Herbs that Heal-I

Herbs that Heal-I

Bhumi Amla

 

 

Bhumi Amla, or Phyllanthus Niruri, has been used as a herbal medicine for centuries. In Northern India, the plant is seen growing in wild during monsoon season. It grows to 50 -70 cm in height bearing alternating small, thin, elliptical leaves. It is easily distinguished by the small, smooth, oval fruit that develops right below the leaf stalks. Benefits of Bhumi amla include:

  • Promotes liver health: Bhumi amla is known to cure hepatitis, fatty liver, and jaundice. It stimulates bile production, thus aiding in digestion. It helps in overall detoxification by removing toxins from the liver and blood.
  • Prevents kidney stones: It is also known as stone breaker as its extract prevents the accumulation of calcium oxalate crystals which lead to formation of kidney stones.
  • Helps build immunity: It is often used to treat the common cold, sore throat and cough symptoms.
  • Reduces stress: It helps in clearing the mind and promoting mental health.
  • Good for skin: Bhumi amla also helps to minimize aging symptoms by improving complexion, toning the skin and unclogging pores.

Consumption: The leaves of the plant can be consumed in the morning on an empty stomach. Its panchang (all 5 parts of the plant) can be dried and powdered. 3-5 gm of this powder can be consumed with warm water. Alternatively, about  a 10-15 ml decoction of the panchang is known to offer health benefits. Bhumi amla paste can be applied topically for improving skin texture.

Moringa

 

 

Moringa oleifera or ‘Drumstick’ is found abundantly in North India and is native to this region. The leaves, flowers, seeds, bark and roots of this tree have been used as medicine for centuries. The importance of this plant is attributed to vitamins and minerals that are present in abundance. The potassium content of its leaves is comparable to that in banana while their vitamin C content is equivalent to that in an orange. Besides these, calcium, amino acids, antioxidants and iron are also present in it.

Traditionally, it has been used for:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis: Its anti-inflammatory properties aid in reducing redness, swelling and pain
  • Asthma: It reduces inflammation in the bronchial tubes of the lungs, which in turn improves breathing. It is useful for bacterial, viral and fungal infections of the lungs.
  • Diarrhoea: Its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties reduce the symptoms of diarrhoea and provide relief.
  • Hypertension: Studies have shown positive results in lowering blood pressure.
  • Diabetes: Early investigations reveal that insulin like proteins found in moringa can help lower blood sugar and slow down disease progression.
  • Cancer: In laboratory investigations, niazimicin present in the leaf extract of moringa plant slowed the growth of cancer cells and enhanced the inhibitory effect of chemotherapy.

Consumption: Moringa is consumed in various forms, including fresh leaves, powder, and as tea additive. Fresh leaves can be added to dishes and soups, kneaded with atta or cooked like spinach. Powdered forms are excellent for sprinkling on curries, dal or cooked vegetables.

Punarnava

 

 

Punarnava or Boerhavia diffusa, native to India, is a well-known herb in traditional medicine systems. The name Punarnava means ‘one that rejuvenates’ or ‘renews’ from the Sanskrit words punar (again) and nava (new).  Punarnava is valued for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and rejuvenating qualities. Its medicinal uses align with its name, as it’s used to promote vitality and restore health. It is used since centuries for:

  • Improved liver health: The anti-inflammatory properties of Punarnava help remove toxins from the liver and promotes increased bile production. This helps in controlling ailments like jaundice and fatty liver.
  • Reducing inflammation: Punarnava alleviates conditions like arthritis, joint pain, and soreness in muscles, due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Supporting kidney health: It is known for its diuretic properties, that help in flushing out excess fluid and toxins, thus reducing the condition of oedema. The anti-bacterial properties prevent urinary tract infections and the symptoms arising thereof.
  • Reducing asthma and bronchitis symptoms: It helps in clearing respiratory tract by reducing mucus and congestion.
  • Improved heart condition: Punarnava regulates blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and palpitations that greatly enhance the health of the heart.

Consumption: Fresh Punarnava juice can be consumed daily to detoxify the system. It can also be taken in powder form, as a tea or a vegetable additive. The dosage should be regulated as per symptoms.

Aloe Vera

 

 

Aloe vera is distinguished by its thick, pointed, and fleshy green leaves. The leaves contain a slimy tissue that stores water. This ‘gel’ contains 75 bioactive agents including minerals, vitamins and anti-oxidants. Aloe vera is useful as a natural remedy for various skin and other body ailments.

  • Treatment for various skin conditions: Aloe vera is known to soothe itchy skin, reduce inflammation, relieve redness and scaling, and accelerate wound healing. Due to its anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and excellent moisturising properties, it is known to give relief from acne, cuts and scrapes, insect bites and stings, minor burns and sunburn. It is also useful in skin diseases like eczema and psoriasis. There is evidence to suggest that topical use of aloe vera gel on skin can slow signs of aging.
  • Relief from constipation: It contains barbaloin as an active substance that can provide relief from constipation and acidity, while improving overall gut health.
  • Maintaining oral hygiene: Aloe vera possesses anti-bacterial properties and is an effective way to reduce build up of and improve overall gum health. It can be used as a mouth-wash and in toothpastes.
  • Scalp and hair health: Aloe vera gel can nourish, moisturize, and strengthen hair while improving scalp health. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic (anti-itch) properties can relieve irritation and flakiness associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It cleanses an oily scalp and strengthens hair roots promoting new growth.

Consumption: Aloe vera is consumed as a juice or gel after removing the outer green covering and the yellowish latex, which is toxic. Aloe latex is a strong laxative and is potentially unsafe to consume.

The edible inner gel can be eaten raw, added to smoothies, or blended into juice. The gel (300ml) can be mixed with amla juice (200 ml) and ginger juice (100 ml) and consumed (40ml) on an empty stomach to give overall health benefits.

The blended gel can be applied topically on the skin and scalp for various benefits.