The Plant with Therapeutic values: Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna)

Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) Tree

Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) is one of the sacred trees of India which has been used on several religious occasions as well as in Ayurvedic formation since ancient times. It was introduced into Ayurveda as a treatment for heart diseases, wounds, hemorrhages and ulcers by Vagbhata (He is one of the three classic writers of Ayurveda, along with Charaka & Sushruta who wrote the Ashtanga Sangraha and the Ashtanga Hridaya Samhita). Arjuna is known by its various names such as  Arjan, Dhanvi, Koha, Kahu, White Marudah, Orjun, Yerra maddi, Sadada,  Indradruma, Kakubha, Karvirak and many more.

Arjuna Bark

Arjuna is a large size deciduous tree common throughout India, especially in the sub Himalayan tracts and the Eastern India. Terminalia chebula, T. bellrica and T. ciliata are the other species of Arjuna tree found in India. Arjuna bark is rich tannins, triterpenoid saponins (arjunic acid, arjunolic acid, arjungenin, arjunglycosides), flavonoids (arjunone, arjunolone, luteolin), gallic acid, ellagic acid, oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), phytosterols (b-sitosterol), minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, and copper. It has an abundance of  Co-enzyme Q- 10 which helps to strengthens the heart muscles and prevent heart diseases. 

Arjuna Leaves

In Ayurveda and the Siddha system of medicine, the plant is used in the treatment of cardiac diseases, chronic fever, Diabetes mellitus, polyurea, fractures, obesity, leucorrhoea, leprosy, worm infestation, abdominal disorders, skin disorders, and ulcers. The bark is said to be alexiteric, styptic, tonic, anthelmintic, & useful in treating anemia, asthma, tumours, leucoderma, excessive perspiration, and more. Arjuna is also useful in controlling blood pressure levels, and acts as an antidote to poisons. It is also reputed to have astringent, hypotensive, hemostatic, diuretic, prostaglandin-enhancing, coronary-risk-modulating properties, & is useful in protection against NSAID-induced gastric ulcers. Arjuna leaves are used to cover ulcers & sores externally, while its juice is used for curing earache (Otalgia). In addition, Arjuna has shown its effectiveness against the antiviral and antibacterial ailments as well.

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The Medicinal Plant : Aloe vera

Aloe vera : One of the Oldest Medicinal Plants

Aloe vera is one of the oldest known medicinal plants gifted by nature. It is known by its various names such as Miracle plant, Lily of the desert, Burn plant, Elephant's gall, etc. It is a stemless or very short-stemmed succulent plant growing to 80–100 cm tall, spreading by offsets and root sprouts. The leaves are lanceolate, thick and fleshy, green with a serrated margin. The flowers are produced on a spike up to 90 cm tall, each flower pendulous, with a yellow tubular corolla 2–3 cm long.

Aloe Vera contains more than 75 known active ingredients. Also included are 19 of the 20 amino acids required by the human body and 7 of the 8 essential amino acids (that the body cannot make), as well as vitamins and minerals. There are 20 "critical" Amino Acids in human metabolism, but the body can only make 12, the other 8 have to be obtained from food. These are Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Threonine, Valine, and Tryptophan.

Aloe Vera contains useful enzymes such as Amylase, Bradykinase, Catalase, Cellulase, Lipase, Oxidase, Alkaline Phosphatase, Proteolytiase, Creatine Phosphokinase, Carboxypeptidase. Most of these are beneficial to human metabolism. Lignin gives Aloe Vera its penetrating powers. The plant contains important minerals like Calcium, Chromium, Copper, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Potassium, Phosphorous, Sodium, and Zinc. Aloe Vera contains useful vitamins like vitamin A (beta-carotene and retinol), B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), B12 (cyanocobalamin), C (ascorbic acid), E (tocopherol) and Folic Acid. Clinical evaluations have revealed that the pharmacological active ingredients are concentrated in both the gel and rind of the aloe vera leaves.

Aloe Gel is Used to Cure Various Health Ailments

Aloe vera is an antiseptic, antibacterial and anti inflammatory in nature. Here are a few health benefits of this miraculous plant. 

Aloe vera-

• Cures colon cancer and heals the intestine
• Soothes arthritis pain and inflammation
• Protects the body from oxidative stress
• Gives relief from constipation.
• Stabilizes blood sugar and reduces triglyceride levels in diabetics.
• Reduces hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Accelerates healing from physical and burns.
• Acts as a tonic for the kidneys; prevents kidney stones.
• Keeps a check on cholesterol levels
• Boosts the oxygenation of blood
• Protects the body from oxalates in beverages such as tea and coffee
• Alkalizes the body & further, helps to balance acidic dietary habits.
• Moisturizes the skin, accelerates skin repair
• Cures ulcers, and other digestive disorders
• Boosts cardiovascular performance and physical endurance

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The Healing Herb: Picrorhiza kurroa

Picrorhiza kurroa 

Picrorhiza kurroa (family Scrophulariaceae, common name Picrorhiza, Katuka, Kutka, kutki) is one of the oldest medicinal plants found in the Himalayas. Since time immemorial, this perennial herb has been used in Ayurveda for treating diseases caused by kapha and pitta, and is valued for its hepatoprotective properties. In small doses, it helps in curing loss of appetite, liver diseases, jaundice, bronchial asthma, bile disorders and weakness. In larger doses, it is useful as an antioxidant, antibacterial, anticholestatic, antiallergic, antiperiodic, cathartic, laxative, and to treat abdominal diseases, adiposity and related disorders.

Roots of Picrorhiza kurroa 

The leaf, bark and the underground parts of Picrorhiza, mainly rhizomes are widely used in the treatment of the health ailments. The root of this plant is rich in glucosides including kitkin and picrorhizin, cucurbitacin, D-mannitol, benetic acid, kutkisterol, vanillic acid and some steroids. P. kurroa also contains apocynin, a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, which helps reduce platelet aggregation.

Experimental studies have revealed the cytotoxic role of curcubitacins (found in the plant) having antitumor activity. It is also said to reduce blood cholesterol levels and the coagulation time. Furthermore studies of plant rhizome, is shown to improve the immunity of the body, as well as known to have a specific action against the parasite Leishmania, which causes the disease called leishmaniasis.

The plant is also used in treating abdominal pain, stomach disorders, anemia, and for promoting bile secretion. It is helpful in acute viral hepatitis, as immune-modulator, and in treating fever and allergies. Other instances of use include vitiligo, skin disorders, infections, scorpion stings, chronic diarrhea, epilepsy, malaria and rheumatoid arthritis. The plant and its formulations are widely used in treating epidemic jaundice.

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Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.): The Kitchen Herb of India!

Fenugreek: One of the Healthiest Indian Spices !

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.)  is an oldest cultivated medicinal plant native to the Mediterranean countries and across Asia. It is aromatic, astringent, carminative, expectorant, mucilagenous, galactogogue and aphrodiasiac in nature. It is high in vitamins A, D, B1, B2, B3 and contains lecithinm, minerals and proteins. Owing to its excellent medicinal properties, fenugreek is used in common folk remedies for the treatment of various health ailments. Find here some of such time-tested folk remedies with fenugreek- 

Fresh Leaves of Fenugreek!

• To treat anemia, cook fenugreek leaves and have it with meals. A tsp of fenugreek seeds can also be taken with water to cure Anemia.
• Take a cup of fenugreek decoction with a spoonful of honey and fresh ginger juice. This formulation acts as an excellent expectorant during Asthma.
• Soak about 10 g of fenugreek seeds overnight and consume them on an empty stomach in the morning. Soak another 10 g of fenugreek seeds in the morning and consume them half an hour before dinner. Fiber present in fenugreek swells in the stomach and gives the feeling of satiety. It is an effective remedy for Losing weight.
• Taking a tsp of fenugreek seeds powder with curd is said to be effective in treating vaginal discharge associated with yeast infections.
• Consuming about 50g of fenugreek seeds daily, either with water or in diet, is said to  lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of Heart attacks.
• Mix a tsp of powdered fenugreek seeds in buttermilk. Drink the mixture to relieve  abdominal pain due to Indigestion. This remedy also works well against Diarrhea.
• Taking about 1-2 g of fenugreek twice a day is recommended to improve milk flow in Lactating mothers.

Fenugreek Seeds are Rich in Therapeutic Properties!

• Consuming about 2 tsp of fenugreek seeds with a tsp of honey and lemon juice, thrice a day, is known to treat Fever.
• One of the effective remedies against acid reflux or Heartburn is to have a tsp of fenugreek seeds with juice or water before meals.
• Consuming a tbsp of powdered fenugreek seeds with lukewarm water gives relief from Joint pains.
• To get rid of Acne and Blackheads, apply a paste of fenugreek leaves over the face overnight. Rinse off after 10-15 min.

• To remove Dandruff, mix about 3-5 g of fenugreek seeds powder in a cup of curd and to it, mix 1/2 tsp of lemon  juice. Apply the mixture on scalp for an hour and rinse off.

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The Green Healers of India!

Herbs of Medicinal Value!

We find various herbs commonly growing around us but never take much notice of them. But you will be surprised to know and learn about their therapeutic and medicinal potentials in treating common health ailments. The Ayurvedic and the Siddha system of medicine have been incorporating such plants in treating illnesses since ages. Its time to recognize this wealth of health easily found grown in our backyards and kitchen gardens and make use of it in staying healthy.

1. Neem is used for multi purpose remedies. This includes sprains, flu, skin diseases, heart diseases, fever, indigestion, viral infection, etc. Some serious health concerns like cancer, kidney diseases, sexually transmitted diseases are also claimed to be treated by neem extract.
2. Basil (Tulsi) acts as blood purifier and anti bacterial. It is effective against cough & cold. Basil enhances digestion, improves appetite & increases blood circulation. Regular consumption of basil the boosts up the immune system.
3. Peppermint is carminative, relieves muscular spasms, increases sweating, stimulates secretion of bile and is an antiseptic. It’s  therapeutic value lies in its ability to relieve wind, flatulence, bloating and colic. Studies indicate that it relieves colon spasms and helps to cure ulcers. Peppermint also eases headaches. Menthol, its main constituent, is known to have antibacterial properties.  
4. The Indian Gooseberry is aphrodisiac, hemostatic, carminative, stomachic, diuretic and laxative. Being nutritive, it increases red blood cells count. It is one of the highest natural resources of Vitamin C (3,000 mg / fruit). 
5. Ashoka relieves diabetes, treats dyspepsia, diseases of the blood, tumors, abdominal enlargement, colic, piles, ulcers and bone fractures as well as diarrhea & bleeding piles. The leaves of the plant has a special blood purifying property. It also serves as an excellent uterine tonic and is very useful to treat syphilis and biliousness.  
6. Coriander leaves stimulate appetite and improves digestion. These are rich in magnesium, potassium & fibers. Regular consumption boosts immunity and purifies blood. Studies how their role in curing diabetes. 
7. Lemon helps to control Blood Pressure, purifies blood, reduces swelling of the spleen & strengthens the immune system. It is rich in vitamins C, B, B2, and calcium & iron. The plant protects our body against germs and bacteria.  
8. Betel leaf exhibits carminative, stimulant, astringent and aromatic properties. The leaf improves taste & appetite. Betel leaf juice is a tonic to brain, heart, liver and other internal organs. It is beneficial in improving bowel action in cases of constipation. Betel leaves juice also cures eye problems and night blindness effectively. 
9. Peepal tree is useful in inflammations & glandular swelling of the neck. Its root bark is useful for stomatitis and in ulcers. Roots of peepal tree are good for gout. The roots when chewed are considered beneficial for treating gum diseases. Its fruit promotes digestion, checks vomiting, treats asthma & is useful in urinary troubles & heart diseases. The leaves of peepal are also used to treat constipation. 
10. Bay has a reputation for soothing the stomach and relieving flatulence. Its leaves are known for their ability to relieve aches & pains associated with rheumatism, & for sprains, bruises, and skin rashes.  
 

 

Cure Health Ailments with Emblica officinalis (Amla)!

Emblica officinalis of the Euphorbiaceae family has aperient, antidiarrhoeal, antispasmodic, antioxidative, aphrodisiac, astringent, carminative, diuretic, expectorant and laxative properties. It has antioxidant properties due to its rich vitamin C content. It is also rich in tannins and other polyphenols, flavonoides and kaempferol. Amla has been used to treat various health-related problems dating back centuries. Learn more about the herbal remedies with amla in curing some of the common diseases of the modern world.

Emblica officinalis: A Health Booster!

• Acidity: Powder dry amla fruits, and add a pinch of asafetida and rock salt to it. Take a tsp of the mixture with lukewarm water after meals.
• Asthma: Mix powdered amla (1 tbsp), mulethi  roots (4 tbsp), guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) stems (2 tbsp), ginger roots (1/2 tbsp), harra fruits (1tbsp), nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus) roots (1tbsp) and chirchira (Achyranthes aspera) leaves (1/2 tbsp). A tsp of the same should be taken after meals with water.
• Arthritis: Prepare a mixture of amla fruit powder (1 tbsp), pipli (Piper longum) fruits (1 tbsp), kantakari (Solanum virginianum) whole plant (1 tbsp), ashwagandha roots (1 tbsp), harra (Terminalia chebula) fruits (1 tbsp), bahera (Terminalia bellirica) fruits (1 tbsp), kachur (Curcuma zedoaria) roots (1 tbsp) and eranda (Ricinus communis) roots (1 tbsp). Take a tsp of the preparation with lukewarm water before meals.

• Indigestion: Prepare a mixture of amla (2 tbsp) with Isubgol (Plantago ovate) husk (2 tbsp), harra fruits (1 1/2 tbsp), kalinga (Holarrhena pubescens) bark (1 tbsp) and swarnamukhi (Cassia senna) leaves (2 tbsp). Administer a tbsp before going to bed.
• Dysentery: A teaspoon of dried amla fruit powder taken with equal proportions of harra powder is said to be effective against dysentery.
• Healthy hair: Soak two tablespoons each of powdered amla and reetha (Sapindus emarginatus) fruits overnight. Next morning, use it for hair wash. This formulation is also known to strengthen the hair roots and make hair healthy.
• Immunity: Shade dry and powder amla fruits. Store the prepared powder in an air-tight container. Drinking a tsp of amla powder with water every day helps improve immunity.
• Skin problems: Mix powdered amla fruits (1 tbsp) with neem bark (1tbsp) and a pinch of turmeric. Apply a paste of this herbal preparation over the affected skin.
• Diabetes: Mix a tbsp of amla fruit juice in a cup of fresh bitter gourd juice. Have it daily for two months to control diabetes.
• Throat infection: Mix powdered amla (1 tbsp) with mulethiroots (3 tbsp), pipli  fruits (1 tbsp), harra fruits (1 tbsp), kungyi (Sida cordifolia) roots (1 tbsp) and bahera fruits (1 tbsp). One tspof the formulation can be administered twice a day with water.
• Weight loss: Prepare a mixture of powdered amla (1 tbsp), gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) fruits (2 tbsp), harra fruits (2 tbsp) and ginger roots (1 tbsp). A tbsp of the mixture can be taken with warm water after meals.

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Tinospora cordifolia : A Versatile Rejuvenating Herb!

Tinospora cordifolia, a member of the Menispermaceae family, is a glabrous climbing shrub, typically found growing in deciduous and dry forests. Commonly known as Guduchi, the plant is indigenous to the tropical areas of India, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. It is a perennial deciduous twine with succulent stem and papery bark.  The herb bears paripinnate leaves and yellow flowers.

Tinospora cordifolia : A Versatile Rejuvenating Herb!

The medicinal and therapeutic properties are owing to its constituents such as giloin, gilenin, cordifol, heptacosanol, tinosporin, tinosporide, tinosporic acid, tinosporol, Tinosporidine, and sitosterol found in different parts of the plant.

The root, stems, and leaves of T. cordifolia are used for medicinal purpose. Guduchi is mentioned in Ayurvedic literature as a constituent of several compound formulations used to treat dyspepsia, general debility, fever, and urinary diseases. It is claimed to be useful in treating leprosy, asthma, anorexia, jaundice, gonorrhea, gout, skin infections, diabetes, chronic diarrhea, and dysentery. 

Tinospora cordifolia

The plant is used in preparing Rasayanas for enhancing the immune system and the body’s resistance against infections. In traditional folk medicines, it is used to treat burning, general debility, leucorrhea, cough, bone fracture, ear pain, asthma, skin disease, and snake & insect bite. In compound formulations, Guduchi is clinically used to treat diabetes, jaundice & rheumatoid arthritis. 

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): The Health Booster!

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): The Health Booster!

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) of the Solanaceae family, is said to be a most potential herb for general toning of the body and improving immunity. Ashwagandha in Sanskrit means 'horse smell', probably due to the odour of its root which gives out the smell of that of a sweaty horse. Its useful parts are seeds, roots and the leaves. This small perennial plant is a native to India, Pakistan, Srilanka and Bangladesh.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

The herb is bitter in taste, germicidal, aphrodisiac and diuretic. It is one of the well known valuable herbs reputed to cure cough, fever, ulcers, dropsy, impotency, insomnia, rheumatism, leukoderma and toxicosis. It is also known to increase physical endurance and improve nerve function. It is also known to regenerate the hormonal system and promote healing of tissues. Also, Ashwagandha is known inhibit the aging process and is prescribed in all general debilities.

The extract obtained from the herb is used in the preparation of chavanaprash, herbal tea, tablets and syrups. Dried roots of the plant are used as a tonic for cold and cough, hiccup, ulcers, female disorders as well as a sedative. The leaves of Ashwagandha are used to treat inflammation and swellings. Clinical research supports the use of Ashwagandha for anxiety, cognitive, inflammation & Parkinson's disease. Experimental studies have also proposed its anti-tumorigenic and anti-inflammatory role in rodents and other mammalian systems. 

The herb is characterized by the presence of alkaloids and withanoloids which impart its pharmacological and therapeutic properties.Ashwagandha roots are reported to contain more than 30 steroidal lactones and about 20 alkaloids. Many of the chemical constituents have been investigated for different biological activities. All experimental studies and clinical trials clearly show why Ayurveda has such a high opinion of Ashwagandha as a  health booster.