows the group of the plant.

Common Names of Ativisha (Indian Atis Root)

• Botanical Name: Aconitum Heterophyllum
• English Name: Indian Atees
• Unani Name: Atees
• Siddha Name: Athividayam
• Tamil Name: அதிவிடயம்/Athividayam
• Malayalam Name: അതിവിടയം/Ativitayam, ஆட்திரணம்/Atthiranam
• Telugu Name: అతివస్స/Ativasa
• Kannada Name: ಅತಿವಿಷ/Ativisha, ಅಥಿಹಾಗೆ/Athihage
• Hindi Name: अतीस/Atees, Atis
• Marathi Name: आटविष/Ativish
• Punjabi Name: ਤਿਸ/Atis
• Gujarati Name: અતીવીષની કાલી /Ativishni Kali
• Bengali Name: আতাইচা/Ataicha
• Assamese Name: Aatich
• Oriya Name: ଅଟୁଶି/Atushi
• Persian Name: واججتورکی/Vajjeturki
• Tibbi Name: Atees
• Konkani Name: Atibaje
• Urdu Name: اتیس/Atees

Medicinal Properties of Ativisha (Aconitum heterophyllum)

• Antipyretic
• Antiperiodic
• Antidote
• Digestive
• Stomachic
• Antiemetic
• Amapachak – detoxifier

• Anthelmintic
• Antidiarrheal
• Aphrodisiac
• Blood purifier
• Antimalarial
• Anti-dysenteric
• Breastmilk detoxifier

• Anti-obesity
• Antitussive
• Styptic
• Anti-hemorrhoidal
• Absorbent
• Carminative
• Anti-inflammatory

• Antimicrobial
• Antihyperlipidemic
• Antioxidant
• Antihyperglycemic
• Anti-diabetic
• Hemostatic
• Hepatoprotective

15 Health Benefits and Medicinal Uses of Ativisha (Aconitum heterophyllum)

Ativisha is a multipurpose herb that helps to reduce fever and prevent infections. It benefits the respiratory and digestive health. It improves appetite, metabolism, and can digest food. It can reduce fat accumulation, inflammation, and Aam toxins from the body. Ativisha tubers or roots are used in the treatments related to blood, stomach, skin, lungs and airways, intestines, and liver.

Various diseases like IBS, Piles, and Hemorrhoids can also be treated with Ativisha. The herb is the natural detoxifier that removes the toxins from blood and body tissues. Ativisha can also improve breast milk consistency.

1. Treats Ingestion

The decoctions of Atis, dry ginger, Cyperus Rotundus, and Tinospora cordifolium can be eaten together to digest all the undigested food you had, and it gives you better relief.

In Ayurveda, ingestion is called Agnimandya that causes when the pitta doshas are imbalanced. Sometimes the food we consumed would not digest because of low digestive fire (Mand Agni in Ayurveda) that develops the Ama formations, which means the toxic and it leads to ingestion.

Atis or Ativisha helps to digest the Ama (toxins) with its Pachana (digestion) and Deepana (appetizer) properties.

2. Prevents Vomiting

According to Ayurveda, vomiting occurs when the three doshas are imbalanced, especially Pitta and Kapha. The imbalance is caused by improper eating habits and eating excessive foods such as Amla (sour), Ati-Sheeta (cold diet), Apakwa Ahaara (raw or uncooked food), Guru (heavy diet), Kashaya (pungent), Teekshna (sharp), and Vidahi (causing burning sensation).

These habits lead to Ama (toxic due to improper digestion) formation in the body and cause indigestion. As Atis has digestive properties, it helps digest the foods that created Ama and caused Vomiting and give you complete relief from the conditions. The balancing properties of Atis such as Deepana (appetizer), Pachana (digestion), and Tridoshas called Vata, Pitta, and Kapha are the reasons for this effect.

3. Treats Diarrhea

Ativisha is an antidiarrheal and absorbent that helps reduce the liquid content in the stool and binds it. Also, it lowers the frequency of loose stools. For these activities, the herb is widely used with Sonth (dried ginger) and Nagarmotha powders.

In Ayurveda, diarrhea is called Atisara, which is a condition where the affected person experiences watery stools more than three times a day. The imbalance of Vata dosha affects digestive fire functions and causes Agnimandya (indigestion).

The improper eating habits, impure water, and toxins due to improper food are other reasons for diarrhea. With the Vata balancing, appetizer, digestive activities, this helps to treat diarrhea and manage the weak digestive fire.

4. Treats Piles

Because of the sedentary lifestyle we are living today, Piles become the most common issue developed due to chronic constipation. When Vata dosha becomes imbalanced in the body, constipation is created.

The damages Vata causes weak digestive fire and leads to decisive constipation; thus, you feel extreme pain and swelling around the anal region. It should be treated on time. These conditions lead to Pile mass formation when ignored or untreated. Atis helps manage constipation, thus preventing piles formation.

5. Reduces Arthritis Pain

In rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, because of imbalance Vata dosha, the patients feel the pain, which is called Arthritic pain.

The topical application of Atis on affected areas helps reduce the pain with its Vata balancing activity.

6. Reduces Nervous Pain

It is a condition that occurs when there is a disturbance felt in the nerves like obstructed blood flow as a result of the Vata dosha imbalance.

The topical application of atis reduces pain by balancing the Vata dosha.

7. Fever Management

Atis, with its antipyretic property, has been used to treat and prevent fever. Ativisha is the most common ayurvedic medicine used to reduce fever in children and infants. The herb acts as diaphoretic and stimulates perspiration that helps reduce the fever.

Pulverized Atis (6 Ratis) can be consumed three to four times a day with a minimum of two to three hours to treat fever.

8. Treats Common Cold & Flu

Ativisha powder mixed with honey and basil leaf juice is given to treat common cold and flu. It is the best medicine for treating infections of the upper respiratory tract and cold in children.

The mixture also provides relief from running nose, fever, nasal blockage, nasal irritation, and sneezing, and it prevents secondary infections too.

9. Heals Constipation

Powder of Ativisha root (Aconitum heterophyllum), Haritaki (fruit rind of chebulic myrobalan), Vach (rhizome of the sweet flag), Chitrak (leadwort root/Plumbago zeylanica), Pippli fruit (Piper longum), Yavakshara (salt of sodium & potassium), and costus rhizome (Saussurea lappa) are mixed and consumed with warm water two times a day at 3 to 6 grams as dose.

10. Prevents Cough & Bronchitis

Ativisha powder mixed with Pistacia Integerrima and honey can be given to treat cough and bronchitis. The mixture clears the lungs, prevents inflammation, and regulates the mucus secretions.

11. Treats Malabsorption

Ativisha contains metabolism-enhancing properties, digestive, and stomachic actions that improve metabolism and digestion.

According to Ayurveda, Malabsorption is related to Ama (toxins). Ativisha has digestive properties that help digest and assimilate the foods that help give proper treatment for malabsorption syndrome. Ativisha with Cumin seeds powder (Jeera powder or Trikatu Churnam) must be taken for this treatment.

12. Treats Mumps & Parotitis

The decoction extracted from an equal amount of roots of Ativisha, Aswagandha, Musli, Guduchi (stem), and Atibala can be taken a day thrice as a dose of 14 – 28 ml for parotitis and mumps.

13. Treats Diabetes and Leucorrhoea

The half teaspoon of dried (in the shade) and powdered mixture of roots of Ativisha, leaves of Ajuga parviflora, and roots of Podophyllum hexandrum is given two times a day in early morning and night after food for three months as a carminative and to treat diabetes and leucorrhoea.

14. Treats Chronic Fever

The 5 to 10 ml of aqueous root extract of Ativisha can be taken twice a day in the early morning with an empty stomach and at night after food. It should be continued for 1 to 4 weeks in chronic fever and diarrhea. It can be given to treat cold also.

15. Cures Loose Motions with Mucus

An equal part mixture of Ativisha, Triphala, and Cyperus scariosus can be taken two times daily at a dose of 3 grams to treat loose motions.

Finely powdered 50 grams of Ativisha, Cyperus scariosus, Pippali, and Pistacia lentiscus gall can be taken 1 gram a day with honey to get rid of cold, cough, vomiting, gastroenteritis, and loose motion.

Chemical Constituents of Ativisha (Indian Atis Root)

• Atidine
• Atisenol
• Atsine
• Banzolheteratisine
• Diterpene Alkaloids
• F-Dihydroatisine
• Heteratisine

• Heterophyllidine
• Heterophylline
• Heterophyllisine
• Hetidine
• Hetisinone
• Histisine

Ayurvedic Properties of Ativisha (Indian Atis Root)

Therapeutic Indications

• Breathing Difficulties
• Bronchitis & Cough
• Common Cold & Rhinitis
• Diabetes
• Diarrhea
• Dyslipidemia
• Fever & Infections
• Glycosuria

• Indigestion
• Intermittent Fever
• Intestinal Worms
• Loss of Appetite
• Malaria
• Nausea & Vomiting
• Piles

Ayurvedic Actions of Ativisha (Indian Atis Root)

Ayurvedic Usage with Different Herbs

• Pediatric Disorders: Ativisha, Karkatasrngi, and Long pepper.
• Atisara: Powder of Ativisha, Bhanga, and Vacha (Acorus Calamus).
• Fever With Diarrhea: Ativisha, Giloy, Ginger, Kutaja, and Musta as a decoction.
• Dysuria: Ativisha, Amla Dravyas, Goksura, Kantakari, and Sunti as Peya with Phanita.
• Visha Roga: Ghee prepared from cow milk and ativisha as nasal drops for acute poisoning.
• Rat Bite: Grind Ativisha roots with honey. The paste is given orally.
• Colic Pain: One part of Ativisha and three parts of Ankota with rice water.
• Colitis: Ativisha, Guduchi, and Sunti.
• Intestinal Worm Infestation: Ativisha and Vidanga.

How to use Ativisha (Indian Atis Root)

1. As Powder

Usage i:

• Take one teaspoon of Ativisha powder and add honey to it.
• Have it in the morning to get rid of indigestion.

Usage ii:

• Take half to one teaspoon of Ativisha powder.
• Add rose water to it and apply it on the affected area. Leave it for 10 minutes.
• Wash it thoroughly with water.
• Continue this for 2 to 3 times a week to treat ulcers and boils.

2. As Extract

• Take 1 to 2 pinches of Ativisha extract and add honey to it.
• Give it in the morning to children in fever, bloating, and loose motion.

3. As Kwatha

• Take 2 to 3 teaspoons of Ativisha kwatha.
• Add an equal amount of water and honey to it.
• Drink two times a day after food to get relief from indigestion.

4. As Oil

• Take 1 to 2 teaspoons of Ativisha oil.
• Add sesame oil to it and apply gently to the affected area.
• Continue this for 2 to 3 times a week for joint pain and inflammation.

Dosage of Ativisha (Aconitum Heterophyllum)

Precaution and Side Effects of Ativisha

Aconitum, Aconitum heterophyllum (Ativisha) is the only non-toxic plant that has therapeutic and ayurvedic benefits.

The chemical constituents of Aconitum heterphyllum are ascribed with non-toxic properties, i.e., aconites, adding atisine comprise major alkaloid contents.

The hypotensive effect of atisine was evaluated and found in every test dose, but the whole plant boasts the hypertensive property. Ativisha does not have toxic aconitine alkaloids, and so it is safe for infants.

If ativisha purified and taken in the right dose advised by professionals, there is no worry about side effects. Overdose that is more than 2 grams in a single take causes constipation. The herb is naturally dry, so when you consume it in an improper dose, it causes dryness in the body and xerostomia.

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