Mahua is a large sized multipurpose forest tree that is found throughout the mixed deciduous forests of India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and other South Asian countries. It is an important economic tree used as food, medicine and for other commercial uses such as soap and detergent manufacture, oil extraction, skin care etc.

"Mahua Flowers 1" by Gypsypkd - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

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Mahua flowers and seeds are edible. The fruits of tree are used as vegetable. The seeds of tree contain about 40% pale yellow oil. This oil is used as cooking oil by most of the tribes in Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. After the oil extraction the residue is used as fish poison. Bheel tribe of Madhya Pradesh burn this residual cake inside the room for keeping the snakes away. The other uses of Mahua oil are as hair oil, skin care, vegetable butter and in making of soaps. Mahua flowers contain about 65 to 70% sugar (reducing sugar 48 to 55%; inert sugar 14 to 18%), cellulose, albuminous substances, ash, enzymes, yeast and water. Due to high sugar content, the flowers provide adequate energy on oral administration. In some parts of India, tribal women eat Mahua flowers during breastfeeding as a nutritive food. In Bihar, flower pickle is used (two teaspoonful, for two months) in treatment of Tuberculosis. Tribals of Bastar in Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand and North Maharashtra produces alcoholic drink of Mahua flowers by fermentation. The tribes of Rajasthan uses the stem bark powder for treatment of respiratory disorders. Mahua flowers are also used to make jams, jellies, biscuits and many other food items due to their nutritional value (contains vitamins, sugars, amino acids , organic acids, enzymes and other compounds).

Mahua tree is an important medicinal tree as well. Mahua Flowers are stimulant, demulcent, laxative, anthelmintic, and cough relieving. The flowers are cooling in nature and used for treating cold, cough, bronchitis and other respiratory disorders. Seed oil is galactogenic (stimulating breast milk), pain-relieving and vomiting inducing in action. These are used in pneumonia, skin diseases, and piles. The tree bark is astringent and emollient (skin softening). The bark is used for tonsillitis, gum troubles, diabetes and ulcers. The leaves of tree contain alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins, saponins, tannins, triterpenoids and absence of gums and fixed oils. These are traditionally used in treatment of are expectorant and also used for chronic bronchitis, bronchitis, rheumatism, head-ache and hemorrhoids. In Ayurveda for preparation of alcoholic fermented drugs (Asava and Arishta), Mahua flowers are used as fermenting agent. Different parts possess liver protective, fever reducing, swelling reducing, pain relieving, anti-tumour, anti-estrogenic (blocks the production or utilization of estrogens/ female sex hormones, or inhibits their effects; estrogen is hormone that produces an environment suitable for fertilization, implantation, and nutrition of the early embryo), blood pressure lowering, wound healing and anti-progestational (works against progesterone; progesterone is responsible for preparing and maintaining uterine envoirnment for fertilised egg) activities.

SCIENTIFIC CLASSIFICATION

The botanical name of Mahua is Madhuca indica and it belongs to the family Sapotaceae. The synonyms of species are M. latifolia (Roxb.) Macbride, Bassia latifolia Roxb. Its taxonomical classification is as given below:-

KINGDOM Plantae

DIVISION Magnoliaphyta

CLASS Magnoliopsida

ORDER Ericolos

FAMILY Sapotaceae

GENUS Madhuca

SPECIES Indica (syn. Bassia latifolia) long

Morphological characteristics

Large tree; bark grey to dark brown, scaly; leaves linear-lanceolate clustered near ends of branches, tapering towards base; flowers: glabrous, aromatic, pale yellow, small, many in dense clusters near ends of branches; berries ovoid, yellow when ripe; seeds usually one to two, compressed, shining.

Parts used: Seeds, bark, flowers, fruit, oil of the seeds, leaves, and bark.

Vernacular names

• Hindi : Mahuwa
• Kannada : Hippegida, Halippe, Hippe, Hippenara, Madhuka, Ippa, Eppimara
• Malayalam : Irippa, Ilippa, Iluppa, Eluppa
• Marathi : Mohda
• Oriya : Mahula
• Punjabi : Maua, Mahua
• Tamil : Katiluppai, Kattu Iluppai, Iluppi
• Telugu : lppa Puvvu
• Urdu : Mahuva
• Siddha: Ieluppai
• Sinhalese: Mipup
• Persian: Gul-e-chakan

Habitat

Mahua tree is native to dry region of India. It is a multipurpose tree, mostly found in tropical and subtropical areas, in forests of North and Central part of India. In India this tree is found in the forests of western India from Konkan southward to Kerala. It occurs wild in plains and lowers hills of India up to 1200m. It is a common tree in West Bengal, Bihar, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Madhya Pradesh.

Ayurvedic description

In Ayurveda, for medicinal uses the flowers of tree are used. Ayurvedic properties and action of flowers as given in texts is given below.

1. Rasa (Taste): Madhura/Sweet
2. Guna (Characteristics): Guru/Heavy,
3. Virya (Potency): Sheet/ Cool
4. Vipaka (Post Digestive Effect): Madhura/Sweet

Action and uses:

The flowers are Sukrala (Semen augmentator), Balya (Restoratives), Pittakara (increases pitta), Vatahara (reduces Vata), Ahridya (harmful for heart).

Chemical Constituents

Bark: ethylcinnamate, sesquiterene alcohol, a-terpeneol, 3ß-monocaprylic ester of eythrodiol and 3ß-capryloxy oleanolic acid. a- and ß- amyrin acetates

Fruits: a- and ß- amyrin acetates

Seeds: arachidic, linolelic, oleic, myrisic, palmitic and stearic acids, a-alanine, aspartic acid, cystine, glycine, isoleucine and leucine, lysine, methionine, proline, serine, threonine, myricetin, quercetin, Mi-saponin A & B.

Leaves: ß-carotene and xanthophylls; erthrodiol, palmitic acid, myricetin and its 3- Oarabinoside and 3-O-L-rhamnoside, quercetin and its 3-galactoside; 3ß-caproxy and

3ß-palmitoxy- olean-12-en-28-ol, oleanolic acid, ß-sitosterol and its 3-O-ß- Dglucoside, stigmasterol, ß-sitosterol- ß-Dglucoside, n-hexacosanol, 3ß- caproxyolcan- 12-en-28-ol, ß-carotene, n-octacosanol, sitosterol, quercetin.

Nutritional value Of Mahua flowers (in terms of percentage; Source: Kureel R.S et.al, 2009)

Mahua flowers contain moisture (20%), protein (6.4%), reducing sugar (51%), total sugar (54%), calcium (8%), phosphorus (2%), and fat (0.5%).

Traditional medicinal uses of Mahua

Various parts of Mahua tree are used for treatment of variety of diseases. In preparation of Ayurvedic alcoholic medicines the flowers are used as fermenting agent. Some of the important Ayurvedic formulations containing Mahua as an ingredient are Madhukasava, Drakashdi Kvatha churna, Eladi Modaka etc. In various parts of India, people uses the flowers and seeds as food and also for medicinal purpose. These therapeutic uses are time tested and passed from generations as traditional natural remedy.

The bark of tree is used for rheumatism, chronic bronchitis, diabetes mellitus, decoction for rheumatism, bleeding and spongy gums. The fruits are also edible and used to treat ulcer (as lotion), in acute and chronic tonsillitis and pharyngitis.

The edible flowers are nutritive and used as tonic, analgesic and diuretic. Traditionally flowers are used as cooling agent, tonic, aphrodisiac, astringent, demulcent and for the treatment of helminths, acute and chronic tonsillitis, pharyngitis and bronchitis.

Home Remedies

1. For rheumatism, decoction of bark prepared by boiling bark in water is taken internally and the seed oil is applied externally on the affected areas.
2. The bark decoction is given for managing diabetes.
3. Mahua leaves are used in treatment of eczema. The leave are coated with Til/Sesame oil and heated. This is applied externally on affected area to get relief from eczema.
4. In case of spongy and bleeding gums, four ml of the liquid bark extract is mixed with 300 ml of water is used as a gargle. Gargling with bark extract is also useful in acute tonsillitis (inflamed tonsils) and pharyngitis.
5. For improving breast milk, the flowers of tree are useful.
6. In diarrhoea a cup of infusion of bark is taken orally twice a day.
7. Decoction of stem bark is used to cure skin disease, hydrocele and skin disease.
8. For scabies, the powdered bark is applied. The flower juice is also applied externally in skin diseases.
9. The seed oil massage is very effective remedy for reducing pain.
10. The stem bark powder, mixed with Golar (Ficus racemosa) latex is given in dose of five grams twice a day, with warm water for respiratory illness.
11. The roots are ground and applied on ulcers.
12. Mahua flowers are very nutritive and taken as a general tonic. For this purpose, the dried flower powder is eaten with ghee and honey.

Tamra Sindoor is an Ayurvedic formulation of inorganic origin. It is a Kupipakwa Rasayana containing mercury, sulphur and copper. Here Kupipakwa denotes the special method of Ayurvedic medicine preparation involving medicine processing inside a Kupi or glass bottle. Kupi-pakwa rasayana preparation is very complex and require meticulous precision. Tamra Sindura contains only minerals/metals and has no herbal ingredient. This medicine is hot in potency and must be taken under medical supervision only.

Here is given more about Tamra Sindoor such as indication/therapeutic uses, composition, method of preparation and dosage.

Complete list of Ingredients of Tamra Sindoor

Shuddha Tamra wires 5 Tola, Shuddha Gandhak 10 tola, Shuddha Parad 10 tola.[1 tola=12g]

Preparation of medicine (Rasendra Sar Sangrah)

This medicine is Kupi-pakwa or medicine which is cooked inside a kupi or glass bottle.

First Shuddha (purified) Parad/Mercury and Shuddha Gandhak are blended together to form Kajjali. The Kajjali is then transferred to a Kanch-Kupi. Shuddh Tamra is mixed with Kajjali and the Kaach-Kupi is layered 7 times with cloth plastered with wet-mud and the Kupi is processed in Valuka-Yantra for 36 hours. When the Kupi cools down (Swang Sheetal) it is broken by special method and Tamra-Sindoor is collected from Kaach-Kupi neck. At the bottom of Kupi is Tamra Bhasma which is also collected.

Uses of Tamra Sindoor

Tamra Sindoor is combination of mercury-sulphur with copper. It is hot in potency. It works effectively on diseases that are caused due to vitiation of blood and diseases of liver and spleen.

This medicine is indicated in diseases of liver, spleen, hyperacidity, epilepsy etc. Its use decreases enlarged liver-spleen. It regulates the proper discharge of bile and cure chronic digestive impairment.

This medicine gives strength to muscles, nerves, stomach and intestine. Tamra Sindur gives relief in intestinal discomfort.

Tamra Sindur shows beneficial effect in Haija or Cholera, Coughing due to vitiation of vata, vomiting, extreme pain in menstruation, and epilepsy.

Dosage of Tamra Sindoor

The recommended dosage of Tamra Sindoor as given in Ayurvedic text is 125mg-250mg, twice a day with honey, Paan leaves juice (Piper betle) or Tulsi leaves juice. Or take as directed by physician.

Administration of Tamra Sindura:Tamra Sindura is given with different Anupan or fluid vehicles in different diseases. In cholera, Tamra Sindoor (65mg) is given with Kasturi and Bhimseni Kapur (each 65mg). In vomiting, it (125mg) is given with MayurChandrika Bhasma (250mg) and honey.

Also known as Tamra Sindura, Tamra Sindur.

This medicine should be taken under direct medical supervision.

Rajat Sindur is an Ayurvedic formulation of inorganic origin. It is a Kupipakwa Rasayana containing mercury, sulphur and silver. Here Kupipakwa denotes the special method of Ayurvedic medicine preparation involving medicine processing inside a Kupi or glass bottle. Kupi-pakwa rasayana preparation is very complex and require meticulous precision. This medicine must be taken under medical supervision only.

Here is given more about Rajat Sindoor such as indication/therapeutic uses, composition, method of preparation and dosage.

Complete list of Ingredients

Shuddha Rajat 10 tola, Shuddha Parad 20 tola, Shuddha Gandhak 20 tola[1 tola=12g]

Preparation of medicine (Rasayan Saar)

First Shuddha (purified) Parad/Mercury and Shuddha Gandhak are blended together to form Kajjali. The Kajjali is then transferred to a Kanch-Kupi. Shuddh Rajat pieces are mixed with Kajjali and the Kaach-Kupi is layered 7 times with cloth plastered with wet-mud and the Kupi is processed in Valuka-Yantra at low, moderate and high fire. When the Kupi cools down (Swang Sheetal) it is broken by special method and Rajat Sindoor is collected from Kaach-Kupi neck. At the bottom of Kupi is Rajat Bhasma which is also collected.

Uses of Rajat Sindoor

Rajat Sindura gives strength, vitality and power to body. It is prescribed in weakness of heart, brain, intelligence and memory. Rajat Sindu is also indicated in jaundice, anemia, and in diseases that occur due to vitiation of Vata and pitta.

This medicine treats general debility, weakness of body and mind due to any reason.

Dosage of Rajat Sindoor

The recommended dosage of Rajat Sindoor as given in Ayurvedic text is 125mg-250mg, twice a day with honey, butter or milk cream. Or take as directed by physician.

Also known as Rajat Sindura, Rajat Sindur.

This medicine should be taken under direct medical supervision.

Poppy is multipurpose plant. They bear beautiful bright colour flowers. In India, the dried seeds of poppy plant are used in preparation of Thandai, Halwa, as thickening agent in gravies and other dishes. These seeds are known as Posta dana or Khuskhus in common language. Posta dana are nutritive, demulcent, emollient, spasmolytic and have no narcotic properties due to absence of any alkaloid.

The oil extracted from the seeds is also free from any narcotic effect and used to treat dysentery and scalds.

"Poppy2004" by John Beniston (Palmiped). Licensed under CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

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Opium, a product obtained from the immature capsules of plant is used for therapeutic uses. It contains alkaloid morphine with narcotine, codeine, papaverine and thebaine. Ripe Poppy capsules contain about 0.18–0.28% of morphine. Morphine is powerful addictive narcotic with strong pain relieving action. It also has significant effects on the central nervous system.

Legal cultivation of poppy plant are done in many countries for Pharmaceutical use. The chemical derived from opium is used in Morphine, Codeine, Oxycodone, Ethylmorphine etc. These all are allopathic drugs that are used to treat variety of medical condition. In surgery and dentistry, morphine is used as anaesthetic and pain killer.

General Information

The botanical name of Ahifena is Papaver somniferum Linn. and it belongs to the family Papaveraceae. 'Papaver' is poppy in Latin and 'Somniferum' is derived from Latin word 'somnus’ (sleep) and 'ferre' (bring). So literal meaning of plant is sleep-inducing.

Vernacular names

AYURVEDIC:Ahiphen, Aaphuka UNANI:Afyum, Tukhm-e-khashkhaash (seed) SIDDHA:Kasakasa (seeds) SANSKRIT:Ahifen BENGALI:Pasto HINDI:Afeem MARATHI:Aphu, Khuskhus MALAYALAM:Afium, Kashakhasa TELUGU:Abhini, Gasalu, Kasakasa;ENGLISH:Opium, Poppy

Plant Description

Poppy plant is an erect, green herb that reaches up to 60-120 cm in height. Its leaves are many, amplexicaule, lobed, dentate or serrate, linear-oblong or ovate-oblong.

The flowers are large and are differently coloured (White, pink, bright red).

There are about hundred different poppy plant species available. Flower ovary is globose. Capsules, the fruits are flat-topped, globose or sub-globose, large and glabrous. Seeds are grey-brown or white. Flowering is during the winter and fruiting in summer season.

Use in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, opium is known as Ahiphena. Ahiphena or opium is used for preparation of medicine only after proper purification. This is done by rubbing or processing opium with fresh ginger juice 21 times (Bhavprakash Nighantu). Two important Ayurvedic medicines containing opium extract are Ahiphenasava and Karpura Rasa.

1. Opium is used as medicine due to its narcotic, sedative, hypnotic, analgesic, sudorific, anodyne, antispasmodic properties.
2. Few traditional and Ayurvedic medicinal uses of opium are given below.
3. In head ache, the paste of opium (1g) and clove is applied on forehead. This cures headaches due to excess gas and cough.
4. In scalp boils and dandruff, the paste of opium seeds is applied in hairs.
5. In hoarseness of voice, opium doda (the flower head) is boiled with carom seeds and this water is used for gargling.
6. In abdominal pain the paste of opium is applied on abdominal region.
7. In piles, the paste of opium and Dhatura leaves is applied externally.
8. In itching, opium is mixed with Sesame oil and applied topically.
9. Crushed poppy heads are made into poultice and applied for crippling pain in terminal diseases.

The use of Ahiphena or opium for internal administration is done in very low doses. Ayurveda mentions Ahiphena or opium as substance which when used for long duration cause severe effect on body. It kills appetite and dries mouth and respiratory organs. It causes constipation, vomiting, digestive impairment, decreased flow of blood, painful urination, depression, headaches, decreased or nil mental alertness and coma like condition etc.

What is opium and its extraction

Opium is obtained from the immature fruits/ capsules or doda of poppy plants. The extraction of opium from the doda is very tiring, difficult and laborious task. The process has not changed for hundreds of years.

The process is to select appropriate flower capsule by visiting and attending several flowers. The ready doda/capsule is then lacerated vertically using knife. This causes release of white milky latex. This latex is allowed to dry and scrapped. The process is repeated on innumerable other flower pods. This dried milky latex is opium. One plant gives approximately 80 mg of opium.

Opium is often converted into heroin. Heroin is a narcotic substance that has highly harmful short and long term effects on mind and body.

It is illegal to possess opium in many countries including US. Recently a man was arrested for carrying posta dana or khas-khas. Khas-khas are the seeds of poppy plant. In India, these seeds are used as spice. The person was travelling UK via Dubai. He was unaware of the fact that in UAE and gulf countries carrying Khas Khas is a serious offense that can draw minimum 20 years of imprisonment or even worse.

WARNING

1. Opium overdoses can cause cold skin, fast weak pulse, and fluid in the lungs, pupil constriction, and possible death from circulatory and respiratory failure.
2. Opium addicts can reportedly tolerate 2000 mg over 4 hours. But a dose of 300 mg can kill a person.
3. Use of Opium can kill.
4. Opium is narcotic that exerts severe effect on body and mind.
5. It is illegal to possess opium.
6. Morphine containing medicine have habit forming effect and contraindicated in many clinical condition. Its use is not recommended during pregnancy or labour;category:C.

Note:The above given detail is for information only.

Agnimantha or Arani(Clerodendrum phlomidis synonym Volkameria multiflora ) is a significant Ayurvedic medicinal herb. It is constituent of Dashmul, the famous Ayurvedic group of ten roots that is used to treat constipation, fever, weakness, loss of appetite and puerperal diseases.

There are two plants that are used as Agnimantha or Arani herb. One is Premna integrifolia (Badi Arni) and other is Clerodendrum phlomidis (Choti Arni). Both belong to same family Verbenaceae but are different plant.

In Ayurveda, the other common names of Agnimantha are Arani, Jaya, Vaijayanti, Munjavere, Ganikarika etc.

"Arni (Clerodendrum phlomidis) at Sindhrot near Vadodara, Gujrat Pix 048" by J.M.Garg - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

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General Information

Agnimantha tree is found distributed throughout India. Cluster of flowers appear during spring season. The flowers are white or pinkish and are very aromatic. After flowering it bears small fruits. The leaves of herb are also aromatic. The tree is called Agnimantha as rubbing two woods of tree generates fire.

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta
• Division: Magnoliophyta
• Class: Magnoliopsida
• Order: Lamiales
• Family: Verbenaceae

Vernacular name

• BENGALI : Ganiyari, Arani, Goniari
• GUJARATI : Arani, Aranimula, Arni
• HINDI. : Urni
• KANNADA : Taggi, Taggi Beru
• MALAYALAM : Munja
• MARATHI : Takalimula
• ORIYA : Ganiary
• TAMIL : Tazhutazhai
• TELUGU : Taluki
• SANSKRIT: Arani, Agnimantha, Jayanthi, Tarkaari SIDDHA: Pachumullai, Erumai munnai FOLK: Agethu

In Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of India, the description of plant Clerodendrum phlomidis (synonym Volkameria multiflora) is given as Agnimantha. Both Clerodendrum phlomidis and Premna integrifolia are used as Agnimantha in preparation of Ayurvedic medicines.

Clerodendrum phlomidis: Synonym C.multiflorum. Also known as Laghu Arni, Choti Arni, Tarkaari; Smaller variety of Agnimantha. It is a large bush or a small tree that is found in drier parts throughout India. The roots are contain ceryl alcohol, clerodin, clerosterol and clerodendrin A.

Premna integrifolia: Synonym P. obtusifolia; P. corymbosa. Badi Arni. It is a large shrub or a small tree distributed on the Indian and Andaman Coasts, plains of Assam and Khasi hills. This tree is also known as Agethaa, Ganiyaari.

The drug part of herb (Clerodendrum phlomidis) or Roots; 7-15 cm long, 0.2 -3.0 cm thick, occasionally branched, cylindrical, tough, yellowish-brown externally, bark thin, occasionally easily peeled, outer surface rough due to exfoliation, wood light yellow, fracture hard; taste, slightly astringent.

Agnimantha roots are tonic, stimulates urine production, fever reducing, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and cough reducing. The roots are used in urine retention, painful urination, weakness, nervous disorders etc.

Ayurvedic Properties and Action of Agnimantha

1. Following is given Ayurvedic properties and action of Agnimantha on body.
2. Rasa (Taste): Tikta/Bitter, Katu (pungent) kashaya/Astringent,
3. Guna (Characteristics): Laghu/Light, Ruksha/Dry
4. Virya (Potency): Ushna/Hot
5. Vipaka (Post Digestive Effect): Katu/Pungent
6. Action on body: Hot in potency reduces phlegm, reduces wind/Vata

Dose: 12-24 gm of the drug in powder form for decoction (Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of India).

Agnimantha is ingredient of many Ayurvedic medicines such as Chayanprash, Dashmularishtha, Dashmool Ghrita, Narayan Taila, Gorochandi Vati etc. It is one of the ten roots of famous Ayurvedic formulation Dashmula (Ten roots). For medicinal purpose generally the roots and leaves of Agnimantha tree is used.

Uses of Agnimantha

Agnimantha roots are used in treatment of variety of diseases such as inflammation, jaundice, pile, constipation, impaired digestion, gulma, painful urination and retention of urine. The decoction of roots is used for obesity. In case of erysipelas (bacterial skin infection involving the upper dermis) and glandular enlargement, the paste of Agnimantha and bamboo leaves is applied externally.

For freckles, the bark paste in milk is applied topically. The roots of tree are boiled in water to make decoction and given in dose of 100 ml to treat swelling in body. In gout, the decoction of all five parts of tree/panchang is given. In urticaria, root powder is given in dose of two grams with desi ghee for six days. The decoction of root is also useful in blood purification and treating skin diseases.

The leaves of tree are also of medicinal importance. The cooked leaves of tree eaten as Saag help to reduce abdominal gas and discomfort. In constipation, the leaves and Haritaki decoction is given. In piles, the decoction of leaves is given and poultice is applied on affected body area.

Ashtangavaleh is polyherbal semi-solid Ayurvedic formulation. This medicine is referenced from Ayurveda Sangraha and indicated in treatment of phlegm and fever. Ashtangavaleha contains only herbal ingredients such as Trikatu, ginger juice, honey etc. Here is given more about Ashtangavaleha such as indication/therapeutic uses, composition and dosage.

Key Ingredients of Ashtangavaleha

1. Ashtangavaleha is prepared from following ingredients:-
2. Katphala/ Kaifal Myrica nagi Fruit 1 part
3. Pushkarmula/Pushkara Inula racemosa (Rt.) 1 part
4. Sringi/Karkatashringi Pistacia integerrima (Gl.) 1 part
5. Yamani/Yavani Trachyspermum ammi (Fr.) 1 part
6. Karavi/Krishnajeerak/ Black Cumin Nigella sativa (Fr.) 1 part
7. Shunti/Sonth Dried Zingiber officinalis (Rz.) 1 Part
8. Maricha/ Kali Mirch Black pepper Piper nigrum (Fr.) 1 part
9. Pippali/ Long pepper Piper longum (Fr.) 1 part
10. Madhu/Honey 1 part
11. Ardraka svarasa/fresh juice of ginger (Rz.) 1 part

Uses of Ashtangavaleha

Ashtangavaleha is combination of Trikatu, Kaiphal, Yavni, Kala jeera, sringi, fresh ginger juice and honey. All these ingredients are well known for reducing cough. This medicine is given to treat Vata Kapha Jvara (Fever due to Vata dosha and Kapha dosha), Kasa (Cough), Svasa (Dyspnoea/Asthma), Aruci (Tastelessness) and Chardi (Emesis).

Dosage of Ashtangavaleha

The recommended dosage of Ashtangavaleha is 1/2g-1 g, twice a day. This medicine can be safely taken for 2-4 months. Or take as directed by physician.

Eranda Paka is a classical semi-solid polyherbal Ayurvedic formulation. This medicine is described in Yoga Ratnakara (Vata-vyadhi Cikitsa, diseases due to vitiation of vata dosha). Eranda Paka is used extensively in Ayurveda for treatment of Amavata and many other inflammatory conditions. The main ingredient of this medicine is seeds of castor plant. Castor seeds are poisonous with seed coats. For preparing this medicine only the pulp (without seed coat) of seeds is used. The pulp of the castor seeds is mixed in milk and cooked till a paste (Khoya) is formed which is fried in ghee and thereafter sugar and powders of other drugs are mixed properly.

Here is given more about Eranda Paka such as indication/therapeutic uses, composition and dosage.

Key Ingredients of Eranda Paka

1. Vatari bija (Eranda beej) Castor Ricinus communis (Sd.) 768 g

2. Kshira (Gou dugdha) (Cow’s ghee) 6.144 l

3. Ghrita (Goghrita) 384 g

4. Khand/Sugar 1.532 kg

5. Sunthi (Zingiber officinale) (Rz.) 12 g

6. Marica (Piper nigrum) (Fr.) 12 g

7. Pippali (Piper longum) (Fr.) 12 g

8. Ela (Elettaria cardamomum) (Sd.) 12 g

9. Tvak (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) (St. Bk) 12 g

10. Patra (Tvak patra) (Cinnamomum tamala) (Lf.) 12 g

11. Nagakeshar (Mesua ferrea) (Adr.) 12 g

12. Granthika (Pippali) (Fr.) 12 g

13. Citraka (Plumbago zeylanica) (Rt.) 12 g

14. Chaya (Piper chaba) (St.) 12 g

15. Dhanyaka Coriander (Fr.) 12 g

16. Misreya (Foeniculum vulgare (Fr.) 12 g

17. Shati (Hedychium spicatum) (Rz.) 12 g

18. Bilva/Bael (Aegle marmelos) (Rt.) 12 g

19. Yavani (Trachyspermum ammi) (Fr.) 12 g

20. Sweta jirak (Cuminum cyminum) (Fr.) 12 g

21. Krishna jirak (Carum carvi) (Fr.) 12 g

22. Haridra (Curcuma longa) (Rz.) 12 g

23. Daruharidra (Berberis aristata) (St.) 12 g

24. Ashvagandha (Withania somnifera) (Rt.) 12 g

25. Bala (Sida cordifolia) (Rt.) 12 g

26. Patha (Cissampelos pareira) (Rt.) 12 g

27. Hapusa (Juniperus communis) (Rt.) 12 g

28. Vella (Vidanga Embelia ribes) (Fr.) 12 g

29. Puskarmul (Inula racemosa) (Rt.) 12 g

30. Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris) (Fr.) 12 g

31. Kustha (Saussurea costus) (Rt.) 12 g

32. Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) (Fr.P.) 12 g

33. Bibhitak (Terminalia bellerica) (Fr.P) 12 g

34. Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica) (Fr. P) 12 g

35. Daru (Devadaru) Cedrus deodara (Ht.wd) 12 g

36. Vellari (Callicarpa macrophylla) (St.) 12 g

37. Abha (Acacia nilotica) (St.Bk.) 12 g

38. Aluka (Dioscorea bulbifera) (Sd.) 12 g

39. Vari (Satavari) (Asparagus racemosus) (Rt.) 12 g

Uses of Eranda Paka

Eranda Paka has anti-inflammatory properties and indicated in Amavata or Rheumatism, Stiffness in lumbo-sacral region, Stiffness and Tightness in the chest and Lock jaw. The other conditions in which this medicine is indicated are Oedema, Distension of abdomen due to obstruction to passage of urine and stools, Pain in urinary system, Abdominal lump and Colicky Pain.

Dosage of Eranda Paka

The recommended dosage of Eranda Paka is 5g to 15 g, twice a day. Or take as directed by physician.

Bitter gourd or Bitter melon is a very well-known and commonly available vegetable. There are several nutritional and medicinal benefits of eating this bitter vegetable. It is good source of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. . You may eat immature bitter melons raw (as juice) or can cook it as vegetable. The juice is taken as medicine for treating many clinical conditions including diabetes.

By Shihchuan from (Taipei City), (Taiwan) (2010-07-14 186 01)[CC BY-SA 2.0] via Wikimedia Commons

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Bitter melon grows on a fast-growing climbing vine with thin stem and soft tendrils. The vine can reach six feet or more and requires support. It is a relative of cucumber, gourds, squashes, and melon and requires similar growing habits. Bitter gourd plant leaves are also edible. In some countries leaves and young shoots are used as flavouring agents. The leaves can also be cooked and eaten as leafy vegetables and for making teas.

Bitter gourd leaves contain many bioactive constituents and are full of medicinal properties. The leaves are used for treatment of wide variety of ailments such as diabetes, dysentery, rheumatism and gout, viral diseases, respiratory ailments etc. from time immemorial. Studies have shown hypoglycaemic activity of bitter gourd leaves comparable to that of tolbutamide (first-generation potassium channel blocker oral hypoglycaemic drug of sulfonylurea class).

The leaves of plant has anti-diabetic, anti-hyperglycaemic, anthelminthic, anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, emetic, purgative, anti-hepatotoxic, anti-ulcerogenic and antiviral properties against chicken pox, measles. In some countries, the tea or decoction prepared from bitter gourd leaves is used as aphrodisiac and also taken by women as a measure for birth control.

Vernacular names

• Assamese:Kakiral, Kakral
• Bengali:Karolla
• English:bitter gourd, balsam pear, bitter melon, bitter cucumber, African cucumber
• Gujrati:Karela
• Hindi:Karela
• Kannada:Hagalakai
• Malayalam:Kaippa, Pavackkai
• Marathi:Karla
• Oriya:Kalara, Salara
• Punjabi:Karela
• Tamil:Paharkai
• Telugu:Kaakara Kaaya

Morphology of Karela leaf

Deeply and palmately 5-9 lobed;reniform to orbicular or suborbicular in outline;2.5-8 x 4-10 cm, cordate at base, acute or acuminate at apex;lobes ovate or obovate, narrowed at base, margins sinuate to undulate, mucronate;petioles 1.5-5 cm long.

Phytochemical constituents of Bitter gourd Leaves

Alkaloid, Flavonoids, Sterols, Terpenoids, Anthraquinones, Proteins and Phenols, glycosides including momordin, charantosides, glycosides, momordicosides, goyaglycosides and other terpenoid compounds that include momordicin-28, momordicinin, momordicilin, momordenol, and momordol.

How to grow Bitter gourd at home

It is very easy to grow bitter gourd plant. It is a warm-weather loving crop (optimal temperatures in range of 24–27⁰C) and grows well in hot-humid environment. Like any other gourd, this plant also requires long warm, dry weather with 30-35⁰C temperature. It requires well-drained, fertile soil and full sun.

You may sow the seeds in spring. In colder season (below 18⁰C), the seeds take longer to germinate. Bitter gourd can be grown in any type of soil but it needs sandy loam or rich loamy soil and optimum soil pH 6-6.7.

For planting, select the location that receives maximum sun. You can grow bitter gourd in your kitchen garden or in containers in your balcony. Sacks or grow bags can also be used. Fill the desired container with mix of soil and organic manure and use for growing this vine.

You can buy seeds from local nursery or extract few from fully ripened yellow bitter gourd fruits. Immature seeds are soft and are cream in colour. Mature seeds are hard and brown in colour and are present inside red covering. Just clean the seeds and sow directly or you can first sprout the seeds. For sprouting the seeds, take paper towel/tissue and put seeds on it and cover with another paper towel. Spray water and put inside a plastic bag. The seeds will start germinating in few days (approximately 10 days). Check daily and when you see small sprout immediately put the seed horizontally in the soil at half-inch depth. Do not overwater as that can rot the seed. The seedling will appear in 2-3 days. Water regularly as per requirement. Provide the adequate support for growing vine. Bitter gourd plant produces both male and female flowers. Short days promotes female flowers and temperature above 40⁰ C causes more male flowers. Pollination is must for setting of fruits which is done by bees. But you can also use hand pollination method. As far as manuring is concerned, organic manure is best for home use. The plant gives its first fruit about 50-110 days from sowing. Of course, you can use the leaves as leafy-vegetable or medicine throughout the growing season.

Medicinal Uses of Bitter gourd Leaves

Bitter gourd leaves are used to treat variety of diseases such as diabetes, piles, respiratory ailments, cholera, viral diseases and skin eruptions. Below is listed few such time-tested home remedies. These are simple, reliable and inexpensive. Even modern studies also support these traditional treatments.

Diabetes

Take about six tablespoon of the chopped bitter gourd leaves and two glass of water. Boil leaves in water for approximately 15 minutes. Do not cover the vessel.

Allow it to cool and then strain. Drink 1/3 cup of it thrice a day.

This leaf decoction is found to be very effective in the management of diabetes type 2. On regular intake, this keeps blood sugar in control.

Piles

Common home remedy is to extract three teaspoonful juice from clean bitter melon leaves and mix this with a glassful of buttermilk. This should be taken every morning for about a month on empty stomach. Topically leaves paste can be applied over the haemorrhoids.

Cholera, diarrhoea

Intake of 10-15 ml juice of Karela leaves is useful in diarrhoea and early stage of cholera.

Asthma, bronchitis, common colds, pharyngitis

Bitter melon leaves paste is mixed with equal amounts of the paste of tulsi/Basil leaves.

This should be taken with honey each morning. This can also be taken as preventive medicine for respiratory problems.

Arthritis

1. Drinking 10-15 ml juice of Karela leaves is beneficial in arthritis.
2. Ascite (gastroenterological term for an accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity)
3. Extract 10-15 ml juice of leaves and add some honey and drink.

Hepatitis

In Hepatitis, the leaves juice of bitter gourd is useful. Extract 10-15 ml juice of bitter gourd leaves and mix some big chebulic myroblan powder and drink.

Intestinal parasites, pox, measles, Pneumonia

Drinking 10-15 ml juice of Karela leaves is useful.

Boils, burns and other skin eruptions

The dried and powdered bitter gourd leaves can be applied topically on affected areas.

Burning sensation in hands and feet

Bitter gourd juice is applied topically in burning sensation in hands and feet.

Nutrition

Bitter melon leaves are good source of vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, phosphorus and vitamin B.

Side-effects/Warning

1. Bitter gourd or its leaves must not be used in pregnancy because it has been reported to stimulate uterine smooth muscle contraction leading to abortion.
2. All parts of Bitter gourd plant show abortifacient activity and used to induce abortion in some countries.
3. Bitter gourd leaf juice decoction/tea affects the heart and increases the rate and force of contraction after internal administration on dose dependent manner. This effect is reversible.
4. Always take fresh juice and decoction in recommended doses that is 10 or 15 ml.
5. Bitter gourd leaves have emetic properties and excess intake can cause vomiting, and loose motion.
6. Bitter gourd has anti-spermatogenic, abortifacient and fertility reducing properties.

Guar gum is obtained from endosperm of seeds of the Guar/Guar phalli/Gowar or Cluster bean plant. It is primarily the ground endosperm of guar beans prepared after de-husking the guar seeds. It is a water-soluble edible fibre and readily forms mucilage with water. It is white to yellowish white in colour, nearly odourless, free flowing powder with a bland taste. Guar gum is a high molecular weight carbohydrate.

By Ton Rulkens (Flickr:cluster bean cluster)[CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Guar gum has wide variety of uses including medicinal. It is used as an emulsifier, thickener, stabilizer in food industry. Guar gum is used in bakery for increasing the dough volume and shelf life, thickening, as a stabiliser, and preventing loss of moisture. When used in cake mixtures, it improves the water retention in baked cake. It is also used as stabilizer and water crystallization inhibitor in frozen foods and ice-cream making. It is used as a thickener and stabilizer in soups, sauces, and ketchups.

It is also used in other industries such as oil drilling, paper industry, mining, and in cosmetic industry. In cosmetic industry, this gum is used for thickening, suspending, binding, and emulsifying the products like shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer, and toothpastes.

As medicine, Guar gum is used to treat diabetes and high cholesterol. On oral intake, guar gum slows down the absorption of sugar and lipids from intestinal tract into the blood.

Constituent of Guar Gum

The chief constituent of guar gum is a Gallactomannan which is composed of galactose and mannose in a ratio of 1:2. It gives gelling or thickening property to guar gum.

Important Medicinal properties

Guar gum has cholesterol lowering, blood sugar lowering, appetite depressor, flatugenic, lipolytic and laxative properties.

Medicinal uses of Guar gum

1. Guar gum is used for reducing cholesterol and blood sugar level.
2. The intake of Guar gum in dose of 15g/day with normal diet reduces total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol significantly.
3. The gum in dose of 5-10g decreases blood-glucose level in both insulin dependent as well as non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus patients.
4. Intake of Guar gum orally with meals lowers post-prandial glucose levels in patients with type 1 diabetes.
5. Studies done on mice show, decreases rate of stomach emptying resulting in retarded admission of glucose into small intestine, where absorption of glucose takes place.
6. Guar gum is also used for treating diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), obesity, preventing atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Caution

1. Guar gum is a bulking agent. Therefore it should not be taken in conditions with obstruction or narrowing of oesophagus or intestine.
2. It can cause obstruction in bowel in case of dehydration.
3. Guar gum lowers appetite.
4. Guar gum has blood sugar lowering properties so monitor blood sugar and watch for signs of low blood sugar.
5. Intestinal gas, diarrhoea, abdominal bloating, cramping and constipation may happen during initial use.
6. Use only in recommended doses. Guar gum has water retaining capacity and it can swell 10-20 folds and may lead to bowel obstruction (or intestinal obstruction).
7. Guar gum may affect the absorption of co-administered drugs. It is observed to slow the absorption of digoxin, acetaminophen and bumetanide and reduces the absorption of metformin, penicillin V, ethinyl estradiol and some formulations of glyburide.

Gymnema Sylvestre or Gurmar is a large woody climbing plant that is extensively used in Ayurveda for treatment of diabetes for many centuries. This herb is found distributed throughout the India, in dry forests up to 600 m height and especially in tropical forest of Central and Southern India. It is also found in Konkan, Western Ghats, Deccan extending to the parts of western and northern India.

Gymnema Sylvestre or Gurmar is also used in Unani and Homeopathic system of medicine for treatment of diabetes. It is also used in treatment of many other diseases such as urinary complaints, obesity as well as alter lipid and glucose metabolism, cough, difficult breathing, ulcers pain in eye, snakebite, stomach ache etc.

For medicinal purpose mainly the leaf of plant is used. The chewing of fresh leaves have the remarkable property of paralysing taste buds temporarily for sweet taste for some time. This effect is probably due to direct interaction of the active ingredients present in leaves (some oleanane type triterpene glycosides, called saponins) with the taste buds.

This medicinal herb is known as Madhunashini (Sanskrit) and Gurmar (Hindi) the literal meaning of all these word is one that destroys sugar. This herb is one of the ingredients in many Ayurvedic formulations such as Ayaskrti, Varunadi kasaya, Varunadighritam, Mahakalyanakaghrtam etc.

Vernacular names

English:Periploca of the woods;Hindi:Gurmar;Sanskrit:Meshashringi, madhunashini;Marathi:Kavali, kalikardori;Gujrathi:Dhuleti, mardashingi;Tamil:Shirukurum Kaay, Shakkaraikkolli;Telugu:Podapatri;Kannada:Sannagerasehambu, Kadhasige;Siddha:Kannu Minnayamkodi, Passaam, Shirukurinja Unani:Gurmaar Buuti

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Gurmar is Gymnema Sylvestre and it belongs to the family Asclepiadaceae (Milk weed family). Its taxonomical classification is as given below:-

• Kingdom Plantae
• Subkingdom Tracheobionta
• Superdivision Spermatophyta
• Division Magnoliophyta
• Class Magnoliopsida
• Subclass Asteridae
• Order Gentianales
• Family Asclepiadaceae
• Genus Gymnema
• Species sylvestre

Plant description

Woody, large climber running over tops of high trees;young branches slender and pubescent;leaves opposite, simple, petioles 0.6-1.2 cm, stout or slender, lamina 2.5-6.25 cm in length, elliptic or ovate, thinly coriaceous, upper surface rarely pubescent;cymes subglobose, ± 1.25 cm in diameter;flowers yellow, ±0.2 cm in diameter;follicles slender, ±5-7.5 by 0.8 cm;seeds pale brown, flat, long with thin broad marginal wing.

Distributed in:Asia, tropical Africa and Australia.

Chemical contents of Leaf:

Triterpenoid saponins of gymnemic acid A, B, C and D with sugar residues such as glucuronic acid, galacturonic acid, ferulic and angelic acids attached as carboxylic acids. Several isopropylene derivatives of gymnemagenin, a hexahydroterpene, gymnemagenin, gymnemic acid. The leaves also contain betaine, choline, gymnamine alkaloids, inositol, d-quercitol. Hydrocarbons such as nonacosane, hentriacontane, tritriacontane, pentatriacontane, phytin, resin, tartaric acid, form acid, butyric acid, amino acids such as leucine, isoleucine, valine, alanine, ?-butyric acid.

Important medicinal properties:Anti-diabetic, Diuretic, Anti-obesity, Laxative, Stimulant, Anti-microbial, Anti-hypercholesterolemic, Liver-protective, Sweet-suppressing activity, Aphrodisiac

Scientific Studies

Nowadays many scientific studies are being done on medicinal herbs. Surprisingly, such studies supports and confirms the traditional therapeutic uses. The leaves of Gymnema Sylvestre or Gurmar is used in Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy for treatment of diabetes. An animal study, (Paliwal et al) confirms the leaf powder has positive and encouraging effects on blood glucose levels. The study concluded that Gurmar powder is effective in lowering the fasting as well as postprandial blood glucose levels.

In one study, the extract of dried leaves, given to diabetic rats at a dose of 20 mg/day per rat for 2 months. It showed lowering of increased sugar level due to increased serum insulin levels and also control of nephropathy, retinopathy and angiopathy.

Studies also prove the leaves of Gymnema Sylvestre are effective in reducing elevated serum triglyceride and total cholesterol.

The anti-obesity activity was also confirmed in study. Aqueous extract administered to Wistar rats exhibited suppressed increases in body weight, organs weight, and plasma lipids.

The anti-diabetic effect of leaves is attributed to increase in insulin secretion. And the increased insulin level is due appears to be due to repair or regeneration

of the endocrine pancreas (as manifested by the doubling of islet number and beta cell number in the pancreatic tissue of diabetic rats that were orally administered with G. sylvestre extracts). Some other proposed mechanisms for blood glucose lowering actions include increase in glucose uptake and utilization, stimulation of beta cell function, stimulation of enzymes etc.

Medicinal Uses Gurmar/Dhuleti/G. sylvestre

Gurmar or G. sylvestre is extensively used in making of Ayurvedic medicine for treatment of diabetes. There are about fifty five patents of Gymnema Sylvestre mainly on diabetes.

As a folk medicine, the leaves of plant are used fresh or in dried form. The dried powder is given in dose of 3-5 grams for treatment of diabetes and other ailments. The leaf powder can be mixed with cow's milk and taken orally to treat diabetes. One or two fresh leaves of the plant are chewed daily to control diabetes and keep the sugar level optimum.

The leaves of plant are used as tea to treat obesity, gastric acid, stomach aches and UTI (Urinary tract infections). The tea is prepared by pouring boiling water (1 cup) on Gurmar leaves and steeping for 10-15 minutes in covered pot.

In cornea opacity and other eye diseases the extract of leaves is applied topically.

The root powder is taken orally and also applied on the bitten spot to treat snake bite. The root paste is applied directly on wounds of snake bites.

Dosage of various parts of Gurmar:

• Root, leaf:3-5 g powder;50-100 ml decoction;
• In capsule form, 100mg, 3-4 times/day.
• Best results are seen only after 6 to 12 months of continuous use.

Himalaya Meshashringi is an herbal medicine prepared from leaves extract of medicinal herb Gurmar/Meshashringi or Gymnema sylvestre. Gurmar herb is used in Ayurveda from centuries for treatment of various diseases and especially for diabetes and weight loss. It is also used in Unani and Homeopathic system of medicine for treatment of increases blood sugar level.

The active constituent of Gurmar is gymnemic acid (a group of oleanane-type triterpenoid saponins), which has antidiabetic properties.

The anti-diabetic effect of Gurmar leaves is attributed to increase in insulin secretion. And the increased insulin level is due appears to be due to repair or regeneration of the endocrine pancreas (as manifested by the doubling of islet number and beta cell number in the pancreatic tissue of diabetic rats that were orally administered with G. sylvestre extracts). Some other proposed mechanisms for blood glucose lowering actions include increase in glucose uptake and utilization, stimulation of beta cell function, stimulation of enzymes etc.

Himalaya Meshashringi is available in form of capsules (60 capsules in a bottle). Each capsule contains 250mg extract of Meshashringi.

The dose of medicine is one capsule, twice a day or as directed by your physician.

Gum Tone is an herbal gel from Charak Pharma Pvt.Ltd. It is indicated in gum problems, bad breath, and prevention of cavities. Gum tone is helpful in removing the stains on the teeth. In gum problems, it stops bleeding of gums and controls inflammation.

Its regular use prevents formation of dental plaque. It provides fresh breath and prevents Halitosis. This gel is completely herbal and does not contain tobacco and sugar. Its use is recommended especially in diabetic patients who are prone to develop gingivitis.

Indication

This gel is used like toothpaste for in case of Bleeding, Spongy and Painful Gums (Gingivitis). Its use prevents plaque formation and dental caries. It is also indicated in Halitosis or problem of Bad breath and post scaling to reduce dental pockets.

Composition

Babbul Acacia arabica 0.8% w/w, Vajradanti Barleria prionitis 0.4% w/w, Bakul Mimusops elengi 0.4% w/w, Badam Prunus amygdalus 0.24% w/w, Haritaki Terminalia chebula 0.24% w/w, Bibhitaki Terminalia belerica 0.24% w/w, Amla Emblica officinalis 0.24% w/w, Khadir Acacia catechu 0.24% w/w, Nirgundi Vitex negundo 0.2% w/w, Kaiphal Myrica nagi 0.12% w/w, Mayaphal Quercus infectoria 0.08% w/w, Lavang Caryophyllus aromaticus 0.04% w/w, Neem Melia azadirachta 0.04% w/w, Nagkeshar Mesua ferrea 0.02% w/w, Kankola Piper cubeba 0.02% w/w, Twak Cinnamomum cassia 0.02% w/w, Vidang Embelia ribes 0.02% w/w, Karpoor Camphora officinarum 0.1% w/w and Flavoured base q.s

Alum, Bakul chhal and Babul chhal inhibits growth of salivary bacteria and prevents the formation of cavities.

Vajradanti, Lavang, Amla and Khadir bark are potent antibacterial and antiplaque.

Kapur, Kaiphal and Saindhav are Natural mouth fresheners.

Nirgundi, Kankola are Anti-inflammatory and analgesic.

How to Use?

Massage 2-3 gms of gel with soft brush or finger on gums and teeth and to be kept for 2-3 minutes in the morning and after dinner. Use regularly.

Buscogast (Boehringer Ingelheim India Pvt Ltd) is an Allopathic medicine for getting relief from abdominal cramping, pain and discomfort. Buscogast is antispasmodic with active ingredient Hyoscine Butylbromide. This product is known as Buscopan worldwide.

Hyoscine Butylbromide

Hyoscine-N-Butylbromide is a derivative of hyoscine which is extracted from the leaves of the Duboisia tree found mainly in Australia.

Hyoscine Butylbromide causes decreased motility of the gastrointestinal tract and the urogenital tracts. It is useful in the treatment of spasms in gastrointestinal regions (gastroenteritis, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, biliary colic, cystitis, ureteric colic, and primary dysmenorrhea).

Some of the side effects of Hyoscine Butylbromide include Blurred vision, photophobia, increased intraocular pressure (Ocular), Dry nose, occasional bronchospasm (Respiratory), tachycardia, palpitations (Cardiovascular), Constipation, xerostomia (dry mouth), dry throat (Gastrointestinal) and Urinary retention (Renal).

Indications

Buscogast is indicated in management of non-specific colicky abdominal pain (in adults and children), irritable bowel syndrome, labour and delivery, and painful menstruation.

Dosage

Buscogast is available in form of Tablets. The recommended dose for adults and children over 6 years of age is two tablets four times a day taken about every 4-6 hours. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.

Caution

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to hyoscine butylbromide or to any of the other ingredients.

Do not take this medicine in case of myasthenia gravis (a condition in which the muscles become weak and tire easily), glaucoma (high pressure in the eye), porphyria (a rare blood pigment disorder), megacolon (a condition of the colon, tachyarrhythmia (a fast heart rate), achalasia (a condition that causes difficulty in swallowing food), prostatic hypertrophy (prostate problems).

Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction due to medicine may include shortness of breath, wheezing or difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body.

Safety and effectiveness in children younger than 6 years have not been established.

Shallaki Tablets from Himalaya Drug Company is prepared from extract of gum resin of Boswellia serrata. Boswellia serrata is botanical name of Shallaki, Salai or Lubaan. The gum resin of this tree is also known as Salai guggal or Salai gond. This gum resin has anti-inflammatory properties and used in Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani system of medicine for supporting joint care, managing osteoarthritis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, soft tissue fibrositis, spondylitis, back pain and similar conditions.

Ingredients of Himalaya Shallaki

Each capsule contains 125mg extract of Shallaki

Uses of Himalaya Shallaki

Shallaki gum-resin is an excellent supplement for joint care and to manage arthritis, rheumatism, gout, joint inflammation, degenerative inflammatory disorder and similar condition. Oral administration of this gum-resin improves mobility and reduces the various symptoms associated with inflamed joint condition.

Shallaki supplementation also show beneficial effect in other inflammatory conditions such as respiratory disorders. Its use significantly reduces symptoms of asthma and improves objective measures of lung and immune function.

Dosage

Take as directed by your physician.

Salai, Shallaki, Luban are few common names of tree Boswellia serrata. This tree is native to India and found distributed in dry hilly regions. For medicinal purpose the bark and gum-resin of tree are used. The bark is considered tonic, sweet, acrid and cooling and used to treat diseases due to vitiation of pitta, asthma, dysentery, ulcers, haemorrhoids and skin diseases. But the main medicinal product obtained from the tree is its resin. The resin is one of the best herbal medicine for inflammatory diseases.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Sallaki is Boswellia serrata Roxb. and it belongs to the family Burseraceae. Its taxonomical classification is as given below:-

Division: Spermatophyta Subdivision: Angiospermae Class: Anacardiales Family: Burseraceae Genus: Boswellia Species: serrata

Common names

• Sanskrit : Shallaki
• English: Indian frankincense tree, Indian olibanum
• Assamese : Sallaki
• Bengali : Luban, Salai, Salgai
• Gujrati : Shaledum, Saleda, Saladi, Gugal, Saledhi
• Hindi : Salai, Labana
• Kannada : Madimar, Chilakdupa, Tallaki, Maddi
• Kashmiri : Kunturukkam, Samprani
• Marathi : Salai cha dink
• Punjabi : Salai Gond
• Tamil : Parangi Sambrani
• Telugu : Parangi sambrani, Anduga, Kondagugi tamu
• Urdu : Kundur

Tree Description

Moderate sized, deciduous tree, up to 18 m in height and up to 2.4 m in girth; light, spreading crown and drooping branches; Bark very thin, greyish-green, ashy or reddish in colour with a chlorophyll layer beneath the thin outer layer; Leaves are alternate, exstipulate, imparipinnate, 20-45 cm in length, crowded towards the ends of the branches; leaflets 17-31 cm, opposite, 2.5-8 cm x 0.8-1.5 cm, basal pairs often smallest, sessile, lanceolate or ovate-lanceolate, crenate, very variable in size; Flowers white, born in stout racemes 10-20 cm long, shorter than the leaves, crowded towards the ends of branches, but not terminal; Calyx persistent, pubescent outside, 5 to 7-toothed; teeth small, deltoid; Petals 5-7, erect, free, 0.5 cm long; Fruits 1.3 cm long, trigonous, with three valves and three heartshaped, 1-seeded pyrenes, winged, along the margins.

Distributions in India

Native to India; commonly found in the tropical dry deciduous forests from Punjab to West Bengal and in peninsular India. In Maharashtra it is common throughout dry deciduous forests.

Also found in West Asia, Oman, Yemen, South Africa, and Southern Arabia.

Habit: Deciduous trees, flowers small, white.

Parts used: Resinous exudation of bark which contains natural sugars, essential oils, and several unique triterpene acids known as boswellic acids.

Gum-Resin of Boswellia serrata/Luban/Salai-Guggul/Kundur

Gum resin is exudate from the cortex of tree secreted on some external injury. Quality gum is obtained from the tree only after eight years. A single tree can yield about one to two kilograms of gum in a year. For obtaining gum, small patch of bark is removed. The resin is fragrant, transparent and golden yellow and on drying it becomes brownish yellow. Gum-resin contains 30-60% resin, 5-10% essential oils (soluble in the organic solvents) and the rest is made up of polysaccharides.

The resin is sweet, bitter, astringent, anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, anti-dysenteric, expectorant, sweat causing, stimulates urine production, stomachic and emmenagogue. Other conditions in which it is useful are fevers, convulsions, abnormal discharge from the urethra, orchiopathy (Disease of a testis), bronchitis, cough, stomatitis (Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth) and jaundice. The oral administration of resin reduced serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels in rat studies due to action of Boswellic acids.

Gum-resin or Salai guggal of tree is extensively used in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, joint pain, skeletal muscle pain, back pain, soft tissue fibrositis, spondylitis etc. due to anti-inflammatory property. In all such diseases use of resin gives relief in joint swelling, pain, stiffness and other related symptoms.

Some common names of Oleo-gum resin of Boswellia serrata are Salai guggal, Salai Gond, Luban, and Kundur (Unani).

General appearance of Gum-resin

Solidifies slowly with time. Reddish brown, greenish yellow, or dull yellow to orange in colour. Small, ovoid, fragrant tears. Sometimes the tears form agglomerated masses up to 5 cm long and 2 cm thick. Fracture brittle, fractured surface is waxy and translucent. Burns readily and gives characteristic balsamic resinous odour.

Major chemical constituents of Gum-resin

Contains 5–9% essential oil with major constituents being α-thujene (50–61%), sabinene (5%), α-pinene (8%) and α-phellandrene (2%). Major triterpene constituents of biological interest are members of the boswellic acids (more than 12) including 11-oxo-β-boswellic acid, 3-O-acetyl-11- oxo-β-boswellic acid, α-boswellic acid, β-boswellic acid, 3-O-acetyl- α- boswellic acid, and 3-O-acetyl β -boswellic acid.

Medicinal uses of Salai/Shallaki (Boswellia serrata)

In traditional medicine system, the gum-resin of tree is extensively used to treat variety of diseases and especially related to joints. The gum resin is pain-relieving, cholesterol lowering, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and emmenagogue (stimulates or increases menstrual flow).

The gum resin is used from centuries to treat inflammatory diseases of joints (rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, joint pain, skeletal muscle pain, back pain), lungs (asthma, bronchitis), gastrointestinal tract (colitis, crohn's disease) and skin (psoriasis).

Salai-guggul is indicated in all types of pain, including pain due to arthritis. In arthritis and rheumatism oral administration of gum-resin or salai-guggul reduces joint swelling, pain, stiffness, other symptoms of inflammatory joint disorders, decreases knee pain and increases knee flexion. Use of it protects kness and supports normal joint function.

It is also given to fasten the wound healing and in fractured bones due its property to promote formation of new connective tissue and tiny blood vessels on the surfaces of a wound. It also improves blood circulation, clears toxins and removes blockage. Boswellic acid present in resin causes reduction in pain and inflammation in all such diseases.

The resin is also indicated in high cholesterol level in blood, erectile dysfunction, impotence, sexual debility, and gynaecological complaints (fibroids, cyst, painful periods etc.).

The average dose of gum-resin is 400mg-1200mg (of boswellia standardized to contain 40-65% boswellic acid), three times per day; 1–3 g daily (crude drug) and 3-9g per day resin in decoction.

Warning/Contraindications

Due to a lack of safety data, the use of the crude drug during pregnancy, breastfeeding and in children under the age of 12 years is not recommended.

1. In person with weak digestion low dose in recommended.
2. Start with low dose.
3. Common side effect of boswellia is gastric irritation.

There are many herbs and spices present in our kitchen which are helpful in curing or managing health issues. Many of them are specifically good for treating some very common digestive complaints like low appetite, abdominal gas, nausea, and other problems associated with excessive gas. Three such spice that can be made into powder and used daily to improve appetite and manage gas problem are cinnamon, cinnamon leaf or bay-leaf and cardamom.

Ayurvedic View

This combination of three spices is known as Trisugandhi Churna. Tri-sugandhi means three aromatics and churna is powder. So basically it is powder of three aromatic spices. The Ingredients are Tvak or cinnamon, Ela or lesser cardamom and Patra or tej-patta or bay leaves. All ingredients are taken in equal amount in dried state and powdered separately to get fine powder which is mixed and stored for daily use.

This churna decreases Kapha and Vata but increases Pitta and digestive fire. It is stimulant, carminative/relieves flatulence and diaphoretic/ induces perspiration.

This combination is helpful in low appetite, indigestion, weak digestion, vomiting, gas, distention and discomfort due to gas.

Why this combination is good for digestion

Cinnamon, bay leaves and cardamom, all three are carminative in action. Carminative (derived from Latin carminare which means, to cleanse) are those agents that useful in expelling gas to relive flatulence. They clear toxins and relax contracting stomach.

Cinnamon has stimulating properties due to which it increase circulation and healing in the gastrointestinal tract, promotes secretion of gastric juices and kills foreign bacteria.

Cardamom is anti-spasmodic, cholagogue (promotes the discharge of bile), choleretic (increase the volume of secretion of bile), digestive, laxative, stimulant and stomachic (promoting the appetite or assisting digestion). All these properties make it an excellent spice for improving digestive strength.

Bayleaf has analgesic, antiseptic, carminative, cholagogue, digestive, gastrotonic, hepatotonic, and stomachic properties which again helpful in improving digestion.

So this combination of spices can be used as home remedy for treating poor appetite, digestive weakness, indigestion, nausea and excessive gas.

The recommended dose of this powder is 1-3 grams, twice/thrice a day with honey or warm water.

Gasex is an Ayurvedic patent and proprietary product from Himalaya Drug Company. This medicine is useful in treating digestive problems and especially the abdominal gas issue. Gasex has gastrokinetic and gastroprotective activities. Gastrokinetic, or prokinetic, is a medicine that enhances gastrointestinal motility by increasing the frequency of contractions in the small intestine or making them stronger, but without disrupting their rhythm. Gastroprotective is a medicine that protects gastric mucosal damage through mechanisms unrelated to inhibition of acid secretion.

It also possess prebiotic, antiflatulent and antacid, antiulcer, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, cholagogue and membrane-modulating, antimicrobial, and antioxidant actions. This medicine is indicated in indigestion, flatulence, belching, fullness of abdomen, bloated sensation, aerophagia (condition of excessive air swallowing, which goes to the stomach), eructation and upper abdominal pain.

Here is given more about this medicine, such as indication/therapeutic uses, Key Ingredients and dosage.

Key Ingredients of Gasex

Each Gasex tablet contains:

Pdrs. Prativisha (Aconitum palmatum Syn. A.bisma) 65mg, Cowrie bhasma 32mg, Shankha bhasma 32mg, Maricha (Piper nigrum) 19mg,

Exts.Vidanga (Embelia ribes) 22mg, Triphala 22mg, Sunthi (Zingiber officinale) 22mg

Prepared in the juices and decoctions of Mentha arvensis, Moringa pterygosperma, Carica papaya,

Citrus lemon etc.

Uses of Gasex

Himalaya Gasex is useful in expelling trapped gas, relieving flatulence and eructation, checking abdominal distension and releasing gas in the epigastric region and stopping heartburn and correcting hyperacidity.

Gasex is helpful in correcting the disturbed digestive process and functions.

It has carminative and antispasmodic actions that support the digestive function. In case of chronic digestive malfunction, prolonged use of medicine gives relief.

Dosage of Gasex

Take 2 to 3 tablets of Gasex two to three times a day after meals. The medicine can be continued for a period of 2 to 8 weeks if required.

High blood pressure is (for adults), is condition in which systolic pressure is 140 mm Hg or greater and/or a diastolic pressure is 90 mm Hg or greater. Normal blood pressure is defined as a systolic reading of less than 120 mm Hg and a diastolic reading of less than 80 mm Hg.

Calcium channel blockers are a diverse group of antihypertensive prescription medications used to treat high blood pressure, angina, abnormal heart rhythms, migraines, inadequate blood flow to the hands and feet and certain psychiatric disorders.

Calcium channel blocking drugs lowers blood pressure by slowing the movement of calcium into the muscle cells of the heart and blood vessel walls. This relaxes blood vessels and makes it easier for the blood to flow.

The calcium channel blockers can be split into two families, the Dihydropyradines (e.g. Amlodipine, Clevidipine, Felodipine, Lercanidipine, Nifedipine, Nimodipine) which mainly have a role in the management of angina and high blood pressure and the rate limiting calcium channel blockers or Non-dihydropyridines which share these properties but also have a use in changing the rate and rhythm of the heart (e.g. Verapamil and Diltiazem).

Side effects

Calcium channel blockers are generally safe medicines but like any other allopathic medicine they also have certain side effects. Patients should be aware of these side effects. In case, side effects are severe than one can ask the doctor to change the same.

Some of the side effects are given below.

Slowing of gut that may lead to gas being trapped in the bowel, due to slow movement. The result is excessive abdominal gas and related health problems.

Enlargement of the gums tissue (called gingival hyperplasia) can occur which lead to bleeding and erosion of the gums.

As these drugs drop the blood pressure, in some people this may give a sensation of light-headedness or dizziness.

Calcium channel blockers widens the arteries and veins and can occasionally cause ankle swelling.

Some infrequent (0.1–1%) side effects include palpitations, tachycardia/ faster than normal heart rate at rest and chest pain with dihydropyridines, orthostatic hypotension, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, diarrhoea, constipation (common with verapamil), gingival hyperplasia (usually reversible), polyuria (including nocturia), tinnitus/ ringing in the ears, rash, itch.

other Rare (<0.1%) side effects include taste disturbance, elevation of hepatic enzymes, extrapyramidal reactions (drug induced movement disorders), gynaecomastia ( enlargement of the male breast tissue), hypersensitivity reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, exfoliative dermatitis (peeling of the skin over large areas), angioedema and vasculitis.

Calcium channel blockers can cause sexual dysfunction, weight gain and breathing difficulties (shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing).

Dihydropyridines commonly cause peripheral oedema due to redistribution of extracellular fluid (rather than fluid retention); this does not respond to treatment with diuretics, which may put patient at risk of volume depletion.

Calcium channel blockers are prescription drugs and must be taken under specialist guidance. Patient should observe the side effects and must tell the doctor in case they are persistent or severe.

Charak Ojus tablet is polyherbal Ayurvedic proprietary medicine from Charak Pharma Pvt.Ltd. This medicine is helpful in treating ailments related to digestive system. Ojus is prepared from medicinal herbs, which are used from centuries to treat digestive problems e.g. poor digestion, nausea and vomiting due to indigestion, and excess gas formation. Ojus tablet contains extract of herbs viz. Haritaki/Harad, Sonth/dry ginger powder, Pippali mula, Karanj, chitrak mula and Bel/Bilva.

Here is given more about Charak Ojus tablet such as indication/therapeutic uses, composition and dosage.

Key Ingredients of Charak Ojus tablet

Each tablet contains:

Haritaki Terminalia chebula 300 mg, Shunthi Zingiber officinale 300 mg, Pippali mool Piper longum 300 mg, Karanj Pongamia glabra 300 mg, Bilva Aegle marmelos 300 mg, Chitrak mool Plumbago zeylanica 300 mg

Haritaki, Bilva, Shunthi have Gastrointestinal prokinetics.

Shunthi, Pippali mool, Chitrak mool are Digestive enzyme activators, anti-flatulent.

Karanj, Bilva, shatavari are Gastro-mucosal protective.

Uses of Charak Ojus tablet

The combination of medicinal herb makes it excellent digestive aid. It improves digestion and relieves dyspepsia. This medicine shows beneficial effect in digestion related issues and indicated in Functional dyspepsia or non-ulcer dyspepsia, Nausea and vomiting associated with dyspepsia, Early satiety and Bloating or abdominal discomfort.

This medicine gives fast relief of symptoms of belching, bloating and indigestion within 15 minutes of its consumption. It stimulates digestion by stimulating secretion of digestive enzymes.

Dosage of Charak Ojus tablet

This medicine should be taken in dose of 1-2 tablets after meals.

This medicine is free from sodium and chalky taste. It is not habit forming. It is safe to take this medicine for a long period of time.

Ber, desert apple, Indian plum or Indian Jujube is a well-known economical and medicinal tree. Its small fruits (known as Ber in India) are very nutritious and tasty. These fruits contain vitamin C, sugar, minerals, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and carotene, proteins, fat, and carbohydrates. The fruits are also rich in B group of vitamins i.e. Thiamine, Niacin and Riboflavin and beta carotene. Ber fruits are medically proven to be effective in relieving chest pain and vomiting sensation.

"Ziziphus mauritiana fruit 2" by Ethel Aardvark - Own work. Licensed under CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons -

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Ber is a medicinal tree and its various parts, such as leaves, roots, bark, seeds are used from time immemorial to treat wide range of ailments. Medicinally, the fruits of wild variety are astringent, pain relieving, cooling, stomachic and styptic (check bleeding by contracting the tissues or blood vessels). The ripe fruits of cultivated variety are mild laxative and expectorant. The leaves of tree are astringent and causes sweating on oral use. The roots are applied externally on rheumatism, gout and similar conditions.

Scientific Classification

The botanical name of Ber or Indian Jujube is Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk and it belongs to the family Rhamnaceae. The synonyms of species are Ziziphus jujuba (Lam.) Gaertn. non-Mill. and Rhamnus jujuba L. Its taxonomical classification is as given below:-

• Kingdom: Plantae – Plants
• Subkingdom: Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
• Superdivision: Spermatophyta – Seed plants
• Division: Magnoliophyta – Flowering plants
• Class: Magnoliopsida – Dicotyledons
• Subclass: Rosidae
• Order: Rhamnales
• Family: Rhamnaceae – Buckthorn family
• Genus: Ziziphus Mill. – jujube P
• Species: Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. – Indian jujube
• The genus Ziziphus contain about 135 to 170 species, in which 17 are native to India.

Common names

• Ayurvedic: Kola, Koli, Badari, Badar
• Unani: Ber
• Siddha: Handai
• Tamil: Ilandhai
• English: Indian Jujube, Common Jujube
• Assam. : Vagari
• Bengali: Kul Vadar, Vadar, Vadai, Narkolikul
• Gujarati: Bor
• Hindi: Desi Ber
• Kannada: Borehannu
• Malayalm: Lanta, Lantakkura
• Marathi: Bor
• Oriya: Borakoli
• Punjabi: Desi ber
• Tamil: Ilandai
• Telugu: Regi
• Urdu: Ber

Geographical distribution

Indigenous over a wide area, from Southern Europe to South-East and East Asia. Cultivated in China, India, Japan and Republic of Korea.

Tree Description

Spiny, deciduous shrub or a small tree, up to 10 m high; spines in groups of two, one straight, up to 2.5 cm long and one curved. Leaves alternate, petiolate, oval-lanceolate, 2–7 cm long, 2.5–3.0 cm wide; apex slightly obtuse; base oblique; margin closely serrulate, with three veins. Inflorescence an axillary cyme. Flowers perfect, seven to eight in each cluster; calyx with cupuliform tube and five segments; petals five, yellow; disk`lining the calyx tube; stamens five; ovary depressed into the disk.

Fruits are fleshy drupes, ovoid or oblong, 1.5–5.0 cm long, dark reddish brown when ripe. Irregular furrowed stones are found in tuberculate seed which contains 6 mm long brown kernels of elliptic shape.

Important Medicinal Activities Of Ber: Analgesic; Antipyretic; Appetizer; Aphrodisiac; Astringent; Tonic for heart; Contraceptive; Diaphoretic; Digestive; Expectorant; Haemostat; Laxative; Sedative; Stomachic; Tonic; Vermifuge and can be used as Medicated eyewash.

Indian plum/ Indian Jujube Fruit Nutrition

Ber/ Indian plum/ Indian Jujube fruits are nutritionally very rich. They are good source of vitamin C. Vitamin C performs very important functions in body. It is required to improve body immunity to fight against infectious diseases. Vit C also required in body for absorption of iron and keeping gums, teeth, bones, skin, and muscles healthy. Ber are also rich source of vitamin A, B complex and minerals. Vitamin C content of ber fruits is initially low, and increases with maturity of fruit.

Ber fruits are rich in calcium, phosphorus and iron. They also contain many essential amino acids.

The leaves of tree also contain 6 % digestible crude protein, which is an excellent source of ascorbic acid and

Carotenoids.

The dried ripe fruit of Ber has laxative properties. The pulp of fruits is also applied on ulcers and cuts. In case of indigestion and excessive bile, the fruits are mixed with salt and chili peppers and taken orally.

Nutritional composition of Ber/ Indian jujube fruit (on fresh weight basis)

Source: (Morton, 1987; Pareek and Dhaka, 2008; Pareek et al., 2009)

Medicinal uses of various parts of Indian Jujube tree

Ber or Indian Jujube is a medicinal tree. It is used to promote weight gain, improve muscular strength, and as an immunostimulant to increase physical stamina. It has antipyretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, and sedative properties. The pulp of dried fruit is recommended in Ayurveda for treating burning sensation, blood impurities, excessive thirst and anorexia.

Rheumatism

In Rheumatism, the paste of leaves and root paste (Ber root + roots of Cassia auriculata ) is applied on the affected body part.

Chronic cough

The paste of bark (12-24 g) is fried in ghee and taken with rock salt (1 g) thrice daily.

Vomiting

Powder of root bark (1g) is taken with 50-100 ml. rice washing water twice a day.

Eye diseases

The leaves juice is rubbed gently like kajal.

Haire Care

In Hair fall, a paste of leaves of ber, amla (Phyllanthus emblica) and neem (Azadirachta indica) is made and applied on the scalp.

The decoction of fresh leaves (100-150g in three glass water) can be sued to wash hair.

Pimples, acne, abscesses, boils and carbuncles (severe abscess or multiple boil in the skin, typically infected with staphylococcus bacteria)

In pimples and acne, the paste of leaves is applied topically.

The pounded leave are also applied topically on boils.

Wounds

The poultice of leaves is applied on affected area.

Indigestion

For indigestion, the paste of root (one spoon) is taken orally.

Diabetes, lowering blood sugar level

The powder prepared from dried Ber leaves is useful in lowering blood sugar level.

Diuretic

The decoction of leaves can be used as diuretic.

Diuretics are also known as water pills as they increase the urinary output and electrolyte excretion. They are useful in various diseases such as high blood pressure, fluid retention, oedema, acute and chronic renal failure, sciatica, kidney stones, lymphatic swelling, glaucoma, liver disorders and many more diseases. This herb works as natural diuretic. Natural diuretics work by stimulating the kidney to produce more urine by reducing the amount of water and salts that the kidney reabsorbs into the bloodstream. This improves the functioning of tissues and organs, and also, prevents fluids from accumulating in tissue matrices.

Diarrhoea

The powder of dried fruit is given orally with water to cure diarrhoea.

In dysentery, the juice is extracted from equal amount of leaves of patharchatta, jamun and ber are taken orally.

Dosage of various parts of Ber tree

Dried fruit pulp, devoid of seed—3-6 g; 5–7 fruits; stem bark—3–5 g powder, 10–20 g for decoction.

Few veterinary Uses

For improving milk production in cattle, the dry leaf powder is mixed in fodder and given.

In skin diseases, about 150g root is boiled in 500ml of water and filtered. The filtrate is allowed to cool down and applied thoroughly on the affected body part. The treatment is repeated twice a day for three or four days.