Garcinia - Health Benefits, Classification, Vernacular Names, Dosage & Ayurvedic Properties

ABSTRACT

Garcinia is a tropical plant and is native to India and Southeast Asia. It comprises more than 200 species that can be found throughout the world. One of the most common and known is Garcinia Cambogia, i.e. commonly named as malabar tamarind, and it possesses many therapeutic properties. This can be sold as a dietary supplement and is available in the form of powder or pills.

DESCRIPTION

Garcinia is a group of tropical trees and shrubs native to Asia and Africa. Its most well-known species is "Garcinia cambogia," which produces a small pumpkin-shaped fruit with a sour rind. The rind contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a chemical that has been studied for its appetite-regulating properties. This dietary supplement is marketed specifically to help people lose weight. Because of its tart flavour, the fruit is used as a condiment and food preservative in Asian cuisine.

CLASSIFICATION

• Latin Name: Garcinia cambogia
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Order: Malpighiales
• Family: Clusiaceae
• Genus: Garcinia

OTHER VERNACULAR NAMES

• Sanskrit Name: Vrikshamla, Samagnicha
• Hindi Name: Kokum, Amlaveta, Vishambila
• English Name: Kokum butter tree, Red mango, Mangosteen oil tree
• Bengali: Mahada
• Malayalam: Punampuli
• Tamil: Murgal, puli
• Kashmiri Name: Titidika
• Gujarti Name: Kokam, Birandel

SYNONYMS

Common Name	Scientific Name/Species
Kokum	Garcinia indica
Malabar tamarind	Garcinia gummi-gutta
Mangosteen	Garcinia mangostana
Yellow mangosteen	Garcinia xanthochymus

HABITAT

The habitat of the Garcinia cambogia tree grows in tropical and subtropical regions with humid climates. Garcinia cambogia is native to the Western Ghats region of India. They are found in the evergreen forests of north-eastern India and Southeast Asia. These grow best in moist, fertile, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. A fertile loam soil type is preferred that provides nutrients and allows excess water to drain. These can be grown in shade or no shade. The cambogia species can be grown in flooded or water-clogged soil.

MORPHOLOGY

• Garcinia cambogia is a medium-sized, evergreen tropical tree or shrub with distinctive leaves, flowers and fruits.
• The leaves are dark green, shiny and oppositely arranged. The leaves are elliptic, oblongolate.
• The flowers are polygamous, with cream sepals and pink petals that are borne in axillary or terminal clusters.
• The colour of the petals is red or sometimes yellow.
• The plant is dioecious, with male and female flowers borne separately on different plants.
• The fruit is so sour and is generally not eaten raw. But the dried rinds of fruit are used in food preparation.

AYURVEDIC PROPERTIES

• Rasa (taste): Amla (sour), and Madhura (sweet).
• Guna (Physical Properties): Rooksha (Dryness), guru (Heavy to digest)
• Vipaka (Post digestion effect): Amla (Sour)
• Veerya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION

Garcinia cambogia contains organic acids, amino acids, benzophenones and xanthones. The primary chemical component of Garcinia is hydroxycitric acid. This is the main ingredient, and it is thought to be responsible for the weight loss and anti-inflammatory effects.

Leaves: Garcinia contains L-leucine, which may help maintain muscle bulk while encouraging weight loss by reducing the muscle damage that occurs during a calorie-restricting diet. All of this is due to the presence of the amino acid leucine, which promotes protein synthesis and muscle development.

Fruit: Garcinol, isogarcinol, and comboginol. These bioactive compounds are found in the fruit and are primarily recognized for their antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. They have the ability to inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis.

Rind: Hydroxycitric acid. This is found in the fruit's thick outer layer. HCA is an active ingredient that has been researched for its impact on appetite and obesity. This is commonly available in markets as an appetite suppressant. This essentially prevents the conversion of citric acid to acetyl-CoA, the first step in the fatty acid synthesis.

Seeds: Neutral lipids and glycolipids. Because of their high triglyceride content, neutral lipids are primarily used for energy storage, whereas glycolipids are important for cell membrane stability and recognition.

PRACTICAL USES/BENEFITS

1. Promoting Weight Loss

Garcinia cambogia plays an important role in weight loss. It has been widely used as an anti-obesity or as a weight loss supplement since ages. This amazing benefit is due to the presence of an active compound, hydroxycitric acid. This prevents the fatty acid synthesis by blocking the synthesis of enzymes. Numerous studies have shown that HCA can reduce body weight gain, cholesterol, and triglycerides. Garcinia is also available in the market as capsules and powder. So, for those looking to lose weight, this could be the best supplement for them. Garcinia cambogia promotes fat oxidation (the breakdown of fat into energy). As a result, this may help to increase fat burning efficiency, but only when combined with regular exercise. This may reduce fat accumulation in the body, particularly around the stomach area. This can be extremely useful for preventing fat storage after meals, particularly those high in carbohydrates.

2. Cholesterol Levels Improvement

Many studies found that garcinia cambogia helps improve lipid profiles by reducing bad LDL cholesterol and increase good HDL cholesterol. This can potentially lower the levels by inhibiting an enzyme called citrate lyase. Overall, this can be beneficial for cardiovascular health, and many people can be free from heart diseases.

3. Maintains Blood Sugar Levels

Improving insulin sensitivity refers to how efficiently the body's cells respond to insulin. When it is improved, the body can process glucose from the blood into cells for energy while also preventing hyperglycemia. Diabetics can use this to help control or manage their blood sugar levels. Also, restricting or reducing hunger and food cravings might indirectly contribute to more stable blood sugar levels. overeating or consuming foods that are high in sugar and refined carbs can spike the blood sugar. It is preferable to incorporate a healthy diet alongside herbal supplements.

4. Anti-Inflammatory

Garcinia cambogia has anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of active components. For example, this may help modulate the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are proteins that cause inflammation. This works by inhibiting specific inflammatory pathways in the body and also helps to reduce overall inflammation, which may benefit conditions such as arthritis or disorders.

Parts Used

Fruit, seed, tender leaves.

Ayurvedic Product Of Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda Garcinia Capsules

Planet Ayurveda Garcinia capsules are made with the standardised fruit extract of the plant Garcinia cambogia. In Ayurveda, it is termed Vrikshamla, which balances kapha and vata doshas. It has three tastes—sour, pungent, and astringent—that support protein metabolism. These capsules are specially designed to reduce the excess fat from the belly area. And it works wonderfully with dietary precautions.

Dosage: Take 1-2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

Conclusion

Garcinia is found in tropical areas and in suitable habitats. The fruit contains many bioactive compounds and plays a vital role towards health. Garcinia cambogia comprises several health benefits, as discussed above in the article. This is the best weight loss supplement if taken by obese people. As per the ayurvedic perspective, any herbal formulation only works well for the body if you resist eating habits and modify your lifestyle and dietary conditions. Garcinia can be consumed in the form of capsules or powder as well.

Kalmegh / Creat / Andrographis paniculata - Classification, Ayurvedic Properties and Dosage

Abstract

Since the beginning of time, healing plants have served as a source of regional medication. Throughout the world, people frequently employ Andrographis paniculata, a potential therapeutic plant. The most common uses for this plant include the treatment of vital chilly, free entrails, fever from a few viral sources, jaundice, and as a liver and cardiovascular health tonic. Cytotoxic, anti-protozoan, reliving, antioxidant, immunostimulant, anti-diabetic, anti-infective, and anti-angiogenic effects of the plant's concentrate and pure mixtures have all been examined. Its effects on insecticidal and toxic actions have an impact on hepatic chemical management, hepato-renal defense, and the balance of sexual hormones. Using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), the diterpene lactone molecule andrographolide that was found in the methanolic portion of the plant A. paniculata was cleaned up. This study presents the current research on A. paniculata in terms of restorative use, phytochemistry, pharmacological activity, harmfulness profile, and beneficial usage in order to overcome any challenges that may necessitate future discovery prospects.

Introduction

About two-thirds of the general population in several non-modern nations is thought to passionately rely on conventional specialist doctors and restorative plants to meet their specific clinical problem demands. Due to a number of issues with conventional medications, researchers are actively exploring a number of species that are focused on different plant species and their potential as potential drugs. To revive the current state of records, a complete composition of each species is required. Andrographis paniculata has been utilized for many years in Ayurvedic and Oriental medicine. The A. genus, which is part of the Acanthaceae family, has about 40 species. A selected few are well-known for being used in human medicine to treat a range of illnesses. The fragrant annual A. paniculata, sometimes called Kalmegh or King of Bitters.

Geographical Classification

Similar to peninsular India and Sri Lanka, this species is found in Southeast Asia, China, America, the West Indies, and Christmas Island. It is widely utilized because it fills effectively in a variety of soil types and has a strong restorative ability. The plant's airborne components and underground facilities have long been utilized as standard medication to treat a variety of illnesses in China, India, Thailand, and other Southeast Asian countries.

Taxonomical Classification

1. Kingdom - Plantae
2. Sub-kingdom - Tracheophytes
3. Division - Angiosperms
4. Super Division - Spermatophyta
5. Class - Dicotyledons
6. Subclass - Gamopetalae
7. Series - Bicarpellatae
8. Order - Lamiales
9. Family - Acanthaceae
10. Sub-family - Acanthoideae
11. Tribe - Justiciae
12. Subtribe - Andrographideae
13. Genus - Andrographis
14. Species - paniculata

Synonyms Of Andrographis Paniculata

• Bhunimba
• Yavakharaphala
• Yavatikta: Seeds are very bitter that's why the name is this.

Vernacular Or Regional Names

• Sanskrit : Bhunimba, Kirata
• English : King of Bitters or The Creat
• Hindi : Charayetah, Kiryat, Mahatika
• Gujarati : Kariyatu, Kiryata, Olikiriyat
• Kannada : NelaBevu
• Malayalam : Kiriyattu, Nala veppu
• Tamil : Nelavembu, Shiratkuchi
• Telugu : Nilavembu

Rasapanchaka Of The Plant

• RASA (taste) - Katu (pungent)
• GUNA (virtue) - Laghu (light), Tikshna (sharp)
• VIRYA (potency) - Ushna (hot potency)
• VIPAKA (post digestion) - Katu (pungent)
• KARMA (action) - Kapha pitta shamak

Morphology

Erect, feeble, glabrous shrubs or herbs that are 30 to 90 cm tall and have quadrangular stems Oval-lanceolate, acute, sessile or subsessible, 7.5*1.25-2 cm, narrow at both ends, leaves Flowers in axillary and terminal racemes and panicles are distant and rose-colored. The absence of bracteoles and lance-shaped bracts. linear-languid, glandular-pubescent sepals. Corolla with outer hairs; tube with minor enlargement below limb; upper lip with two teeth at apex; lower lop with three lobed grooves. Flattened filaments with hairy upper portions and bearded bases on the anthers Oblong, linear capsules with tapered ends Subquadrate, pitted-rugose seeds.

Habit

annual, erect, wild subshrub

Branchlets on the 4-gonous, branching, herbaceous, cylindrical, firm, green stem

Simple, opposite, decussate, linear-obovate, ex-stipulate, delicate, subsessile leaves with an acute apex and unicostate reticulate venation.

Panicle inflorescence with zigzag-shaped panicle branches

Complete, zygomorphic, bisexual flowers with five petals and two stamens that are exerted. The lower middle lobes are crested with purple lines and have a pink tint. The gynoecium is bicarpellary syncarpous with an axile placenta and a superior ovary.

Fruit: Capsules with a hook-like projection on the funicle of the seeds that are essentially beaked, compressed, oblong, and minutely hairy.

Chemical Constituents

The plant contains two crystalline alkaloids, including

• Kalmeghin
• Lactone
• Andrographolide
• Andrographide
• Tannin, and
• Volatile oil in small quantities

Habitat

It inhabits a range of environments, including plains, hillsides, beaches, and disturbed and cultivated regions like farms and roadside riparian zones. South India and Sri Lanka are home to native populations of A. paniculata, which may serve as the species' nexus of origin and diversity.

Cultivation

The plant thrives best in a sunny area. May and June are the months in which the seeds are planted. The seedlings are 60 cm (24 in) away from one another and 30 cm (12 in) apart.

Identification Of The Plant

In damp, shaded settings, the plant develops into an upright herb that can grow as high as 30-110 cm (12-43 in). The thin stem has a square cross section and angles when wings are present. It has a dark green hue. The blades of the lance-shaped leaves are hairless.

Relation With The Doshas

Beyond immune support, Kalmegh has other advantages. A regular body temperature is maintained by the herb's ability to lower pitta and kapha in the head and chest, as well as to cut through thick phlegm brought on by an increase in kapha. Additionally, it supports the health of the sinuses, throat, and respiratory system. You can use doses even topically to quiet an overactive pitta. Pitta imbalances brought on by high levels of pitta in the blood and stagnant pitta in the liver (ranjaka pitta) are balanced by the bitter and cooling characteristics of kalmegh, which enhance liver function and encourage bile formation. In addition to activating agni, boosting hunger, promoting a healthy digestive tract and also helps in the treatment of digestive disease, kalmegh can burn and expel ama.

Kalmegh Recommended Dose

1. 1-2 teaspoons of kalmegh juice, or as needed
2. 1–2 teaspoons of kalmegh paste, or as needed
3. 1 to 2 teaspoons of kalmegh powder, or as needed
4. Decoction of kalmegh- 20 to 40 ml

Application Of Kalmegh

• One is Kalmegh Juice - 2 teaspoons of Kalmegh juice should be taken. Combine it with 1 glass of water and consume it once daily, ideally prior to a meal.
• Kalmegh Capsule - Take one or two Kalmegh capsules, Take it with water after your two daily meals.
• Kalmegh Leaves - Take five to ten Kalmegh leaves, Use 3–4 black peppercorns to crush it, Use it to treat dysmenorrhea by taking it once a day for seven days.
• Kalmegh Kwath - Scoop out half to one teaspoon of Kalmegh powder, Include 2 cups of water and boil until only 1/2 cup remains. It's Kamlegh Kwath here, Using this Kalmegh Kwath, take 3–4 ml.
• The powder Kalmegh Churna - Take 1/4–1/2 teaspoon of the Kalmegh powder, Blend in 1–2 teaspoons of honey, Consume it once or twice daily after eating.

Home Remedies

• Malaria: Kalamegha leaf juice and maricha (piper nigrum) powder are given internally to those who suffer from the disease.
• Inflammation: Kalamegha leaves have anti-inflammatory properties and are used to treat inflammation. The leaves can be squeezed to produce extracts that can be administered internally to reduce mild inflammatory changes brought on by sports injuries. 50 to 100 leaves are needed to create the juice in order to achieve the best results.
• The leaves are mixed with haridra (curcuma longa) and administered topically when there is a skin allergy.
• A decoction made from the gathered leaves and stem bark is used to treat fever. Put two fistfuls of leaves in 200 ml of water to make a decoction. Use 100 cc twice daily, one hour before eating, for three days to see results quickly.
• Patients with diabetes mellitus are given 60-100 ml of a kwatha (decoction) produced from the entire plant when they have madhumeha.
• Liver Disorders: In the event of any form of liver disease, kalamegha leaf decoction is taken orally. 25 leaves can be used to produce a decoction in 100 ml of water. 50 ml of a decoction, given twice a day, an hour before food, for six weeks, may be used to treat liver problems.

Benefits Of Kalmegh

• Kalamegha, a bitter, febrifuge, stomachic, anthelmintic, bitter tonic, and antihistamine medicine, It is used to treat skin ailments, ascites, heart abnormalities, and allergy illnesses.
• As a cholagogue and stimulator of liver activities, kalamegha primarily affects the liver. It is a blood purifier that is administered for illnesses brought on by blood impurities. Malaria and chronic fever are treated with a mixture of maricha churna and kalmegh plant powder. The medication is administered when ill, after a fever has subsided.
• In medicine, kalamegha liquid extract is employed. Due to its bitterness, kalamegha is used in place of kiratatikta as well as being a kiratatikta adulterant.

Pharmacological Potential Of The Plant

1. Hepatoprotector

The traditional Indian medical system makes considerable use of the hepatoprotective and stimulatory properties of Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh). This plant's leaves provide an aqueous extract that has long been used to treat jaundice and a variety of liver conditions. About 26 distinct treatments, including Andrographis paniculata, are utilized in conventional Ayurveda therapy to treat liver diseases. The major ingredient in Andrographis paniculata, andrographolide, was discovered to be successful in reducing liver damage brought on by carbon tetrachloride. Additionally, andrographolide exhibits notable hepatoprotective activity against various forms of liver damage brought on by paracetamol or galactosamine, and it is more effective than the traditional antioxidant silymarin at preventing a drop in bile production brought on by paracetamol.

2. Immunological Potency

Recent studies suggested that Andrographis paniculata extract could potentially interfere with the human immunodeficiency virus's (HIV) ability to reproduce and suggested that Andrographis paniculata could be combined with current AIDS medications. The vital component of Andrographis paniculata, andrographolide, has the ability to disrupt or alter the virus's cellular signal transduction pathway, obstructing critical enzymes and viral multiplication. Two theories put Andrographis paniculata as an effective immune system activator. A nonspecific immune response, in which invaders were scavenged and killed by macrophage cells, followed the antigen-specific response, in which antibodies were produced to combat invading bacteria. Andrographis paniculata may be beneficial for a number of conditions because it triggers both reactions.

3. Anticancer Property

Several anticancer medications stop the growth of cancer cells by triggering apoptosis, necrosis, cell cycle arrest, or cell death. Others may entail immunomodulatory action, which turns on the body's own immune system to attack these cells. As they are more likely to prevent a wider spectrum of malignancies under a wide range of conditions, drugs that inhibit numerous procancer processes are of greater interest. Andrographolide has a good case for becoming a therapeutic anticancer pharmacophore because it has a twofold effect on cancer cells, acting both directly and indirectly.

4. Antimalarial Activity

There are still numerous tropical and subtropical nations where malaria is a common disease. It was discovered that Andrographis paniculata significantly reduced the growth of Plasmodium berghei, one of the parasites that spreads malaria. The reactivation of the essential antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase is thought to be the cause of andrographis' protective effects. Extracts from Andrographis paniculata efficiently kill filarials in dogs that block lymph channels and cause elephantiasis. Recent studies also noted that Andrographis paniculata has antimalarial properties that are effective against Plasmodium falciparum.

5. Cardiovascular Activity

In a rabbit model of atherosclerosis, andrographis increased nitric oxide, cyclic guanosine monophosphate, and the activity of superoxide dimutase while lowering lipid peroxide and endothelin levels. These findings pointed to the antioxidant capacity of Andrographis paniculata to preserve endothelial function, resulting in the preservation of the nitric oxide/endothelin ratio. In a different study, Andrographis paniculata was found to increase blood clotting time. As a result, pre- and post-treatment with Andrographis paniculata extract before angioplasty and after surgery significantly reduced blood vessel constriction, which decreased the risk of restenosis (the subsequent closing of blood vessels) after angioplasty procedures. The plant Andrographis paniculata has also been discovered to lessen the arterial narrowing brought on by damage to the blood vessel's inner lining and high dietary cholesterol.

6. Antivenom Activity

Mice that had been experimentally injected with rattlesnake venom showed a powerful neutralizing effect after receiving plant extracts of Andrographis paniculata and, in particular, purified fractions. In vitro testing showed that the isolated fractions were more successful at reducing rattlesnake venom toxicity than in vivo testing.

Conclusion

From the entire review, it is clear that Andrographis paniculata is a significant medicinal herb. This plant has numerous chemical components that are active and have defined pharmacological effects. The results of the studies make it clear that Andrographis paniculata has anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-angiogenesis, anti-malarial, anti-venom, and antibacterial activities. Therefore, Kalmegh / Andrographis paniculata herb has medicinal benefits in conventional medicine.

Bol Parpati - Ingredients, Method Of Preparation, Ayurvedic Properties, Health Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects

INTRODUCTION

Bol Parpati is an Ayurveda medicine containing both herbal and mineral ingredients in powder form (bhasma). It is mainly indicated for bleeding disorders. It helps to maintain a healthy menstruation cycle.

The word parpati is derived from parpata – means papad. Parpati is mainly pota bandha of parada. By this parada will attain its maximum efficiency. Also parada will loss all its impurities (parada dosha). By using the technique of parpati preparation, medicine will get digestive, carminative and bowel binding properties.

Parpatis are mainly used in pediatric cases. It is believed to cure all the children’s diseases. Bol parpati is included in sagandha parpati, as this contains gandhaka as an ingredient.

INGREDIANTS

1. Shudh Parada

Mercury (Hydrargyum, Hg) is a metallic element, liquid in room temperature and was known to the Indians for several millenniums and is considered to be a MAGIC substance. Parada which is available from nature and from the ores is having impurities. By consuming doshita Parada, we get many diseases so samanya shodana is needed. Dosha harita parada cures diseases and helps in anti aging, and then it will act as Amrita (Elixir).

Parada is purified by grinding vigorously it with lime in a mortar for 7 days then Parada is filtered through a four folded cloth. It is then macerated well with turmeric (Latin – curcuma longa), gruha dhooma (mainly consists of carbon from kitchen chimney) and ishtika choorna for 3 days. It is washed in sour solution (amla dravya like kanji). This will then undergo special purification process to attain rejuvenating property (rasayanam).

This parada is pure with both disease curing and rejuvenating property. It balances vata, pitta and kapha. This is an excellent health promoter and can destroy all diseases. They nourish the whole body and has tonic, aphrodisiac, rejuvenating, anti aging, wound healer and anti microbial effect. Parada has yogavahi guna. This yogavahi guna of Parada plays a vital role in the efficiency of bol badh ras, as this property helps the medicine to reach each and every tissue of the body very fast and thereby enhancing the therapeutic efficiency of the medicine.

2. Shudh Gandhaka

Sulphur, S obtained from different ores like copper pyrite, iron pyrite; galena etc is also purified first to remove any impurities if present. Gandhaka is melted in an iron pan with cow’s ghee. It is then filtered into milk. This process is repeated for 3 times and then washed in hot water and dried. Gandhaka thus prepared is rejuvenating. It can promote the digestive fire and also cures itching, skin diseases, infections and can remove toxins from the body. Here gandhaka acts as a catalyst.

This purified Parada and Gandhaka are grounded well in a mortar (khalwa yantra) until the shining of mercury is lost to prepare Rasa Kajjali. Kajjali is a pure black smooth powder without any luster particles. It can float on water.

3. Bola

Latin Name Commiphora myrrha is a tree of burseraceae family. On incision gum exudes from the drunk. This resinous material is known as bola. Bola is light with bitter, pungent and astringent taste and with hot potency. This drug is highly recommended in leucorrhea, arthritic conditions, and painful joints and in management of vatika rogas. It is used for gargling in cases of dental disorders and stomatities. It mainly balances kapha and pitta.

METHOD OF PREPARATION

Kajjali is heated well and when it changes into liquid form, bola choorna is added. This is pressed with help of two plates to get papad shaped parpati. This is powdered and the resultant yield is bol parpati and is black in color.

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DOSAGE

250 mg to 1 gm twice daily before and after food or as directed by physician. It should be taken along with a proper adjuvant like jaggery, honey, rose water, ashokarishta, durva swarsa (couch grass, latin – cynodon dactylon). Durva swarasa is famous for its wonderful property to arrest the bleeding.

SIZE PER UNIT

5 gms

AYURVEDIC PROPERTIES

• Rasa (Taste on Tongue) – Katu (Pungent), Kashaya (Astringent)
• Guna (Property) – Unctuous
• Veerya (Potency) – Cold
• Vipaka (Taste after Digestion) – Katu (Pungent)
• Effect On Tridoshas – Balances Pitta And Kapha

INDICATIONS

Bol parpati is mainly indicated for bleeding disorders.

• Bloody diarrhea
• Bleeding piles
• Fistula in ano
• Hematemesis (vomiting of blood)
• Hemateuria (blood in urine)
• Epistaxis (nasal bleeding)
• Menorrhagia (abnormally heavy menstruation)
• Metrorrhagia
• Dysfunctional uterine bleeding
• Uterine fibroids

It is observed that while taking bol parpati, the blood vessels get constricted to boost the coagulation process. There by reducing the bleeding. Cold potency of bol parpati accounts for this.

In bloody diarrhea, bol parpati is used in combination with other medicines.

Bola parpati along with akik pishti or kama dugdarasa or chandraka rasa is indicated in bloody diarrhea.

PATHYA AND APATHYA DURING BOL PARPATI INTAKE

Intake of sweet and astringent food is encouraged during bol parpati use. Cold potency foods are also good. Milk, ghee etc. is mainly advised. Eat more fiber and stay hydrated. Coconut water can be used. This helps to balance the electrolytes lost from the body during bleeding. Legumes should be included in the diet. Durva (cynodon dactylon) juice can be taken in the early morning.

Avoid the intake of heavy and pungent food. It is always better to avoid the food items that increase body heat like cold drinks and oily foods. Also try to avoid strong alcoholic beverages and high caffeine consumption. Limit the use of gassy foods like urud dal (black gram), masoor dal (red gram), horse gram, mustard etc. Restrict the intake of white flour.

CAUTIONS AND SIDE EFFECTS

Medicine should be taken under strict observation of your physician. Self medication may lead to have dangerous side effects.

Dosage should be corrected according to your age, strength, body constitution etc. An overdose with medicine can be fatal.

Pregnant ladies and breast feeding mothers are strictly restricted from the use of bol parpati.

Keep out of the reach and sight of children.

Vrihat Vatchintamani Ras - Ingredients, Method Of Preparation, Medicinal Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

Vrihat vatchintamani ras is a classic mineral preparation in Ayurveda, in tablet form. It is mainly used in vata vyadhis like facial palsy, paralysis. It also has anti aging and rejuvenating property.

Vrihat vatchintamani ras contains gold in its pure form. Gold is an excellent health promoter and immune booster. It can enhance the intellectual growth.

INGREDIENTS

(Ref: bhaishajya ratnavali – vatavyadhi adhikara)

1. Swarna bhasma (incinerated form of gold) – 3 parts: swarna bhasma is purified by heating it to red hot then suddenly immersing to oil or buttermilk. It is then applied with gairika paste and 7 laghu putas are given. This is again subjected to 10 laghu putas after grinding it with parada (mercury) and nimbu swarasa (lemon juice). The bhasma thus obtained is swarna bhasma and this is an excellent health and intellect promoter. It helps to increase complexion and longevity. Swarna bhasma is used in the treatment of mental disorders like depression anxiety and in respiratory disorders.
2. Roupya bhasma (incinerated form of silver) – 2 parts: roupya bhasma is purified by heating it to red hot and then immersing it to agastyapatra swarasa. This is given with 3 laghu putas after grinding together with mercury, gandhaka, haritala and nimbuswarsa. Roupya bhasma thus obtained has anti aging and aphrodisiac properties. It helps to increase potency and is rejuvenating.
3. Abhraka bhasma (incinerated form of mica) – 2 parts: to purify abhraka, red hot abhraka is immersed in cow’s milk or urine for seven times. Abhraka bhasma has digestive and carminative properties. It is rejuvenating and can enhance the semen production. Abhraka bhasma is used in the treatment of chronic fever, bleeding disorders, anemia etc.
4. Loha bhasma (incinerated form of iron) – 5 parts: loha is purified by dipping loha in triphala kwatha and gomutra. Loha bhasma consists of iron as its component. Loha bhasma is an excellent health promotes. It enhances the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin. It is used in the treatment of inflammation, pain, and anemia. It is an excellent cardiac tonic and is used in splenic disorders.
5. Praval bhasma (incinerated form of coral) – 5 parts: it is primarily processed in rose water. It is used in the treatment of eye disorders, chronic respiratory diseases, pthisis, cold, cough, bleeding disorders such as bleeding hemorrhoids, nasal bleeding, menorrhagia, etc.
6. Mukta bhasma (incinerated form of pearl) – 3 parts: it is processed in rose water. It relieves abdominal colic, gastritis, urinary calculi, splenomegaly, useful in treating cardiac diseases. Mukta pishti has wide range of application in diseases and it is a natural calcium supplement.
7. Rasa sindoora (processed mercuric sulphide) – 7 parts: it is a classic Ayurveda mineral preparation with mercury and gandhaka (sulphur) as the ingredients. It is one of the kupi pakwa kalpana. It is mainly indicated in diabetes, severe abdominal pain, fistula in ano, anemia, tuberculosis and skin diseases. It can act as carminative and digestive stimulant.
8. Kumari swarasa (aloe vera) – This is the bhavana dravya and acts as catalyst. Aloe vera juice has laxative properties and it aids in digestion. It also helps in the reduction of inflammation and pain. It promotes heart health and detoxifies the body. It controls the blood sugar levels and helps to fight cancer. It also helps in weight loss. It helps to keep the alkanity of the body. It also helps to get relief from constipation.

METHOD OF PREPARATION

All the ingredients are grounded well in kumari swarasa in mortar. Pills are made in the size of 250 mg.

Quantity Per Bottle: 20 pills.

Buy Vrihat Vatchintamani Ras

DOSAGE

125 mg to 250 mg twice a day after food with honey, ginger juice or musta swarasa or rasnadi panchaka kashaya.

It can also be taken along with ghee, dasamoola arishta, parthadi arishta, maha rasnadhi kashaya or lukewarm water. Proper adjuvant can be selected in accordance with the diseases.

AYURVEDIC PROPERTIES

• Rasa (Taste on tongue) – madhura (sweet) & kashaya (astringent)
• Varna (Color) – rakta (red)
• Guna (Property) – laghu (light)
• Veerya (Potency) – ushana (hot)
• Vipaka (Taste after digestion) – madhura (sweet)
• Karma (Action) – balya, uttejaka, medhya, hrudya
• Dodha Pprabhava (Effect on tridosha) – pacifies vata and pitta
• Vyadhi Prabhava (Effect on diseases) – apasmara, pralapa

MEDICINAL USES

• Anti aging
• Rejuvenating
• Used as catalyst & co prescription with other medicines
• Excellent health promoter
• Cardiac tonic
• Intellect promoter
• Increases semen production
• Preserves joint function
• Immune booster
• Body detoxifier
• Helps to fight against cancer

THERAPEUTIC INDICATIONS

• Irregular pulse
• Increased heart rate
• Angina pain
• Improper blood circulation due to weakness of heart muscles
• Paralysis
• Facial palsy
• Hemiplegia
• Tremors
• Psychosis
• Multiple sclerosis
• Neuropathy
• Neuralgia
• Neuritis
• Spinal cord demyelination
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Restlessness
• Migraine
• Vertigo
• Digestive disorders
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis and rheumatic pain
• Gout
• Joint pain and back pain
• Memory loss
• Weak sensations
• Epilepsy
• Cardiomegaly
• Palpitations
• Arrhythmia
• Edema in legs
• Hypertension
• Dyspnoea
• Fainting
• Hysteria
• Fever

CAUTION AND SIDE EFFECTS

Vrihat vatchintamani ras contains heavy metals. So it should be taken under strict prescription of a skilled Ayurveda doctor.

It should be taken in limited dose for limited period of time.

Self medication and over dosage can lead to serious ill effects.

Pregnant ladies and breast feeding mother should avoid the intake of Vrihat vatchintamani ras. As this medicine may have potential harm effects to the fetus.

Vrihat vatchintamani ras can have drug interactions. So you should inform your doctor about the present ailments and the medicines you are taking.

Keep in cool dry place and air tight.

Keep out of the reach and sight of the children.

While having Vrihat vatchintamani ras, if you notice any of the following symptoms

• Nausea & vomiting
• Burning sensation
• Skin rashes
• Abdominal pain and discomfort

Immediately consult your doctor.

Health Benefits of Cow Ghee (Clarified Butter)

Introduction

In Hindu religion, cow is considered as the sacred animal and addressed as gow mata. Cow is symbol of divinity on this earth as it provides us life sustaining milk and take care of people health. Milk of cow possess the essence or exuberance of all plants. Cow ghee which is prepared from the cow milk possesses the medicinal value and offers the several health benefits. Lord Krishna, is often portrayed playing his flute amongst the cow and dancing gopis (milkmaids). Lord Krishna has also stated by other names Gopala and Govinda which means "a friend and protector of cows."

Ghee or Clarified Butter is an antediluvian product which has been used in India. It is extremely nutritious and has strong healing qualities. It is free from any kind of harmful fats that can lead to cardiac disorders. An interesting fact is that healthy bodies have the capability to produce their own form of Ghee but consuming a little extra ghee is very beneficial. It causes no adverse effects in lactose intolerant patients also.

Cow ghee is full of essential nutrients, fatty acids, anti- bacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidants and anti-viral properties. It is cool in nature, tastes sweet and is full of saturated fats.

Health Benefits of Cow Ghee (Clarified Butter)

• It improves digestion as it secretes enzymes which help in easy digestion.
• Improves voice
• It is an age old remedy for glowing skin
• Boosts Immunity
• Brain Tonic
• Enhances memory
• Treats insomnia
• Promotes cardiac activity
• Enhances metabolism
• Improves appetite
• Excellent for vision
• Cures thyroid dysfunction
• Lubricates joints
• Decreases bad cholesterol
• Heals burn wounds
• It is good for male sexual health. It improves the sperm count and also strengthens sexual power.
• It is good to build up stamina and energy in body.
• It helps to metabolize and break down of the fats from stubborn fat areas of the body.
• It helps to maintain the healthy and glowing skin.
• Medicinal value of cow ghee is good to cure the thyroid dysfunction.
• Taking the 1-2 teaspoon of ghee specifically helps in the reduction of stubborn belly fat. Whereas the increased intake of ghee may increase weight.
• It is good for healthy and strong hair. Massage of cow ghee on head improves the blood circulation resolves all the hair problems like dry hair, frizzy hair and hair fall.
• Head massage with cow ghee is good to provide relief in the stress and anxiety.
• It helps in moisturizing, soothing and nourishment of the body tissues.
• It helps to improve the digestion and helps to clean the stomach as the consumption of cow ghee helps in softening of stools.
• Use of cow ghee is quite effective to completely resolve problems like brain stroke, bleeding nose, sinus headaches and migraine problems. Add 2 drops of bit warm cow ghee in the nostrils for few days and see the miraculous results.
• It is packed with the healing properties. It is used to heal wounds, cracked lips and mouth ulcers.

Cow's ghee is an amazing product which works on pacifying aggravated doshas. The three doshas in the body are Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

According to Ayurveda cow's ghee not only escalates our capacity to digest food but also enhances absorption and assimilation. It increases the quality of Sattva (peace/contentment) in the mind and also directly nourishes Ojas (our immune system) as well as Prana (our lifeforce) and all of our Dhatus (tissues).

Senna Leaves - Ayurvedic Properties & Health Benefits

Beautiful lines suit every tree, herb and shrub that has useful and beneficial properties inside their parts.

Every herb has some kind of property that helps in treating certain ailments.

One of the herb is there, if you are looking herbal remedy for constipation and other bowel problems. This herb is known as Senna herb. To know about their remedies, we have to get knowledge about the plant first.

What is senna?

Senna is a flowering plant. It belongs to the family leguminosae. Leguminosae is a family known for flowering plants that include trees, shurbs and herbs. These are recognized by their fruits, legumes and stipulate leaves.

Where senna grows?

This plant is originally found in North Africa, the Middle East and some parts of Asia.It came in India in eighteenth century. It is cultivated in Tamil Nadu, Bangalore, Kerala, Karnataka, Gujarat and Delhi.

Species used for medical purpose are

Alexandrian senna and Tinnevelly senna. Tinnevelly senna species is of India.

Cultivation of senna

Tinnevelly senna is cultivated in rich clayed semi irrigated land.It is sown during spring rain around in February. Senna grows in the sun well because it is a sun-loving plant. The harvesting time of senna plant is of 90 days from the time of sowing.

What are the natural constituent of senna plant and they show their action?

The active component of senna are two glycosides named as sennoside A and sennoside B.

Ayurvedic Properties of senna

• Rasa - Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter), Madhura (Sweet)
• Veerya (Potency) - Hot
• Guna (Qualities) - light, Dry in nature, Pungent
• Vipaka - Katu, After digestion pungent
• Prabhava (Effect) - Virechaka (mildpurgative)
• Effect on Tridosha - The herb is Pitta virechaka (removes excessive Pitta from body) and Vata anulomaka (removes excess Apaan vata through the anal route)

Mode of action

This herb work as a laxative by smoothing the muscles so that digested food moves through the intestines. It helps to enhance the stool volume and moves it out of the colon. This step is done by chain of fatty acids that promote all things like digestion, fermentation and converting the glycosides into a purgative agent.

Ayurvedic benefits of senna leaves

Due its natural ayurvedic constituents, this plant has many useful effects on body functioning and cleansing.

Treatment of Constipation:

As this plant has laxative properties, shows effect in relieving constipation.It stimulates the muscles of the colon and give a push force on fecal matter more quickly. Senna leaf acts on the intestinal walls by causing contractions which lead to bowel movements. These movements softens the stools by enabling the colon to absorb water. It effectively cures even very hard cases of constipation. The glycosides in it help transport electrolytes, causing bowel movements within 6 to 12 hours of its intake.

Colon Cleanser:

Senna leaf helps to clear the heat produced in large intestine. This helps the body to get rid of stagnant food accumulated in the stomach.

Weight Loss:

It helps in weight loss by curing constipation problem.

Antibacterial Properties:

The essential oils, tannins and other compounds present in senna plant have anti-bacterial properties.These can inhibit the growth and proliferation of microorganisms. By chewing senna leaf, mouth problems like mouth infections and gingivitiscan be cured.

It clears toxicity of body. It is useful for tumors of the abdomen ascites and enlargement of the abdomen

For Hemorrhoids:

It is helpful in treatment of hemorrhoids as it helps reduce swelling and facilitates quick healing, causes easy defecation in intestine. The non-sugar components in it increases peristaltic movements by irritating and stimulating the intestinal tract. In this way it just speeds up the passage of stools.

For Skin Infections:

The important components like resin and tannin in senna, can cure skin inflammation. The paste made from senna leaves is effective in treating skin infections like acne as well as inflammatory conditions like eczema. Acetone and ethanol present in senna can fight microorganisms that cause acne.

It also acts as an antifungal agent.

Helpful in Hair Remedies:

• It is used as a hair pack by mixing senna powder with water and yoghurt.
• It can help in conditioning by minimize the chemical effects on hairs.
• It also helps to treat dandruff.

Some precautions that should be in mind while using senna plant

• It is advised to take senna for short terms.
• The long term uses can cause problems like Diarrhea.
• Some people can be allergic to senna leaves. They can have change in urine color.
• Long term usecan cause muscle weakness, liver damage, heart function disorder and colorectal growths.
• Short term side effects are vomiting, stomach discomfort and abdominal cramps.
• At the glance, it is helpful to use senna plant in a productive and a dosage way to cure a disease. Extra and continuous use can create problems.