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Fig or Anjeer is a unique fruit that contains many nutrients. It is a sweet fruit with numerous seeds, so it is known as nature’s candy.

The fresh and dried Anjeer is widely used in many countries, and it is very popular as ‘poor man’s food.’ The dried forms of its fruits, leaves, seeds, barks, shoots, and latex contain various medicinal values.

The fig fruit contains many powerful antioxidants, so regular consumption of this fruit increases the antioxidant capacity.

Fig is sweet, succulent, soft, fleshy, and juicy fruit, so the paste of this fruit is used as an alternative for sugar, and it is healthier than sucrose and corn syrup.

found that Anjeer contains antipyretic and purgative properties. The fig fruit contains antibacterial, antihyperglycemic, antihypertriglyceridemic, antiviral, and cancer suppressive effects. The combination of Anjeer juice and honey is an effective remedy for hemorrhagia.

About Anjeer

Anjeer is a deciduous tree that belongs to the mulberry family. In India, it is a bell-shaped flowering plant that is commercially grown in Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, UP, and Coimbatore and widely cultivated in many countries.

This tree can grow up to 50 feet tall with twisted and heavy branches. It has single and large leaves that are bright green in color.

Fig contains small flowers with a clustered green fruit, and the insects enter into the flowers through the opening of the fruit for pollinating. The fruits of this plant are very small with lots of crunchy seeds, and that contain a sweet taste.

Common Names of Anjeer (Aththi):

Botanical Name: Ficus Carcia
English Name: Fig
Tamil Name: Aththi Pazham
Malayalam Name: Atti Pazham
Telugu Name: Athi Pallu
Kannada Name: Anjura
Hindi Name: Anjeer
Marathi Name: Anjeer

Ayurvedic Benefits of Anjeer   

Fig is a sweet and astringent fruit that contains a cooling effect and is hard to digest. According to Ayurveda, it contains many nutrients, and it helps to balance the vata and pitta doshas.

Anjeer is very effective in cleaning the bowel system and eliminates toxins from your body. It is a great natural remedy to treat constipation, digestive problems, controls blood pressure, and reduces excess vata in the body.

The latex of the Fig fruit is used in Ayurvedic medicines that contain an enzyme ficin that holds powerful anthelmintic property to fight against worm infections.

The main Ayurvedic property of Fig contains a laxative, diuretic, and expectorant. Fig contains a chemical furocoumarin, so it is effective for treating leucoderma, and it helps to cure the white spots on your skin.

It is recommended to take Fig for 2-3 months to treat white spots. In Ayurveda, Anjeer is strongly used to treat kidney stones and other urinary diseases.

Drink 30 ml of Anjeer decoction two times per day to dissolve the kidney stones. Drink the soaked water of dried figs to reduce the vata inside the body.

Anjeer is more beneficial for women, so eating 2-4 dried Anjeer daily increases the levels of iron and calcium to your body. Drinking filter decoction of Anjeer for a week helps to regulate your menstrual cycle.

Nutritional Benefits of Anjeer

Anjeer is an effective nourishing food and used as the main ingredient in many products. It contains rich sources of vitamins, minerals, fat, and water.

It is the highest source of soluble dietary fiber compared to other plants. It contains numerous health-promoting bioactive compounds.

Rich in Antioxidants

According to scientific studies, it is found that Anjeer is a powerful source of antioxidants. Regular consumption of dried Anjeer effectively increases the antioxidants.

The high antioxidant capacity helps to prevent chronic diseases such as cardiovascular and cancer diseases. The research found that the fruits, leaves, and stem bark contain powerful antioxidant properties.

The presence of high-level phenolic compounds is the reason for these properties. The antioxidants of Fig helps to prevent oxidative degradation of lipids, so it protects your body from chronic diseases.

Moreover, the fig fruits contain powerful free radicals scavenging property that diminishes the load of Reactive Oxygen Species. Apart from phenolic compounds, it contains flavonoids that provide powerful antioxidant properties. The pulp and peel of the fruit contain the following organic acids:

• Citric Acid
• Ferulic Acid
• Oxalic Acid
• Quinic Acid
• Malic Acid
• Fumaric Acid
• Chlorogenic Acid

Rich in Polyphenolic Compounds

The fresh and dried Anjeer fruits contain phenolic compounds. According to research, wine and tea contain a great amount of phenolic.

Anjeer fruit contains greater PROANTHOCYANIDINS than tea and wine. The research found that anthocyanins, total phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activities reduced after the fresh Anjeer dried. The basic polyphenols present in Anjeer are:

• Flavones: Astragaline, Rutin, Apigenin and Campherol.
• Cyanidin
• Catechin
• Gallic Acid
• Epicatechin
• Chlorogenic Acid
• Flavanones
• Syringic Acid
• Anthocyanidin

Fatty Acid Composition

Most of the fruits contain dietary fiber, and Anjeer is one such fruit that contains rich amounts of fatty acid and dietary fiber. There are different fatty acids present in dried Anjeer.

• Stearic Acid
• Linoleic Acid
• Palmitic Acid
• Oleic Acid
• Myristic Acid
• Linolenic Acid

From these, LINOLENIC ACID is the most important one that is 53.1% of the total fatty acid composition. Anjeer fruit contains Phytosterols that are similar to cholesterol. Phytosterols play an important role in reducing high cholesterol levels.

Health Benefits and Medicinal Uses of Anjeer (Aththi)

Both fresh and dried Anjeer contains excellent nutrients that make it effective for overall health conditions.

It contains 28% of the fiber in the soluble form, which helps to control a high level of plasma glucose and cholesterol and reduces weight.

The Anjeer fruit contains many health-promoting compounds that help to treat various health conditions.

Treats Constipation

The research found that Anjeer contains laxative properties, so it provides effective treatment for constipation.

It contains cellulose that is a compound present in plants that helps to promote the elimination of stools by increasing the water content. It also increases the viscosity. Moreover, it increases the time of colonic transmission of the stools.

Thus, by eating Anjeer, you can easily excrete the stools easily without straining and giving pressure to the system. The movement of the food decreases via the digestive tract during constipation.

The paste of Anjeer fruit pulp helps to increase the intestinal peristalsis. It is an effective remedy for those who suffer from constipation.

Therefore, it can be used as a great therapy for constipation. Three pieces of Figs contains five gms of fiber that improves your health and regulates bowel movements.

Anjeer not only provides treatment for constipation and also helps to treat stomach-ache, indigestion, and other intestinal problems.

Usage: Soak 2 to 3 pieces of dry Anjeer fruit overnight. Filter and consume the soaked water with honey to get relief from constipation problems.

Cures Muscle Spasm & Cramps

According to research, the dried Anjeer helps to relax the gut. The presence of the FLAVONOIDS, SAPONINS, ALKALOIDS, COURMARINS, and TERPENES are reasons for this property.

Anjeer also contains a powerful anti-spasmodic property that helps to reduce muscle spasms. Moreover, Consumption of Anjeer helps to prevent contractions, so it relaxes your muscles.

Due to the anti-spasmolytic property, it is recommended to be used for the treatment of different types of gastrointestinal diseases such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Treats Anemia

The research found that the extract of Anjeer fruit contains effects on hematological aspects such as packed cell volume, hemoglobin concentration, the total count of white blood cells, and platelets.

According to the research, the Anjeer fruit greatly increases the concentration of hemoglobin. Apart from this, the Anjeer fruit is used to treat increased packed cell volume in a group.

This may be caused due to the small amount of iron in Anjeer fruits. Moreover, it is observed that both fresh and dried Anjeer fruits include protein.

Both protein and iron are important for the hemoglobin formation, and due to the presence of these nutrients, Anjeer fruit becomes perfect for hemoglobin synthesis.

Many nutrients and health-promoting compounds are important for the blood cell formation, so Anjeer fruit is very effective in promoting hematological parameters.

Treats Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus

Anjeer is the source of essential nutrients among all the dried fruits. Apart from a great nutrient profile, it also contains effective medicinal values.

The fruit and leaves of Anjeer are effectively used in managing plasma glucose levels. They contain many healthy compounds such as flavonoids, antioxidants, and polyphenols that play a vital role in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The flavonoid contains antihyperglycemic properties that help to modulate glucose and oxidation metabolisms. Moreover, the flavonoids alter the transport of glucose and greatly reduces the increased level of plasma glucose.

Ferulic acid is an important phenol compound that controls the high plasma glucose level and reduces oxidative stress. The high-level oxidative stress is related to hyperglycemia.

Anjeer contains many antioxidants that help to balance the harmful free radicals and fight against oxidative stress. Anjeer leaves are more effective than the Anjeer fruit.

The leaves of Anjeer helps to promote the functional control of diabetes. These leaves control the sugar level in the body after the food.

It reduces the rate of blood sugar change. The tea made from Anjeer leaves is available in the market that helps the diabetic patients.

Improves Immune system

People who have weak immune systems are easily affected by diseases and infections. Thus, many researchers concentrate on the process of strengthening the immune system to control infections and diseases.

Anjeer contains rich amounts of nutrients, so it is a powerhouse of many vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids.

There are many health-promoting compounds available in Anjeer that are helping to alter the immune system and cure diseases. According to research, consuming Anjeer daily helps to decrease the immune response.

Moreover, regular consumption helps to strengthen the immune response and fights against health disorders and diseases.

It also promotes the actions of many immune cells, so it protects your body. The extract of Anjeer fruit increases the total count of white blood cells in a group.

This increase may be associated with the presence of phenolic compounds such as FURANOCOUMARINS, ANGELICIN, CAROTENOIDS, and PSORALEN. These compounds strengthen the immune system and increase white blood cells production.

High Triglyceride Level

According to research, the extract of Anjeer leaf contains hypolipidemic actions that help to reduce the level of triglyceride and plasma cholesterol.

Moreover, it is found that the extract of the leaf also increases the plasma level of HDL cholesterol. These increased levels of HDL cholesterol help to protect your heart and prevent cardiovascular diseases.

The leaf extract increases the APOLIPOPROTEIN A-1 production and alters the remodel of HDL particles in the blood vessels. Apart from this, APOLIPOPROTEIN A-1 also helps to anti-thrombogenic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Another research found that the decoction of Anjeer leaf reduces the level of triglyceride. Due to the presence of bioactive compounds that affects the fat breakdown and enhances the whole over the lipid profile. Thus, it reduces the chances of coronary heart diseases.

Hepatoprotective Effect

The liver is the main organ that exhibits intaken toxins. If this exposure occurs prolonged time, it may cause damage to the liver, and modify the function and structure. Mostly, the drugs used in the treatment for liver diseases cause side effects.

The research found that the extract of Anjeer leaves provides a specific, powerful protective effect against PARACETAMOL. Another research proves that the extract of Anjeer helps to decrease the liver damage and reduce the level of liver enzymes in the group, and it increases during the damage.

Thus, the leaf extract and fruit of Anjeer is effective in treating liver diseases. Thus, it restores the function of the liver cell and regulates the structure of the liver.

Antimicrobial Properties

Many studies found that the Anjeer tree contains anti-viral and anti-microbial properties. The extract of Anjeer tree leaves contains antibacterial properties that provide many strong activities against ANGINOSUS, ACTINOMYCETEMCOMITANS, GORDONII, INTERMEDIA, and P. GINGIVALIS.

Cure Fevers & Debility after Fever

According to many scientific studies, it is found that the extract of Anjeer leaf contains powerful antipyretic actions that help to decrease the body temperature during fever.

The extract of the leaf contains a similar effect to PARACETAMOL that is a medicine used in treating fever. The Anjeer fruits are more beneficial in treating debility after fever or chronic diseases.

Reduces Weight

Anjeer contains many effective nutrients, so many dieticians recommend using a small amount of this fruit to reduce weight because it promotes your weight loss program.

Yet, consume it with milk because the high-level calories of milk combined with Anjeer fruit helps to gain weight in the desired places. Anjeer also contains a high amount of sugar, so consume 1-2 Anjeer fruits per day.

Treats Sexual Problems

Anjeer is an effective fruit that is highly beneficial since ancient times for treating many sexual diseases such as low stamina, sterility, and erectile dysfunction.

The nutrients such as vitamin B6, potassium, magnesium, minerals, and copper increases the production of semen.

The dried Anjeer fruit contains rich amounts of amino acids that help this fruit to act as an aphrodisiac by increasing libido and vitality.

Anjeer is an effective fruit for adolescent girls to cure PMS symptoms and normalizes the cycle. Furthermore, many studies found that Anjeer is more beneficial in treating the symptoms of erectile dysfunction.

Treats Teeth & Gum Diseases

Anjeer contains many phenolic compounds that provide powerful anti-caries effects. This effect may be caused because the extract of Anjeer prevents oral bacteria.

Moreover, the presence of flavonoids helps to provide antibacterial properties, so it fights against the harmful actions of bacteria.

The Anjeer fruit plays a vital role in decreasing infections of oral bacteria due to the presence of phytochemicals and flavonoids, so it protects your teeth, gum, and whole over the tissue of the oral cavity. Thus, Anjeer can be used as an effective antibacterial agent in the oral care products.

Regulates Blood Pressure

Figs contain numerous potassium that helps to maintain blood pressure. Potassium is the important mineral that helps to control the blood pressure in your body and helps to refute the negative impacts of sodium.

The potassium effect in figs helps to promote the function of muscles and nerves, balances the fluid system, and maintains the balance of electrolyte.

Maintaining blood pressure helps to dilate blood vessels, enhances the blood circulation, relaxes, and makes you stress-free. Therefore, the fig is the best fruit to take in a high blood pressure diet.

Strengthens Bones

Fig is filled with rich amounts of vitamins and minerals, which plays a vital role in strengthening your bones and reducing the chance of osteoporosis.

Due to the presence of phosphorus and calcium, Anjeer promotes the bones formation and enhances the regrowth of bones if any injury occurs or deterioration is caused in bones. Taking fresh figs provides 180 mg of calcium and important vitamins C and K to strengthen the density of your bones.

Breathing Difficulties

There are many sufficient nutrients found in the Anjeer, such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, and fiber that keep your respiratory system hydrated.

It helps to cure chronic cough and other disorders. Thus, many dieticians suggested using Anjeer for several respiratory diseases. Soak 1-2 Anjeer that is enough for asthma and other breathing problems.

Medically, it works when you feel fatigued, weak, and tired, especially difficulty in breathing because of physical weakness or excessive exertion. Moreover, it is best to eat, and it acts as a nutritious tonic for the respiratory system.

If respiratory fatigue or weakness is not the cause, it is better to take other medicine to cure breathing problems.

Radiant Skin

Figs contain nutrients such as vitamin C, A, and E and powerful antioxidants that are effective in growing your skin and rejuvenating your skin cells.

Fresh figs are used as face masks. Make a paste using fresh figs and apply it on your face. Wash your face with lukewarm water after 15 minutes that makes your skin glow and look vibrant naturally.

Moreover, the rich amounts of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals help to maintain the pH balance of your skin and improve blood circulation.

Treats Fluid Overload or Oedema

Diuretics are the kid of medicines that helps to increase the output and passage of urine. These medicines are effective for those who have a fluid overload.

The extract of Anjeer fruit provides natural diuretic property. The research proves that the extract of Anjeer fruit increases the volume of urine and concentration, such as potassium, chloride, and sodium in the urine.

The effect of the extract is similar to the diuretic called FUROSEMIDE. Therefore, the fruit extract is used as a natural diuretic agent.

Relieves Throat Pain and Other Problems

Anjeer helps to provide relief and prevent sore throat caused due to mucilage content. Anjeer and its natural juice can help to decrease the stress and pain on the vocal cords. It is used for earache, abscesses, fever, boils, etc.

Improves Heart Health

Many studies found that figs reduce the level of triglycerides in the bloodstream and reduce the chances of heart diseases.

Anjeer contains rich amounts of soluble fiber that clears the clogged cholesterol and excrete it from your body via the excretory system.

Additionally, the high potassium and antioxidants present in dried figs help to maintain blood pressure, prevent artery blockages, scavenges free radicals, and reduce the chances of heart diseases.

Treats Insomnia

The dried fruits of Anjeer are recommended to the people who suffer from insomnia. The tryptophan present in Anjeer helps to provide enough and good sleep by promoting proper blood circulation throughout the body.

Treats Alzheimer’s Disease

According to the research, Anjeer contains many nutritious diets that help treat neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and make your neuroinflammation easy.

Anjeer is filled with rich amounts of potassium, copper, dietary fiber, magnesium, antioxidants, zinc, and vitamin K that are helping to improve your memory, decrease anxiety, and enhance your learning skills for those who suffer from Alzheimer’s.

Urinary Problems

The potassium present in Anjeer helps to eliminate harmful toxins from your body through urine. It decreases the level of uric acid by increasing the secretion of uric acid. It also helps to regulate the waste content in urine.

Post-Menopausal Breast Cancer Prevention

Anjeer contains a rich quantity of fiber that fights against breast cancer in adult females. After menopause, the hormones in the body change often, and these changes affect your immune system.

It affects the capability of antioxidants that fight against free radicals. Therefore, consuming Anjeer is good to prevent post-menopausal cancer.

Prevent Colon Cancer

The fiber present in Anjeer helps to eliminate harmful toxins from the physical structure and improves the excretion of free radicals and other cancer problems. It contains many antioxidants, but polyphenols and flavonoids help to prevent the damage caused by free radicals.

Treats Piles

Fig contains a natural laxative property that helps to reduce the pressure in the rectum, so the hemorrhoids reduce. According to the research and alternative medical journal, the fig is an effective traditional remedy that helps to treat hemorrhoids due to the antispasmodic and laxative properties.

Reduces Wrinkles on Skin

The extract of fig contains powerful anti collagenase properties and antioxidants that are highly beneficial for reducing wrinkles and makes your skin soft.

The fig extract is widely used in many skin formulations that help to decrease skin melanin, sebum, and water loss. Furthermore, this extract enhances the skin hydration and serves as a natural remedy for acne, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

Treats Warts

Anjeer is widely used in traditional medicine to treat several skin problems such as psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo. The latex of Anjeer contains strong anti wart property. The latex enzyme of Anjeer also contains proteolytic activity that helps to eliminate warts on the body without causing any side effects.

Nutritional Values of Anjeer (Aththi)

Anjeer contains low calories and rich amounts of soluble fiber, powerful nutrients, and many compounds for healing benefits. Anjeer is a rich source of antioxidants, flavonoids, chlorogenic acids, carotenes, tannins, lutein, vitamin A, K, and E. It helps to clear free radicals and prevents many chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer and decreases inflammation. The fresh figs contain B complex vitamins such as niacin, folates, pantothenic acid, and pyridoxine that work as co-factors for metabolism. The dried figs contain rich amounts of minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, copper, zinc, and selenium. Potassium helps to balance the body fluids that normalize the heart rate and blood pressure. Iron is the most important mineral for red blood cell formation and overall health.

Nutritional value per 100 g of Fresh Fig

NUTRIENT	VALUE
Calories	74
Total Fat	36 g
Carbohydrates	19.18 g
Protein	0.75 g
Sodium	1 mg
Potassium	232 mg
Calcium	35 mg
Iron	0.37 mg
Magnesium	17 mg
Copper	0.070 mg
Vitamin C	2 mg
Vitamin A	142 IU
Vitamin E	0.11 mg
Niacin	0.400 mg
Vitamin K	4.7 µg
Manganese	0.128 mg
Selenium	0.2 µg
Folates	6 µg
Pantothenic acid	0.300 mg
Pyridoxine	0.113 mg
Riboflavin	0.050 mg
Thiamin	0.060 mg

Side Effects of Anjeer (Aththi)

Typically, Anjeer is safe to eat, but it causes a slight laxative effect. The excessive consumption of Anjeer may lead to diarrhea.

During Pregnancy

Anjeer fruit is safe to eat during pregnancy. Due to the rich nutritional values of Anjeer, it is good to consume.

When you take Anjeer during pregnancy, it provides many nutritional advantages such as increased hemoglobin level and provides relief from constipation for pregnant women.

However, In some cases, it may cause any side effects. If pregnant women have loose stools or diarrhea, they should avoid Anjeer, but if she has constipation or incomplete bowel movement, she can consume.

Anjeer Allergy

Some people have an allergy while consuming Anjeer. According to research, the skin of Anjeer contains more allergy than the pulp of the fruit. Some people reported that eating Anjeer may cause oral allergy and respiratory diseases.

While consuming dried Anjeer, the symptoms such as sneezing, blocked nose, dry cough, and watery eyes appear. The skin tests of dried Anjeer, leaf, latex, skin, and pulp of green Anjeer provides a positive result.

Therefore, different parts of this Anjeer contain different allergy stimulating capacity but most of the allergies are caused due to the skin of the fruit.

Interactions

The extract of Anjeer leaf may interact with the anti-diabetic medicine and reduces the plasma glucose level. Consuming both medicines at the same time or short time rapidly reduces the level of plasma glucose below the normal range and may cause hypoglycemia.

Conclusion

Figs or Anjeer is a succulent fruit with numerous seeds that is a healthy diet for your regular consumption. It is a powerhouse for many nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, etc., and it is popularly known as ‘Nature’s candy.’ It provides immediate energy, inhibits heart diseases, and helps to control diabetes. Anjeer is effective in treating several skin diseases, and it is an essential ingredient in juices, milkshakes, and jams.

Cissus Quadrangularis or Hadjod or Pirandai is a traditional herb that is widely used in Ayurveda to treat many diseases. It is also known as Veldt Grape. It is a fleshy plant that is used in many traditional dishes such as soups, dals, and chutney in India.

Cissus Quadrangularis is widely used in Indian medicines to strengthen your bones, joints, and improves bone growth. It is an effective natural remedy for bones and joint disorders, used to treat flatulence, loss of appetite, hemorrhoid, intestinal worms, indigestion, gout, weight loss, leucorrhea, and internal bleeding.

Veldt Grape increases the mineral density of bones and fracture’s healing rate. It contains aphrodisiac action that helps to improve men’s vigor, stamina, and strength.

In Ayurveda, it is recommended to drink 20 ml juice of Cissus Quadrangularis twice a day to increase the healing rate and fracture and restore bone mass in many diseases. For the external use, prepare a paste using Hadjod Powder and warm water for the same purpose.

About Cissus Quadrangularis or Hadjod (Pirandai)

Hadjod is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Vitaceae family, and it is native to hot and arid places of India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Africa.

It is scientifically known as Cissus Quadrangularis and grows up to 15-meter height with the branches, and it is split into four quadrangular arrangements. The leaves of this plant are bright green in color, sharp edges and contain three lobes.

This plant contains white or jade flowers and red berries. Every part of Veldt Grape is edible, leaves and stem are used in traditional cooking and medicinal purposes.

Cissus Quadrangularis (Hadjod) is widely used globally due to its bone tissue development and other effective medicinal properties. It is hugely manufactured and sold in various forms, such as tablets, powders, capsules, and extracts.

Common Names of Cissus Quadrangularis (Veldt Grape):

Botanical Name: Cissus Quadrangularis
English Name: Veldt Grape
Tamil Name: Pirandai
Malayalam Name: Cannalamparanta
Telugu Name: Nalleru
Kannada Name: Mangarahalli
Hindi Name: Hadjod
Marathi Name: Ghanasvel
Bengali Name: Harajora
Gujarati Name: Asthisrnkhala

Medicinal Properties of Hadjod (Prandai)

• Strengthen bones and joints
• Hemostatic
• Hepatoprotective
• Accelerate the rate of fracture healing
• Digestive stimulant
• Restore bone mass

• Blood detoxifier
• Anti-hemorrhoid
• Anabolic supplement
• Anthelmintic or vermifuge
• Aphrodisiac
• Anodyne – pain relieving

Nutritional Values of Cissus Quadrangularis (Veldt Grape)

Veldt Grape contains numerous nutrients, such as calcium and magnesium. Apart from this, it contains flavonoids, steroids, and resveratrol.

These will help to improve the rapid healing of the fracture and provide great relief from pain and joint diseases. Thus, it is known as “Asthisamharaka,” which means “bone setter,” and it protects your bone from destruction.

Moreover, the Cissus Quadrangularis is filled with many bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, tannins, carotenoids, and triterpenoids.

It also contains important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, E, zinc, sodium, and iron that provides powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Short description of Cissus Quadrangularis (Pirandai)

PLANT GROWTH HABIT	Habit Herbaceous Deciduous Perennial succulent Climbing plant
GROWING CLIMATES	Acacia woodland Grassland with scattered trees Riverine thicket Coastal forest edges Sandy banks of rivers Dense mixed thicket
SOIL	Light sandy Loamy and clay soils Well-drained soil Nutritionally poor soil
PLANT SIZE	Reach Up to 1.5 m length
TENDRILS	Long, slender and simple
STEM	More or less glabrous Branched, thick, succulent Constricted at regular intervals 4-angled, square in cross section 4 angles are prominent, narrow, often reddish and smooth
LEAF	Somewhat fleshy, membranous, simple at the nodes Glabrous on both sides or sparingly pubescent Tendril emerging from the opposite side of the node

FLOWERING SEASON	July – September
FLOWER	Small white Yellowish, or greenish Flower-bud 2–3 mm long, glabrous
FRUIT	Ovoid to globular Succulent Very acidic Up to 8-12 × 5-8 mm Glabrous
FRUIT COLOR	Green when young Red when ripe
SEED	Compressed-ellipsoid 5 mm long 4 mm broad Smooth with single dorsal crest
PROPAGATION	Seed Stem cuttings
AVAILABLE FORMS	Powder Juice Capsule form
TASTE	Acrid, Bitter
PLANT PARTS USED	Whole plant, stem, Aerial parts
SEASON	October – January

Health Benefits & Medicinal Uses of Hadjod (Cissus Quadrangularis)

Cissus Quadrangularis contains many powerful strengthening effects on bones, muscles, joints, and ligaments. It is mainly used in the treatment of diseases associated with these structures.

Treats Osteoporosis

Hadjod or Cissus Quadrangularis is an effective remedy for osteoporosis that increases the strength of bones and restores bone mass. It also increases minerals in bones and improves the mineral nodules formation.

It improves the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblastic. It increases the mineral density of bones and decreases the chances of bone fracture.

The powder or juice of Hadjod is used with Muktashukti Bhasma, Abhrak Bhasma, Godanti Bhasma, Kukkutandatvak Bhasma, Yashad Bhasma, Praval Bhasma, Ashwagandha, Amala, and Arjuna to treat many diseases in Ayurveda. These combinations help to increase the bone strength and restores the bone minerals.

Improves Digestion

The aerial parts of the Cissus Quadrangularis contain digestive action that helps to promote liver function and digestion.

In folk medicine, the leaves of Hadjod are used to prepare veggies from aerial parts of C. Quadrangularis are used to enhance your digestive system. In traditional medicine, the stem powder of C. Quadrangularis is mixed with an equal amount of ginger powder and recommended to take to enhance appetite.

Note

• The extract of Hadjod (Veldt Grape) contains 2.5% of ketosteroids that help to control appetite and reduce weight.
• According to Ayurvedic properties, it helps to increase appetite while using it in natural form. The extract or derivatives are not recommended in Ayurveda, and it may not give the same results.
• The traditional preparation of Cissus Quadrangularis and ginger powder is an effective remedy for an appetizer.

Treats Bone Fracture

Cissus Quadrangularis helps to cure bone fracture by increasing the speed of proliferative physiological processes in the bone. It increases the bone regeneration rate, enhances nutrient supply and blood circulation in the bone.

It protects regeneration and bone tissue anabolism. It improves proliferation and the differentiation of osteoblastic. Lakshadi Guggul is generally used for this purpose in Ayurvedic medicine, and Hadjod is the main ingredient.

This formulation is usually used with Abha Guggul and Gandha Thailam. The stem and fresh juice of Hadjod are more beneficial to increase the speed of fracture healing.

Generally, 20 ml of Ayurvedic herbs can be taken with cow’s milk or ghee twice a day for increasing the healing rate of bone fractures.

The extract or powder of Cissus Quadrangularis (Veldt Grape) is used where the fresh herb is not available. The paste prepared by using leaves and stem of Cissus Quadrangularis is applied to the fractured area for quick healing.

It has been used in India since ancient times when there were no other orthopedic medicines available. During that time, the paste was applied to the fractured area after joining the broken bone and then closed with a cloth and wooden stick.

Reduces Weight

Many studies found that Hadjod provides powerful antioxidants and weight-reducing properties that helps to decrease body fat and enhance the overall lipid profile.

The combination of Cissus Quadrangularis and Irvingia Gabonensis is very effective for weight loss. According to studies, the Hadjod contains strong synergistic effects that are used in managing obesity.

Ayurvedic properties of Cissus Quadrangularis help to improve your metabolism and forms of bones. The Ayurveda concept of DHATUAGNI found that mostly the obese people have weak bones. Ayurveda suggests that the MEDA DHATUAGNI is essential for the bone formation.

When you have the suitable MEDA DHATUAGNI, the bones will grow well. The modern medicines also suggest this same thing in different ways.

The excess fat or adipose tissue affects the health of your bone. Low bone mineral density is the most common problem in the obese people. In Ayurveda, the Hadjod (Veldt Grape) helps to improve metabolism and decreases fat mass in your body.

It also helps to enhance MEDA DHATUAGNI to increase the strength and mass of your bone. It increases the weight of your bones and decreases the deposition of fat around the belly, buttocks, pelvis, and upper thighs.

It is noted that it is less to decrease body weight until the bones get weak. In Ayurveda, it helps to increase bone weight and decrease the fat of mass.

The overall weight loss of your body may not be important until your bones get weak because the weight will transfer to your bones.

When you consume Hadjod regularly for a long time, it decreases your overall weight of the body. It also makes your bone strength, and you don’t need extra nourishment for the joints and bones.

Treats Dental Infections

The plaque, cavities, and tarter may cause discomfort in gums and teeth. Regularly Brush and rinse your mouth using Hadjod juice to kill all infectious agents that cause toothaches because the Cissus Quadrangularis juice contains great microbial characteristics.

Treats Syphilis

In traditional medicine, the fresh stems of Cissus Quadrangularis can be burned for some minutes and extract juice from them. Take 20 ml of extracted juice with 20 ml ghee after food twice a day for seven days. This combination is effectively used in treating syphilis and decreases its symptoms.

Cures Joint Pain cause due to Strenuous Exercises

Veldt Grape contains powerful anti-inflammatory and anodyne actions that help to decrease the pain and joint inflammation effectively. Many studies prove that it improves joint mobility and reduces joint pain in athletes due to hard exercises.

Effects on Lipid Profile

Many studies found that Cissus Quadrangularis promotes metabolism and lipid profile. It decreases total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL-cholesterol. Moreover, it increases HDL cholesterol.

Menorrhagia

Consume 20 ml fresh juice of leaves and stems of Cissus Quadrangularis with three gms of white sandalwood powder and one teaspoon of honey that helps to treat excessive bleeding during menstruation.

Efficiently Detoxifies The Body

Hadjod (Veldt Grape) contains vitamin C and many natural compounds like flavonoids that effectively eliminate the fluids, waste food particles, and harmful parts from your body and prevent accumulation in the kidney.

Protects The Hepatic System

Cissus Quadrangularis contains a rich amount of vitamin C except the anti-inflammatory substances such as beta-sitosterol and triterpenoids. Thus, Hadjod protects your liver from fatty liver diseases and bile duct diseases.

Relieves Menstruation Cramps

Veldt Grape aids in raising serotonin levels in the body and thus regulates hormones. This activity gives relief from menstrual cramps, bloating, and pain. Mostly, women suffer from menstrual cramps every month, and this will be an effective and natural way to get relief.

Heart Health

Cissus Quadrangularis has a direct connection with cholesterol. So consuming it will lower the cholesterol level due to its strong impact on metabolic factors. By reducing bad (LDL) cholesterol in the body, Veld Grape will protect your cardiovascular system from strain, atherosclerosis, attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.

Boost Immunity

Veldt Grape has high levels of ascorbic acid, which makes the body a defensive shield against various pathogens and foreign substances; it gives antioxidant properties. Ascorbic acid is a form of vitamin C that improves the production of white blood cells (WBS) to fight against infections and improves overall health.

Wound Healing

Vitamin C found in the Cissus Quadrangularis is a vital element of collagen (Protein) which is used by the human body to build up muscles, blood vessels, and arteries. Vitamin C aids in the growth and repair of the body tissues, and speeds up the wound healing process. So you will be recovered from injury and illness quicker.

Diabetes

Veldt Grape has powerful anti-diabetic properties that fight against the conditions caused by diabetes. These beneficial health benefits of the veldt grape are due to the antioxidant properties. Further, it is also enriched with quercetin. Research in diabetics rats said that this plant is useful in enhancing histological, biochemical, and biomechanical changes.

Anti-Inflammatory and Respiratory Disorders

From ancient days, people in India and Asia used this plant for joint pain. Cissus Quadrangularis has anti-inflammatory properties that can treat inflammation in the joints and tendons. It is also used in treating hemorrhoids. Many researches found that it has anti-inflammatory properties. The Veldt Grape shows an effect similar to steroids. Thus it prevents respiratory issues such as asthma.

Bleeding Piles & Deworming

Veldt Grape is the best for treatmenting bleeding piles, and it should be done for at least 7 to 10 days to get good results. For the treatment, clean, scrap, and cut the Cissus Quadrangularis into small pieces. Then fry it with a little amount of ghee in a pan till the color changes. After frying, grind it to a paste by adding a few drops of boiled water. Then, store it in the refrigerator and consume 1/4 tsp daily for about ten days to get complete relief from anal itching, deworming, and piles. This also treats intestinal worms.

How to use Veldt grape according to Ayurveda

• Infrequent Menses: Just burn Veldt Grape and mix its ash with one teaspoon of ghee. Consume it three times for three days.
• Diarrhea: Mix one teaspoon of Cissus Quadrangularis ash with warm water. Drink it two times a day.
• Obesity: Add 1/2 tablespoon of Veldt Grape burnt powder with coconut water or Buttermilk and consume it two times a day.
• Piles: Take one tablespoon ash of Veldt Grape. Mix it with one teaspoon of ghee. Have it two times a day.
• Stomach Ache: Grind the same amount of Cissus Quadrangularis and Drumstick flowers and add one tablespoon of dried coconut to it. Then, extract the juice from it and drink it two times a day.
• Fracture: Mix the Veldt Grape juice with Sesame oil and boil it. Apply it over the fracture.
• Muscular Pain: Grind Veldt Grape plant with Turmeric rhizome and apply it on the painful areas.
• Asthma: Grind the fresh stems of Cissus Quadrangularis to make a paste. Have 2 grams of that paste with warm water once a day.
• Sexual Debility: Take one tablespoon of Cissus Quadrangularis, Nutmeg powder, and ghee. Mix them. Mix them and have it three times a day for a week in a divided portion.
• Digestive Disorder: Took 50 g dried Veldt Grape leaves to prepare powder. Add 25 g of dried ginger and Black Pepper powder. Consume this mixture for about 3 g twice a day.
• Throat Irritation: Consume fresh juice of Veldt grape stem with honey.

Culinary Uses

• Leaves and young shoots of Cissus Quadrangularis are used in the preparation of curries and fries.
• Veldt Grape ash is used as an alternative for baking powder.
• Young green stems can be eaten after cooking.
• Stem and leaves of Cissus Quadrangularis are made into chutney and then eaten.
• Veldt Grape young shoots and leaves are acidic in taste and can be eaten alone or with other vegetables.

Recipes using Cissus Quadrangularis

1. Veldt grape chutney

Ingredients

• Veldt Grape – 1 bunch
• Urad dal – 1 tbsp
• Chana dal – 1 tbsp
• Dry Red chilli – 2 to 3
• Small onion – 10
• Garlic – 10
• Grated coconut – 1/2 cup
• Mustard seeds – 1/2 tsp
• Cumin seeds – 1 tsp
• Tamarind (lemon size)
• Salt to taste

Process

Peel the skin and fiber of the Veldt grape plant. Then cut it into small pieces.

Heat a pan, add oil, and roast dry chili and chana dal. Then add coconut, small onion, garlic, cumin seeds, and curry leaves and roast it.

Add veldt grape and roast it until the raw smell goes out. Then add tamarind.

After roasting, leave it for ten minutes. Then add salt and blend it using a blender.

For the seasoning, fry mustard seed, urad dhal, and curry leaves in a teaspoon of oil. Add them to the ground veldt grape paste.

2. Veldt Grape Rasam

Ingredients

• Chopped Veldt Grape – 1/2cup
• Split moong dal – 1/4cup (cooked and mashed)
• Tomato – 1no (crushed)
• Garlic cloves – 2nos (crushed)
• Green chilies – 2nos (slit opened)
• Mustard seeds – 1/2tsp
• Cumin seeds – 1/2tsp
• Asafoetida powder – 1/4tsp
• Dry red chilly – 1no
• Lemon juice – 1tbsp
• Ghee – 1tbsp
• Curry leaves

Ingredients to Roast and Grind into a paste

• Peppercorns – 1tbsp
• Cumin seeds – 1tsp
• Coriander seeds -2tbsp
• Dry red chilies – 2nos
• Channa dal – 1tsp

Process

Cook and mash the dal separately. Then add it with crushed tomatoes, crushed garlic, cloves, grounded paste, and salt in a bowl with enough water and keep separately.

Heat the pan and add ghee. Then fry mustard seeds, cumin seeds, slit opened green chilies, curry leaves, dry red chilly, and asafoetida powder for a few minutes.

Add chopped veldt grape pieces and saute them for a few minutes. Then mix the dal mixture that is prepared already and cook until the rasam starts bubbling.

Finally, add lemon juice and off the stove.

Effect On Doshas

Hadjod contains Madhura rasa and Katu that becomes Katu vipaka finally. It helps to balance and equalize Vata and Kapha doshas.

It effectively eliminates AMA toxins present in the system because it may lead to incomplete digestion. Additionally, Cissus Quadrangularis (Hadjod) contains an inherent Ushna virya and provides common Ruksha, Laghu, and Sara gunas.

Dosage of Cissus Quadrangularis (Hadjod)

The dosage of Hadjod can vary from person to person depending on the condition, age, and severity of the patients. It can vary depending on the formulation also.

Hadjod (Veldt Grape) Powder

The powdered form of Hadjod is prepared from leaves and stems of dried C. Quadrangularis. It is a finely ground powder of Hadjod herb.

Children	25 mg per Kg weight, but it should not exceed 1.5 grams
Adults	50 mg per Kg weight, but it should not exceed 3 grams
Maximum Possible Dosage	6 grams per day (in divided doses)

Take this powder along with warm milk or warm water twice a day 2 hours after food.

Cissus Quadrangularis (Hadjod) Juice 

The Cissus Quadrangularis juice is prepared by pressing and crushing the leaves and stem of the plant. It is also known as Hadjod Svarasa.

Infants (0 to 6 months)	5 drops
Infants (7 to 12 months)	10 drops
Children (1 to 3 years)	1 ml to 2.5 ml
Children (4 to 5 years)	2.5 ml to 5 ml
Children (Above 5 years)	5 ml
Adults	10 to 20 ml
Maximum Possible Dosage	40 ml per Day (in divided doses)

Drink this juice by mixing with an equal amount of cow’s ghee or a cup of milk twice a day after food.

Hadjod Extract

The standardized Cissus Quadrangularis extract contains 2.5% ketosteroids. It is extracted from the plant of Hadjod.

Children	5 mg per Kg weight, but it should not exceed 300 mg
Adults	10 mg per Kg weight, but it should not exceed 600 mg
Maximum Possible Dosage	1200 mg per day (in divided doses)

Drink this extract along with warm milk or warm water twice daily 2 hours after food.

Hadjod Capsules & Tablets

There are two types of capsules and tablets prepared from Hadjod that are available in the name of Cissus Quadrangularis tablets and Hadjod capsules in the market.

In many cases, it is recommended to take 1-2 tablets or capsules twice a day after food. If they contain powder, the dosage can increase, as mentioned in the table.

Side Effects of Cissus Quadrangularis (Hadjod)

The natural form of Hadjod is safe to consume when you take the proper dosage. The high dose may cause some side effects, especially for Pitta Prakriti or Pitta health problems.

• Burning sensation
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Vertigo
• Sleeplessness
• Diarrhea
• Increased heat
• Restlessness
• Excessive sweating

Most of the side effects caused when the Cissus Quadrangularis is used in extract form more than 1200 mg. Ayurveda stated that people who have a Pitta type of body can be affected by these side effects in low dosage. Thus, the dosage can vary from person to person, so it is better to consult your doctor before consuming it.

Conclusion

Cissus Quadrangularis or Hadjod or pirandai or Veldt Grape is a traditional herb that contains sweet, tangy leaves, juice extracts, and stems. These are an effective remedy for treating many diseases and works as a perfect harmony of medicine and food.

According to ancient Ayurveda, Hadjod contains effective healing power for fractures and other bone problems. The important nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals combined with analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and diuretic traits make Hadjod a versatile and powerful medicinal herb.

Asafoetida is a latex gum derived from the species of a perennial herb called Ferula. It has a great flavor and aroma. Asafoetida or Hing is a necessary ingredient in Indian Cuisine. It can change the taste of the ordinary dish to a delicious one.

The plant is native to Afghanistan and Iraq. Still, the herb is most common and widely used in India as dried, ground, and powdered spice added to almost all the dishes and curries because the herb has high digestive properties.

This substance was used in the Roman Empire as a natural medicine to treat various health issues like hysteria, respiratory problems. Most of the traditional medicine across the world have included Asafoetida in their practices. It shows the values of medicinal properties hidden in this herb.

Besides adding flavor to food, Hing has various health benefits because of its anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, carminative, sedative, and diuretic activities.

Today’s herbal medicine system involves this herb in treating asthma, nervous conditions, bronchitis, and cough.

A few studies provided evidence that the herb can work as an antispasmodic, natural laxative, sedative, expectorant, and digestive agent—people of medicine call this herb a Food of Gods considering its medicinal and therapeutic powers.

Let’s see the health benefits and medicinal uses that this resinous gum has been offering for humankind for decades.

What is Asafoetida?

Asafoetida is technically a resinous gum extracted from the large and carrot-shaped roots of perennial fennel plants that have Ferula Asafoetida as a species name. The dried sap derived from the roots and stems of the plant is ground and used. Though it is native to Iranian countries and Afghanistan, the herb powder is the most commonly used ingredient in Indian cuisine.

The tree is in gray to white when fresh and turns to dark yellow, red, and then brow color when aged. The resin is hard and difficult to grate, so it is usually crushed before using it.

The spice has a strong and pungent odor that is because of the high concentration of sulfur contents. Because of the unpleasant smell of the spice, it is called Stinking gum.

However, when it is powdered and cooked, the flavor and aroma it gives are simply unbelievable. In India, the herb is called Hing, which is used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat gas and digestion troubles, kidney stones, and bronchitis. In the Middle ages, this dried gum was used to treat infections by applying it around the neck.

The hing powder available in today’s market has only 30% of Asafoetida resin, remaining are rice flour, and Arabic gum.

The other names of Asafoetida that attributing the limitless health benefits and beauty benefits are foods of the gods, jowani badian, Devil’s dung, hengu, hing, ingu, kayam, stinking gum, and ting.

History of Asafoetida

Asafoetida is found in native to Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Eater Iraq, where the plants grow between 600 and 1200 meters above sea level. The herb does not originate from India, but it has been used in Indian cuisine and medicine for centuries.

The common name “asafoetida” originated from the Farsi word aza, which means resin, and the Latin word foetidus, which means extremely unpleasant smell.

During American Wild West days, asafoetida mixed with other strong aromatic spices was given to cure alcoholism.

Asafoetida Scientific Classification

SCIENTIFIC NAME	Ferula Asafoetida
KINGDOM	Plantae (Plants)
SUBKINGDOM	Tracheobionta (Vascular plants)
INFRAKINGDOM	Streptophyta (Land plants)
SUPERDIVISION	Spermatophyta (Seed plants)
DIVISION	Magnoliophyta (Flowering plants)
CLASS	Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledons)
SUBCLASS	Rosidae
SUPERORDER	Asteranae
ORDER	Apiales
FAMILY	Apiaceae /Umbelliferae (Carrot family)
GENUS	Ferula L. (Ferula)
SPECIES	Ferula assa-foetida L. (Asafetida)

Plant Description

Asafoetida or Ferula Asafoetida is a herbaceous, monoecious, perennial plant from the Apiaceae family. The tree grows up to 2 meters height and has 30 to 40 cm circular mass of leaves.

The stem leaves have broad petioles. The flowering stems have 2.5 to 3 meters height and 10 cm thickness with the cortex that has several schizogenous ducts and contains the resinous gum.

Flowers have large compound umbels and pale green to yellow color. The thick roots are pulpy and massive. Like the stems, the roots also yield resin. The smell of the parts is distinctive and fetid.

Fruits

The plant bears oval-shaped, thin, reddish-brown colored, flat, and foliaceous fruits with pronounced vittae. The fruits have milky juice and smell like Asafetida. The resin from the dried sap extracted from the roots and stems of the plant. The resin has a greyish white color and turns to dark brown or amber color when dried. The pungent smell and bitter taste are their main qualities. But, when cooked, the spice gives a smooth and juicy flavor to the dish.

Varieties of Asafoetida

Asafoetida is classified into two types, such as Whitish and Blackish. The white asafoetida has a strong smell and crystalline form. It offers many medicinal benefits and is known as diamond-like hing.

The Blackish is the one used in cooking that has an unpleasant smell and taste. As of now, we have many varieties of Asafoetida in the market. The asafetida should be solvated in water to remove the impurities and then boiled till the water evaporated.

Common Names of Asafoetida

Botanical Name	: Ferula Asafoetida
English Name	: Asafoetida / Devils Dung
Tamil Name	: பால் பெருங்காயம் / Paal Perungayam
Telugu Name	: ఇంగువ / Inguva
Malayalam Name	: കായം / Kaayam
Kannada Name	: ಇಮ್ಗು / imgu

Hindi Name	: हींग / Hing
Marathi Name	: हिंग / Hing
Gujarati Name	: હિંગ / Hinga
Punjabi Name	: ਹੀੰਗ / Hinga
Bengali Name	: হিং / Him
Urdu Name	: ہیگ

20+ Health Benefits of Ferula Asafoetida

Asafoetida is loaded with a myriad of medicinal uses and nutritional values like fiber, carbohydrates, potassium, iron, calcium, and abundance of essential volatile oils that benefits skin health.

Asafoetida has antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antispasmodic, anti-epileptic, anti-flatulent, anti-depressive, anti-biotic, anti-bacterial, diuretic, carminative, sedative, and many other clinical properties that make it a beneficial herb for health, skin, and hair.

The herb is extremely helpful in treating digestive problems, respiratory troubles, menstrual cramps, nervous problems, cardiovascular issues, etc.

1. Treats Bloating And Other Stomach Problems

Asafoetida is a traditional medicine used for stomach aches and problems like gas trouble, bloating, digestion, flatulence, and IBS.

The antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties of the herb powder help treat such health conditions. Add an amount of hing in your daily food and hing powder mixed water to digest it and avoid fat due to low digestive fire.

2. Treats Asthma

Asafoetida helps alleviate some respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis, and dry cough with its anti-inflammatory properties. The herb can also be consumed to relieve phlegm and chest congestion because it is an expectorant and respiratory stimulant. It is also found that the herb contains antibiotic and anti-viral properties.

The volatile oil in the asafoetida resin gum is removed by the lungs, which is why this herb is an excellent medicine for asthma and respiratory issues.

Dry ginger powder, hing powder, and honey mixture is the best traditional medicine used to solve respiratory problems due to seasonal change.

3. Lowers Blood Pressure Levels

Asafoetida is found to be a natural substance to thin blood, which may help reduce the high blood pressure levels. It is packed with coumarin, a compound that helps regulate the flow of blood; thus, it prevents blood clots.

Some of the phytochemicals in Ferula species have been isolated and tested by scientists to prove their benefit on the cardiovascular system. Animal studies have established that Asafoetida resin gum can reduce arterial blood pressure significantly. The extracted gum is found to contain relaxant compounds that impose a positive approach to high blood pressure and cardiovascular health.

4. Relieves Menstrual Pain

Menstrual pain is a nightmare for women. Asafoetida comes to alleviate your pain and give better relief. The herbs rescue from painful menstruation and cramps in the lower abdomen and back.

It is a natural blood thinner and helps in blood flow smoothly. It promotes secretion of progesterone to boost smooth blood flow, and thereby you get relief from pain. Mix fenugreek powder, a pinch of salt, and asafoetida powder with a cup of buttermilk and drink it during menstruation solves gas troubles and abdominal pains.

5. Reduces Headaches

Anti-inflammatory properties in Asafoetida lowers inflammation of blood vessels in the head; thus, it reduces headaches.

Add a pinch of asafoetida in a cup of water, heat, and drink it twice a day to get rapid relief from headaches.

Frequent intake of asafoetida has been found to soothe the headache pains. It improves the blood flow within capillaries and eliminates harmful free radicals, thereby it reduces pain and tension caused by headaches and migraines.

6. Heals Insect Bites and Stings

Stings and insect bites are extremely painful that prevent you from being comfortable and doing daily activities. Asafoetida is a source of antidote and anti-inflammatory properties that make it an ideal medicine for insect bites and stings. Make a paste of garlic and asafoetida (Hing) and apply it to the infected areas.

7. Good Source of Antioxidants

Asafoetida is found to be a great source of antioxidants. The compounds in the plant protect the cells from damages due to free radicals. In other words, the herb helps protect against heart disease, chronic inflammation, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

Asafoetida has included high amounts of phenolic compounds such as flavonoids and tannins. These are the reasons for the potential antioxidant effects of Asafoetida.

Certain animal studies and lab tests have proved that asafoetida has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. But these potent antioxidant effects on humans need to be tested and researched.

8. Good For Digestion

One of the traditional uses of asafoetida in medicine and cooking is treating indigestion. It naturally works against toxins (AMA)  that cause indigestion and remove them from the digestive tract. Thus it restored the normal pH level of the stomach by proper digestion.

A study conducted on 43 adults with severe indigestion for 30 days by giving 250 mg asafoetida contained capsules two times a day showed significant improvement in digestion, bloating, and overall well being.

Asafoetida boosts digestion by improving the effect of digestive enzymes. Additionally, the herb powder removes the bile from the liver that drives to digest the fats in the body.

Asafoetida prevents flora development in the intestines with the antimicrobial properties and lowers the chances of stomach aches and infections.

9. Reduces symptoms of IBS

IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome is technically a chronic GI (gastrointestinal) condition attributed to an upset stomach, abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and other stomach infections.

Because of the digestive activities of asafoetida, the symptoms of IBS can be reduced and treated.

Two basic studies on adults with IBS showed that it significantly improved the IBS symptoms after the subjects took asafoetida supplements for two weeks. However, another study found no major effect on subjects with IBS,

As a result, the effect of asafoetida on treating symptoms of IBS is not proved yet. But, it could be a good alternative to garlic and onion for people with IBS because garlic and onion contain high amounts of indigestible fructans, fermentable carbs may cause gastrointestinal distress in persons with IBS.

Luckily, the flavor and aroma of asafoetida are moreover similar to onion and garlic, so it could be a good alternative for those who advised avoiding high fructan ingredients in their diet.

Individuals suffering IBS with bloated stomach, gas, watery diarrhea, and throat lumps while belching and swallowing are recommended to take asafoetida.

10. Controls Blood Sugar

Animal studies have found that asafoetida might help keep the blood sugar levels in check, and maintaining blood sugar is normal. It is an effective and natural medicine that won’t cause side effects.

In that study, 50 mg per kg of asafoetida extract is given to diabetic animals for four weeks. Researchers monitor the blood sugar levels of the animals. They found a lowering effect on sugar levels in the blood. The result is found to be caused due to phenolic acids, especially ferulic acid and tannins in the extract.

11. FODMAPs Diet-Friendly

FODMAPs mean fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, which are specific sugar contents present in food and completely taken by our body. These are fermented by bacteria easily and lead to GI distress.

It is not that easy to follow the FODMAPs diet, but if you do so, it will provide complete relief from GI issues and IBS. Onion and garlic are the two must avoid ingredients in FODMAPs diet. So, in this case, asafoetida is the perfect replacement for onion and garlic.

12. Reduces Flatulence

Asafoetida is a traditionally used herb to remove the wind from the stomach. It acts as an antiflatulent agent to treat and prevent excessive intestinal gas in the stomach. Asafoetida is commonly consumed with lentils and a few other legumes after food for this condition.

13. Antiviral Property

Recent studies demonstrated that Asafoetida is more likely to prevent and reduce the reproduction of dangerous viruses like H1N1. When the herb is used against the H1N1 virus that causes influenza, it stimulates its natural antibiotic properties against the virus.

However, there are still studies and researches being carried out on this effect of asafoetida. This herbal formula builds an effective immune system against influenza viral infections.

14. Anti-epileptic Property

Asafoetida is not only used for treating general cough and cold or stomach aches, but it is also used as an effective anti-epileptic Unani medicine. Unani is a medical practice in use since ancient times. It uses ancient science to treat various diseases. If you are confirmed for epilepsy, you must consult with your doctor before taking asafoetida.

15. Healing Benefits

Asafoetida has a long traditional history of being used as the main ingredient in healing practices for stomach infections and injuries. Recent researches showed that the herb could effectively heal burns and wounds. The topical application of the paste of asafoetida on the affected area will reduce pain and vanish the sigh of injuries.

16. Opium Antidote

Another great medicinal property of asafoetida is being an antidote for Opium. The herb might be used to treat infections in the gallbladder and many other stomach related problems. It is an effective digestive agent also. All these properties prove the competence of asafoetida as an Opium antidote.

17. Anti-acidic Property

Asafoetida is a natural alkali that dissolves excessive acids formed in the stomach. Drinking asafoetida mixed water will ease intestinal gas in the stomach. Being as an antiflatulent agent, it relieves acidic and gastric pains.

18. Mood Elevating Ability

Asafoetida benefits in irregular mood swings and stress. It is not a drug but a natural formula that stimulates the secretion of happiness hormones and reduces stress.

Asafoetida has been used as an anti-depressive agent also. It can elevate your moods and reduce the negative or depressing thoughts on your mind, making it a natural antidepressant.

It is one of the potent herbal formulae to manage stress and depression when used correctly. If you have recovered from mania, then avoid using asafoetida.

19. Increases Metabolism

In addition to treating and preventing various health problems, asafoetida increases the overall metabolism of the body. It acts as a digestive agent, and thereby it regulates fat metabolism. The herb prevents the LDL circulation in the body. With these actions, asafoetida guards you against heart problems caused by harmful cholesterol levels and accumulation.

20. Increases Physical Well Being

Asafoetida keeps you away from heart problems and maintains the proper metabolism of the body. It is used as a respiratory medicine for breathing troubles, asthma, cough, and dryness. All these things proved one fact that asafoetida potentially improves the blood flow to the body cells and tissues. The regular blood flow to all the parts of the human body ensures it gets needed oxygen, thereby reduces the chances of physical fatigue.

21. Benefits Respiratory System

Being an anti-inflammatory, anti-biotic, antiviral, and expectorant substance, asafoetida is excellent natural medicine for respiratory disorders. The herb removes the excess phlegm and mucus from the body and neutralizes pathogens in respiratory tracts, thus boosts the immune system and prevents breathing issues like asthma.

22. Cancer Prevention

Various researches in the medical world are going on regarding treatment and prevention of cancer, and as such, asafoetida also has gained significant attention. With the high level of antioxidant properties like ferulic acid and umbelliprenin, asafoetida has been found to neutralize free radicals, directly associated with the removal of cancer cells.

Skin Benefits of Ferula Asafoetida

Apart from beautifying your skin, asafoetida can fight against skin infections and wounds also. Insect bites are annoying and painful. The itching and irritation caused by infections make you uncomfortable.

Asafoetida paste can be applied topically on affected areas that speed up the healing process, reduce inflammation, and soothe the itching sensation.

1. Reduce Acne

Asafoetida is a magical ingredient that can offer significant benefits in your skincare regimen. This nutritious herb prevents the growth of bacteria, causing acne on the skin. It protects the skin and acts as a foe to bacteria that develop unfavorable skin conditions. The antibacterial properties of the herb prevent the growth of rashes and pimples. Asafoetida face masks can heal your skin conditions and make them healthier.

To make a face mask for acne removal,

1. Take Fuller’s earth, rose water, and asafoetida.
2. Mix everything well, add a few drops of lemon juice and saute well.
3. The paste is ready, now apply it on the affected areas.
4. Use this mask two times a day to get optimal results.

This healthy natural face mask keeps you away from acne and removes acne marks. Asafoetida prevents secretion of excessive oil in the skin; thereby, it keeps pores from oil, dirt, and sebum.

2. Bring A Glow & Radiance

Asafoetida increases the blood flow to all body cells and tissues, making sure that every part of the body gets enough oxygen. In this way, asafoetida potentially increases the oxygen supply to the facial tissues, which in turn gives a lively and flawless fair skin. With all these, we know that asafoetida is a great substance to enhance the skin’s glow and radiance.

To make a face mask for radiance,

1. Make a paste of asafoetida and rose water.
2. Add a dash of sandalwood powder if available.
3. Mix the ingredients well.
4. Apply this face mask regularly to see better results.

Another benefit of the asafoetida face mask is that it removes the dark circles under the eye effectively.

3. Helps Anti-aging

Asafoetida is an amazing herbal substance that acts as an antiaging agent also. It ultimately reduces the wrinkles, aging spots, and fine lines in the face.

To make a face mask for Anti-aging,

1. Mix Fuller’s earth and honey.
2. Add a few drops of rose water and mix well.
3. Add a dash of asafoetida to the mixture and beat well.
4. Apply and massage the paste for 15 minutes.

Use this anti-wrinkle face mask regularly for optimum results.

4. Promotes Skin Whitening

Asafoetida helps increase the oxygen flow in facial tissues, which in the back gives fairness and removes dark spots, oiliness, and acne marks from the face. In addition to these abilities, the herb can also act as a whitening agent. It can naturally stop Tyrosine production in the skin. Tyrosine causes melanin production in the skin, making our skin dark, dull, and causes premature aging. Asafoetida helps to keep the Tyrosine production in check. So, asafoetida face mask on regular usage provides younger and blemish-free skin.

To make the face mask for skin whitening,

1. Take a fresh medium-sized tomato, mash it, and add sugar in it.
2. Beat the mixture and make it a tomato juice with fully dissolved sugar.
3. Add a dash of asafoetida to the mixture and mix to a paste.

Apply this mask regularly to naturally improve the skin complexion to 2 tones.

5. Helps Anti-dryness

Stress and environmental pollution make hair and skin dry and unhealthy. Asafoetida, with few other agents, acts as an anti dryness mask that gives moist and smooth skin. The mask removes the acne marks, dark circles, and other unfavorable signs in the skin like cracks, freckles, wrinkles, peeling, and dullness.

To make the face mask for skin dryness,

1. Take milk and rosewater, mix well, and add honey to it.
2. Sprinkle asafoetida to this milk-honey mixture and beat it well.
3. Keep this face pack in a refrigerator to maintain its effect and shelf life.

Use this face pack regularly to hamper all the unpleasant signs and marks of skin.

6. Treats Allergies And Corns

Other than beautifying the skin and removing signs of dryness, Asafoetida also helps to cure corns and skin allergies. Skin allergies are caused due to many reasons such as dryness, sun damage, too much exposure to light, unhealthy diet, and so on. Luckily, Asafoetida can fight with all these things and bring back your glowing and healthy skin naturally. You can see the difference with a few weeks of usage.

Hair Benefits of Ferula Asafoetida

The incredible healing properties of asafoetida help in strengthening and maintaining a healthy scalp, which in turn reduces hair fall, dryness and improves the strength of the hair, its quality, and texture. You get the smooth, silky, and dandruff and oil-free hair.

1. Good Hair Conditioner

Individuals who have dry, frizzy hair can make use of asafoetida, thanks to its moisturizing compounds. The herb powder can help keep the moisture in the scalp.

1. Mix yogurt, asafoetida, and almond oil together to make a hair mask.
2. Apply it on your hair from roots to tips and leave it for an hour.
3. Later wash the hair with lukewarm water.

This asafoetida hair mask makes your hair silky, smooth, and stringer.

2. Controls Hair Fall

Asafoetida hair masks can improve hair texture. It protects the hair from heavy and unnatural hair fall. It is used as a natural solution to baldness and thin hair. The herb can effectively strengthen the hair follicles and controls dandruff, thus makes hair thicker and controls unnatural hair fall.

3. Maintains Scalp Health

The scalp is the platform where hair follicles are raised. When the scalp’s health gets affected, it directly affects the hair’s roots and makes it weaker. It leads to hair fall and damage. Asafoetida can naturally restore the scalp’s pH levels; thus, it helps maintain a healthy scalp.

It prevents the scalp from sweat, acne, and oil. Asafoetida hair masks naturally eliminate the acne, dandruff, oil, and dryness from the hair follicles, thereby texture, strength, and quality of the hair are improved.

Nutritional Values of Asafoetida

In its supplement form, asafoetida holds approximately 4% – 20% volatile oils, 25% gum, and 40% – 60% resin.

The essential oil component of ferula asafoetida contains a variety of high percentages of odorous compounds containing sulfur. It also includes Phytochemicals such as cadinene, pinene, and vanillin.

Resin is composed of asaresinotannol, ferulic acid, foetidin, kamolonol and umbelliferone.

A pinch of asafoetida powder in a dish adds one calorie without cholesterol, fat, sugar, or sodium.

Below are the nutritional values of Asafoetida for a serving size of 100 gms.

NUTRITION	VALUE	% DV
Calorie content	297.1	N/D
Fat	1.1 g	2.86%
Carbohydrate	67.8 g	52.31%
Fibre	4.1 g	N/D
Proteins	4 g	8%
Calcium	690 mg	69%
Iron	39 mg	487.50%
Magnesium	0.08 g	N/D
Phosphorus	50 mg	7.14%
Vitamin B3	0.0003 g	N/D
Cholesterol	0	0%
Sodium	0	0%
Potassium	0	0%

Nutritional Benefits of Asafoetida

Let’s check the benefits of nutrients in the Ferula Asafoetida.

Dietary Fiber

Asafoetida is loaded with fiber that helps in digestion and maintaining regular bowel movements. The herb reduces hyperglycemia and effectively controls blood sugar levels. It also helps to maintain healthy body weight.

Source of Carbs

Asafoetida is an excellent source of carbohydrates, thus improves the metabolism of the body. The herb is highly beneficial in improving heart health, maintaining digestive health, and promoting brain functions. It is a great mood elevator that helps prevent obesity.

Rich in Iron

Iron is the most needed nutrient for the human body. It is one of the essential nutrients in asafoetida also. It helps purify the blood, increases the count of red blood cells, and hemoglobin levels in the blood. Asafoetida, with an abundant amount of iron, helps treat anemia, reduces fatigue, boosts concentration, and overall immune system.

Powerhouse of Potassium

Asafoetida is a good source of potassium. Potassium in the herb acts as an electrolyte that balances sodium and helps maintain proper blood pressure. Potassium is essential for joint and bone health. The herb protects arteries from narrowing, thereby reduces the possibilities of heart attacks and provides good cardiovascular health.

Source of Calcium

Asafoetida contains moderate sources of Calcium, which is essential for dental and bone health. Regular intake of asafoetida may reduce the toothaches, strengthen bones and teeth, lowers the chances of kidney stones and colon cancer. It keeps you away from diseases like osteopenia, osteomalacia, and osteoporosis.

Volatile Essential Oils

There are two primary varieties of asafoetida, such as White and Black. Both types have essential volatile oils like α-pinene, α-terpineol, azulene, β-pinene, vanillin α- pinene, luteolin, umbelliferone, etc. These oils contain various medicinal properties such as antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial. The herb becomes the powerful natural remedy for cold, cough, asthma, intestinal flora formation, and dental problems.

Ayurvedic Health Benefits of Asafoetida

• Take 250 mg of asafoetida, one teaspoon of betel juice and honey, mix everything well, and give for respiratory disorders like bronchitis, cough, and asthma.
• Take a piece of asafoetida, dissolve it in a cup of water. Soak the cloth in that solution and use it as a fomentation on the stomach to get relief from stomach ache because of indigestion.
• Take one teaspoon of asafoetida, camphor, and dried ginger, two teaspoons of cubeb, and mix well. Add a cup of milk in it and make it a paste. Use the paste as a therapeutic massage on the forehead to reduce tension and migraine.
• Take six centigrams of Asafoetida and fry it in a cleared butter. Add a teaspoon of fresh banyan tree latex and honey in it. Take this home remedy daily before sunrise to avoid premature ejaculation and spermatorrhoea.
• Take two teaspoons of bitter gourd juice and quarter teaspoon of asafoetida powder and mix well. Take this mixture to manage diabetes effectively.
• Take a quarter teaspoon of asafoetida, half teaspoon of onion juice and betel leaf juice, two teaspoons of honey, and mix everything well. Consume this thrice a day to reduce the symptoms of asthma and other respiratory problems.
• Take two teaspoons of lime juice, half teaspoon of asafoetida, and mix them well. Put the solution on heat. Use a cotton ball, dip it in a solution, and place it in an aching tooth to relieve the toothache.
• Gargling with Asafoetida mixed in water or taking asafoetida mixed with buttermilk will cope in enhancing the voice. It is a simple and natural therapeutic practice for singers who work on their voice modulations.
• Inject a piece of asafoetida in the same size to the Pearl millet grain in jaggery or a piece of banana, and eat this to get relief from Burping / Hiccups.
• For Hysteria, smelling asafoetida gum is extremely valuable.
• Take asafoetida and mix it in ghee. Massage the mixture to treat Urticaria.
• Smelling asafoetida gum potentially reduces hysteria.
• Take a pinch of asafoetida, mix it in water, and drink to treat Pneumonia.

Culinary Uses of Asafoetida

• Hing or Asafoetida has been used in Indian cooking for flavoring.
• If you get the hing in lumps form, crush it, and mix it in water and form a paste. Add this paste to your cooking. It gives fresh taste and rich aroma to the dishes. This handmade crushed powder from lumps is much stronger than powdered forms available in the stores, so use a little amount of this powder.
• If you like strong aroma in your dishes, roast the hing gum in oil for a few seconds and then add it in the dal curries. Hing usually gets burned quickly, so quickly roast and add it to the dish.
• A minute quantity of raw gum or powdered form of Asafoetida is added to dishes.
• Jains and other few communities avoid onion and garlic in their dirt. They replace these with asafoetida.
• Asafoetida smells amazing with ghee rather than oil. Dals, upma, curries, rasam, etc. have hing to enhance flavor and help digestion.
• A pinch of asafoetida powder and chopped curry leaves mixed with buttermilk is the best remedy for indigestion.
• Asafoetida can be dissolved very easily, so it has been used in meat dishes and soups. Soak a pinch of asafoetida in hot water and add it to the dish towards the end that retains the flavor and gives great aroma.

Traditional Uses of Hing / Asafoetida

Hing or Asafoetida is one of the essential flavoring spices used in almost all Indian kitchens. It is a usual spice, and when added to dishes, it enhances the flavor and aroma and is also beneficial for overall well-being.

1. Hingvastak Churna (Powder):

Hingvastak Churna or Powder is a natural digestive medicine available in the stores. The powder has carminative and digestive properties that help treat bloating, digestion, constipation, bad taste in the mouth, and colic.

The word ‘Astask’ in Hingvastak means Eight; hence the powder contains eight different herbal ingredients such as Hing (Asafoetida), Sonth (Dried Ginger), Pipali (Long pepper), Kali Mirch (Black Pepper), Ajwain (Carom Seeds), Kala Jeera (Black Cumin Seeds), Saindhava Namak (Black Salt), and Safed Jeera (White Cumin Seeds).

You can prepare this herbal formulation at your home. Take the required amount of all these herbs, dry everything in direct sunlight, and then grind them into a fine powder.

Take dosage advice from the doctors and take this powder regularly mixed in lukewarm water or tea. You can add the powder in your daily cooking also.

2. Hing Tailam (Oil):

Hing Oil is an amazing therapeutic ayurvedic medicine that has essential volatile oils and nutrients. The oil is highly beneficial in flatulence, impotence, stomach aches, dental problems, cold, and cough treatments.

How to use Hing Tailam

For stomach ache, colic pain, and menstrual cramps, mix 1 to 2 ml of sesame oil with a few drops of hing oil and massage it over the abdomen. The anti-inflammatory properties in the oil give better relief.

For chest and nasal congestion, bronchitis, asthma, and dry cough, mix 1 to 2 drops of hing oil in hot water and take it by steam distillation method or massage it on your back or chest.

For dental problems like gum infection, toothache, tooth decay, bad breath, and bleeding gum, mix a few drops of hing oil with lukewarm water and gargle it daily. The antiseptic and antibacterial properties of hing oil provide rapid relief.

For stings and insect bites, mix 1 to 2 drops of hing oil and garlic oil and apply it to infected areas. With the anti-inflammatory and antidote properties, the oil provides instant relief from the pain and itching.

How to Use and Store Asafoetida

Use: Asafoetida is an everyday spice in Indian cooking, but it does not mean you can add it to many dishes. It is mostly used in vegetarian recipes that use potatoes, cauliflower, peas, greens, etc. Whether it is for the main course or starters like soups, a pinch of asafoetida at the beginning will enhance the taste.

It is a common component of Tarkas, which are fried or made and added on dishes after cooking or before serving. In some cases, it can be fried in oil or ghee before adding other aromatic flavors and spices for 15 seconds till it started spreading its aroma.

Asafoetida is a complimentary background note spices like mustard seeds, cumin seeds, curry leaves, dried chilies, garlic, and ginger. All these things can be used alone for Tarka over curriers, veggies, or dals, or you can start your recipe with asafoetida. As the food cooks, asafoetida gradually dissolves and retreats in the background and lets other spices and flavors develop, but it never disappears.

In the end, you get the dish with varieties of flavors and rich aroma.

Store: Asafoetida features a stinky smell, so store it in an air-tight container that doesn’t let its aroma come out.

Use the same container for a month or replace it with a new one, but don’t use another spice container as the smell of the hing lingers within the box even after it is emptied.

Precautions of Asafoetida

Anything in limits is safe and healthy. Even high nutrient herbs can also create side effects when you take it in excessive dosage. Intake of asafoetida should be avoided if you have a history of the below-mentioned conditions.

1. If you are about to go for surgery, you should avoid taking asafoetida because it can thin the blood, which may cause bleeding during and after surgery.
2. If you have GI issues, don’t consume asafoetida. If you like to add it to your diet, get the proper consultations from your doctor.
3. If you are already undergoing medication for blood pressure, avoid asafoetida as it might affect the treatments you took to control BP.

Side Effects of Asafoetida

There are only limited researches available on the safety of asafoetida for humans. The dosage of asafoetida used in cooking is said to be safe for almost everyone.

A study done on humans showed 250 mg of asafoetida two times per day for a month was safe and tolerated by the subjects.

The animal studies found that a high dose of asafoetida might cause gas, headaches, swelling of the mouth, and even diarrhea. An animal study on mice suggests the dosage above 1000 mg per kg of body weight may create possible toxicity.

Vetiver, scientifically known as Chrysopogon zizanioides, is a genus of plants in the grass family Poaceae. It grows well in humid climates away from heat. It is a dense and clustered plant with erect and stiff stems that can reach 5 feet in height and have brown to purple flowers. The native of this plant is India.

Vetiver is also called Cuscus grass, khus-khus, khus-khus grass, Vetiver, vetiver grass, Khuskhus Vetiver, Motgrass, and Vetiveria. It has a perennial lifespan, with reliable and elegantly structured roots. It is called the chiendent odorant in French;

Overview Information

Vetiver is a plant; its root is used to prepare the medicine. People are consuming Vetiver for nervous and circulatory problems and abdominal pain. Some women eat Vetiver to start their periods or to have an abortion.

You can directly apply it on the skin to relieve stress, as well as to ward off emotional shocks and trauma, lice and insects. It is also used for arthritis, stab wounds, and burns.

In production, Vetiver is used as a flavoring in liquors. Vetiver contains insect repellent oil too.

How to use it?

Vetiver essential oil is one of the best natural remedies for everyday skin and hair care routine. As time goes on, you should always dilute this oil with a carrier oil. Coconut, jojoba, grapeseed, and olive oil are the best choices as carrier oils to harvest the best from this herb.

Traditional Uses of Vetiver

The Vetiver can be found in clusters and up to five feet high.

Traditionally Vetiver helps with health ailments such as circulation, rheumatism, nerve problems, arthritis, muscle aches, insomnia, and painless and regular menstruation.

It also helps improve fertility. It helps to reduce the appearance of dark spots and marks on the skin.

The roots are used to treat snakebites, burn, and scorpion sting in West Bengal and Bihar.

The decoction of the root is used to improve the strength of the body.

The root paste is used to cure rheumatism, headache, and sprains.

Its stem decoction is the best treatment for urinary tract infections.

The roots contain diaphoretic, aromatic, antifungal, stimulant, cooling, and expectorant properties, that help cure various skin diseases, amentia, insomnia, amenorrhoea, kidney problems, asthma, hysteria and gallstones.

The plant is used for the anthelmintic properties in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Its leaf extracts are used as an anthelmintic.

If you had a fever, dysuria, burning sensation, and skin disorders, the Vetiver has the answer. It can cure all ailments.

In ayurvedic medicine, Vetiver plays the primary role. It is one of the best natural remedies to treat arthritis, sprains, and muscle pains.

The Vetiver roots have incredible peeling properties.

Soak these roots in water for up to 15 minutes and apply in a circular motion on the body. It removes dead skin cells and restores healthy radiance.

These are some essential benefits of vetiver. Adding this grass in your daily routine can give many health benefits.

Vetiver Root Powder Benefits

Vetiver, which is grown naturally in India, is widely known in Ayurveda for its cooling properties. It will soothe and calm your mind with a pleasant earthy scent while giving extra benefits to your skin.

You can use this powder as the body cleanser. It can also be used for Ayurvedic dry body massage.

Take fenugreek, turmeric flour, and vetiver powder. Mix them all. Massaging the body with these soft powders can stimulate lymphatic movement, promotes circulation, liquefies fat, improves skin health, and gives strength and tone to body tissues.

It can also act as a fantastic exfoliant, and if you have done an oil massage, it also helps to eliminate excess oil from the skin.

In addition to cure stress, sweet-smelling Vetiver root powder balances the function of sebaceous oil glands, has deodorizing properties, helps to normalize oily skin and replenishes moisture in dry and dehydrated skin. It also has a rejuvenating effect on mature skin.

One of the best benefits of Vetiver is used to make potable water. Take a few grams of vetiver powder then mix it into the water. Filter the water and use it after 2 to 3 hours.

Once you put the Vetiver into the water, it should only be used for up to 10 to 12 hours. You should replace the freshwater and Vetiver every day.

Beauty Benefits of Vetiver

Considering its preference as a summer air conditioner, it’s no surprise that Vetiver is a natural air conditioner. In addition to denying the effects of hot foods that exacerbate acne and dermatitis, Vetiver’s roots also keep the skin hydrated and give it a natural glow. Let’s take a closer look into what this offers:

Fights Acne

At this time of year, the air is heavy with moisture, which is a common skin concern for acne during the rainy season. Vetiver contains antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, so that it is one of the best natural remedies for acne, rashes, and blisters. By using this herb regularly, you can prevent sudden breakouts. Unlike anti-acne resorts, which are strong, often tough on the skin, the Vetiver is soft and sweet and is an excellent choice if you have sensitive skin.

Deep Refinement

Its antibacterial properties help remove dirt and contaminants that sit deep in the pores of the skin and lead to blackheads, acne, whiteheads, and cysts. Therefore, it acts as an excellent, natural cleanser that destroys the skin, fights infections and allergies, and gives a radiant complexion.

Gives Intensive Nutrition

Vetiver has the ability to retain more water, which keeps the skin hydrated for a long time, and is ideal for nourishing dry and thin skin. It regulates skin production, which keeps the skin hydrated and supports a natural glow.

Reduces Inflammation

The cooling effects of the Vetiver extend not only for the drinks but also to the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and act as an excellent treatment for sunburn.

Decreases Scars

Vetiver’s cicatrizant agent accelerates skin cell regeneration and improves new tissue growth in the affected area. It helps to remove the appearance of blemishes such as scars, stretch marks, and fat cracks from acne, box, and burning marks clearly, which leads to clear, flawless skin.

Provides Anti-aging Benefits

A power plant of antioxidants, Vetiver cleanses the system of toxins and free radicals, which cause signs of aging, fine lines, discoloration, and pigmentation. It protects the environment from invaders, which is a major problem of premature aging. If you are using this essential oil daily, you will get a firm and youthful appearance.

Increase Hair Health

Nowadays, hair loss is the main problem for women, especially teenage girls. Stress, aging, nourishment loss may lead to the dry scalp and hair fall problems. Vetiver’s cell-renewing agent acts wonders for the man too. It promotes collagen formation, an essential component of hair, and strengthens the cell structure that regenerates hair. Besides, this power herb can cure any scalp irritation, dandruff, or inflammation.

Enhances Mood and Overall Wellbeing

Vetiver can play an essential role in improving beauty and enhancing overall health. It is very famous for its aromatherapy that keeps your mind calm and reduces depression and gives peaceful sleep. You will get relief from insomnia.

The Vetiver is also used to relieve muscle aches and menstrual cramps due to its anti-inflammatory properties, giving it an excellent addition to massage oils. Since it is high in antioxidants, it can increase blood circulation and support immune systems.

The natural and the musk aroma make it an utterly profound experience; It’s just as pleasurable as the treatment.

Incredible Benefits of Vetiver Oil

Vetiver essential oil is famous all over the Indian Subcontinent.

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties

Since the Vetiver oil is famous for soothing and cooling effects, it helps to soothe all types of inflammation. It is perfect in providing relief from inflammation in both the circulatory and nervous systems.

It is the best treatment for sunburn and dehydrated skin inflammation. Always dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil before applying on your body and skin. A few drops will suffice. Gently massage the oil into your muscles or affected area.

2 Anti-septic Properties

In India and its neighboring tropical countries, the favorable hot and humid circumstances found in these regions allow microbes and bacteria to multiply rapidly. Therefore, your wounds are prone to sepsis. Vetiver essential oil inhibits Staphylococcus aureus growth, which is the bacterium that causes sepsis and eliminates them.

It is used to heal wounds by encouraging new tissue growth so that you can use it externally. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to your bathwater. After bathing use this water, you can feel a better change.

3 Improves Immunity

Generally, vetiver oil is rich in antioxidants, helping to increase your immune system by eliminating toxins from your body and can fight against free radicals. You can inhale the scented vapors directly, or circulate them in your home.

4. Clears Acne and Promotes Skin Health

Vetiver oil also helps to clear acne and acne scars. It contains potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

The bacteria that cause acne don’t get favorable conditions to grow in the presence of the antibacterial properties of the vetiver essential oil. It often relieves acne breakouts. You can mix a few drops of essential oil in your face wash.

You can also mix this essential oil with another jojoba, coconut oil, and apply it in your skin directly. Wait for the result and you will get soft and nourished skin. Moreover, it reduces the risk of the aged look.

5 Keeps Calm Your Mind

Vetiver essential oil is one of the best natural remedies for stress, depression, and anxiety. Moreover, it helps to increase your mental conditions. It is a healing oil that acts on the seven wheels of the human body. You can spread it in the air or use a few drops on your neck, wrists, and chest.

Vetiver essential oil is non-toxic and generally safe, but you should consult your doctor before deciding to use it to cure a health condition.

Apply directly on your forehead and give a mild massage. Sleep for some hours. You will get relief from a severe headache.

6 For Melanoma

It is one type of skin cancer that may come from pigment-containing cells known as melanocytes. Vetiver essential oil has the potential to treat melanogenesis in melanoma cells. Take some drops of oil and apply it on your skin directly to get an effective result.

7 Treats Dandruff

Excessive dry scalp, lack of moisture, and hygiene in the air and eventual itching and burning are the main reasons for dandruff.

Aromatic oil with high specific gravity and powerful antimicrobial properties penetrates deep into the hair follicles, moisturizes the scalp, eliminates dryness, and stops itching.

Massage your scalp and hair with vetiver oil and almond oil before going to sleep. You will get better results.

Take a steamed towel and wrap it around your scalp that allows the oil to enter deep into the sebaceous glands. Ideal it for overnight before shampooing your hair and rub a little lemon juice on the scalp.

Side Effects & Safety

When taken orally:

Vetiver is very safe in food doses. There is no reliable data to find whether the Vetiver is safe or not.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding:

It is unsafe to consume Vetiver while you are pregnant because it can cause miscarriage. If you are breast-feeding, it is also best to avoid Vetiver.

Stability factor

Vetiver is easily accessible for its sheer beauty benefits, unlike other exotic herbs and foods made from abroad. It is home grown, native to India, so a hole in your pocket will not burn. It is the most affordable of all, with its fast-growing and perennial nature.

It can survive conditions such as summer, frost, and drought. Vetiver is widely cultivated in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka from India to the south of Rajasthan and Punjab. So, for your convenience, it is commonly found all over the country.

No need any other reason, this dense grass is eco-friendly. Its roots, very popular for its musky aroma in perfumes, prevent soil erosion and help restore polluted land.

Isabgol is an oily gluey herb with an astringent, and sweet taste, and it provides a cooling effect to the body. Isabgol is also known as Psyllium Husk that is obtained from the seeds of the plant.

It is scientifically known as Plantago Ovata that contains many medicinal properties. Isabgol is a powerful herb that serves as a natural laxative and improves your digestive health.

It is effective in treating constipation. Isabgol is an annual herb that grows up to 40 cm in height. It is native to India and Mediterranean countries.

This plant contains linear leaves, various small flowers, and the seeds are enclosed in capsules, and they open when it matures. India produces and exports this herb widely.

Metamucil is one of the ingredients, and it is the main element used in making dietary supplements that helps to relieve constipation.

It is also one of the ingredients used to make breakfast that helps to reduce cholesterol levels and improve gut health. Ayurvedic medicines strongly recommend this powerful herb because it is a natural coolant and contains diuretic and laxative properties.

It provides various health benefits. Isabgol contains rich amounts of fiber that varies from 75 to 80%. One teaspoon of Isabgol provides you three gms of fiber.

It contains gentle laxative action that depends on the quantity of fiber, so it is not a true purgative. The flour of Isabgol Husk is combined with multiple grain flour to improve the nutritive value and the fiber content of grain flours.

Isabgol Husk absorbs 14 times more than its weight, and Isabgol seeds absorb three times more water than its weight. Thus, consume Isabgol Husk with a high amount of water or liquid that will help to prevent instant side effects like choking.

Common Names of Isabgol:

Botanical Name: Plantago Ovata
English Name: Psyllium
Tamil Name: Iskolvirain
Malayalam Name: Karkalasaringi
Telugu Name: Ishagula
Kannada Name: Isofgolu
Hindi Name: Isabgul
Marathi Name: Isabgol
Sanskrit Name: Ashvagola, Ashwakarna
Gujarati Name: Isafghol

Medicinal Properties of Isabgol

• Antacid
• Antidiarrheal
• Diuretic
• Appetite Suppressant

• Gentle bulking-forming laxative
• Intestinal detox
• Hydrophilic
• Emollient

Health Benefits & Medicinal Uses of Isabgol

Isabgol contains various health benefits and medicinal uses. It is widely used in Ayurveda and folk medicine.

Treats Constipation

Isabgol is an effective remedy for treating constipation. It serves as a bulk-forming natural laxative. Isabgol contains rich amounts of soluble and insoluble fiber that adds bulk to stools and makes constipation easy.

Isabgol contains a gelatinous substance that forms like a gel when soaked in the water. The gel contains laxative properties that absorb harmful toxins and bacteria in the intestine.

Take a spoon of Isabgol and mix them in warm water or milk and drink it on an empty stomach for some weeks. It cleanses, lubricates the intestines and removes sticky stools from intestinal walls that help in treating constipation.

When to Take Psyllium Husk in Constipation

The fiber-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits, etc. are the best treatment for constipation. When you can’t eat sufficient amounts of vegetables or fruits, Isabgol is the best recommendation for getting relief from constipation.

Treats Diabetes

Isabgol contains rich amounts of fiber, so it provides effective treatment for diabetes. The high amounts of fiber help to decrease blood sugar levels in the body.

High fiber foods always contain a low glycemic index that helps to improve the levels of plasma glucose.

Isabgol offers a high quality of carbohydrates, so the people who have diabetes can add Isabgol in their regular foods such as cereal flours. Therefore, the high-quality carbohydrates and high fiber food help to decrease the chances of diabetes.

Improves Gut Health

Isabgol is a powerful detoxifier that effectively cleanses the gastrointestinal wall and removes all waste toxins. By cleansing the passage, it promotes the healthy functioning of the digestive tract and allows the food to pass through the intestinal tract.

The regular consumption of Isabgol works as a digestive stimulant and provides complete relief from acidity, stomach ulcers, colitis, and other digestive disorders.

Reduces Weight

Isabgol or Psyllium Husk is a very popular remedy for people with obesity because it acts as an appetite suppressant and absorbs 14 times more water than its weight.

However, it provides slight effects on appetite. Some people did not consider Isabgol as a perfect treatment for obesity, but it helps compensate for the requirement of dietary fiber in obese people.

Working of Psyllium Husk (Isabgol) in obesity

Isabgol absorbs 14 times more water to its weight that helps to decrease appetite and makes the abdomen feel full. The high dose of Isabgol serves as an appetite suppressant.

Isabgol also increases the excretion of fecal fat. There is a correlation between metabolic syndrome and body weight control. Many obese people don’t have enough fiber-rich.

Rich-fiber foods play a major role in managing metabolic syndrome. Isabgol is one of the richest sources of soluble and insoluble fiber that helps to enhance the lipid profile and glucose homeostasis and also helps to reduce body weight.

Verdict

Ayurveda stated that Isabgol also contains the opposite effect that may promote weight gain. Without any doubt, Isabgol controls appetite, but it appears in high dosage.

It strengthens your body, and it is very effective for the people who have weakness and debility in low dosage. According to the Ayurvedic properties of Isabgol, it increases Kapha humor and pacifies Pitta and Vata, so it increases your weight in this dosage.

The main thing is that Isabgol does not directly influence the weight gain or weight loss. It promotes weight gain in weak and thin people, but the dosage should be less than ten grams per day, and enough food is also required. In high dosage, it can stimulate weight loss due to the appetite suppressant action.

Usage of Isabgol for Weight loss

In a modern perspective, it can be used as a dietary fiber for obese people. For dietary fiber supplement, take enough quantity up to 30 gms per day with water.

Treats Acidity & Heartburn

In Ayurveda, Isabgol is an effective remedy for treating heartburn and acidity. Isabgol lubricates the membranous walls when passed via the food pipe and stomach, which helps to decrease the irritation of excessive acid.

By absorbing the acid, it eliminates the excess acid from the stomach to the intestines. Therefore, it helps to decrease the symptoms of heartburn and acidity due to these mechanisms.

Cures Dry Cough with Scratchy Throat

The combination of Isabgol and sugar is an effective natural remedy for treating dry cough with throat irritation. The Isabgol pudding is more effective for decreasing scratchy throat and reduces the severity of the dry cough.

Isabgol lubricates the irritated throat, and it contains emollient that provides instant relief from throat irritation.

Treat Diarrhoea & Dysentery

Isabgol absorbs more water from the digestive tract and produces bulk that makes it stool firmer. It cleanses the intestines and helps to remove infection-causing microbes from the alimentary canal and increases the speed of the recovery process.

Isabgol provides effective treatment for mild to moderate diarrhea. It also provides adjuvant treatment for severe diarrhea and dysentery.

Severe Infectious Diarrhea

Take one teaspoon of Isabgol with one teaspoon of Misri powder and mix them in 50 ml of water. Drink this thrice per day that helps to decrease the count of watery stools in severe infectious diarrhea.

Chronic or Recurring Diarrhea

Sat Isabgol	1 tsp
Kutaj (Holarrhena Antidysenterica) bark powder	1 gram
Saunf (Fennel seeds) powder	1 gram
Dried Ginger powder	500 mg

This mixture is an effective remedy for chronic diarrhea. Take this mixture two times per day for at least 15 to 30 days.

Treats Chronic Arsenic Toxicity

Isabgol is a natural cleanser that helps to decrease chronic toxicity that occurs due to the consumption of arsenic compounds. Many folk medicines contain arsenic that mainly helps to treat skin diseases.

Isabgol also acts as an arsenic antagonist that helps to decrease the symptoms of chronic arsenic poisoning and improves the arsenic compounds excretion from your body.

Treats High Cholesterol & Dyslipidemia

Isabgol binds to bile acids and fat that helps to eliminate cholesterol from your body. Thus, consume five gms of Isabgol to reduce high cholesterol and consume this regularly for 3 to 6 months to get better results in high cholesterol.

It will also be an effective remedy for people who suffer from constipation. The combination of cinnamon and Isabgol is an effective remedy for treating dyslipidemia, and the Isabgol provides positive results in triglyceride levels, but cinnamon helps to decrease both cholesterol and triglyceride.

This combination also helps to decrease the atherogenic index of plasma and prevents atherosclerosis, hypertension, and heart diseases.

Leucorrhea (Discharge)

Many folk practitioners generally use Isabgol pudding to decrease leucorrhea and white discharge. Isabgol may stop the process of Yeast infections and other microbes.

Moreover, it contains anti-inflammatory action that helps to decrease the inflammation of soft tissues, like inner walls of private organs, and decreases discharges.

Regulates Blood Sugar

A fiber-rich food can help to delay the time of gastric emptying, slow down the glucose absorption, and manage the blood glucose levels.

The benefits of fiber and natural gelatin substance of Isabgol effectively decrease the blood sugar spike and control diabetes.

Relieves Skin Dryness

Isabgol contains emollient action on the skin and inner membranes of the organs in your body. The fine powder of Isabgol is used for massaging in skin dryness. By massaging, you can decrease the dryness, and it increases the glow of your skin.

Nocturnal Emission

Nocturnal Emission is a common problem in men, but the frequency can vary from one to another. It may occur due to the emotional upset and constipation but also other causes such as hyper-excitement.

Isabgol effectively decreases the frequency of nocturnal emission, but it is still unknown how it works. Isabgol contains cooling capacity that decreases excitement in Ayurveda. Moreover, it also relieves constipation and helps in nocturnal emission.

Usage

To get relief from Nocturnal Emission, you can take a mixture of Isabgol and Misri with an equal amount. Consume this mixture with lukewarm milk before sleeping. Isabgol pudding also can help in this problem.

Lowers High Blood Pressure

High cholesterol is combined with high blood pressure. High cholesterol may cause plaque formation in blood vessels with calcium.

It causes the narrowing and hardening of the blood vessels. It provides extra stress on the heart to pump the blood harder via the arteries and cause an elevation in blood pressure.

Ayurvedic benefits of Isabgol

Constipation

Isabgol helps in constipation because it is enriched with fiber, and it adds bulk to stool with its Guru guna(heavy quality). Rechana (laxative property) triggers intestinal contractions and bowel movements, thus helpful in the proper excretion process.

For Piles

Isabgol helps to cure hemorrhoids (piles) with its Sita (cold) and Guru (heavy) properties. The sita virya (cold potency) helps to prevent inflammation of the intestine.

For High cholesterol

Isabgol aids in reducing elevated cholesterol levels with its fiber content and Guru (heavy) property. It removes the Ama (toxins) present in the body and thus helps in controlling high cholesterol levels.

Obesity

Isabgol is a rich source of fiber and possesses Guru properties that aid in cleaning the colon and removing Ama (toxins) from the body. This plays a significant role in obesity.

Diarrhea

Isabgol treats diarrhea by absorbing water from the digestive tract, forming bulk, and makes the stool thick with its Guru guna(heavy quality).

Irritable bowel syndrome

Isabgol is useful in Irritable bowel syndrome by adding volume to the stool, and also absorbs extra water, thus making easy passage of stool with its Guru guna. It also provides a protective layer lining on the stomach’s inner wall, which reduces hyperacidity with Sita (cold) nature. The balancing Vata and Pitta property of Isabgol cures inflammatory bowel disease.

Diabetes mellitus

Isabgol manages diabetes by slowing down the breakdown and absorption process of glucose with its Guru property. It also improves the body’s metabolism by removing Ama (toxic) present in the body due to improper digestion.

Acne and Pimples

According to Ayurveda, Kapha dominance leads to increased sebum production and thus results in clogged pores (formation of both white and blackheads). Pitta dominant may result in red bumps and inflammation with pus. Here Applying Isabgol aids in controlling excessive sebum production and removes clogging. Further, it also reduces inflammation and provides soothing effects with Sita (cold) property.

How to use

• Soak 1-2 teaspoons of Isabgol husk in water.
• Wait for sometime to get a semi-solid mixture.
• Mix them well and make it a paste with Aloe vera gel and almond oil.
• Apply it over the face and leave it for 20-30 minutes.
• Then wash it. Do it two times a week.

Nutritional Values of Isabgol

The various nutritional contents and their values in 100 grams of Isabgol.

NUTRIENT	VALUE
Calories	375
Total Fat	6.25 g
Carbohydrates	75 g
Protein	5 g
Fiber	10 g
Potassium	262 mg
Iron	50 mg
Magnesium	183 mg
Calcium	1.8 mg
Sodium	288 mg
Sugars	30 mg
Saturated	2.5 g

Dosage of Isabgol

General dosage of Isabgol is as follows

Minimum Effective Dosage	5 grams
Moderate dosage (Adults)	10 to 30 grams
Moderate dosage (Children)	5 to 15 grams
Maximum Possible Dosage	40 grams

How to take

• Take 1-2 teaspoon of Isabgol
• Mix Isabgol in a glass of warm water
• Drink it immediately before it swells.

Isabgol Pudding

The ingredients to make Isabgol pudding are as follows

Psyllium Husk	10 grams
Water	50 ml
Milk	200 ml
Sugar	1 to 2 tsp

Preparation Method

• Soak Isabgol in 50 ml water for 30 minutes
• Take a glass of hot milk with sugar
• Add Isabgol with water in milk and stir the mixture well
• Isabgol pudding is ready
• Eat this Isabgol pudding once at night just before sleeping.

To get complete relief from the problem, consume this pudding for at least one month.

Side Effects of Isabgol

Isabgol is safe to use in many people with the proper dosage, but the continuous use of Isabgol may cause unwanted side effects. According to Ayurveda, Isabgol produces heaviness in your body because of its GURU quality. Thus, it increases Kapha humor that may cause the following side effects.

• Abdominal fullness
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Chest tightness
• Feeling of heaviness in the abdomen
• Itching
• Minor bloating

When you take less than 25 gms of Isabgol, it should take at least 240 ml of water. If the dosage increased to 30 gms, you should take 500 ml of water to decrease unwanted effects.

If you take Isabgol with less water or other liquid, it may immediately cause the following side effects.

• Vomiting
• Choking
• Difficulty in breathing
• Chest pain
• Difficulty in swallowing

Isabgol Allergy

Isabgol allergy is very rare to occur, and if it occurs, it appears in the following symptoms.

• Itching
• Breathing difficulty
• Swelling on face
• Skin Rashes
• Severe dizziness
• Swelling of the tongue or throat

Precautions

• Don’t eat any food that produces intestinal gas.
• The excessive use of Isabgol may cause loss of appetite, so consume it with the limit.
• Don’t consume fine powder or capsules of Isabgol because that doesn’t provide similar benefits and cause harm to your intestines. The fine powder of Isabgol is used in local applications such as skin diseases and skin dryness.

Frequently asked question

Q1. What are the benefits of using Isabgol for skin?

Isabgol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce swelling and also prevent cell damage. Isabgol also aids in tissue regeneration, heals wounds and injuries without any scars.

According to Ayurveda, skin problems occur due to an imbalanced Pitta dosha. Here, Isabgol manages skin inflammation and heals wounds quickly with its Pitta calming and Sita (cold) properties. It also reduces dryness and enhances glowing skin with its Snigdha guna (oily property).

Q2. Can I take Isabgol with lemon?

Yup. Isabgol can be taken along with lemon. It will maintain your bowel movements and also help in weight loss by reducing body fats.

Q3. When should I take Isabgol husk? Before or after a meal?

Better take Isabgol after a night meal because it corrects constipation with its mild laxative property.

Q4. What are the benefits of consuming Isabgol with milk?

Consuming Isabgol with milk will treat weak digestion. It also improves bowel movement and gives relief from constipation, acidity, and bleeding piles.

Conclusion

Isabgol is a powerful natural laxative that has been used since ancient times to treat diarrhea, constipation, controls diabetes, and blood pressure. It is a powerhouse of fiber, so you can add this to your meal to get more benefits.

Crocus Sativus, commonly known as Autumn Crocus, & Saffron Crocus, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Iridaceae (Iris family) in the genus Crocus. Saffron is known around the world as a spice with medicinal properties extracted from the flower of Crocus Sativus which has such special properties.

This precious saffron is known by names Saffron Crocus, Crocus Cultive, Crocus Sativus, Kesar, Azafran, Kashmira, Azafron, Croci Stigma, Saffron Crocus, Indian Saffron, Spanish Saffron, Kumkuma, Safran Espagnol, Safran Veritable, True Saffron, Safran Des.

Thread-like patterns and crimson stigma are extracted from Crocus Sativus flowers and then dried in the sunlight, acting as a coloring and flavoring agent in food and desserts.

It’s believed that Saffron originated in Iran, but American author Harold McKee says that these plants were grown in Greece during the Bronze Age. A type of Saffron called Wild Saffron which bears the name C. Sativus and is a triploid form of Crocus Cartwrightianus.

After the Renaissance, saffron spread to Eurasia, Oceania, North America, and North Africa. Saffron contains an Organoiodine compound called iodoform, which is unique in its aroma and taste.

In addition, they contain Phytochemicals such as Safranal, and Picrocrocin, and contain a Carotenoid pigment called Crocin, which gives foods and textiles an eye-catching red or golden yellow color.

The claim that these dried flowers, which have been traded and used for thousands of years, are dramatically beneficial to the body is attested by a 7th century BC Assyrian botanical article.

According to the 21st Century Survey, Iran accounts for 90% of the world’s total saffron production. The most expensive saffron in the world can be grown in tropical, subtropical, and cold regions.

In particular, the word “saffron” is derived from the Arabic word “za’faran“.

1. Saffron contains more than 150 volatile and aromatic compounds that are used not only in cooking but also in the preparation of various medicinal products.

2. And the unique odor is due to the 40-50 volatile compounds in these dry crimson stigma.

3. Saffron Crocus contains many volatile components such as alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, gamma-carotene, lycopene, and zeaxanthin.

4. The carotenoid called crocin in saffron is responsible for its unique color.

5. The monoterpene glycoside precursor called picrocrocin in saffron is the reason for its bitter taste.

6. Saffron possesses an organoiodine compound called iodoform, which is the reason for its unique aroma.

7. These crimson stigmas are consumed by people to enhance mood, enhance manhood, and improve memory.

8. Modern research suggests that saffron may be used to promote sweating (diabetic), prevent gas (carminative), stimulate aphrodisiacs, and control menstrual bleeding.

Potential Health Benefits of Saffron

In addition to important nutrients such as picrocrocin and crocin, saffron also contains numerous vitamins, flavonoids, starch, amino acids, proteins, gums, and anthocyanins. Because of these components, Saffron has the property of curing heart disease, cancer, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, depression, anxiety, and ulcers.

Studies also show that saffron improves memory, cognition, and learning. The medicinal properties of this highly expensive spice make it a valuable culinary ingredient worldwide. Here we have unveiled in detail at the extreme benefits of this high-priced spice.

1. Has Powerful Antioxidant

The various plant compounds contained in the Saffron act as excellent antioxidants as it destroys the free radicals that enter the body and heals the damage caused by it. Besides, these plant compounds act against oxidative stress and prevent heart-related diseases.

The crimson stigma of Crocus Sativus flowers growing in cold regions are rich in safranal, kaempferol, crocetin, and crocin. In particular, the compounds crocetin and crocin contain carotenoid pigments that cause a distinct and dense red color.

Furthermore, both of these compounds have antitussive properties that prevent progressive damage and protect brain cells, besides, it helps to reduce appetite and helps to control body weight.

The safranal compound plays a major role in imparting the unique aroma of saffron, which controls persistent mood swings and leads to balanced thoughts and enhances learning and memory.

The kaempferol compound found in the petals of the saffron flower has anti-cancer properties and comes with health benefits such as antidepressant activity and anti-inflammatory activity.

SUMMARY:

Research results show that most of the health properties of saffron are due to its high antioxidants.

2. Boosts Mood & Cures Depressive Symptoms

The unique color and taste of saffron greatly help to brighten the abnormal and tired mood. The study was conducted on people with moderate depression, half of them were given saffron supplements and the rest were given medications.

At the end of the study, it was revealed that participants who ingested Saffron were relieved. In another similar study, one group of participants was given 30 mg of saffron daily and another group of prescribed drugs (Citalopram, Imipramine, Fluoxetine).

Finally, it’s proved that saffron has similar effects like prescription drugs. The results of the randomized study proved that both the thread-like stigma in saffron and the petals of the flower were worthy of relieving mild-to-moderate depression.

A study of saffron published in the Journal of Behavior and Brain Science found that a compound called Serotonin found in its extract increased dopamine levels in the brain (without altering the levels of other brain hormones).

SUMMARY:

Saffron has been shown to cure depressive symptoms, anxiety, and mood swings and it can provide the same effects as prescribed medicines.

3. Effectively Treats Cancer

Free radicals are the main cause of cancer, they attack the immunity zone and then weaken the body. Saffron, which is high in antioxidants, helps neutralize these free radicals.

Free radicals play an important role in the development of not only cancer but also various chronic diseases. Test-tube study results show that the most important compounds contained in saffron inhibit colon cancer cells and their growth.

It is feared that this process will affect the growth of normal beneficial cells, but saffron does not affect other natural functions of the body. Saffron prevents not only colon cancer but also the growth of various cancer cells such as bone marrow, lung, skin, cervix, breast, and prostate.

The results of a test-tube study show that the antioxidant crocin in saffron has similar effects on the highly sensitive chemotherapy drugs used to kill cancer cells. Saffron has antitumor and anticonvulsant properties and they are considered to be the very best source of carotenoids.

The crimson stigma, which has such medicinal properties, has the ability to inhibit the growth of tumor cells. Various researches have shown the inhibitory effects of saffron on the development of DNA synthesis and the positive relationship between the carotenoids in it.

Saffron extract has the ability to fight against human leukemia HL-60 cells and also has the ability to fight human prostate cancer.

SUMMARY:

Studies show that they help prevent cancer by stopping the growth of free radicals in our bodies.

4. Reduces PMS Symptoms

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a medical term used to describe the psychological, physical, and emotional symptoms that may occur before the onset of the menstrual cycle in women.

This PMS syndrome can cause headaches, irritability, body aches, abdominal pain, and excessive hunger. Various studies have shown that saffron is very helpful for women to easily handle these difficult situations.

Daily intake of 30 mg of saffron, especially in women between the ages of 20 and 45, can control PMS syndrome and relieve pain more effectively than placebo.

In a study of women with another symptom of PMS, such as anxiety and depression, it was recommended to smell the scent of saffron for 20 minutes. After 30 minutes the mood of the participants was confirmed to be clear. In addition, they had low levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

SUMMARY:

In 2015, research on PMS symptoms showed that the daily consumption saffron was more effective than a placebo, reducing PMS symptoms and lowering cortisol levels.

5. Act as an Aphrodisiac

Studies show that saffron has an aphrodisiac effect. These help to increase masculinity by stimulating sexual desire.

Men generally have a habit of taking a prescribed drug called antidepressant to increase libido, but saffron has been shown to have more deserving effects than antidepressants, according to research.

In addition, the daily consumption of saffron significantly improves antidepressant-related erections.

Men with erectile dysfunction were divided into two groups and one group was given 30 mg of saffron daily and the other group was given an antidepressant pill daily. After 4 weeks, erectile dysfunction was found to be improved in men who consumed saffron.

Analysis of six follow-up studies on saffron found that consuming saffron as a medicine or in a diet effectively enhances overall satisfaction, masculinity, and erectile function.

Women with low sexual desire were found to have an increase in sexual desire as a result of consuming about 30 mg of saffron daily instead of antidepressants for four consecutive weeks. They have also been shown to reduce sexual pain and increase lubrication.

SUMMARY:

Research proved that saffron has the power to induce Aphrodisiac in both women and men and it can effectively treat erectile dysfunction.

6. Controls Appetite & Cholesterol

In the name of civilized development, consuming fast foods and substandard foods on the roadsides can lead to unwanted weight gain and various diseases.

Frequent feelings of hunger motivate us to consume the foods available at hand, and saffron is highly recommended to prevent this. This is because the research result shows that saffron has the ability to control appetite.

Overweight women were divided into two groups and one group was given a placebo and the other group was given saffron supplements daily. After about 8 weeks, women who ingested saffron lost significant weight than women who took the placebo.

Another similar study was conducted for 8 weeks, in which participants took a saffron juice supplement. At the end of the study, their total fat, waist circumference, and body mass index (BMI) along with frequent appetite were proven to be the least.

But what makes these processes dramatic is how saffron can help control appetite and help with weight loss, a mystery that is still unknown to scientists. But the ancestral theory of saffron is that it reduces the desire for snacks by controlling the mood.

SUMMARY:

Though Saffron is loaded with nutrients it has the ability to control the appetite and helps to reduce overweight, and LDL cholesterol in your body.

7. Reduces Risk Factors of Heart Disease

Saffron is rich in antioxidants which protect the body from all kinds of heart ailments. That is, saffron consumption greatly supports the healthy functioning of the arteries and maintains the condition of the blood vessels.

For this reason, people with heart disease are advised to consume saffron daily. Also, high levels of cholesterol in the blood are a major cause of arterial and vascular disorders.

Research on animals has shown that the antioxidant properties of this spice can reduce blood cholesterol by up to 50% and effectively prevent clogging of arteries and blood vessels.

Besides, the anti-inflammatory properties contained in saffron are beneficial for heart health.

SUMMARY:

Studies show that the antioxidant properties of saffron greatly reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, besides, it strengthens blood vessels.

8. Helps to Lower Blood Sugar Level

Adding saffron to the daily diet significantly lowers blood sugar levels and ensures that they are always balanced. According to the results of the study, saffron is recommended for diabetics as it can effectively increase insulin sensitivity without any side effects.

The extracts derived from saffron help to improve the level of glucose in the blood. As a result, muscle tissue becomes more sensitive by the proper insulin secretion.

Two prime factors in the blood, called glucose and insulin, help keep blood sugar levels normal at all times. Saffron is active in increasing the production of serum insulin, which helps prevent type 2 diabetes.

In one study, Methanolic juice of saffron was given to rats with diabetes. As a result, their HbA1c levels and fasting blood glucose levels were shown to be significantly reduced.

The most important cause of hypoglycemia is the antioxidants called saffron and crocin in saffron juice. Liver and kidney functions are not affected in any way during this process carried out by the antioxidants of saffron.

SUMMARY:

Studies in diabetic rats have shown that saffron truly has the ability to control blood sugar and increase insulin levels.

9. Improves Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Saffron is used to treat Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), one of the most common eye-related disorders in adults. This type of symptom occurs as a result of the damage caused by free radicals.

Adults with AMD can improve eyesight by consuming saffron and protect against free radical damage. Studies have shown that continuous saffron consumption can induce a significant improvement in retinal function in AMD patients.

In a study of AMD patients, they were given approximately 30 mg of dried saffron daily. The study lasted for 6 months and at the end of the study, it was reported that there were significant (statistically) changes in the macular OCT and ERG parameters of the participants.

SUMMARY:

It’s recommended to consume saffron because research has shown that saffron consumption is the best solution to improve eyesight in adults with age-related macular degeneration.

10. Enhances Memory

Saffron is said to be one of the most powerful remedies for Alzheimer’s, one of the neurological disorders. Researchers say that saffron has high antioxidant properties, which can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and improve cognition.

Crocus Sativus is used in the treatment of the psychological and behavioral symptoms of dementia, one of the cognitive disorders.

Saffron prevents the accumulation of amyloid in the brain and removes their deposition, making it easier and better to treat neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease.

SUMMARY:

Crocus Sativus (Saffron) is used to better treat Alzheimer’s disease, which often occurs in adults, and can greatly improve memory.

11. Preventing Nervous System Disorders

A compound called crocin, which is found in saffron, helps control oxidative damage and inflammation in the brain. Research conducted on saffron in 2015 examined their nervous system-protecting properties.

Accordingly, it was revealed that the antioxidants in saffron have some beneficial effects on the nervous system. The antioxidants in the crimson stigma of these flowers have memory-enhancing properties.

In addition, research has shown that it can effectively control the anti-inflammatory effects and oxidant pressure that cause neurological disorders.

People with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s were divided into two groups, one group taking the saffron supplement and the other group taking Donepezil for 22 weeks.

As a result, there was a significant improvement in the knowledge of those who consumed saffron, and it was revealed that the side effect of the spice was much less than that of the drug.

SUMMARY:

Saffron is highly recommended by researchers as there is ample study evidence to support its various medicinal uses.

12. Reduces Lipid Levels

The chemical compound crocin in saffron is an important factor for maintaining the health of the body. In addition, studies in animals have shown that these compounds play a major role in the reduction of macro-biomolecules called a lipid.

Crocin prevents the absorption of good fats and excretes excess bad LDL fats through the stool. Hypolipidemic also activates the effect on the body by releasing the enzymes of pancreatic lipase, causing the pancreas to become completely damaged.

Crocin is involved in the process of inhibiting the effects of pancreatic lipase, which produces enzymes that are harmful to the body.

SUMMARY:

Saffron prevents various deadly diseases in the body by controlling the level of lipids.

13. Best Antidepressant Agent

Dried saffron and its extract can relieve various mood swings such as stress, depression, and anxiety.

Allopathic medications, such as Imipramine and Fluoxetine, are commonly prescribed by doctors for these conditions, as they have a calming effect.

Women and men with mild-and-moderate depression were divided into two groups and prescribed drugs for men and saffron for women. At the end of the study, it was reported that saffron had the same effect as drugs.

The mind is refreshed at all times to take the extract of the dried petal of the saffron plant three times a week, it doesn’t provide any side effects like medicines.

SUMMARY:

The function of the saffron extract is to treat depression in an intensive manner and to refresh it so that it can be consumed by children as well as the elders.

14. Beneficial for Skin

Women have a routine of expecting skin radiance and massive skin tone, for which they use various cosmetics on the face. But saffron is a natural herbal product that can provide many times more skin benefits than cosmetics. Applying them as face packs lighten the skin tone and make the face more radiant.

Preparation Saffron Face Pack: 1

In a bowl, mix 2 to 3 strands of saffron, 2 tbsp milk, and 1 tbsp sandalwood powder and bring to a paste consistency. Then apply the paste constantly on the face as a face mask and let it dry for about 20 minutes. Rinse face with cold water after 20 minutes.

Preparation Saffron Face Pack: 2

In a blender add 2 to 3 strands of saffron, 2 teaspoons of milk, and well-soaked sunflower seeds and grind well and bring to a paste consistency. Then apply the paste on the face as a mask and let it dry for about 15 minutes. Rinse face with cold water after 15 minutes.

SUMMARY:

Saffron helps to maintain a static skin tone and effectively renew the dead skin cells to enrich them.

15. Controls Menstrual Pain

Saffron has been widely used since ancient times to treat various ailments, to soothe abnormal conditions, and to energize the body.

In that sense, a medicinal spice called saffron helps to relieve abdominal pain and muscle cramps that occur during menstruation. Considering its benefits, saffron is still used in traditional medicine today.

This spice helps to control back pain and pelvic pain that comes with menstruation. Saffron also helps to control white-yellow discharge (Leukorrhea) that occurs in the days before menstruation.

A condition called Leukorrhea, which is found in many women, occurs not only during menstruation but every day.

SUMMARY:

Studies proved that Crocus Sativus is effectively treating menstrual pain, heavy bleeding, muscle cramps, white discharge and so on.

16. Easy to Add to Your Diet

Saffron has a subtle taste, color, and aroma that no other spice has. The spice with such properties is compatible with all kinds of foods such as risottos, paella, rice dishes, desserts.

One brilliant way to unveil the unique flavor of saffron and its properties as a whole is to soak it in warm water. You can get the complete taste, color, aroma, and properties of saffron by adding soaked thread-like crimson stigmas and water to your recipe.

Although saffron is available in powder form in all stores, it is best to buy it as a thread-like crimson stain. Because powder form of any spice may have been contaminated for greater profit and attraction.

Many people refuse to buy and use saffron because of its high price. But just remember one thing, the health of the body is more important than money. Nowadays, saffron is available in supplement form for easy consumption.

SUMMARY:

A pinch of saffron enhances the magnificence of your recipe and offers more medicinal benefits.

What Are The Ways To Utilize Saffron

Saffron is commercially available as a strand, powders, and supplements, depending on the applications and ease of consumption. You can choose one of them based on your applications.

Soaked Saffron:

Soak some dried strand of saffron in 3 teaspoons of warm water or milk. Depending on the quality of the saffron the color in the strand will be completely mixed with water after a certain time and then it can be mixed in the recipe. Conversely, the saffron thread should be soaked overnight in ordinary water to obtain a more thick color and aroma.

Crushed Saffron:

A pinch of saffron equals about 20 medium threads, so it must be measured properly before crushing the saffron. In particular, it is enough to use a pinch of saffron in cooking for 4 to 6 people. Use a small grindstone or small blender to crush the saffron threads. Keep in mind that crushing saffron by machine or by hand doesn’t render an impressive appearance. However, crushed saffron imparts a strong aroma, color, and taste. Thus crushed saffron spice can be used in milk and desserts.

Powdered Saffron:

Saffron powders sold in stores may have been adulterated. To ward off such threats, dried saffron threads can be ground at home using a blender. Or be sure to get unadulterated saffron powder from trusted vendors. Saffron powder can be mixed with milk and consumed to get more nutritional values, or used in desserts to enhance its color and taste. Beyond culinary purpose, saffron is used for external applications, including skin health.

Nutrition Value in Saffron

The nutritional value of 100 grams of saffron is listed here.

• Calcium – 111 mg
• Copper – 0.33 mg
• Iron – 11.1 mg
• Magnesium – 264 mg
• Manganese – 28.41 mg
• Phosphorus – 252 mg

• Potassium – 1724 mg
• Selenium – 5.6 mcg
• Sodium – 148 mg
• Zinc – 1.09 mg
• Manganese – 0.089 mg

• Vitamin C – 0.8 mg
• Vitamin B6 – 1.01 mg
• Riboflavin – 0.27 mg
• Thiamin – 0.12 mg
• Folate, DFE – 93 mcg

• Niacin – 1.46 mg
• Fiber – 3.9 g
• Water – 11.9 g
• Protein – 11.4 g
• Fat – 0.4 g
• Carbohydrate – 65.4 g

Zedoary is a plant which is also known as white turmeric. Its underground stem (rhizome) is used to make medicine. The traditional methods of preparing Zedoary is to wash in plenty of water. Rinsing should remove a toxin that has not yet been identified.

Zedoary is the best treatment for colic, seizures, loss of appetite, and indigestion. Some people also use it for anxiety, depression, fatigue and pain, and swelling (inflammation).

Zedoary is sometimes applied directly to the skin to repel mosquitoes. In Indian cuisine, it is replaced with similar-looking ginger, which is widely used.

Other Common Names

Botanical Name	: Curcuma Zedoaria
English Name	: White Turmeric, Yellow Zedoary
French Name	: Zedoaire
German Name	: Zitwer
Tamil Name	: Poolankilangu, Kichili Kizhangu
Hindi Name	: Jangli haldi
Telugu Name	: Kachoramu, Kichili Gadda

History of the Zedoary (White Turmeric)

In the Middle Ages, white turmeric or Zedoary was recognized in the spice trade because people believed that its aroma was a mixture of mango, turmeric, and ginger. The plant is also mentioned in a 13th-century poem by Roman de la Rose, and the 17th-century herbalist Nicola Calpepor is said to be effective in combating toxins, expelling air, vomiting, preventing menstruation and flow, and killing worms and Colic.

Ayurvedic Properties of the Zedoary (Poolankilangu)

Taste (Rasa)	: Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tiktha)
Quality (Guna)	: Light (Laghu), Penetrating (Teekshna), and Odoriferous (Sughandhi)
Potency (Virya)	: Hot (Ushna)
Taste after digestion (Vipaka)	: Pungent (Katu)
Action (Karma)	: Kindles digestive fire (Deepana)
Effects on dosha	: Balances Vata Dosha And Kapha Dosha

Plant Description

Zedoaria or white Turmeric is a herbaceous and rhizome perennial plant that can grow up to 1.2 meters in height and has an upright dorsal structure, a worm, and underground cylindrical branches or rhizomes, and tasty roots.

The rhizome is pale yellow on the outside and bright yellow and dark brown on the inside. Some roots come like terminal storage structures. From March to April, the axillary buds of the corn axis and the apical buds of the third row of rhizomes emerge as inflorescences above the ground.

Its basal flower spike grows up to 30 cm in height, appearing before the foliage. At the tip closest to the flower spike, a plant shoot always develops. Additional floral buds do not germinate, but more plant shoots are formed. New branches begin to form in the corns of the recently formed aerial shoots.

In autumn, the foliage above ground dies again. Storage roots are formed from November to December, with a high (> 70%) carbohydrate content. It is traditionally used to treat menstrual disorders, dyspepsia, vomiting, and cancer.

Rural people use rhizome for its antiseptic, carminative, expectorant, deodorant, diuretic, and stimulant properties, while also being used in rheumatism dyspepsia, colds, coughs, and fevers.

How Does it Work in Your Body?

There is not a lot of scientific evidence on how Zedoary can be used to treat medical problems. Scientists have not yet carried out human studies with Zedoary or white Turmeric. So far, scientists have only tested the Zedoary in test tubes or animals. The findings of several such studies show that Zedoary may act as an antibiotic. Also, it is useful in repelling mosquitoes.

13 Health Benefits of Zedoary

Zedoary or white Turmeric is one of the herbal medicines for your body. It contains some chemical constituents that are: flavonoids, tianin, resins, sugar, starch, saponins, and curcumin that can stop the growth of the cancer cells.

The Delhi-based nutritionist Lokendra Tomar said that the “Zedoary” is rarely used when compared to the yellow Turmeric. But it also provides many health benefits to you. Here we’ve mentioned some benefits of zedoary that will force you to add more to your diet. Let’s take an in-depth look at the benefits.

1. Supports the Digestive System

Zedoary is one of the best herbs for digestive problems, especially the gastrointestinal tract. It can help with flatulence, irregular bowel movements, and indigestion.

Its essential oil and the herb itself are beneficial in treating colic, indigestion, seizures, loss of appetite, worm infections, flatulence, irregular bowel movement, and indigestion. It is also one of the excellent natural aids in stopping stress-related ulcers.

2. Decrease Inflammation

The white Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties can help combat inflammation, treat wounds, and other skin diseases. Moreover, zedoary is one of the best natural remedies for people who are affected by arthritis. One study found that the curcumin compound of the rhizome can decrease the pain of your body.

In Indonesia, zedoary is used as a medicine to treat inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis). It has also been used to protect the lungs of asthma patients by controlling the release of inflammatory mediators during short-term treatment.

Zedoary’s diuretic properties support the removal of toxins and excess fluid from the body, especially in the joints. If not toxic, it can cause inflammation and pain in areas such as arthritis and rheumatism. It lowers body temperature during fever, by cleansing the body of infectious germs and promoting perspiration.

3. Helps to Strengthen Respiratory System

Generally, Kapha dosha is created by fluids like phlegm and mucus build-up in the lungs as well as other regions of the body. Mucus and phlegm block the nasal passages that may lead to respiratory diseases such as cold, asthma, and cough, as well as cause breathing issues.

Consuming zedoary as a form of powder every day can decrease the risk of respiratory diseases.

4. High in Antioxidant Properties

Generally, zedoary is rich in antioxidants. Due to this presence, it prevents the free radical’s growth that may cause harm. The zedoary essential oil also has good antioxidant properties. Its curcumin compound works as an anti-allergen to avoid the chemical discharges and the activity of inflammatory proteins that trigger skin-related allergic reactions.

5. Has Antimicrobial Properties

Tuber extracts exhibit effective antimicrobial activity against E. coli, S. aureus, Carnobacterium species, Candida sp, and Aspergillus sp.

One research has shown that the antimicrobial action of zedoary is as effective as a commercial mouthwash in preventing the growth of the oral pathogen.

The antifungal activity of zedoary is effectively stopping the growth of drug-resistant fungal species. It inhibits the growth of Entamoeba histolytica, amoebae, and also has a larvicidal effect against mosquitoes.

6. Anti-inflammatory and Painkiller Property

Curcumin derived from this rhizome gives better analgesic activity than aspirin. Rhizome extracts have analgesic activity in the form of stomach upsets and compounds- curcumin and dihydrocodeine contribute to its analgesic action.

7. Antinyeri medicine

It was believed that white Turmeric would be used as a painkiller or medicine to relieve pain. But this effect is based on how much you use.

8. Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties

Zedoary can decrease the amount of microbes in the mouth with the same results as mouthwash products available on the market. Moreover, its extracts stop the fungal activity in your body.

9. Anti-toxic

White turmeric juice is the best medicine for snake bites also inhibits the action of the snake venom.

10. Ulcer Medicine

Its root powder helps decrease the stomach fluid’s acidity so that it can be used as a tukak medicine. Medical research in humans is still needed for these benefits.

11. Reduce the Blood Sugar Level

Consuming white Turmeric every day can lower your blood sugar level. Moreover, it helps to increase blood circulation and decrease the bad cholesterol level. The high cholesterol level may lead to severe heart diseases like a heart attack.

12. Can Fight Against Cancer

Zedoary plays a vital role in stopping the cancer metastases or the spread of cancer from an organ to other organs. But more research is needed on its effectiveness in overcoming cancer. As its essential oils have antioxidants they can decrease the influence of some free radicals.

White Turmeric or zedoary is one of the best natural treatments for asthma, arthritis, anti-rheumatism, and diuretic medications.

13. Benefits for Women Problems

White Turmeric can give relief from menstruation pain, and speed up menstruation. Consuming zedoary every day can treat leucorrhea.

Traditional Benefits of Zedoary (White Turmeric)

• Zedoary is one of the best traditional treatments for dyspepsia, cancer, menstrual disorders, and vomiting.
• Village people use this zedoary for its rugged, carminative, expectorant, depressant, diuretic, and stimulant properties.
• Its root can cure dyspepsia, fever, flatulence, cough, and cold.
• It fights against cancer and prevents the growth of the cancer cells.
• Zedoary can strengthen female organs.
• White Turmeric may help to treat the woman’s itching.
• Moreover, it improves and strengthens lust.
• Beneficial for antipyretics (fever).
• You can use this zedoary to cure pain shortness of breath (asthma).
• The root of the zedoary can treat some inflammatory diseases like bronchitis.
• It is effective as an antidote.
• It will help reduce belly fat.

Culinary Uses of Zedoary

It is widely used in Thai cuisine. People cut the raw zedoary as thin strips then add into the Thai salads. In some types of nam phrik, zedoary can be cut into thin slices and added with other herbs and vegetables. It is one of the main ingredients in most of the famous dishes in India.

Zedoary root is also edible. Inside, the root is white in color, the aroma of this root is reminiscent of mango. Nonetheless, it tastes like ginger but leaves a very bitter taste after eating.

In Indonesia, people dry this root and infuse it into a powder, which is then incorporated into curry pastes. In India, people use the fresh zedoary roots for culinary purposes or to make pickles.

Moreover, the thin strips of the root and other different herbs and vegetables are called nam phrik with a specific type of Thai chili paste. The zedoary root tastes like ginger, hot, but it leaves a bitter aftertaste in the mouth.

Most people don’t like this herb due to its unacceptable taste. So that it is never used separately; it always joins with other varieties of spices. Also, the root of this zedoary contains starch, which helps to act as a thickener.

In India, people generally use fresh roots in the form of spices and thickeners. New zedoary roots are often grated and used in locally prepared pickle mixtures known as “achar.” The thickener form of this mixture is “shoti” by Indians. On the other hand, the zedoary is used in the curry powder in Indonesia and China, particularly in seafood cooking.

The powder of the zedoary also gives a unique flavor to your food. In China, dried zedoary powder is called “kentjur.” When you cut and dried the roots of the zedoary, the color may turn into grey from yellow.

Dosing Method

Generally, zedoary is used in the form of spice in stains and condiments. You can make an infusion with zedoary by adding the herb to boiling water at the rate of one tablespoon white Turmeric per pint of water.

The resulting solution is fragrant and bitter. One cup of this unsweetened infusion is taken 30 minutes before meals. Take 20 to 30 drops daily of tinctures made from zedoary roots.

Based on people’s health, age, and other conditions, the dosage method will vary. There is not enough scientific research to define the correct ranges of zedoary dosage. Remember that all-natural and herbal products are not always safe. The amount of product is essential. It is good to consult your doctor before consuming the zedoary.

Safety Precaution

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

If you are pregnant, then don’t consume zedoary because it may cause miscarriage. If you are a breastfeeding woman, it is best to avoid zedoary as there is not enough scientific information to know how it can affect a nursing baby.

Heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia):

Some experts do not recommend Zedoary for women with heavy menstruation.

Under Medications

People who are consuming blood-thinning medications and blood pressure medicines should consult their doctor before taking White Turmeric.

Quick Facts

Zedoary is the Curcuma zedoaria’s underground rhizome of the tropical plant. It comes from the ginger family. It is very rare in western areas. Zedoary is widely used in Indonesian, Indian and Thai cuisines.

It has a long list of herbal remedies; Because it is rich in antioxidants. It gives a distinctive pungent and sharp taste with very mild yellow-cream flesh and some fruit-sweetness. It is eaten fresh as a delicacy in salads, seasoned with chili, or cooked in curries.

Calamus, with the botanical name Acorus Calamus, is a wetland monocot of the genus Acorus. The flowering plants, which are usually very tall, are also widely known as the Sweet Flag and Vacha.

This herbaceous perennial vine can grow up to about 79 inches, and the leaves of this plant resemble the shape of the leaves of the iris family. The Sweet Flag has tufts of basal leaves that form from a growing rhizome.

The leaves are yellowish-brown, with parallel veins, with a pink sheath on their bases, and their shape is flattened, narrow, and elongated.

These tiny leaves have tiny spots. The leaves of the delicate Sweet Flag have wavy-shaped edges, and the aroma that emerges when these leaves are crushed creates a freshness.

The uniqueness of this Vacha is that they can be grown in a variety of conditions, such as high water terrain and subtropical regions. That way, only plants that grow in water regions can produce flowers, and the triangular flower-stems of this plant arise from the axils of solid outer leaves.

A semi-erect spadix is found on either side of the flower stalks, these cylindrical spadices are solid and about 5 cm to 10 cm long.

The spadix produces dense greenish-yellow flowers, each with pollen and six petals, all of which are covered in a perianth with six segments.

These flowers also emit a unique and subtle fragrance. These flowers, which are of no use, bloom for about a month in early summer and late spring. The berries on this Sweet Flag are well succulent that fall off and scatter spontaneously when ripe.

Calamus plants that grow in Asian lands produce very low fruit, although its rhizome is widely used by people because of its high medicinal properties. Its rhizome, the thickness of a human finger, has cylindrical bubbles, and coarse fibrous roots beneath it.

The rhizome, which is white on the inside and brown on the outside, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat abdominal pain, digestive disorders, and muscle cramps.

Calamus have been used by Rishis and Sages since ancient times due to its various medicinal properties. Since the time of Hippocrates, sweet flags have been used as a remedy for memory, voice clarity, nasal congestion, skin and hair care, and asthma.

The Sanskrit word Calamus means “To Make Speech Clear“. The fertile Vacha plant needs moist soil to grow. In Italy, Holland, Austria, Hunger, Sweden, Switzerland, Russia, Norway, and Germany, Vacha is used as an approved medicinal ingredient.

Other Common Names

Botanical Name	: Acorus calamus
English Name	: Sweet flag, Calamus Powder
Tamil Name	: வசம்பு / Vasambu
Malayalam Name	: వాము / Vashanapa, vayambhu, vayambu, vayampu
Hindi Name	: कैलमेस / vacha,akaraveci, akkitam, arpakeci, arpakecu
Sanskrit Name	: Vacha, Vach, Bhutanashini
Telugu Name	: వాము /vadaja, vasa, wasa
Kannada Name	: Baje Gida, Athibaje

Acore Odorant, Acore Roseau,  Acorus calamus, Acorus gramineus, Acorus Roseau, Bach, Belle-Angélique, Cálamo, Cinnamon Sedge, Flagroot, Gladdon, Grass-Leaf Sweetflag, Grass Myrtle, Kalmus, Myrtle Flag, Myrtle Sedge, Sadgrantha, Sweet Cane, Sweet Cinnamon,  Sweet Grass, Sweet Myrtle, Sweet Root, Sweet Rush, Sweet Sedge, Ugragandha, Vaj, Vayambur.

Medicinal Properties of Calamus / Vasambhu

The Calamus plant has various medicinal properties, each of which individually protects the body from various infections and provides stability.

• Vacha has Thermogenic, Emetic, Aromatic, Anthelmintic properties.
• Besides, it can effectively act as a Diuretic, Carminative, Laxative.
• This Sweet Flag contains Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic, Anti-convulsant, Antipyretic, Antispasmodic traits.
• It has the ability to promote Aphrodisiac, Expectorant.
• Calamus stimulates aroma that makes the brain and nervous system rejuvenate. It also works against digestive disorders.
• As well as, it possesses chemical agents such as Expectorant, Emmenagogue.
• Acorus Calamus has the properties of Anodyne drug that soothe the pain by reducing the sensitivity of the nervous system and brain.
• The Sudorific is a chemical agent that causes sweating, this agent is present in the Vasambu herb.
• To kill the dangerous virus and bacteria in the human body Calamus has Insecticidal which is a type of pesticide.
• Furthermore, this herbal plant has Tranquilizing, Sedative, Nervine tonic, Tonic, and Lekhanya properties to provide a calming effect.

20 Health Benefits of Calamus (Sweet Flag)

The perennial herb Acorus Calamus has various amazing health benefits and medicinal values. From ancient times till today the Sweet Flag has been used in all the medical systems like Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, especially in India it is very much in use.

Calamus is one of the most popular home remedies and is used for newborns as it has no side effects. These are added as the main ingredient in most Ayurvedic medicines.

In addition, the use of Calamus was widespread in Greece during the time of Hippocrates, known as the “Father of Medical Science“.

Besides, statements made by famous Greek physicians such as Dioscorides and Theophrastus about the uses of the sweet flag are still found in classical Greek literature today.

Here are some of the benefits of such a popular herb:

1. Helps in Clarity of Voice

Sluggishness in the nerves of the tongue can lead to slurred speech or poor voice. Although this is a temporary problem, marketers, administrators, educators, researchers, and other professionals need good voice resources so they expect immediate relief.

In such a situation, Calamus gives the best relief and soothes the throat. Indians usually grind a well-dried Calamus tuber with a few drops of water and rub it on the child’s tongue, so that the children can speak quickly and clearly.

In addition, it is used in combination with honey to improve speech and voice.

2. Treats Stomach Disorders

Sweet Flag is used to treat all stomach related ailments like abdominal pain, muscle cramps, persistent diarrhea, bloated stomach. Calamus is effective in relieving discomfort and headaches caused by digestive disorders.

The thin and long root of this plant is fried in coconut oil and then finely ground until it becomes a paste. Applying this paste on the stomach for abdominal pain caused by indigestion and digestive disorders will give relief in a short time.

In Ayurvedic medicine, Calamus is used as an excellent medicine to treat gastric ulcers, gastritis, and anorexia. Indigestion is most common in newborns and the elderly, and Vacha is recommended for both to treat this problem.

Giving children a pinch of Sweet Flag Powder in the morning and evening can easily destroy the harmful worms in their gut.

3. Effectively Cures Asthma

They fight chronic bronchitis and asthma due to the diverse medicinal properties found in calamus. This dried herb relieves respiratory ailments by efficiently treating chest decongestion and acting as a bronchodilator.

Patients with respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders can excrete contaminants in the lungs and stomach by ingesting the preparation made by Vacha, which gives a comfortable feel.

Therefore people with respiratory tract and stomach disorders are advised to drink two glasses of Calamus tea daily.

Also Read: 10 Best Herbs for Asthma

4. Stimulates Blood Circulation

The root of the Calamus plant has numerous medicinal properties that stimulate static blood flow. It is also used to soften the nerves and regulate blood flow as the oil extracted from the well-dried roots has a warming effect. Calamus is widely used to treat problems such as arthritis, rheumatism, inflammation, and pain associated with arthritis.

5. Cures Cough & Fever

Both the Licorice root and Calamus root should be boiled well in water and then filtered. Giving children this filtered water instead of tablets can easily cure fever, cough, cold, colitis, stomach ulcers, etc.

They also have a positive impact on the body. People with a dry cough and rough cough can chew calamus root well and it will soothe the throat and cure the cough. A small piece of dried calamus root treats a sore throat.

The Sweet Flag destroys germs in the airways and helps to regulate the respiratory process, thereby you can get normal respiratory function.

6. Combats Tobacco Addiction

People with tobacco chewing and smoking habits find it very challenging to avoid that habit, but with the help of Calamus root, it is much easier to forget the sense of smoking.

In addition, its juice is used to flush out the waste accumulated in the lungs due to smoking. To get rid of this unhealthy addiction put a piece of Calamus root in the mouth and chew it whenever that feeling comes.

Smoking is one of the illegal activities that can affect the airways and cause complex diseases including shortness of breath, and Vacha helps to cure these conditions. You can easily quit the tobacco habit by chewing or consuming this fragrant root.

7. Dilates Blood Vessels

The high concentration of blood vessels can have very bad effects, in such cases diluting the blood vessels will protect the body from any kind of functional disorder.

Brain blood vessel disorders can cause a transient ischemic attack, cerebral palsy, coma, cerebral palsy, etc. The Calamus plant greatly contributes to the dilution of the blood vessels in the brain, thereby greatly stimulating the blood flow to the brain.

8. Relieves Mouth Disorders

Sweet Flag is very effective in treating bad breath, mouth ulcers, gingivitis, tooth decay, and loss of enamel. Vacha is used in Ayurvedic medicine as a strong anesthetic for toothache.

They are also the best treatment for the rawness of the tongue. A small piece of well-dried calamus can be chewed well, or its extract can be rubbed on the tongue, or brushed with finely powdered calamus root powder to treat mouth-related problems.

9. Helps in Protective Skin Care

The paste made by finely grinding the roots of Calamus is used externally to treat skin-related ailments like rash, scabies, ringworm, eczema, white patches, red patches, sunburn.

The use of Sweet Flag paste kills germs that accumulated on the skin and improves the health of the skin. Calamus is widely used in paranormal medicine to treat vaginal infections and genital infections.

Besides, they are considered as a natural disinfectant as they are rich in anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-convulsant, antipyretic, and antispasmodic properties.

Calamus is used to treat severe discharge in men and to prevent genital infections in women after childbirth. The extract of Vacha and Lactose is incorporated as the main ingredient in various skincare products as this herb has a moisturizing effect on the skin.

10. Relieves Insomnia

It is highly recommended to treat insomnia as the aroma emanating from the fresh calamus root causes a calming sensation in the brain, besides, this calming effect relieves depression, stress, frustration, etc.

This anesthetic effect helps to calm both the mind and the body simultaneously and leads to quality and deep sleep.

11. Acting as Natural Sedative

Asarone oil extracted from the roots of the plant Calamus carries out activities that have neuro-pharmacological effects. Moreover, this oil has the property of a calming effect on the nerves and they also act as a natural anesthetic.

This asarone oil alleviates occasional stress by reducing certain processes that occur spontaneously, and studies have shown that these have long-lasting calming effects on mice.

12. Drastically Cures Impotency

These are very useful for both men and women as they have aphrodisiac properties that can arouse aphrodisiacs in Calamus roots. Usually, in most families, sexual intercourse is broken down for various reasons including physical ailments.

Although various medications are prescribed for these disorders, they do not provide complete satisfaction, but rather cause side effects. But Calamus improves sexual life as it produces natural effects without any side effects.

Take Piper Longum, Acorus Calamus, Saussurea Lappa, Datura Seeds, and Withania Somnifera in equal proportions and grind well without adding water. Grind to a fine powder and sift through a sieve.

Take 10 g of this mixture and mix it with ghee or milk and apply it on the male genitals for 21 to 41 days. You can get the best result in the end.

13. Used for Hair-Related Problems

Calamus root extract is used to treat hair and scalp related problems such as hair loss, rough hair, dull hair, gray hair, thin hair, baldness. This is why this juice is an important ingredient in various hair care products.

Take a teaspoon of Calamus root powder and mix it with 2 teaspoons of cold coconut milk to make a paste. Apply this paste on areas with heavy hair loss, leave it to dry for 25 to 30 minutes, and then wash it off. Doing this procedure once a week can solve the problem of hair loss.

14. Prevent Virus/Bacterial Infections

Calamus root has high antiseptic properties, so using it internally or externally can effectively prevent infections in the body. Furthermore, the antibiotic nature of these does not allow any harmful biological growth in the body.

15. Improve the Quality of Memory

Various human studies have shown that the firm root of the calamus plant improves the quality of memory. Memory loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, aging, brain injury, and cerebral hemorrhage.

Calamus root is recommended in important medical practices including Ayurveda to improve memory. Mix a pinch of calamus root powder, 1 cup milk, and 1/2 teaspoon honey well.

If you take this mixture regularly in the morning and evening for a month, your memory, wisdom, and intelligence will gradually improve.

16. Enhance Appetite

Current research shows that Calamus root has appetite-enhancing properties. The drug, which is made by combining both maitake mushroom and Calamus root, helps to cure anorexia. The root of this perennial plant helps to increase appetite and also helps to reduce some of the problems by controlling the acidity that develops in the gut.

17. Aids in Treating Sinus Congestion

The roots of this plant are recommended for the treatment of sinus congestion (formation of mucus contents in the airbags), sinus cold, and sinus headaches. The powder of Calamus root causes sneezing when applied to the nose, thereby expelling all the dust in the trachea and cleansing it.

18. Gives Respiratory Reliefs

Respiratory disorders such as sinusitis and bronchitis can have a major impact on a person’s normal life, and these disorders can occur naturally or as a side effect of certain other diseases in the body.

Most people are highly advised to use Calamus root for respiratory issues. Inhaling the aroma of calamus root clears toxins in the airways also cleanses the circulatory and respiratory systems.

19. Treats Arthritis & Epilepsy

Finely grind the dried root of Calamus to become a paste and then heat it slightly. Applying this warm paste on the painful areas reduces pain and cramping. This paste is especially used to treat arthritis, joint pain, and inflammation caused by blood clots.

Calamus has been used extensively in paranormal medicine to treat mental disorders and epilepsy. Take equal amounts of dried calamus root, haritaki, asafetida, long pepper, black pepper, and ginger and grind it into a good paste and use it as a medicine for epilepsy.

20. Acts as the Best Antidote

The spontaneous processes of the body can be affected due to various adverse effects. To regulate these processes, you can utilize the root of Calamus because it acts as the best Antidote. Some animal and test-tube study evidence that using this alternative can neutralize the side effects of all psychedelics.

How To Utilize Calamus Both Internally & Externally

Consume Vasambu (Calamus) Internally

• Mix about 5 g of Vasambu Powder in about 100 ml of water and boil it for a few minutes. Once the water is heated, the contents should be filtered and taken separately. Drink this water before breakfast and after dinner.
• Mix the Calamus paste with honey and give to the baby. It is an effective remedy for loose motions.
• The Calamus root beads are tied like a bangle that is used for babies. It cures indigestion and vomiting problems when the babies smell the roots. Moreover, the smell of the Vasambu helps the babies to speak earlier and cures speechless problems.

Apply Vasambu (Calamus) Externally

• Mix the Calamus powder with turmeric powder and apply them to your face that cures pimple problems.
• Vasambu is used in the treatment of dandruff in Ayurvedic.
• Burn the Vasambu until it turns to black in color, then swipe it in water, and make a paste-like consistency of kajal. Apply this as binding on cheeks, foreheads, and feet. Applying this paste on the baby’s navel relieves stomach problems.

Fennel seeds or Saunf is one of the irreplaceable ingredients in Indian Kitchens, due to its rich aromatic flavor it is widely used in Indian and Mediterranean dishes throughout the world. You can feel the sweet as well as woody taste while consuming internally, Fennel seeds are used for medicinal purposes too.

It treats indigestion, colic, diarrhea, and respiratory diseases. Chewing fennel seeds after a heavy meals aids in digestion and avoids gas formation in the stomach.

If used as a mouth freshener the toothache and gum problems will be 100% cured.

About Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds are obtained from the fennel plant that is an evergreen flowering plant. It belongs to the Foeniculum Vulgare that is the similar to caraway, dill cumin, carrot, and parsley family.

This plant contains feathery leaves with white and green color, and it has yellow flowers. Fennel is an indigenous plant that is found in Mediterranean places and cultivated throughout the world near riverbank and coastal areas.

India is the largest producer and exporter of Fennel seeds. The distinct flavor of the fennel seed is the reason for the effectiveness of the powerful essential oils.

Types of Fennel

There are two types of Fennel, one is used as a herb that is Foeniculum Vulgare, and the another one is a swollen bulb-like stem that is Florence fennel used as a vegetable. The herb fennel grows 3 to 5 feet tall that has same apperance like dill with fine-textured foliage.

Common Names of Fennel Seeds

Botanical Name     : Foeniculum Vulgare
English Name         : Fennel Seeds
Tamil Name            : Perunjeeragam
Malayalam Name  : Perunjeeragam
Telugu Name         : Sompu
Hindi Name            : Saumph
Bengali Name        : Mauri

Ayurvedic Uses of Fennel

Ayurvedic medicines strongly recommend fennel seeds due to their powerful medicinal values and value in pacifying Pitta, Vata, and Kapha doshas.

It contains a cooling effect in your body and has sweet, bitter, and astringent-like taste. According to Ayurveda, cooking reduces the effects of nutrients, so it is important to get a complete benefit of fennel.

Fennel seeds are a powerful detoxifier, and it eliminates toxins (ama) from your body. Fennel seeds are mainly used in Ayurvedic medicines to cure digestive problems.

The secretolytic properties of fennel help in treating respiratory diseases, and its antispasmodic effects provide relief from abdominal cramps.

Fennel seeds are highly rich in vitamins and minerals as it protects the liver, stomach, kidney, heart, and uterus. According to Ayurveda, fennel seeds contain a cooling effect on your body.

During the summer, it is better to drink the water of fennel seeds to soothe your body heat. Apart from essential fennel oil, it has a carminative effect that is used in Ayurveda for massaging your body because it soothes your nerves, mental health, and improves mood.

Ayurvedic Properties of Fennel Seeds

Taste (Rasa)                                  : Sweet (Madhura), Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)

Quality (Guna)                               : Light (Laghu), Unctuous or Oily (Snigadh Or Sneha)

Potency (Virya)                             : Cold (Sheeta)

Quality after digestion (Vipaka) : Sweet (Madhura)

Effect on Dosha (Dosha Karma) : Pacifies Vata Dosha and Pitta Dosha

Medicinal Properties of Fennel Seeds

• Antispasmodic
• Appetizer
• Antiemetic
• Antioxidant
• Antibacterial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antiviral
• Antipyretic
• Antimicrobial
• Anti-flatulent
• Antithrombotic
• Antimutagenic
• Antinociceptive
• Antihyperlipidemic
• Antitumor
• Analgesic
• Aphrodisiac
• Apoptotic

• Anti-vulvodynia
• Carminative
• Digestive stimulant
• Secretolytic
• Nootropic
• Hepatoprotective
• Neuroprotective
• Memory enhancer
• Cardioprotective
• Diuretic
• Venotonic
• Mild Antihyperglycemic
• Eye tonic and eyesight promoter
• Blood circulation booster
• Galactagogue
• Spermatogenic
• Stomachic
• Ovarian stimulant

Health Benefits of Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds are mainly used to treat digestive related problems. The Secretolytic property of fennel seed helps to treat respiratory diseases.

It contains Antispasmodic that helps to relieve abdominal pain and cramps. It is more beneficial in treating problems related to intestines, stomach, brain, kidney, liver, heart, and uterus.

Fennel is able to prevent gas formation, abdominal diseases and helps in indigestion, weight loss, aging, and cancer. It enhances your strength and promotes longevity.

Improves Digestive Health

The fennel seeds contain essential volatile oil, and the goodness of oil helps to induce the secretion of enzymes and digestive juice, and it helps in the digestion process.

The fennel seeds are effective in treating many digestive problems such as heartburn, bloating, flatulence, and colic in kids. It has anethole, fenchone, and estragole which is helpful in constipation, and indigestion. Consume fennel tea regularly to maintain a healthy digestive tract.

The powerful carminative and antispasmodic effects of fennel seeds helps to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease, irritable bowel symptoms, and ulcerative colitis.

Treats Gastritis

Fennel seed is an effective remedy to treat inflammation on the stomach. The powdered form of fennel seeds is mainly used in treating gastric problems.

It changes the gastric acid secretions and calms the mucosal lining of your stomach. According to Ayurveda, it does not decrease gastric secretions, but it decreases the TIKSHNA GUNA of PITTA. Thus, it may not decrease appetite, but alternatively, it increases appetite.

For many people who have indigestion, acid reflux or GERD and gastritis problems have a loss of appetite. In these cases, it also helps to increase the appetite because of the modulation action on gastric secretions.

Take Fennel seeds with Mulethi powder, coriander seeds, and amla powder to get better results. Take all these herbs with an equal amount and mix them well. Consume one teaspoon of dosage two times per day in between the food.

Reduces Weight

Fennel is known as a ‘Marathon’ in Greek that is derived from ‘Marino,’ which means grow thin. Fennel seeds serve as a metabolic enhancer.

It increases fat metabolism and prevents the accumulation of excess fat. It helps in weight loss for individuals.

Fennel seeds work as a gastric modulator, so it balances the secretion. The obesity effect is due to the effects of the metabolism and usability of fats.

It stimulates the burning of accumulated fat. The effects of fennel as a fat burner are not comparable with the many of the Ayurvedic herbs for weight loss.

Fresh Fennel for losing weight

Fresh fennel is a vegetable that contains high fiber, low calories, and low fat. A 100 gms of fresh fennel contains 30-35 calories and 3-4 gms of dietary fiber approximately.

This composition adds bulk to your food without increasing the whole over calories. When you consume fresh fennel, dietary fiber enters into your stomach, absorbs water, and becomes viscous, so it provides satiety and makes you feel full.

It decreases the overall consumption of food and the entry of calories to your system. Therefore, consume a big bowl of fennel salad before food that is the best way for weight loss.

Promotes Eye Vision

According to many studies, fennel seeds protect your vision. It helps to decrease the pressure of the eye and increases the risk of cataract and blindness. It is a rich source of vitamin A that is essential for healthy eyes.

The complication of hyperglycemia is diabetic retinopathy. Fennel contains an active compound called Anethole, which helps to regulate the level of blood glucose and decreases the risk of vision loss.

Moreover, Anethole improves the soluble lens protein and reduces the chances of starting cataracts. The powerful antioxidants present in fennel protect your eyes from the damage of free radicals, and it improves the overall vision.

Apart from this, fennel contains many healthy compounds that help to prevent the action of aldose reductase, so it protects your eyes and nerves from damage.

Potent Laxative

Fennel seeds powder acts as an effective laxative, and it is a great remedy for abdominal cramps, gastrointestinal maladies, constipation, and irritable bowel symptoms.

Fennel contains numerous dietary fiber that helps to stimulate intestinal functions by increasing the bile secretion and manages peristaltic movements. Thus, it regulates the normal functioning of the bowel.

Treats Respiratory diseases

Fennel seeds contain huge amounts of phytonutrients that help to cure the symptoms of asthma and clears the stuffed sinuses.

The expectorant properties of Fennels seeds help to treat respiratory diseases like cough, bronchitis, and nasal congestion. Inhale the fennel seeds in the steam that provides great relief from bronchitis and asthma. Besides this, chewing some fennel seeds helps to cure a sore throat.

Freshens Breath

Bad breath may embarrass you and the people around you, so chewing fennel seeds is an effective remedy to eliminate bad breath and freshens your breath. Fennel seeds increase the saliva secretion in your mouth, thus helps in killing the harmful bacteria. Fennel seeds are an effective home remedy in eliminating bad breath.

The sweet and slight licorice flavor of fennel seeds promotes saliva secretion and helps in eliminating bacteria. Apart from this, the antibacterial properties present in essential oil of fennel seeds help to fight against the microbes that cause bad breath.

Munching some fennel seeds for 10 minutes refresh your mouth immediately. Thus, fennel seeds are an effective mouth freshener.

Increases Breast Size

Fennel seeds contain effective anethole, which is an active compound that naturally acts as phytoestrogen and mimics the estrogen hormone role and improves breast development.

According to studies, Ayurveda stated that three months of treatment with fennel seeds increases the breast size. However, taking fennel seeds with an equal amount of Shatavari powder and Ashwagandha helps to promote the growth of breast with less regression.

Though, it is better to consider your doctor’s advice before starting treatment with fennel seeds for increasing breast size.

Prevents Cancer

According to many studies, it is found that the powerful antioxidant properties of fennel seeds helps to fight against free radicals and beat oxidative stress.

It protects your body from various types of cancers, including stomach, skin, and breast cancers. Besides this, the fennel seeds help to excrete the chemo modulatory effect.

Also Read: Best Herbs to Treat Cancer

Antacid Effects

Fennel seed is a natural herb that helps to neutralize the intestine acidity. The acidity may occur due to the lifestyle, food habits, and being overweight.

Chewing some fennel seeds after a meal effectively reduces heartburn and regurgitation. Therefore, fennel seed is the main ingredient in the anti-acidity formulations of Ayurveda.

Improves Lactation

The active compound anethole present in Fennel seeds excretes the properties of galactogenic that reflects the estrogen hormone function and improves the milk production in lactating mothers.

Thus, fennel seed is an effective addition to lactating food that ensures the breast milk flow for the newborns.

Protects against Osteoporosis

Fennel contains estrogenic property, so it is an anti-osteoporotic and osteoprotective herb. Estrogen plays an important role in the regeneration of bones.

The lower level of estrogen in the blood may lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis. Fennel protects the bones from fracture and strengthens them because it reflects the effect of estrogen.

Also Read: Best Herbs to Boost Estrogen

Therefore, fennel improves the overall health of bone and reduces the substances that cause bone tissue breakdown.

Controls Blood Pressure

According to many studies, chewing fennel seeds increases the nitrate content in saliva. Fennel seeds serve as a natural, effective remedy to manage blood pressure levels.

Additionally, particular amounts of potassium present in fennel seeds are part of cells, and body fluids help to control the acid-base balance, normalize the heart rate, dilate blood vessels, and manage blood pressure.

Prevents Anemia

Fennel is a powerful antioxidant agent that scavenges free radicals and protects the red cells from the attack of free radicals.

Moreover, it improves the overall health of your kidney and improves the erythropoietin formation, which is an important factor in red cell production.

Lower count of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the blood may cause anemia. Fennel seeds promote the RBCs production, so it helps to prevent anemia.

Cures Polydipsia (Excessive Thirst)

Fennel seed is more beneficial to reduce excessive thirst due to its effective properties. In Ayurveda, it is an effective remedy for excessive thirst.

To get complete relief from excessive thirst, take an equal amount of fennel seeds powder and brown sugar or rock sugar with water. Alternatively, drink 60 ml of fennel seed distillate or fennel water three times a day.

Manages Diabetes

Fennel seeds contain rich amounts of essential oil and anethole, which is an active compound that helps to maintain the blood sugar levels.

Fennel seeds are the powerhouse of vitamin C, antioxidants, beta-carotene, and essential minerals that enhance the sensitivity of insulin and keep the blood glucose level under control.

Improves Skin Health

Fennel seeds contain rich amounts of nutrients and strong antimicrobial properties that make fennel seed as an excellent natural remedy to treat skin problems. Fennels are enriched with potassium, selenium, and zinc which balances the oxygen level in the bloodstream. It is used to treat skin-related ailments such as acne, rashes, and dryness.

To get fresh and smooth skin texture, take one teaspoon of fennel seeds, and boil them. Leave it to cool and filter them. Apply this on your face many times per day, and it will improve your skin glow and revitalize your skin.

Furthermore, the powerful antioxidant properties present in fennel seeds fight against the free radicals that affect the healthy cells of your skin. It also contains an effective anti-aging properties that help to delay the premature aging of your skin and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

To get a wrinkle-free skin tone and radiant skin, make an anti-aging face mask using fennel seeds, honey, oatmeal, and gram flour.

Make a paste and apply this as a face pack, rinse it with water after 15 minutes. Repeat this once per week, and you will get a better result.

Eases PMS Symptoms

According to many studies, fennel seed is an excellent remedy to relieve menopause symptoms. Fennel seed is phytoestrogen in nature, so it is very effective in the treatment of menstrual symptoms, hot flashes, and abdominal cramps.

Treats Heat Stroke

For heat stroke, soak a handful of fennel seeds in water overnight. Filter the water in the morning, add some salt, and drink it.

Promotes Fertility

Fennel contains rich amounts of phytoestrogen that plays an important role in inducing the female reproductive system and may ease fertility. Fennel seeds tea has been used since ancient times to normalize the menstrual cycle and flow, and it improves fertility.

Purifies blood 

The compounds in the fennel seeds purify your blood by removing the toxins from your body. Prepare a fennel tea and drink it daily.

Hirsutism (Excessive Hairiness)

In hirsutism, women have male pattern hair. It occurs due to the increased level of testosterone hormone in women.

Fennel seed contains an Anethole compound that contains estrogenic activity. It prevents converting testosterone into its active form. Therefore, it weakens the testosterone action in women and also decreases hirsutism.

Natural Gripe Water

Colic is a common problem in babies that makes them cry continuously for a long time. In this case, fennel seeds can be used as a traditional remedy by our grandma to prepare a natural gripe water. Fennel gripe water helps babies in easing gassiness symptoms or colic in babies.

Nutritional Values of Fennel Seeds (Perunjeerakam)

Fennel seed is the powerhouse of effective nutrients, vitamin C, and low calories, so it helps to improve your immune system and promotes the production of collagen. It also works as a powerful antioxidant that clears the free radicals. Fennel seeds contain rich amounts of manganese that help to trigger the metabolism, activate enzymes, strengthen your bones, and maintain blood sugar. Apart from these, it contains a particular amount of magnesium, iron, potassium, calcium, and selenium that controls blood pressure, improves your skin health, and treats anemia. Fennel seeds contain more than 87 volatile compounds, including polyphenols such as chlorogenic acid, rosmarinic acid, quercetin, and apigenin. Many studies found that rich antioxidants reduce the risk of diseases such as cardiovascular, diabetes, cancer, and neurological diseases.

Nutritional Value of Fennel Seeds Per 100 Grams

NUTRIENT	VALUE
Calories	345
Total Fat	14.87 g
Carbohydrates	52.29 g
Protein	15.80 g
Sodium	88 mg
Potassium	1694 mg
Calcium	1196 mg
Iron	18.54 mg
Magnesium	385 mg
Dietary Fiber	39.8 g
Vitamin C	21 mg
Vitamin A	135 IU
Phosphorus	487 mg
Niacin	6.050 mg
Pyridoxine	0.470 mg
Riboflavin	0.353 mg
Thiamin	0.408 mg
Copper	1.067 mg
Zinc	3.70 mg

Fennel Seed Recipe

Fennel Tea

Ingredients

Crushed Fennel Seed	1-2 teaspoons
Water	2 cups
Honey	½ teaspoon

Preparation Method

• Take a pan with 2 cups of water, add fennel seeds powder and boil them for 2-5 minutes.
• Filter the tea in a cup
• Add honey or artificial sweetener in the tea to increase the taste and flavor.

Fennel Sherbet

Ingredients

Fennel Seeds	½ cup
Powdered sugar or jaggery	1 cup
Water	As per needed
Ice cube	As per needed
Lemon juice	1 teaspoon

Preparation Method 

• Soak fennel seeds in water and filter them after 3-4 hours
• Add soaked fennel in the blender and grind finely.
• Add the grind fennel seed in a pan, add water and sugar, stir them until the sugar dissolves.
• Filter them, add ice cubes and pour the sherbet into the glass.
• Add some drops of lemon juice, and the sherbet is ready.

Dosage of Fennel Seeds

Fennel Seeds Powder Dosage

Chew fennel seeds or consume the powder of fennel seeds according to the dosage mentioned in the table.

Children	50 to 100 mg per Kg body weight
Adults	3 to 6 grams (optimum dosage: 3 grams)
Pregnancy	1 to 2 grams
Geriatric (Old age)	2 to 3 grams
Maximum Possible Dosage	18 grams Per Day (in divided doses)

Consume this along with warm water 2-3 times per day after food. The maximum dosage of fennel seed powder is a common value, but you should not consume more than 9 grams per day. Some times, it can be used frequently, but it can be up to 18 grams per day.

Dosage of Fennel Tea, Fennel Seed Water & Fennel Distillate

Infants (Age: Up to 12 Months)	1 to 5 ml
Children	5 to 20 ml
Adults	20 to 60 ml
Pregnancy	10 to 20 ml
Geriatric (Old age)	10 to 20 ml
Maximum Possible Dosage	180 ml Per Day (in divided doses)

Drink this 2-3 times per day after food for digestive problems and before food for appetite problems. Basically, take this anytime without worrying about food, especially in the conditions of cramps, abdominal pain, uterine cramps, and other types of spasmodic pains.

Dosage of Fennel Oil

Infants (Age: Up to 12 Months)	Not recommended
Children (Age: up to 5 years)	Not recommended
Children (Age: above 5 years)	1 drop per 15 Kg body weight
Adults	4 to 10 drops
Pregnancy	Not recommended
Geriatric (Old age)	3 to 5 drops
Maximum Possible Dosage	20 drops Per Day (in divided doses)

Take Fennel oil along with lukewarm water for 1-2 times per day after food.

Side Effects of Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds are safe to consume in food amounts or less than 18 grams per day. Natural or crude form of fennel seeds is safer than fennel extracts or fennel oil. Fennel water, fennel tea, fennel distillate, and fennel infusion are also safe.

The natural form of fennel seed did not cause any side effects when consumed in the proper dosage. The overdosage of fennel seeds can increase the skin sensitivity for sunlight, and the increased sensitivity may increase the risk of sunburn.

Pregnancy

Generally, Fennel seeds and its traditional formulations are safe to use in the treatment of indigestion, nausea, belching, loss of appetite, vertigo, and abdominal pain during pregnancy. In such conditions, fennel seeds are very effective.

The high dose of fennel extract is not safe during pregnancy. Actually, fennel seeds improve menstruation by decreasing menstrual pain and cramps.

Consuming a higher dosage of fennel seeds may lead to emmenagogue action and stimulate bleeding. This action occurs only based on the dosage.

Lactation

Fennel seeds are mainly used for the galactagogue action. It increases the supply of breast milk and stimulates milk secretions.

It is also used for infants to treat common digestive problems and abdominal pains. Fennel seeds are safe to consume for lactating mothers. There are no side effects that occur in lactating mothers and breastfeeding babies when consuming fennel seeds.

Fennel Allergy

People who are sensitive to celery, mugwort, carrots and peach may also be allergic to fennel seeds. The common allergic symptoms of fennel are:

• Skin rashes
• Swelling of the lips, throat, and tongue
• Itching in the mouth
• Hives
• Tingling sensation in the mouth

How do I store fennel seeds?

Knowing the health benefits of fennel seeds is not enough it’s significant to have an idea about how to store it.

• To Store Fresh fennel – In case if you need to store the fresh fennel then wrap it in a nice paper bag which keeps it fresh for 2-3 days. If the sealing is perfect then there are chances of being fresh for 7-12 days, just move it to the refrigerator for prolonged use.
• To Freeze & Store Fresh fennel – This is quite simple just cover the fennel fronds and freeze
  Fennel seeds or saunf – Whenever you store fennel seeds remember to put them into a tightly sealed airtight container.
• Fennel seeds powder or Saunf powder – I’d prefer to buy fennel seeds rather than powder in case if you’ve bought the powder store it in a tightly sealed box and keep it in the fridge.

It’s good to store and use for a limited period if not the aroma or flavor will be missed while preparing culinary dishes or whatever!

Conclusion

Fennel seed is a flavorful and aromatic herb that contains numerous nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and minerals like calcium, manganese, zinc, iron, etc. Fennel seed is a powerhouse of antioxidants and volatile oils that effectively reduce inflammation, improve heart health, improve weight loss, and promote digestion. To get the goodness of this excellent herb, consume dried fennel seeds in your daily food.

Chironji is a nut commonly used in desserts because of its nutty, sweet, and salt taste. Chironji seeds or nuts are derived from the tree named Buchanania Lanzan, which has its native to Indian subcontinents, mainly Northwest India.

You can find this ingredient stacked in most of the Indian Kitchens. Chironji seeds or nuts are often used with or in the place of almonds and are extensively used for making mouthwatering sweet recipes and delicious foods in festival seasons. Both sweet and savory Indian recipes use this festive nut.

Kheer is the most delicious and loving dessert of Indian cuisine, made of milk, rice, special Indian spices like cinnamon powder and cardamom powder.

On serving, it is topped with raisins and nuts like almonds, pistachios, and another nutritious nut that we never discussed enough called Chironji.

According to traditional Ayurvedic medicine, this nut is beneficial in treating various health conditions such as mouth ulcers, headache, respiratory disorders, cough, infertility, skin rashes, and constipation.

All parts of this plant, be it nuts or seeds, fruits, oil, roots, kernels, or gum, are a host of many medicinal values and offer several health benefits. Most traditional medicine formulations have this chironji plant part.

What Is Chironji?

Chironji is a nutty seed harvested from the plant with a botanical name like Buchanania Lanzon. The plant belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, and in some places, it is also called the Almondette tree.

Chironji tree is native to India, but they widely grow in Vietnam, Thailand, Burma, Laos, and Yunnan. The tree grows naturally in the tropical regions of North, West, and Central India.

Chironji has a deciduous origin and is an evergreen tree that grows to 18 meters in height and features tomentose branches and a straight trunk. The tree is commonly found in semi-evergreen forests, lowland forests, open forests, dry forests, moist and drained deciduous forests. The tree can handle harsh weather conditions and highly grows in yellow sandy loam soils.

The plant has a rough external surface with grayish-brown color and fibrous internal surface with a reddish-brown color. The leaves are alternately arranged in the branches, broad, pinnate, and oblong.

The tree yields greenish-white small flowers followed by black drupes on fertilization. The fruits of this tree are green colored and turn to purple-black as they mature. The seeds or nuts of the plant are creamy brown, small, and have dark spots.

Scientific Classification: Chironji 

SCIENTIFIC NAME	Buchanania lanzan
KINGDOM	Plantae (Plants)
SUBKINGDOM	Tracheobionta (Vascular plants)
INFRAKINGDOM	Streptophyta (Land plants)
SUPERDIVISION	Spermatophyta (Seed plants)
DIVISION	Magnoliophyta (Flowering plants)
SUBDIVISION	Spermatophytina (spermatophytes, seed plants, phanérogames)
CLASS	Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledons)
SUBCLASS	Rosidae
SUPERORDER	Rosanae
ORDER	Sapindales
FAMILY	Anacardiaceae (Sumac family)
GENUS	Buchanania Spreng. (buchanania)
SPECIES	Buchanania latifolia Roxb. (chirauli nut)

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Plant Description

Chironji is a medium-sized evergreen tree that reaches 18 meters in height and has tomentose branches. The waterlogged areas are not suitable for this tree. These trees are currently growing in such forest conditions as an underexploited tree and giving appreciation to the tribal community.

Chironji Tree Bark

The tree bark has a thickness of 1.25 to 1.75 cm, with gray to brown outer and red to brown inner surfaces. The bark is moreover channeled and fibrous.

Chironji Tree Leaves

The tree has thick, alternate, exstipulate, and simple leaves. The petiole of the leaves is in 12 to 22 mm in length, glabrous, and stout. At the same time, lamina is 10 to 23.5 cm x 5 to 12 cm, with a round base, broad, rectangular, and lateral nerves are 10 to 20 pairs, prominent, pinnate, and intercostal reticulate.

Chironji Tree Flowers

The tree blooms greenish-white small flowers. The blooms take place between January and March. The fertile flowers are followed by ovoid reniform, drupe, with a size of 10 to 13 x 8 mm, black and oblong. The tree has a hard two valved stone that holds one seed.

Chironji Tree Fruits

Fresh fruits are green in color and turn to purplish-black once matured, which takes almost 4 to 5 months. The harvesting is done manually in April and May. The fruits are 0.4 to 0.6 cm long and 0.3 to 0.5 cm wide. They are oval-shaped and in creamy brown color, flat, compressed with dark brown color lines.

A tree yields almost 1 to 5 kgs of chironji seeds. The seeds should keep in a closed container; otherwise, it will lose its flavor and taste bitter.

Chironji Tree Seed Kernels

The kernels of chironji contain 52% oil, which substitutes olive oil and almond oil. The whole chironji kernel is used or as a replacement for almond kernels in the sweet dishes. The chironji oil is extracted from the fruits, which are called ‘char’ in India. The oil has various therapeutic benefits and is used as tonic and expectorant. Kernel oil is used as a topical application for skin diseases.

Common Names of Chironji

• Botanical Name: Buchanania lanzan
• English Name: Chironji nut, Cuddapa almond
• Tamil Name: சாரப்பருப்பு/Saraparuppu
• Malayalam Name: മൂങ്ങാപ്പേഴ്/mūṅṅāppēḻ, നുറമരം/Nuramaram
• Telugu Name: ప్రియాళువు/Priyaluvu, చార/Cara
• Kannada Name: ಚಾರೊಳಿ/Caroli, ಕೊಲೆ ಮಾವು/Kole Maavu
• Hindi Name: चिरोंजी/Chironji, चार/Char
• Marathi Name: पियाल/Piyal, चार/Char, चारोळी/Charoli
• Gujarati Name: ચારોળી/Charoli
• Punjabi Name: ਚਿਰੋੰਜੀ/Chironji
• Bengali Name: চিরঞ্জী/Chironji,
• Urdu Name: چرونجي/Chironji

Chironji is known by other English names such as Almondette tree, Broad-leaved bachanania, Buchanan’s Mango, Buchanania lanzan, Calumpang nut tree, Calumpong nut, Charoli Nut, Cheraunji nut tree, Cheronjee, Chirauli nut tree, Chirauli nut, Cuddapa almond, Hamilton’s mombin, Hermit’s tree, and Narrow-leaved buchanania.

Other names in Hindi: Achaar, Baruda, Char, Charoli, Charu, Chiraunji, Chirka, Chironji, Kath bhilawa, Payala, Payala, Peirah, Perna, Piyal, Piyar, Pra-savak, Priyal, and Priyala.

Other names in Bengali:  Chirangi, Chironji, Chowl, Sarop, and Satdhan.

Other names in Malayalam: Kalamavu, Moongapezhu, Mungapera, Mungapper, Munnapel, Mural, Muungaappeezh, Nooramaram, Nuramaram, Nuramaram, Nuruvei, Padacheru, and Priyalam.

Other names in Tamil: Charam, Korka, Morala, Mudaima, Muolaima, and Saraparuppu.

Other names in Telugu:  Cara, Charumamidi, Morichettu, Priyaluvu, Rajadanamu, Saara chettu, Sara, and Sarapappu.

Other names in Sanskrit: Akhatth, Char, Muni, Piyala, Prasavakh, Priyala, Priyalam, Rajadana, Rajanadanha, and Upavatth.

Health Benefits of Chironji Nuts

Chironji is full of fiber, mineral, proteins, vitamins, and other nutritions, and Antiflatulent, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibiotic, antibacterial, antidepressant, expectorant, astringent, digestive, antidiabetic, cooling and many other clinical properties. All these compounds and effects of chironji make it a natural medicine for various ailments.

Chironji nuts are used in the Unani and Ayurvedic medicinal system for thousands and hundreds of years. Daily consumption of Chironji seeds cures and prevents many diseases with their curative properties. Some of the health benefits of Chironji are listed below.

1. Natural Coolant

Chironji nuts are mostly used in Indian cooking during summer seasons. Because they have natural cooling properties that help cool the body in the sweltering summer seasons. The seeds or nuts reduce the body heat naturally.

According to Ayurveda, chironji seeds help treat itching sensation on the skin.

2. Digestion and Bowel Movement

Chironji seed oil contains astringent properties that help in treating indigestion and improving the bowel movements. The oil can bind the stool particles that, in turn, treat diarrhea.

The seeds have anti-flatulent and astringent properties that help remove and prevent gas formation in the alimentary canal, thereby treating flatulence, bloating, and abdominal pain.

The chironji seeds are filled with fiber that makes it an ideal natural remedy for digestive issues like constipation. The anti-acid property of seed powder hampers excessive acid formation in the stomach and treats ulcer, indigestion, and gastritis.

A few drops of chironji oil added to ORS can be consumed to cure loose stools. The roots of the plant are found to help treat stomach problems.

Diarrhea is caused due to excess toxin present in the body and other psychological factors. Excess pitta causes accumulation of dampness on the colon which leads to diarrhea. It may be due to the accumulation of a large amount of water and increased Vata ( air ) inside the body. Chironji seed oil decreases the Kapha and Vata which helps in expelling the toxins, excess air, and water from the body.

3. Improves Reproductive Health

Chironji seeds are found to be a powerful aphrodisiac that improves reproductive health. It effectively improves sexual vigor and vitality.

The seeds can be used to treat reproductive problems like loss of libido and premature ejaculation. Chironji is a traditional medicine used to treat loss of libido and fertility in men. The aphrodisiac properties of chironji help to reduce anxiety and mental stress. It also induces testosterone production that cures libido and fertility.

4. Clears Nasal Congestion

Chironji might help treat cold and nasal congestion. Chironji oil can be used to remove the mucus blocking in the nose. Add a few drops of chironji oil in hot water and inhale the steam.

5. Healthy Weight Loss

Chironji is rich in fiber and protein while low in calories, so it can make you feel full for a long time and avoid frequent eating.

When you are in a food diet, you should check that you have enough nutrients from the food. Chironji seeds are the best dietary nuts that contain a high amount of nutrients that can fulfill your diet. The seeds may promote healthy weight loss.

6. Treats Diabetes

The increased rate of diabetes patients is caused by many factors such as lack of exercise, unhealthy diet, skipping meals, and lack of manual work. According to some studies, the extract of chironji leaf contains anti-diabetic properties that can neutralize the sugar levels in the blood.

The β-pancreatic cells are responsible for producing insulin in the blood, which becomes more active when chironji seed powder or extract is consumed. It also hampers the starch breakdown into glucose that eventually reduces the glucose levels and keeps the sugar levels on check.

7. Boosts the Immune System

Chironji seeds are a source of minerals and vitamins which act against diseases and health conditions. The seeds may improve our immune system, especially in children.

The seeds of chironji have a set of antioxidants that fight microbes and protect our body from various health problems. The nut also pretended to have anti-bacterial, antifungal, and anti-viral properties that make it healthy food and treat the common cold, fever, sore throat, and other ailments.

8. Cures Rheumatic Pains

Chironji gum may better deal with a few health anomalies. For instance, chironji gum dissolved in cow milk is given to cure rheumatic pains. Chironji is an effective natural remedy for rheumatic pain.

Kapha (Earth, Water) is the main reason for Rheumatism problems which may cause laziness, stagnation of salt, uric acid, fatty, and toxic substances in the joint regions. It may lead to swelling, pain, and redness.

Applying Chironji oil will reduce Kapha dosha and its diuretic properties help in eliminating excess deposits of water, uric acid, salt, and toxins through urine. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects decrease swelling and pain.

9. Treats Respiratory Issues

Chironji seeds are potent in anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, anti-asthmatic, and expectorant properties that help manage respiratory troubles like common cold and flu. Blockage of catarrh particles in the chest and nasal passage is easily removed by inhaling steam from hot water mixed with chironji leaf extract. The leaf extract of chironji is also beneficial in asthmatic issues and bronchitis. Regular consumption of chironji seed powder improves lung health.

Kapha is the reason for the stagnation of the water in the body, toxic deposits, and the development of phlegm and mucus in the respiratory system. Usage of Chironji oil will lower the Kapha effect and cure various respiratory problems.

10. Reduces Inflammation and Heals Wounds

The seed powder consists of bioactive compounds that promote regeneration of damaged tissue, thereby improving the healing process of wounds. The leaf extract of the plant is used for dressing wounds.

The anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic properties of the bioactive compounds in the chironji nuts make it an effective remedy for arthritis pain and inflammation. The seeds work great to reduce rheumatoid arthritis, which we call Amavata in Ayurveda. The seeds can provide rapid relief from itching and burning sensations.

Chironji tree latex mixed milk is taken to get relief from inflammation and pain. Chironji oil also has anti-inflammatory properties that can offer instant relief from rashes, infections, blemishes, and scars in the skin.

11. Purifies Blood

According to Unani and Ayurvedic medicine, Chironji seeds possess anti-toxic properties that clean the blood. By purifying the blood, Chironji nuts enhance blood circulation in your body, eliminate the toxic substance, and decrease the secretion of cortisol (stress hormone). Over secretion of cortisol will give mental and stress problems. By decreasing these hormones, Chironji nuts will balance your mind and body.

12. Cure Ulcers

The anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties of the chironji leaves cope up with treating many types of ulcers like peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis, canker sores, and mouth ulcers. Traditional medicine for ulcers includes chironji. The cooling effect of the chironji soothes the mouth ulcers.

13. Enhances Fertility And Libido

Mental stress and anxiety are major factors that affect the secretion of testosterone. Chironji has an adaptogenic property that reduces stress; also has aphrodisiac properties that stimulate the production of testosterone and enhance libido and fertility. It also provides excellent stamina to men.

Consuming the drink prepared with chironji seed powder and warm milk before sleep will increase the blood circulation in the genitals organ. This increases the secretion of reproductive hormones in both males and females.

It also treats reproductive system ailments like premature ejaculation, lack of sexual interest, and impotence in men. Chironji oil is also used in the treatment of sexual and reproductive problems.

14. Postnatal Care for Mothers

Chironji plant parts are used to make traditional medicine for new mothers to improve their health after childbirth. The immune-enhancing property of the chironji is why they are given to stimulate the mothers’ immune system.

15. For Heart Health

Chironji consists of medicinal properties that extensively benefit heart health and treat various heart problems. Chironji leaves contain purgative, aphrodisiac, and expectorant properties, so the leaf extract of chironji on regular intake improves heart health. The juice extracted leaves is an excellent cardiotonic that relieves fatigue.

The chironji seed powder can improve the strength of heart muscles, reduce the cholesterol levels, and stops the formation of lipids, thereby lessening the chances of heart health ailments like heart attack, heart blacks, atherosclerosis, blood clots, etc.

16. Helps With Fatigue

Chironji is highly beneficial as a natural tonic for various health ailments and therapeutic indications. The juice from chironji leaves helps children relieve chronic tiredness and fatigue in the body.

17. Improves Cognitive Functioning

Chironji consists of brain-boosting, and adaptogenic (stress relieving) properties provide a natural solution to enhance brain functions. The bioactive compounds found in the plant prevent brain chemicals from breakdowns, thus increase the memory power, focus, concentration, and calmness in mind.

As a brain tonic and enhancer, chironji medicinal formulations are found to enhance reasoning, problem-solving, memory, and various cognitive functions. It will promote the brain health of your children. Childhood is an important stage in which human mental and cognitive functions develop properly. So, nourish your children regularly with the help of Chironji seeds.

Beauty Benefits of Chironji

Chironji seeds are a source of vitamins and minerals, so they are highly beneficial for skin health and healing skin problems. It can potentially restore the health and glow of your skin.

1. Promotes Skin Health

The nutritions in the chironji seeds with other medicinal values cope up with beautifying skin and improving skin health. For a glowing and moisturized skin, make a paste of milk and chironji seeds. Apply this face mask for 15 minutes on your face.

The seeds are a very good scrub too, they cleanse the skin and remove the dead cells, facial hair and exfoliate drifts from the skin. Skin infections like pimples and acne are also prevented and treated by using chironji seeds. For skin infections, mix the chironji seed powder with rose water and apply it on the affected areas.

Chironji seeds powder is mixed with curd and gram flour, lemon juice, and honey, or fuller’s earth and rose water to make face scrubs that cleanse the skin.

Chironji oil has been added to beauty treatments and cosmetics to offer clear, healthy, and glowing skin.

2. As a Regular Beauty Treatment

We are all running to know natural remedies for our skin to get rid of potential side effects. Consuming fruits and vegetables is the best natural that one could do for their skin health. In the same way, add nutritious foods like chironji nuts to your routine to get quick results.

Mix the chironji seed powder with milk or olive oil to make a daily face mask. Apply this mask for a few minutes and wash it off with fresh water. It removes blemishes and prevents infections.

3. Removing Aging Signs

As a nutty seed, chironji has antioxidant properties that offer spotless glowing skin. It prevents the skin from oxidative radical damages due to UVB and UVA rays, thereby reducing several aging signs like spots, wrinkles, dark circles, fine lines, etc.

The anti-inflammatory properties of chironji help reduce allergic conditions like pimples, acne, cuts, and other infections. The powdered seed kernels of chironji have an exfoliating property that removes dead skin cells, dryness, and clogged pores.

Grind the chironji seeds and orange peel into a powder. Add milk, a few drops of honey to the powder mixture, and make a paste. Apply the paste on face and scrub gently around the face in circular motions, continue for 15 minutes, do this practice on alternative days to get rid of pigmentation and wrinkles.

To treat dermatitis conditions, mix 15 grams of borax powder, 100 grams of chironji kernel powder with rose water and make a paste. Apply it on the affected areas one time a day.

Nutritional Content of Chironji

Chironji seeds are a good source of protein. It contains low calorific values and fat content, with that the seeds are a great addition to your daily food routine. It has a good amount of fiber content that helps in digestion. It has an array of nutrients such as Vitamin B1, B2, C, niacin, and minerals like iron, phosphorus, and iron.

NUTRITION	VALUE	% RDA
Water	3 grams	3%
Energy	656 calories	N/D
Protein	19 – 21.6 grams	19 – 21.6%
Fat	59 grams	59%
Fiber	3.8 grams	3.8%
Carbohydrate	12.1 grams	12.1%
MINERALS
Calcium	279 milligrams	27.9%
Iron	8.5 milligrams	8.5%
Phosphorus	528 milligrams	58.6%
VITAMINS
Vitamin C	5 milligrams	6.6%
Vitamin B1	0.69 milligrams	83%
Vitamin B2	0.53 milligrams	40%
Niacin	1.5 milligrams	9.3%

Chemical Constituents of Chironji

The Fruits and Seeds of Chironji plant contain various essential oils and bioactive compounds which are mentioned below. Because of these extensive range of constituents, chironji is highly beneficial in therapeutic, food, and cosmetic industries.

• 8-cineole
• Camphene
• Flavonoids
• Galactosides
• Myrcene

• Sabinene
• Triglycerides
• Tannins
• Y-terpinene

Chironji seed kernels hold 50 to 52% of essential oil extracted using the cold compression method. The extracted oil can potentially replace almond and olive oil in cooking. The whole kernel of chironji seeds is added to sweetmeats.

The oil extracted from chironji fruits is called ‘char’ in India with various clinical uses and acts as a tonic and an expectorant.

Parts of Chironji Tree and Its Uses

Chironji tree has a special place in traditional Ayurveda, Unani, Folk, and modern medicines. Every part of the press has its specific medicinal values and properties.

Chironji Roots

The extract derived from roots has expectorant properties that used to treat infections in blood, liver or gallbladder dysfunction, and digestive system disorders.

Chironji Leaves

The leaves have cooling, digestive, aphrodisiac, and expectorant properties and are used to treat bronchitis, cough, cold, flatulence, constipation, skin infection, and seminal weakness in the body.

The juice taken from chironji leaves is a natural remedy for digestion problems. It relieves fatigue and tiredness. The extract is used as a tonic for heart health. Dried and powdered chironji leaves are occasionally used on wounds as dressing.

Chironji Gum or Latex

The gum extracted from the chironji tree helps treat diarrhea, chest pain, and loose motions. Chironji latex mixed with milk is given to get relief from rheumatic pains.

Chironji Seeds

The chironji seed powder benefits skin health and provides strength to the body. The bark of the chironji tree contains antioxidant properties and used in various health disorder treatments.

Chironji Kernels

The seed kernels of chironji trees are powdered and topically applied on skin infections that cause itching, blemishes, and spots.

Chironji Oil

Chironji oil from seeds and kernels has various clinical values applied to glandular swellings to reduce inflammation and pain.

Ayurvedic Properties of Chironji Seeds or Nuts Chironji has below ayurvedic properties.

RASA (TASTE)	Madhura (Sweet)
GUNA (QUALITY)	Guru (Heavy)
IYALBHU (NATURE)	Snigdha (Unctuous or oily)
VIRYA (POTENCY)	Shita (Cold)
VIPAKA (TASTE AFTER DIGESTION)	Madura (Sweet)
SARA GUNA	Mobile quality
EFFECTS ON TRIDOSHAS	Calm Pitta (Fire), Vata (Air) and aggravate Kapha (Earth, Water)

With the intrinsic properties and effects on doshas, Chironji provides a positive effect on Dhatus (Body Tissues) such as,

• Asthi (Bones)
• Mamsa (Muscles)
• Rasa (Plasma)
• Rakta (Blood)
• Shukra (Reproductive Fluids)

Ayurvedic Indications of Chironji

From the day of the reveal, Chironji has been added several ayurvedic medicine formulations and indications to treat various health conditions mentioned below.

• Amahara (indigestion)
• Anulomana (breathing)
• Arsha (piles)
• Balya (muscle strength)
• Dahahara (burning sensation)
• Deepana (stomach fire)
• Hikkanigrahana (hiccups)
• Hridaya (heart problems)
• Jvara (fever)
• Kamala (jaundice)
• Kanthya (voice)

• Kantya (sore throat)
• Kasahara (cough)
• Krichra (painful micturition)
• Krimihara (intestinal worms)
• Kustha (skin disorders)
• Mehahara (urinary tract disorders)
• Onitasthapana (bleeding)
• Pachana (digestion)
• Prameha (diabetes)
• Raktadoshahara (blood purifying)

• Rochana (appetite)
• Sangrahini (diarrhea)
• Shvarnya (complexion)
• Shwasha ( breathing difficulties)
• Triptighno (pseudo-satiation)
• Trutahara (excessive thirst)
• Vamana (nausea and vomiting)
• Vamanopaga (emesis)
• Vayasthapana (aging)
• Vran Ropana (wounds)

Traditional Uses and Benefits of Chironji

Chironji Gum

Chironji gum or latex can be used for Leprosy treatment. Chironji latex or gum, root powder, and dried leaves are mixed with buttermilk and given to cure diarrhea. Chironji gum mixed with goat milk is taken as an analgesic.

In Andhra Pradesh, Chironji gum mixed with cows milk is given as a folklore medicine to reduce rheumatic pain.

Chironji Roots

Roots of Chironji consist of cooling, constipating, acrid, depurative, and astringent properties. They can be used to treat diarrhea and skin ailments. In biliousness, tree root is used as an expectorant and cures blood infections.

Chironji Fruits are used for treating coughs and asthma.

Chironji Seeds

Chironji seeds are used on Ayurveda and Unani medicine practices.

In India, ground chironji seeds mixed with turmeric powder and milk are used as a face mask to improve the glow, suppleness, and complexion of the skin.

Chironji Leaves

Leaves of the plant are used as a dressing on wounds, treating various skin diseases, and as a tonic, it improves heart health. Dried and ground chironji leaves encourage wound healing.

Decoction or juice is prepared from Chironji leaves used as a blood purifier and cures loss of libido and impotence in Unani medicine.

A paste of chironji leaves and Diospyros melanoxylon mixed in water is given two times a day to heal snake bites.

Chironji Oil

Add a few drops of Chironji oil bathing water. It helps to relax stomach lining and intestine, and improve the bowel movements.

Add two drops of Chironji oil into your vaporizer and inhale the aroma to get rid of loss of appetite.

Regular hair massage with Chironji oil will reduce gray hairs.

Culinary Uses of Chironji

• Chironji seeds can be consumed raw or cooked. With an excellent flavor, these nuts replace pistachios and almonds in sweet dishes.
• Chironji nuts are used for desserts and sweetmeats. In some parts of India, dried chironji fruits and seeds are baked to make bread.
• The chironji seeds are powdered and used as thickening agents in savory sauces, and meat curries.
• The hard shell is removed to obtain short, soft seeds that are more or less like pine nuts.
• The fruits are sweet and have a subacid flavor that can be eaten raw or after dried.
• The oil obtained from seeds is in yellow color that substitutes almond and olive oil in cooking.

How to Use Chironji Nuts

For Stomach Problems

• Mix 3 – 5 drops of Chironji oil in warm bathing water can help in relaxing the bowel, lining of the stomach, and intestines.
• Add 2 to 3 drops of oil to your vaporizer and then inhale the vapor, which aids in loss of appetite.
• Mix 4 drops of Chironji oil with 2 ml of coconut oil and then massage it over your abdomen region to improve digestion.
• Prepare a glass full of buttermilk seasoned with one teaspoon of cumin seeds and coriander leaves and drink it. It will cure all kinds of digestive disorders.

For Skin Maintenance

• Make a face pack paste by mixing crushed chironji nuts with rose water. Apply it over your face, keep it in your face until it gets dry, and then remove the face pack. It will make your face smooth and glowing.
• A face pack prepared with powdered nuts, milk, and turmeric powder is used to provide glow, complexion to the skin.
• Mix the powdered Chironji nuts, orange peel powder, and milk. Apply the paste on the face, wait until it gets dried, and then wash your face with water.
• Hives can be treated by chewing 20 grams of Chironji nut, which gives relief from itching and burning sensation on the skin surface. To get complete relief from hives, consume nuts regularly for 1 to 3 months.
• Mix 100 grams of Chironji nut powder, 15 grams of borax, and rose water. Apply it over the infected area, which is the best remedy for Atopic dermatitis or weeping eczema.

For Reproductive Problems

• Mix 20 drops of Chironji oil, three drops of Cinnamon oil, and two drops of Ylang Ylang oil; then massage it over your body which helps in increasing your sexual interest, treat premature ejaculation and impotence by increasing vigor and blood count.
• Mixing three drops of Chironji oil into your bathing water or two drops of Chironji oil and two drops of Rose oil in your diffuser will peace your mind, reduce fatigue, and treat mood swings.

For Respiratory Problems

• Add 2 to 3 drops of Chironji oil to steam and inhale the vapor and also add two drops of Chironji oil with vaporub; massage your throat, chest, and back to decrease the mucus and phlegm deposits, and give relief from chest congestion, nasal congestion, common cold, runny nose, and reddish, watery eyes.
• A blocked nose can be cured by inhaling the steam of chironji oil with water. The mucous gets removed quickly.

Anti-Depressant: Blend 10 drops of chironji oil with 10ml of coconut oil and five drops of lavender oil; then massage it over the body, which provides a positive vibe, relax your mind, and remove toxic substances in the body.

For Headache, Excess Thirst & Fainting: Boil Chironji seed powder with milk. And drank it twice a day to treat headaches, fainting, and excessive thirst.

Rheumatism: Massage knee with a mixture of 5 drops of Chironji oil, two drops of Peppermint oil, and 4 ml of sesame oil can provide significant relief from rheumatic problems.

Recipes Using Chironji

Chironji seeds or nuts are often used as topping on sweet recipes, but they can also be used in the main course. Let’s check a few delicious recipes that you can try with Chironji nuts.

Chironji Dal

Ingredients

• Chironji Seeds – 1 cup (soaked)
• Ghee – 2 tbsp
• Cumin Seeds – 1 tsp
• Cardamom – 2 to 3
• Peppercorns – 4
• Ginger – 1 tbsp (finely chopped)
• Green Chillies – 2 (slit)
• Coriander Powder – 1 tbsp
• Rock Salt – 2 tsp
• Chili Powder – 1/2 tsp
• Yogurt – 2 tbsp
• Coriander Leaves for garnishing

Preparation

• Remove the husks from the seeds by rubbing them.
• Take half of the nuts and grind them into a paste.
• Take a pan, put ghee, once the ghee is heated, add cardamoms, cumin, peppercorns, saute them for a few minutes, and add ginger.
• After the ginger is fried, add yogurt gradually, while keeping stirring to prevent scorching.
• When the oil floats on the top, add coriander powder, chili powder, salt, and green chilies, saute well.
• Now, add chironji and mix well. Add plenty of water that should above the ingredients in the pan and let everything boil.
• Once the mixture boils, turn down the flame, and cook the mixture in sim.
• Garnish the dish with coriander leaves and serve hot.

Chironji Burfi

Ingredients

• Cashew Nuts – 100 gm
• Pistachios – 100 gm
• Almonds – 100 gm
• Chironji Nuts
• Sugar – 250 gm
• Ghee – 2 tbsp

Preparation

• Soak the almonds for 6 hours and grind it to a paste.
• Finely chop the cashew and chironji nuts, and then fry them in ghee to a light brown.
• Take a wide pan, add ghee, put almond paste, and saute it until the water evaporates.
• Add pistachio and fry it until it starts spreading aroma, now add chopped cashew and chironji nuts, and a little bit of cardamom powder.
• Prepare sugar syrup with two thread consistency and cool it down, mix the dry fruits with it.
• Round the mixture and give them burfi shapes. Serve it with nuts topping and enjoy.

Chironji Butter Cookies

Ingredients

• All-purpose Flour – 1 cup
• Sugar – 1/2 cup
• Salt – 1/4 tsp
• Butter – 1/2 cup
• Cardamom Powder – 1 tsp
• Chironji Nuts – 3 tbsp
• Milk – The required amount

Preparation

• Preheat the baking oven to 350 F. Take a big bowl and mix flour, sugar, salt, and chironji.
• Add melted butter to this mixture a little bit at a time, add cardamom powder, and mix them well.
• Gradually add milk to this mix and make a soft dough. Once it is done, make small dough balls and flatten them in a disc.
• Place the disc over the baking sheet and lines over a tray. Create impressions on the disc using a fork.
• Put it in the oven for 15 minutes till the dough baked and got golden brown edges. Take off the tray and cool down.
• Serve the cookies with a cup of strong tea and enjoy it.

Chironji Dosage

The potential medicinal dosage of chironji nuts or seeds varies on people based on their physical strength, age, severity, the effect on appetite, and health conditions.

It is necessary to consult the doctor and get a prescription for an effective dose of chironji for both short and long term use.

Δ Decoction or Juice of Leaves: 20 – 80 ml per day

Δ Ground Seeds, Nuts or Kernels: 3 – 20 grams per day

Δ Chironji Gum/Latex: 500 mg – 1 gm per day

Δ Chironji Root Powder: 3 – 5 grams per day

Chironji Cautions and Side Effects

Though Chironji has many nutrition contents, medicinal properties, and bioactive compounds, it is safe only when you consume it in the correct dose advised by a doctor or an ayurvedic practitioner.

Intaking a high amount of chironji seeds or nuts will cause loss of appetite. Excessive intake or improper usage of chironji seed powder or oil without consulting a doctor will cause excessive urination and constipation.

Conclusion

Chironji is well-known because of its sweet, salty taste and nutty flavor, and also it possesses lots of health benefits. It contains potent bioactive compounds widely used in managing diabetes, common cold, cough, and it helps to treat digestive anomalies, sore throat, reduce urinary problems, improve cardiac functions, promote digestion, and inhibit skin diseases, etc.

Nayuruvi is scientifically known as Achyranthes aspera; this is an annual perennial herb with the wood base. The native of this weed is the tropical part of Asia, and it is widely grown in the tropical regions of Asia, Australia, Africa, and America. This plant is widely known for its medicinal properties, and also it is rich in protein, carbohydrates, and other components, such as tannins, flavonoids, and saponins, which helps to maintain overall health.

In India, this nayuruvi is widely used in folk medicine to treat various health problems. The other names of these herbal plants are chaff-flower, prickly chaff flower, crokars staff, crocus stuff, and devil’s horsewhip.

The leaves and roots of this plant treat many health issues. It is a traditional healer, and it is used to treat bleeding, asthma, cough, cold, piles, and other health problems.

Common Names of Nayuruvi

Botanical Name: Achyranthes aspera

Tamil Name: ஆகாடம் akatam, அபாமார்க்கம் apamarkkam, நாயுருவி nayuruvi

Malayalam Name: കടലാടി katalaati

Telugu Name: ప్రత్యక్పుష్పి pratyak-pushpi, ఉత్తరేణు uttarenu

Hindi Name: अघाड़ा aghara, चिरचिरा chirchira, धानुष्का dhanushka, दुरअभिग्रह durabhigrah, लटजीरा latjira, मधुकर madhukar, मयूर mayur, प्रत्यकपुष्पी pratyakpushpi, तरुण tarun, वशीर vashir

Kannada Name: ಉತ್ತರಾಣೀ uttaraani

Marathi Name: अघाडा aghada, अपामार्ग apamarga, खरमंजरी kharamanjari, किणी kini

Gujarati Name: આઘારો agharo

Bengali Name: Apang

Punjabi Name: Kutri, Puthakanda

Konkani Name: अघाडो aghado

Manipuri Name: খুজুম্পেৰে khujumpere

Prakrit Name: अग्घाड agghada

Sanskrit Name: अधःघण्टा adhahaghanta, आकृतिःच्छत्रा akrutihchhatra, अक्षर akshara, अपामार्ग apamarga, खरमञ्जरी kharamanjari, मयूर mayur, प्रत्यञ्च्पुष्प pratyanchapushpa, वशीर vashir

Tulu Name: ಉತ್ತರಣೆ uttarane

Urdu Name: اگهاڙا aghara, چرچرا churchura

Medicinal Properties of Nayuruvi

Antiviral Property

The methanol extract of the nayuruvi has sufficient inhibitory effects on the Epstein-Barr virus, which is the antigen-induced by the tumor promoter 12-O’Tetradecanoylphorbol–13-acetate in the cells.

The fraction of the non-polar components is a remarkable reason for the inhibitory activity. Some researches prove that the extract of this plant has the anticarcinogenic property, which helps to cure the two-stage of skin carcinogenesis. The total extract is believed to be the anti-tumor promoter in carcinogenesis.

Anti-inflammatory Property

The alcohol extract of the seeds and leaves of this nayuruvi has anti-inflammatory properties. The 50, 100, 200 mg/kg dosage of the ethanol extract of this plant is effectively used to treat chronic and acute inflammation.

Anti-arthritic Property

The water-soluble alkaloid achyranthine of this nayuruvi indicates the anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic property that is effectively fighting against the carrageenan-induced granuloma pouch, foot odema, adjuvant arthritis, and formalin-induced arthritis.

Spermicidal Property

The ethanol extract of the nayuruvi root has the post-coital antifertility property in the female albino, and it has the spermicidal property that shows the effect on the human sperms.

Some researches show the benzene extract of this plant has the abortifacient property, and also the methanolic extract of the leaves has the spermicidal property.

Anti-fertility Property

Research conducted by Bhattacharya and Prakash with the mice proves the benzene crude extract of the nayuruvi has the abortifacient property. The alcohol extract of the root bark of the nayuruvi resists the oxytocin response, but it does not resist the acetylcholine and serotonin response in the mice uterus.

Antioxidant Property

The callus and leaves extracted from the nayuruvi have antimicrobial properties. The chloroform and ethanol extract of the nayuruvi seeds has the antibiotic property that is effectively fighting against the E-coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

The alcoholic extract also has the triterpenoid saponin with the inhibitory activity to fight against the 15 Staphylococcus aureus based on the dosage. The ethanol extract of the stems and leaves of this plant will resist the 67 staphylococcus bacterial strains and bacillus subtilis.

The seeds are grown in the cattle dung heaps and have the antibacterial property that effectively fights against the bacterial strains of S.typhimurium, B.subtilis, and 68 Pseudomonas cichorii.

Research conducted by Meera in the year 1999 proves the leaves extract fights against the isolated bacterias S.citri and E.coli. The aqueous solution of the whole plant has the antibacterial property that fights against the B. typhosus, Staphylococcus aureus, 70 S.haemolyticus , 71 E.coli and S.aureus.

The comparative study of the herbal agents shows this plant can reduce the counts of microbial colonies in the air. The methanol extract of the leaves has broad-spectrum antibacterial property; it will fight against the Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, S. sanguis, S. salivarius, Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and E.coli. The phytochemical analysis shows this plant has biologically active constituents, which helps to the antimicrobial activity.

Antifungal Property

The essential oil of the nayuruvi has the antifungal property that effectively fights against the different concentrations. The ethanol extract of the nayuruvi leaves has a high quality of antifungal property that fights against the cryptococcus neoformans, candida kefyr, 16 A. flavus, and Aspergillus niger. The ethanol extract resists the growth of 17 A.terreus.

Larvicidal Property

The ethanol crude extract of the nayuruvi has a high level of larvicidal property on the tick larvae that effectively fight against the 44 Boophilus microplus. The leaf extract has the larvicidal saponins that fight against the Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti.

The ethyl acetate extract of the leaf acts against the aedas subpictus mosquito larvae. It is also used to control mosquito larvae. The essential oil of the stem and leaves of this plant has the larvicidal property that fights against the 46 Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti.

Antipyretic Property

The methanol extract of the nayuruvi leaves has an antipyretic property. Research conducted with the mice proves both seeds and leaves of this plant have the analgesic property, the acetic acid of the extract writing a good response on the hot plant method.

The seeds have the saponin A and Saponin B. The saponin is also defined as D-Glucuronic Acid, and Saponin B is defined as βD-glucopyranosyl ester82. The stem of this plant has the Hexatriacontane, Pentatrianotane, and Tritriacontane 83.

The whole plant has the ecdysterone 85. The seeds have the oleanolic acid 86. The nayuruvi has the chloroform soluble base betaine 70 and water-soluble base achyranthine.

The root of this plant has oleanolic acid, B-sitosterol 16. One study shows the root has the flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids, saponins, and terpenoids. The new cyclic acid also insulates the seeds of the nayuruvi, and the Ecdysterone insulates the root of this herb.

Health Benefits of Nayuruvi

Treats Indigestion

Nayuruvi is an excellent appetizer because of its digestive property. Consuming the leaves of the nayuruvi helps to improve the digestive system, and also it helps to reduce the ama from the body.

Boost immunity system

The deficiency of immunity power may cause a lot of health problems. The chaff flower has a lot of antioxidant properties, which helps to improve the immunity power of our body. So, you can easily avoid some fungal infections and other health issues.

Treat Diabetes

The nayuruvi has antihyperglycemic properties, which help to reduce the resistance of insulin. This antihyperglycemic property of this herbal plant is effectively fighting against the hyperglycemic formation in the body.

Consuming the extract of this plant helps to control the blood sugar level so that it is recommended to use in type 2 diabetes treatment.

Treat Kidney Stone

Regular consumption of the extract of the nayuruvi leaves effectively helps to treat kidney stones. This herbal plant has a good amount of diuretic that helps to flush out the kidney stones.

Usually, the kidney stone is defined as the mixture of calcium oxalate components, in folk medicine this nayuruvi is used to treat kidney stones.

Treat Urticaria

In Ayurveda, the paste of the nayuruvi root is used to treat skin rashes and itching. Applying the root paste on this skin helps to treat skin problems. Moreover, the properties of this plant help to balance the Kapha and Vata in the body.

Treat Wounds

The juice of the chaff-flower helps to heal the wounds of ulcers. Due to the Ropan property of this plant, you can also directly apply on the skin to heal the wounds.

Lower The Cholesterol

The chaff flower has the saponin A and Saponin B, and it is also known as D-glucuronic and βD-galactopyranosyl ester82.

These components help to reduce the LDL and triglycerides in the blood, and also, it helps to maintain a good cholesterol level. Consuming the extract of this herbal plant helps to reduce the risk of heart problems and maintain heart health.

Treat Uterine Problems

The women who are suffering from an irregular menstrual cycle, the nayuruvi, help to get regular periods. Moreover, it helps to maintain good uterine health.

The extract of this Nauru leaves also helps to reduce the irritation of menstrual disturbance. The experts recommended this herbal plant to women who have a menses problem.

Treat Constipation

The deficiency of fiber and protein causes constipation; this chaff-flower is rich in protein and fiber that helps to treat the constipation problem.

Consuming the powder of nayuruvi with honey in an empty stomach helps to treat constipation problems. The purgative quality of this herbal plant helps to loosen the stool and also it increases gut movement.

Promotes Weight Loss

In Ayurveda, consuming the powder of dried chaff-flower helps to the weight loss. Mix the chaff-flower powder in the glass of water or milk and drink it two times per day that shows benefits on weight loss.

The chaff lower has an ability to reduce the absorption of fat in the body so that it can avoid the excess formation of fat in the body. Moreover, the chemical contained in this herbal plant helps to burn the excess fat; hence you can maintain the proper structure.

Treat Toxing

The nayuruvi has a powerful diuretic agent that effectively helps to get rid of detox and excess water of the body.

Treat Asthma

The chaff flower helps to clear the respiratory tract that opens up the lungs and makes it great for asthma and bronchitis.

Consuming the paste of the chaff flower with an equal amount of garlic and black pepper is effective in treating bronchitis and asthma. Consuming 1/2 tsp of paste for 3-4 times per day also shows a good impact on treating cold, cough, and fever.

Lower Blood Pressure

The nayuruvi has a good amount of alkaloids, which helps to widen the blood vessels so that the heart can get sufficient blood flow. Due to this, the nayuruvi helps to lower the blood pressure level.

Reduce the risk of cancer

Some studies prove that nayuruvi has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to reduce the risk of cancer. The antioxidant property of this herbal plant is effectively fighting against intestinal cancer.

The chemical content of this herb helps to reduce the growth of colorectal cancer. Some researches say the root and leaves of this plant are used to treat colon and breast cancer. Moreover, the saponin is a powerful anticancer agent; this herbal plant has a huge amount of saponins.

Relieves Arthritis pain

Anti-inflammatory is one of the well-known properties of this plant. Due to this property, this nayuruvi helps to treat inflammation of arthritis and joint pain.

It is also used to treat the inflammation of internal organs and uterus. This nayuruvi is one of the herbal plants used to inflammation in folk medicines.

Treat anemia

The deficiency of iron in the blood is the main cause of anemia. The nayuruvi has a good quality of iron, which is used to treat anemia in ancient times. Consuming this herbal plant helps to increase the red blood cells, and also it helps to absorb the iron to the blood so that it effectively treats anemia.

Oral Care

The seeds of this nayuruvi is a good mouth cleaner; it can easily clean and whiten your teeth. You can use the powdered seed with the salt for mouth cleaning; it can prevent gum bleeding. The dried stem of this plant is also used as a toothbrush.

Nutrition Values of Nayuruvi

Nutritional Facts of Nayuruvi

The various nutrients contained and the value of 100 gm of Nayuruvi.

NUTRIENT	VALUE
Calories	294
Protein	20.54%
Carbohydrate	54.26%
Fat	0.903%
Vitamin B1	0.27 mg
Vitamin B2	0.28 mg
Vitamin B3	0.58 mg
Vitamin B6	0.27 mg
Vitamin B9	39 mcg
Sodium	1119.67 mg
Calcium	5385.23 mg
Magnesium	5446.0 mg
Phosphorus	1447.5 mg
Potassium	1343.6 mg
Chloride	675880.73 mg
Iron	283.05 mg
copper	8.062mg
Zinc	48.37mg
Manganese	16.12 mg
Aluminum	9.853 mg

Safety Concerns of Nayuruvi

• This Achyranthes Aspera is not suitable for pregnant women. The children and lactating mothers can use the herbal plant in a low dosage for a limited period of time.
• The high dosage of the Achyranthes Aspera may cause vomiting.
• This is not suitable for the men undergoing infertility treatment, and it is better to avoid long term usage.

Recommended Dosage Of Nayuruvi

Achyranthes aspera Juice – 5-10ml or the required level recommended by the doctor

Achyranthes aspera Oil – 2-5 or the required level recommended by the doctor

Achyranthes aspera Paste – 2-4gm or the required level recommended by the doctor

Achyranthes aspera Powder – 2-5gm or the required level recommended by the doctor

Madar belongs to the species calotropis and family Apocynaceae which is also known as a crown flower. The flowers are whitish-lavender color, waxy and are arranged in clusters. They have five petals with a crown-like structure and stamens at the center. This large shrub grows up to 4 meters in height. The leaves are oval in shape and light green in color. The stem of this shrub produces milky latex. Madar is distributed widely in India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, China, Pakistan, and Nepal.

The flowers are fragrant which are used in making floral tassels in olden culture. There are two varieties of madar seen in India: one shrub produces white flowers (Calotropis gigantea) and another produces purple (Calotropis Procera) flowers.

In Ayurveda, each and every part of the erukku has various medicinal properties. But every part of the shrub is poisonous at a particular dosage. The milky latex from the leaves and stems are poisonous and is used by the ancient people to poison the arrow. When this latex gets contact with the eyes, it may lead to blindness. But the correct usage of this plant gives powerful health benefits.

What is Calotropis Gigantea?

Generally, Calotropis gigantea, known as the crown flower or giant milkweed, is a large shrub or small tree that comes under the Asclepiadaceae or Milkweed or Ak family.

The native of this plant is continental Asia and Southeast Asia and has been introduced as an ornamental weed near villages and temples in the Pacific Islands, Australia, Central, and North-South America and Africa.

Historical Uses

The name Calotropis is a greek word which means beautiful boat keel. It is a sacred plant in India and is used to perform religious rituals for Rudra (one form of Lord Shiva). In the ancient Arabian and Vedic times, Calotropis was used to worship the sun. In Roman Jewish history, calotropis is also known as the apple of sodom. This plant is mentioned in Renaissance Europe and Egypt by Prosper Alpinus.

Archeologists have found the charcoal remains of Calotropis at archaeological sites in the Nile Valley of Upper Egypt which is related to pre-dynastic periods. In India and China, charcoal derived from Calotropis was used in gunpowder.

In some olden Cyprus civilizations, Calotropis fibers are used in making textiles. The fibers from the inner bark of the Calotropis were used in the manufacture of clothes for the princes and nobles. Fibers are also used as bow-strings in India and also for making rug, net, and sewing threads. In Hawaii and the Philippines, the flowers of Calotropis are used for decorative purposes.

Common Names of Aak ( Calotropis Gigantea)

• Botanical Name: Calotropis Gigantea
• Tamil Name: வெள்ளெருக்கு / Vellerukku
• English Name: crown flower
• Hindi Name: कैलोट्रोपिस गिगेंटिया / lalak, lalmadar, madar, mandara, moto aak
• Malayalam Name: കലോട്രോപിസ് ഗിഗാൻ‌ടിയ / belerica, belericu, bukam, dinesam, eri, ericu, erikka
• Telugu Name: కలోట్రోపిస్ గిగాంటెయా / arkamu, ekke, jilledu,mandaramu

Madar is known with names such as Giant Milkweed, Indian milkweed, Crown Flower, Giant Calotrope, Swallow-wort, Bow-string hemp, and giant rubber bush. In Tamil, it is known as erukku.

Parts used: Leaves, root, flowers, and latex.

Plant Description

The Crown flower is a fast-growing, large flowering, and attractive shrub. It can grow up to 5 meters in height. You can find this plant in disturbed areas, dry coastal areas, roadsides, watercourses, overgrazed pasture land, sunny, sheltered shores of lagoons, dry, sunny, hot environments, urban open spaces, fallow land, gullies, and floodplains. This plant grows successfully in a variety of soils but mostly prefers sandy, loamy soils. It thrives in dry sands.

Root Bark

The roots are found with a rounded head, and the remaining parts are spirally curved. These hard roots are grayish-white in color. Bark yellowish gray on the outside and yellowish-white on the inside of the bark. The upper cork portion is rough and spongy whereas the inner portion is mucilaginous and smooth. The taste of the dried bark is bitter.

Leaves

Opposite leaves are nearly rounded, narrow-pointed to obtuse at the apex, with very short petioles below the heart-shaped base; The leaf blades range in color from pale green to almost white veins. The leaves are 7 to 18 cm long, and 5 cm to 13 cm broad, and have smooth hairs that rub off. The top of the leaves are pale green, and the downside are whitish green with prominent veins. The delicate leaves are covered with ashy-gray young pubescence. Matured leaves are almost smooth or glabrous.

Flower

Inflorescence axillary cymes, numerous flowers, 5-16 cm long, fungal tube, 2-5 cm long at the base of tomentose pedicel. The flowers are regular, lilac, bisexual, or pale pink, purple or pale green with a yellow and faint scent. They are arranged laterally on the alternate sides of the nodules or in simple or rarely mixed cymose corymbs at the ends of the interpetiolar peduncles. Each cluster is surrounded by many small elongated sharp scaly cadaveric protrusions. Flower buds are ovate.

Calyx

It has five lobes that widely ovate with little fleshy teeth-like glands within the base.

Corolla

It is a pale rose-purple, gamopetalous and regular sub campanulate with a small tube and five wide ovate, valvate, spreading lobes, and lanceolate.

Stamens

At the coro basement, there are five stamens inserted. The filaments are fused to form a column with a large tolerance, provided with five transparent radiation coronal appendages that are perfectly compatible but slightly shorter than the column.

The appendages are succulent, pale purple or yellowish-white, abbreviated laterally, with a reversible hollow corsal spur and compressed at the base. The anther is narrow, broad, and somewhat horny, with broad triangular membrane anther tips that are curved at the sides of the stigma hoods. Flowering usually takes place from March to October.

Fruits

Fertile flowers are fluffy, ellipsoid pairs, curved, 5-10 cm long, and 2.5-5 cm in diameter containing many seeds. They have split ovate, flattened seeds, about 0.6 cm long and 0.4 cm wide, thin hairs at one end, 2-4 cm long, which are scattered by the wind.

Medicinal Properties

• Anti-fungal
• Anti-diabetic
• Anti-carcinogenic
• Expectorant
• Aphrodisiac
• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-coagulant
• Antidysenteric
• Antisyphilitic
• Anti-rheumatic

Ayurvedic Properties of Giant Milkweed

Taste (Rasa) : Bitter (Tikta) and Pungent (Katu)
Qualities (Guna) : Light (Laghu), Dryness (Ruksha), and Sharp (Teekshna)
Metabolic property(Vipaka) : Pungent (Katu) after digestion
Potency (Virya) : Hot (Ushna)

All parts of erukka have hot potencies. The hot potency of giant milkweed balances Vata (air, ether) and Kapha (water, earth) dosha; while the bitter and sweet taste of the flower balances pitta (water, fire).

Giant Milkweed in Ancient Texts

Sushruta Samhita
–> Herbs that treat cough, cold, stiffness, and back pain (Arkadi)
–> Herbs inducing laxative effects (Adhobhaghara)

Charaka Samhita
–> Pain-relieving herbs (Bhedniya)
–> Herbs which induce vomiting (Vamnopaga)
–> Herbs Increasing sudation – sweating (Swedopaga)

Vaghada
–> Herbs that treat cough, cold, stiffness, and back pain (Arkadi)

Chemicals Found in Calotropis Gigantea

• Amarin
• Cyanidin-3-Rhamnoglucoside
• Procesterol
• B-sitosterol
• Calactin
• Catoxin
• Calotropagenin
• Calotropin
• Cardenolides
• Flavonoids
• Nonprotein amino acid
• Proceroside
• Procerageni
• Pregnanes
• Terpene

Health Benefits of Calotropis Gigantea

Calotropis has a particular chemical substance that might help in thinning of mucous. It will help you to cough and remove mucus easily from your body. In some animal studies, Aak has helped to treat pain, inflammation, bacteria, fever, and ulcers caused by alcohol. It also acts like aspirin and indomethacin.

Aak is an effective medicine that is used for digestive disorders including diarrhea, constipation, and stomach ulcers. It treats toothache, cramps, and joint pain. Some people use Aak to treat syphilis, boils, inflammation, muscular spasm, epilepsy, hysteria, warts, leprosy, gout, snakebites, and cancer. It is also used as an inhalation therapy, that is, aak bark smoke is inhaled to get relief from coughs, asthma, and to cause sweating. It cures parasitic infections including elephantiasis and worms.

Treat Diabetes

The Calatropis contains anti-diabetic properties that can be identified as having a good influence on Diabetes. It has specific properties that increase insulin sensitivity and simultaneously stimulate insulin production. Calotropis has anti-diabetic agents that are good for diabetics patients.

The leaves and flowers of Aak have certain anti-diabetic agents that improve the sensitivity of Insulin and trigger the secretion of Insulin. An experiment done in rats had found that the leaves and flowers were effective in reducing serum glucose. Their extracts in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats had decreased the blood sugar levels.

How to use Aak Leaves for Diabetics:

Place the rough side of leaves to your sole and then wear socks. Let the leaves remain there for the whole day, remove them before sleep and wash your feet. Doing it continuously for a few days will reduce the blood glucose level.

Good Anti-inflammatory Nature

Inflammation occurs due to the release of chemicals in response to the immunity system (WBC). These chemicals enter into the blood or tissue to secure the body from invaders or microbes. This increases the blood circulation in the infected areas. Inflammation causes redness, pain, swelling, and heat. In worst cases, it may lead to loss of function. Erukku aids in the treatment of inflammatory diseases namely gout and rheumatism.

How to use:
Lightly heat the crushed leaves of madar and apply it over the painful joints to get quick relief.

Rid Blemishes of the Skin

You can apply turmeric bark on the skin of the face to remove discoloration and blemishes. You can add appropriate churna and cure vitiligo. Too much oil secretion by the sebaceous glands leads to blemishes. Oils in the face easily attract toxic substances such as dirt and car exhaust from the environment. It causes spots, tan, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and marks on the skin surface and causes blemishes. Clogged pores also cause blemishes.

How to Use:
Mix the latex of aak with turmeric and apply it on the face to get rid of discoloration and blemishes. You can also add a suitable herbal powder mixture to treat vitiligo.

Treat Ear Pain

An ear infection may be due to bacteria, viruses, or fluid (otitis media) in the ears. The tubes in the middle ear can be blocked due to cold, allergies, or a sinus infection that leads to ear pain.  Wearing tight headwear, poorly fitted headphones, sleeping on a hard surface, and grinding teeth also cause pain in the ears.

To get rid of pain from the ear, use giant milkweed leaves. Clean the leaves with water, dry it, and then extract the juice from it. Mix the juice and sesame oil in equal ratio(1 tablespoon), and then add cinnamon, asafoetida, calamus, and garlic (1/4 teaspoon each). Strain the mixture and store it in a cool place and use it as an ear drops. Deafness can be cured by preparing the juice from a yellow leaf and pouring it into the ear drops by drops.

Helps Bowel Movement & Cures Diarrhea

Intaking and excreting food is the main process of human life. Aak flowers are the great herbs for the digestion process and it increases appetite. It also aids in treating other digestive problems such as excessive gas and bloating. Use the Erukku plant to cure prolonged diarrhea. It settles the stomach and increases the digestive process. It also cures constipation problems.

Improve the Speed of Healing and Cure for Boils

The latex of the giant milkweed has healing properties that are used to treat wounds and boils. A boil is a painful, pus-filled bump that is formed on the skin surface due to bacterial infection. Boils are reddish and sometimes cause irritation.

How to use:
Calotropis aids in improving the healing process of the wounds on the skin. Mix the latex of the Calotropis Gigantea tree with turmeric and apply it over the affected skin surface.

Hypoglycemic Effect

Crown flower leaves find an application to control high blood sugar.

Excellent Vermifuge and Used in Vomit Therapy

Worm infestation may cause sickness because the worm may eat the nutrients from the undigested food. This worm infection lead to weight loss, stomach pain, irritation, itching around the anal, and blood in stools. Worms widely affect the intestine and rarely enter into the blood or liver. The flowers and leaves of aak are used in curing worm infestations.

Vomit therapy triggers vomit and it is used in case of consuming poisonous substances. Vomit therapy eliminates the poison from the body. The Latex of the aak leaves can lead to vomiting and purgation. Therefore, it is used in purgation and vomiting therapy.

Cure foot blister

The latex of the aak tree is used to cure foot blisters. Blisters are like a bubble that is filled with a fluid such as serum, blood, or pus. Just apply the latex over the infected area to get instant relief from the foot blister.

Use as an Abortifacient

The milk excretion of the crown flower plant is an abortifacient. Therefore, women who want to abort their baby will use latex products.

Spasmogenic Property

It comes with a spasmogenic effect. Therefore, it finds application in the treatment of various diseases.

Good Antifungal Property

Sodom can be used to treat diseases such as candida using plant products. If you take too much, the medicine will prove poisonous, so be careful.

Act as Antidote for Snake Poison

Calotropis gigantea was used by ancient people to treat the effects of snakebite. They chewed the Calotropis Gigantea leaves and applied the Calotropis latex over the snake-bitten area. Calotropis has hydroalcoholic extract which neutralizes the activity of snake venom.

Treats Toothache and Has Spasmogenic Property

Get immediate relief from toothache by applying the latex of Calotropis gigantea on the gums and tooth. It also has a Spasmogenic effect which induces spasm. Therefore, it is used in the treatment of many diseases.

Treat Skin Diseases

Calotropis gigantea has an excellent antifungal property which cures diseases such as candida and ringworm.

12 Natural Remedies of Calotropis(எருக்கு)

Calotropis Gigantea can give many health benefits and cure several diseases such as cholera, digestion, stomach pain, etc.

Cholera

Cholera gets spread through contaminated water which leads to severe dehydration and diarrhea. The dried bark of the aak plant helps in the treatment of cholera. Powder the dried bark of aak and mix it with the pepper powder and ginger juice. Make a pea-sized tablet and have it for every two hours with mint juice.

Half an hour later, give a pill to a cholera patient twice a day. It helps to cure cholera slowly. Take 10 g of Calotropis bud, 6 g of red chili, and 3 g of poppy seeds. Have it every day, which will help in the last stage of cholera.

Digestion

For digestion, take 12 g of aak, 12 g of black pepper, 6 g of borax (Suhaka), 6 g of Naushadar, 10 g of rock salt, and flower laung (crown).

Smash all the ingredients and add the ginger juice in it. Take this pill one day at a time to treat diarrhea, indigestion, abdominal pain, etc.

Stomach Pain

Take Naushadar, Clove, Saunth (Dried Ginger), Magha, black pepper, rock salt, black salt, sea salt, and carom seeds (ajwain),(each one is 5 gm ) take 50 gm madar flower.

Take 10 grams of fennel seeds and grind all of these ingredients and make pea size tablets. Give this tablet for abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence patients.

Paralysis

To cure paralysis, take 1 kg of sesame oil and heat it. Take 100 Calotropis leaves and boil the oil. Extract the burnt leaves. Then preserve the remaining oil. Apply this oil directly lightly hot on the affected area. Give some mild massage to the affected area. Wait for the result. It gives a better feel.

Scorpion Bite

If scorpion bites, take 20 gms of milk, five gms of Naushadar, 2.5 gms of lime powder, and 30 gms of glycerin. Mix all these ingredients and make an ointment using it. Applying this ointment over the scorpion bitten area will give relief from the pain.

Wounds

Take 10 g dried skin of the root of oak, 30 g of rall, 40 g of Katha. Grind all these ingredients. If this powder is sprayed on any kind of wounds, it will heal the injuries immediately.

Pneumonia

As per your requirement, take barahan Singha bhasm. Soak this bhasm in the milk in a clay pot and place it in the fireplace where the potter makes the clay pot.

Let it cool and open, and reheat if the mixture does not turn white. Then make a powder and store it the bottle. When pneumonia, chest pains and muscle cramps occur, you can take this bhasm by mixing honey one or two times.

Hemorrhoids

Mix well 300 g of sugar with 100 g of the purified flower of Calotropis. Place it in a container and allow it to dry. When the mixture is ready, consume 1 -2 grams of this gulkand to cure kaba dosha, cough, epilepsy, cold, asthma, arthritis or joint pain, and hemorrhoids.

Asthma

To treat asthma, use four goats and graze on the leaves of Calotropis. First, graze the leaves of an oak on a goat for up to 20 days; after 20 days, take the milk of this goat for ten days and move the goat.
Now continue this process with three goats and take the milk of those goats for up to 40 days. It can cure the asthma problem.

Note: You should be aware when grazing goat leaves. A goat should graze oak leaves for twenty days, and goat milk should be used only by one patient for ten days. If the leaves of a goat graze lasts for 40–50 days then its milk changes into poison.

Leucoderma, Vitiligo

For this problem, use 20 ml latex of Aak plant, mix 5 g bavchi churna and 1/2 g Hartaal churna. Apply this paste on the affected areas.

Deafness

Take the yellow leaf of the plant and heat it. To get the juice, squeeze the leaf. Add a few drops in the ears.
It also cures skin diseases, ringworm, fungal infections, poisonous insect bites, ulcers, tumors.

Female infertility

Take the dried roots in the shade of the white floral pattern. Pull it out to get a fine powder. Consume this powder in a dose of 1-2 g with a glass of kaddukta.

Traditional Uses and Benefits of Crown Flower (Calotropis Gigantea)

Scientifically proven that this plant has insecticidal and antifungal properties.

The crown flower is used as a treatment for common ailments such as fever, cough and cold, eczema, rheumatism, nausea, and diarrhea in traditional medicine.

You can also use its Latex to treat boils, pimples, body pains, and sprains.

Milk sap (latex) tumors have cardiac properties similar to digitalis when hot (from various digitalis spp).

It is one of the best natural remedies for leprosy, dysentery, asthma, elephantiasis, epilepsy, and many other complaints.

To treat cold, mix with salt, and consume orally. It can cure.
In Nepal, people use their Latex to apply for body pains, sprains, and pimples.

To stop bleeding, you can use milky latex externally and is used to treat various conditions including leprosy, rheumatism, ringworm, boils, scabies, stab wounds, burns, cuts, ulcers and wounds.

To treat caries and toothaches, you can apply it to the gums and teeth.

Its bark is used as a medicine to treat neurodermatitis and syphilis. For diarrhea, elephantiasis, leprosy, and dysentery, consume its bark as a powder.

The stem bark is used to induce Diabetes and expectoration and diarrhea, spleen complaints, seizures, lumbago, scabies, ringworm, pneumonia, and labor.

For severe heart conditions and chest colds, use an infusion of its leaves.

Consuming its leaf extract can cure intermittent fever.

For burns, sores, rheumatic pains, and headaches, smash, warm the leaves and use as a poultice on the affected areas.

To cure asthma, cold and cough, powder the flowers, and use it.

In ear treatment, the juice of young buds is dropped inside the ear.

The sap is used in the treatment and cleansing of leprosy.

Latex and bark are used to treat skin diseases and as an earthworm medicine.

The root bark has been replaced with ipecac, particularly to treat diarrhea; It is also used to treat skin diseases.

In China, the genus bark is used as a medicine to treat neurodermatitis and syphilis, and the leaves are used as poultry.

Take the young fruits and boil them with water. Make them in a paste consistency and rub over the body to eliminate blood clots.

Latex is used to induce vomit and purgation. Moreover, it gives relief from flatulence, abdominal distension, and bloating.

It is efficiently treating ascites, which can lead to large abdominal distention due to fluid accumulation in the abdomen.

It increases appetite, thus eliminating hunger and not caring about food intake.

It works well for the respiratory system and helps in diseases like the common cold, cough, asthma, and other similar respiratory problems.

Take some leaves and boil them with water. To get rid of stomach pains, headaches, and sprains, used as a hot poultice. In addition, its Tincture is excellent for treating fever.

The plant’s parts are given as an aphrodisiac and anesthetic, and as it has been found to stimulate blood flow, it may help men with erectile dysfunction.

Its roots are used as a medicine for skin diseases. Moreover, the roots can cure cough, eczema, diarrhea, elephantiasis, asthma, rheumatism, and leprosy.

Its leaves can cure migraines too.

It also acts as a natural remedy for black scars on the face, boils, colds, coughs, asthma, earaches, eczema, skin rashes, inflammatory ulcers, aches, rheumatism, syphilis, leprosy, and edema.

It is also an antiseptic for skin infections, laxatives, ear drops, and an anti-fertility agent.

Various tribes of central India have used root bark and leaves as a curative agent for jaundice.

Indian practitioners use the root and leaves as bark in asthma, shortness of breath, and liver diseases and spleen, in Ayurveda.

One research found that this plant effectively treats skin, digestive, respiratory, circulatory, and neurological disorders and has been used to treat fever, elephantiasis, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Other Facts

• Candles can be made from seed floss.
• Its flowers are attractive and long-lasting.
• Floss, obtained from seeds, is used for stuffing.
• Its wood is used as fuel and made into charcoal.
• Wood is also used as a toothbrush in East Africa.
• Sometimes, wood is used for fuel, but it is substandard.
• The branches are used as chewing sticks to clean the teeth.
• The juice is used in the preparation of a yellow dye and in tanning.
• It is widely used in the manufacture of textiles, fishing nets, and bowstrings.
• Floss absorbs oil while expelling water, so it is also used to clear oil spills in the ocean.
• Its leaves are used for mulching, green manure in paddy fields, and binding in sandy soils.
• Culex gelidus and Culex tritaeniorhynchus work as vectors of Japanese encephalitis.
• Calotropis provides useful, durable fibers for ropes, rugs, fishing nets and sewing thread.
• From its wood, you can get excellent quality charcoal and can be used to make gunpowder.
• In Cambodia, people used funerals or sarcophagus to decorate the interior of the house.
• The crown is made of durable fibers called ‘Bowstring of India,’ used to make floral ropes and rugs.
• The Queen of Hawaiian loved the Liliuokalani, and they regarded them as symbols of royalty and wore them on leis.
• Mature seed pods have many floats that can be used to fit things like pillows or mixed with other fibers to create fabric.
• It is a kapok substitute that can be used as a floating aid or as padding material in life jackets as it is very water repellent.
• The fermented mixture of calotropis and salt is used to remove hair from goat skins and sheepskins for fox skin production that is much used for inexpensive bookbinding.

Ayurvedic Health Benefits of Crown Flower

Ascites: To treat Ascites, apply sodom latex to the affected areas.

Ascaris: Drink the extract of sodom leaf with honey twice a day.

Leprosy: Use the sodom plant latex on the affected area of the skin.

Leucoderma: Use sodom latex on the skin patches.

Tumor: Drink 3ml of sodom extract daily.

Abscess: Take turmeric powder and sodom latex. Mix them well and make it like a paste. Apply it on the affected parts.

Asthma: Take an equal amount of clove, black pepper, and sodom flowers. Grind them all. Add lukewarm water and mix them well. Drink this water daily.

Bronchitis: Take root bark powder of sodom. Add date palm sugar to it. Consume a pinch of it before going to bed with hot milk.

Cough: Take the powder form of sodom root bark. Include date palm sugar in it. Consume it with hot milk before going to bed. You might feel better.

Interaction

Digoxin (Lanoxin) Interacts with Calotropis

Digoxin keeps your heartbeat more energetic and healthy. Calotropis may seem to affect the heart so that consuming Calotropis with digoxin may enhance the effects of digoxin and improve side effects. If you are taking Digoxin (Lanoxin), it is good to avoid the Calotropis, and consult with your doctor before consuming it.

Stimulant Laxatives Interact with Calotropis

Calotropis can affect the heart because the heart uses potassium. Laxatives, also known as stimulant laxatives, reduce the amount of potassium in the body. Low-level potassium may lead to the side effects of calotropis.

Some of the stimulant laxatives are cascara, bisacodyl (Correctol, Dulcolax), senna (Senokot), castor oil (Purge), and others.

Lithium Interacts with Calotropis

Calotropis may have a water pill or “diuretic” -like effect. Ingestion of calotropis may reduce the amount of lithium released by the body. It improves the lithium amount in the body and causes severe side effects. If you are taking lithium, consult your doctor before using this Calotropis. You may need to change your lithium level.

Water Pills (Diuretic drugs) Interacts with Calotropis

Calotropis can affect the heart. “Water tablets” reduce the level of potassium in the body. Low-level potassium may lead to side effects and affect the heart.

Some “water pills” that can reduce potassium include chlorothiazide (Diuril), chlorthalidone (thalidone), furosemide (LASIX), hydrochlorothiazide (HCDZ, HydroDiuril, microzide) and others.

Side Effects & Safety

Calotropis is safe until consumed in low dosage when it goes for the high dose that may lead to side effects. Its chemicals can affect heart function, especially in high doses. Moreover, it may cause seizures, diarrhea, slow heart rate, vomiting, and death.

No further research is available about whether it’s safe to inhale calotropis smoke.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

• It should not be given to children.
• This plant is poisonous if eaten and used excessively.
• Latex of aak is poisonous and is used for poisoning arrows.
• All the parts of aak plant are toxic, due to some cardiac glycosides present in the aak.
• Avoid the use of aak during pregnancy and breastfeeding because it has an abortification effect.
• The plant is also known to cause allergic contact, dermatitis, and the latex causes infection in the cornea and conjunctiva.
• Dosage of different parts of this herb should be carefully modulated as over dosage and can induce severe vomiting and diarrhea in patients.