Ayurvedamagazine

Category: Ayurvedic Herbs

  • Shepherd’s Purse play therapeutic roles in bleeding inflammation

    Shepherd’s Purse (Capsella bursa pastoris), rich in bioactive compounds and haemostatic properties plays therapeutic roles in bleeding, inflammation, and hormonal dysregulation, according to studies.

    A member of the mustard family, it has heart-shaped or triangular seed pods, resembling the shepherd’s traditional leather purse. Native to Europe the plant has now naturalised in most places across the world and considered as a weed.

    Shepherd’s purse can address conditions such as heavy menstrual bleeding ((menorrhagia) postpartum haemorrhage or nose bleeds. Its haemostatic properties help stop bleeding. Studies show that haemostatic action may involve vasoconstriction and pro-coagulant effects, owing to presence of flavonoids, tannins, and vitamin K mostly in flowers and fruit and anti-inflammatory effects, owing to presence of flavonoids and glucosinolates. Research suggests that it could reduce harmful compounds and interfere with inflammatory processes and thus can be used for joint pain and swelling. 

    The mild diuretic actions help augment increased urine production and support kidney function. It aids in excreting phosphates and uric acid, and is used for conditions like gout, arthritis, and kidney stones. Its diuretic effect may also help flush bacteria from the urinary tract, making it useful for urinary tract infections. It has been found to be taken as tea or in other forms in some ancient cultures.

  • Stress-relieving, sleep-improving Ashwagandha captures the interest of the global scientific community

    Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), is one of the most widely used herbs in traditional medicine systems across various countries, including Indian Traditional Medicine systems. Now, this popular herb has captured the global scientific community’s interest, leading to a surge in the number of scientific studies exploring its use for medicinal purposes. As per the PubMed database, while in 2019, 95 studies on Ashwagandha were listed, in 2024, the number rose to 201—an increase of 111.58%. This upward trend indicates a growing recognition of Ashwagandha’s potential in clinical research and therapeutic applications.

    Known for its adaptogenic and therapeutic properties, Ashwagandha is being studied for its potential to reduce stress, improve sleep, boost immunity, and many other health benefits. A small perennial herb with white flowers and orange-red berries thriving in the warmer regions of India, Ashwagandha is commonly referred to as “Indian winter cherry”.

    Scientists have discovered that Ashwagandha contains bioactive compounds with diverse pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antistress, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, hemopoietic, and rejuvenating properties. It has been observed to positively influence the endocrine, cardiopulmonary, and central nervous systems, making it a promising candidate for clinical applications.

    A recent systematic review analysing five randomised controlled trials with 400 participants found that Ashwagandha extract significantly improved sleep quality in adults, especially those diagnosed with insomnia. The extract was also noted to enhance mental alertness upon waking and reduce anxiety levels.

    Furthermore, several clinical trials suggest that Ashwagandha extracts may help alleviate stress and anxiety. A 2021 systematic review identified seven studies involving 491 adults from India, revealing that Ashwagandha supplementation for 6 to 8 weeks resulted in significant stress and anxiety reduction compared to placebo groups.

    Recognising the increasing scientific interest in and around Ashwagandha, the Ministry of Ayush has published a comprehensive safety dossier on the herb to aid scientists and scholars. Also, to address safety-related aspects of the herb, an expert committee was constituted, and its report was published. These publications aim to provide scientifically validated information about Ashwagandha’s safety, efficacy, and therapeutic potential.

    With research activity accelerating, Ashwagandha stands at the intersection of traditional wisdom and modern scientific exploration, offering immense promise for human health and well-being. As ongoing studies unlock its full potential, the world may soon witness even greater therapeutic applications of this time-tested herb.

  • Six medicinal plants to have in your kitchen garden, as recommended by National Medicinal Plant Board CEO

    Staying healthy is not that strenuous a task. Mahesh Kumar Dadhich, CEO of the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), in his New Year message, has recommended every household to grow six plants in the kitchen garden or anywhere in the house to keep away ailments and ensure the good health of family members.

    Tulsi – Just by taking two Tulsi leaves daily, good health can be ensured as Tulsi has strong antibacterial properties that protect against various pathogens. It is a natural detoxifier that purifies the blood and promotes healthy skin. Tulsi also strengthens the immune system and combats infections as it is rich in antioxidants and possesses anti-inflammatory properties.

    Aloe Vera – Aloe Vera is a natural cosmetic. Its cooling and healing properties make it effective for treating burns, wounds, acne, eczema, and other skin issues. It promotes glowing, youthful skin by hydrating and nourishing tissues. Aloe Vera is known as “Kumari” due to its benefits for female reproductive health, as it regulates menstrual cycles, reduces cramps, and supports uterine health.

    Giloy – Giloy works as an immunity booster. It is known as an ‘Amrita’ for its rejuvenating and life-enhancing properties. It strengthens the immune system and enhances the body’s resistance to infections. It also acts as an antipyretic, effectively reducing chronic and recurrent fevers, including those caused by malaria, dengue, and typhoid.

    Ajwain Patta – Ajwain Patta is helpful to counter gas troubles. It acts as a natural digestive aid, relieving indigestion, gas, bloating, and acidity. It improves appetite and helps in managing constipation. Ajwain Patta also enhances milk production in lactating mothers and aids in relieving colic in babies through its carminative properties.

    Gulab (Rose) – Gulab or Rose helps you to do away with constipation. It treats constipation by acting as a mild laxative, especially when consumed as Gulkand (rose petal jam). Rose also improves digestion and stimulates the appetite.

    Kadi Patta (Curry leaves) – Kadi Patta or Curry leaves act as an immunity booster. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which strengthen the immune system. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties grant protection against infections. It also stimulates digestive enzymes and improves gut health.

    Just having these six plants in your household is enough to ensure life in good health and spirits. Along with this, the NMPB CEO recommends waking up during Brahma Muhurta and drinking water from copper vessels to ensure good health. Drink water even if you are not thirsty after waking up as this helps in the detoxification process, exercise for at least half an hour in the mornings, eat two times a day and if possible have your last evening meal before sunset, Mr Mahesh Kumar said. 

  • Amalaki Rasayana’s neuroprotective effect suggests benefit in Alzheimer’s, says research journal

    Amalaki Rasayana, derived from the fruits of Phyllanthus emblica, is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation renowned for its broad spectrum of pharmacological properties. A report published in the Journal of Drug Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (JDRAS) of the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), states that Amalaki Rasayana shows considerable promise as a therapeutic agent, particularly in managing chronic diseases and age-related conditions, including Alzheimer’s.

    Findings suggest that Amalaki Rasayana may significantly reduce blood glucose levels, enhance immune function, protect cardiovascular health by modulating blood lipid profiles, improve cardiac function, and promote cognitive function. Its potent antioxidant properties are crucial in mitigating oxidative stress and providing cellular protection. 

    Amalaki Rasayana’s anti-ageing and neuroprotective effects suggest benefits in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s with an impact on telomerase activity, DNA repair, and cellular health. Additionally, Amalaki Rasayana’s cardioprotective properties, particularly for age-related cardiac dysfunction, position it as a potential treatment for cardiovascular conditions such as atherosclerosis and heart failure, the report says.

    Ayurveda perceives the physical structure as consisting of seven Dhatus: Rasa(nutritional fluid), Mamsa (soft tissues and muscles), Asthi (bones and cartilage), Medha (lipids), Majja (marrow), Rakta (blood cells), and Sukra (vital fluid). Rasayana serves as the means to cultivate superior dhatus by enhancing the quality of dhatus through proper metabolism and assimilation of micronutrients. When the quality of dhatus is improved, it leads to longevity, a robust immune system capable of combating diseases, sustained youthfulness, and optimal body development.

    Rasayana therapy, a key component of Ayurvedic medicine, has gained increasing attention for its holistic approach to health and longevity. The rising interest is driven by the global demand for natural health practices and a shift toward preventive healthcare. Modern research supports the effectiveness of Rasayana in reducing stress and oxidative damage and improving disease resistance. Herbs such as Ashwagandha, Satavari, and Amalaki, with their adaptogenic, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties, are being embraced for treating chronic diseases and age-related conditions and promoting overall wellness.

    Amalaki Rasayana is one of the most potent Ayurvedic herbal formulations with rejuvenating herbs. Amalaki is described as light and dry, which influences its interaction with the body’s tissues and functions. The nature of Amalaki is cold, which is particularly beneficial in conditions related to excess heat. Amalaki is regarded as a Tridoshashamak, meaning it can balance all three Doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The sweet post-digestive taste of Amalaki combined with its cold nature makes it particularly effective in balancing the Pitta Dosha. 

    The Amalaki Rasayana’s significant medicinal value also comes in its ability to modulate the immune system, enhance immunity, and provide essential nutrients for good health. This offers promise for treating immune-related disorders and chronic inflammation, with potential applications in autoimmune diseases and cancer immunotherapy, the report says. 

  • Kapikacchu offers a potent way to overcome sexual infertility among men

    Impaired fertility and its related issues have been addressed in all systems of medicine for ages. It remains a significant clinical problem even today. Increasing cases of male infertility have been reported in the last 50 years where erectile dysfunction and suboptimal sperm parameters are found as the commonest conditions.
    Stress is a major contributor to male infertility. Other factors and conditions include ageing, sleep deprivation, depression, obesity, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, Parkinson’s disease (PD), and external factors like trauma or injury to the spinal cord, etc., as well as deficiency of certain cofactors and essential minerals.
    Mucuna pruriens, also known as Kapikachhu in Sanskrit, is a well-known medicinal plant, the seed of which is commonly used for treating male infertility and associated conditions. In the Ayurvedic system of medicine, various formulations of Kapikacchu are explained in the Vajikarana (Aphrodisiac) context.
    It has been observed that Kapikacchu has an action on multiple aspects of infertility like ageing, depression, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and Parkinson’s disease due to the presence of a complex mixture of alkaloids and its nutritional component, along with its antioxidant and adaptogenic properties.
    Bioactive constituents present in the seed of Kapikachhu play an important role in boosting the sexual drive. The major contents of Kapikachhu stimulate the hypothalamus and forebrain leading to the synthesis of testosterone which is responsible for increased sexual drive and improved performance.
    With ageing, there is a reduction in the antioxidant capacity of the tissues which has a deleterious effect on sperm count. Ethanolic extracts of Kapikachhu have been demonstrated to improve the antioxidant capacity of the tissues. 
    Nitric oxide (NO) secreted from endothelial cells is responsible for the initiation of penile erection. Ageing stimulates the production of Rho-kinase 2 (ROCK-II) which suppresses NO thus affecting erection. Kapikachhu is a known adaptogen, the aqueous extract of which showed good ROCK-II inhibition properties.
    Different studies show that insufficient sleep, disrupted sleep or sleep disorders may affect sexual activities in many ways. Supplements having the active ingredients of Kapikachhu are seen to improve sleep quality without impacting resting heart rate or blood pressure, different blood parameters, and metabolic or lipid panel in otherwise healthy subjects.
    The increase in platelets can adversely affect the blood flow through the small arteries of the genital tissues of men, affecting erection capability. Crude extract and the ethyl acetate fraction of Kapikachhu have been shown to significantly decrease platelet aggregation, thus improving erection capability.
    Ejaculatory dysfunction is the most common cause of infertility in diabetic men. The ethanolic seed extract of Kapikachhu has been shown to significantly improve sperm parameters and the level of sexual hormones, thus improving sexual behaviour, libido, and potency.
    Depression-induced symptoms like loss of interest, lowered self-esteem, irritability, inability to experience pleasure and social withdrawal produce difficulties in sexual relationships. Hydro-alcoholic extract of the seed of Kapikachhu has shown antidepressant action which can lead to improvement in sexual performance.
    In obesity, the increased body mass increases the frequency of erectile dysfunction in a person. The ethanolic seed extract of Kapikachhu has been shown to induce significant improvement in hormonal levels and sperm parameters among the obese.
    In patients with PD, sexual disorders usually begin after the onset of motor disorders. Aqueous extract of seeds of Kapikachhu improves motor behaviour among the PD affected by reducing oxidative stress.
    Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes impairment of sexual function, fertility, erection, and ejaculation, which has an intense effect on quality of life. Ethanolic extract of Kapikachhu seed extract has shown improvement in sexual behaviour, sperm parameters, and hormonal levels in SCI cases.
    Also, the levels of vitamins A, C, and E present in Kapikachhu contribute to the improvement in sperm concentration and motility among infertile men. 
    Infertility is a multifaceted disorder that involves a broad array of etiological factors. Although different treatment modalities have been tried to treat this condition, still it lacks specific therapies which can be achieved easily in an affordable way. Kapikachhu is one of the herbs having different useful components observed to have action on multiple aspects of infertility, thus opening a new horizon to combat this condition easily and cost-effectively. 

    (Inputs from Journal of Drug Research in Ayurvedic Sciences)

  • Black pepper has been part of Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, here’s why…

    Black Pepper is among the most traded spices in the world. Its importance was such that in ancient trade black pepper was often referred to as black gold. There are many reasons why natives of Europe braved high seas and harsh weather to reach the Malabar coast just to get their hands on this precious commodity. 

    Black pepper has been part of Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. Modern science suggests that black pepper is a powerful antioxidant that mops up harmful substances from the body resulting from an unhealthy diet, too much alcohol, and tobacco consumption. 

    Black pepper also has anti-inflammatory properties which helps deal with a range of diseases, including autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. It can also help the body better absorb certain beneficial compounds, such as resveratrol that protect against heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes.

    Black pepper also improves the absorption of curcumin, which is the active ingredient in the popular anti-inflammatory spice turmeric. Another compound beta-carotene, found in vegetables and fruits, is also absorbed by black pepper. Beta-carotene functions as a powerful antioxidant that fights against cellular damage. 

    Black pepper may also have cancer-fighting properties. Studies have found that black pepper reduced the reproduction of breast, prostate, and colon cancer cells and encouraged cancer cells to die. Black pepper also shows promising effects in minimizing multi-drug resistance in cancer cells, which potentially reduces the effectiveness of chemotherapy.

    Black pepper is among the most important spices used in Ayurveda medicine. Along with long pepper and ginger, it forms the herbal preparation called trikatu, an important ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations. It helps improve digestion, aids in weight loss, alleviates skin pigmentation issues and arthritis pain, and fights depression.

    So, there were plenty of reasons for the ancients to find a way to acquire this precious commodity, no matter what the risks were. Black pepper continues to be a staple in Ayurveda today, with its vast array of medicinal qualities virtually unmatched by any other spice or herb. 

  • Ayurveda effective for Ascites: new study

    Patients
    suffering from ascites, a condition in which fluid gets collected in spaces
    within the abdomen, need no longer have to undergo painful invasive surgery to
    treat the disease.

    A new study
    has found Ayurveda significantly effective in treating the medical condition,
    affecting around 60 percent of people with cirrhosis within 10 years of their
    diagnosis.

    The researchers
    from the JSS Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital, Mysuru, said in their
    latest finding that a range of Ayurvedic formulations along with the herbal
    drug Neeri KFT has yielded positive outcomes when administered to ascites
    patients undergoing treatment in hospital.

    The herbal
    drug not only aided in saving kidneys from further damage due to ascites but
    also helped in excreting the collected fluid from the abdomen, the study
    published in the latest issue of ‘Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical
    Sciences’ said.

    A dose of 20
    ml of the ayurvedic formulation was given to the patients daily—morning and evening—
    for 30 days. The herbal formulation resulted in flushing out of the
    fluid from the patients’ abdomen through the urinary tract, the researchers,
    including Professor Siddesh Aradhyamath and Assistant Professor Komala A observed.

    Neeri KFT is
    composed of herbs such as Punarnava, Varun, Sigru, Sariva, Makoi and Sirish.
    Ascites usually occurs when the liver stops working properly or it
    malfunctions, leading to a build-up of fluid in the space between the abdominal
    lining and the organs. Patients with ascites exhibit symptoms like painless
    swelling in the abdomen, abdominal discomfort; weight gain; feeling full after
    eating a little, and shortness of breath among others.

  • Avert blockade of heart with these herbs

    According to Vedic Literature,
    ‘disease of the heart’ (Hridroga) existed even among people of prehistoric
    times. Its prevalence is recorded as early as 2400 B.C. Charak Samhita
    has a special mention about Hridroga with a clear-cut definition of what
    it is, its cause, development and management. Sushruta defines Hridroga
    as “any condition which produces disturbances in the heart”.  

    According to Ayurveda, there are 5 classic
    types of Hridroga namely, Vataja, Pittaja, Kaphaja, Sannipataja and
    Krmija    . Typically,  Krmija-patient
    will experience a characteristic pain which will be like piercing by needles (Suchibhirivatoda).
     This can be correlated with Ischemic
    Heart Disease (IHD), based on the similarity of signs and symptoms as defined
    by modern medicine.

    What causes Hridroga?

    Charaka says that excessive use of
    articles having sharp (Tikshna) attributes, excessive worry, fear and
    stress, suppression of the manifested natural urges, physical or mental trauma,
    improper digestion and metabolism, administration of purgation and emetic
    therapies or even an enema in excess can lead to Hridroga.

    Allopathic medicine also agrees with
    what Charaka has said, which has some parallels with the development of  direct or indirect role in pathogenesis of Ischemic
    Heart Disease. If the early symptoms of heart disease are not cared for, it can
    lead to Myocardial Infarction or ‘Heart Attack’.

     

    Symptoms of Hridroga

    According to Charaka, the common
    symptoms of Hridroga are discolouration of the skin, bad taste in the
    mouth, loss of appetite, morbid thirst, hiccup, asthma, fever, cough, fainting,
    nausea, vomiting or anorexia.  

    The characteristic pain (Suchibhirivatoda)
    arises when a part of the heart does not receive enough blood. The pain will be
    the worst, like piercing the heart with several needles.

    Ayurveda has an explanation for these
    symptoms which are more or like a sequence: improper diet and stressful life
    styles lead to thickening of arteries (Dhamanipraticaya) or hardening of
    arteries (Dhamanikathinaya) leading to angio-obstruction (Vata dosha)
    and finally to pain (Ruja).

    How should symptoms
    of Hridroga be addressed?

    Many factors such as heredity, high
    blood pressure, diabetes, high serum cholesterol and smoking can lead to Hridroga.
    However, if you are ready to follow certain Ayurvedic way of life, it is easy
    to manage the heart disease and avoid the complications arising from it

    Angina

    Angina is the term used to refer to the
    characteristic pain which will be normally felt in the chest. However, angina
    can also occur in jaws or abdomen. In some cases, it can come without any
    symptom, a condition which is called ‘Silent Ischemia’. Then at any moment,
    ‘heart attack’ can occur if there is a blood clot that suddenly cuts off blood
    supply to the heart.

    Some simple measures

    If you are in the habit of drinking ‘green
    tea’, it can avoid clogging of arteries. Garlic can prevent liver from producing
    excess fat and LDL-cholesterol. Turmeric can lower blood cholesterol levels and
    prevent formation of blood clots. Ginger also can reduce cholesterol and
    prevent blood clots. So, try to include them in your diet.

    High Blood
    Pressure

    Blood pressure is defined as the
    force exerted by the blood to the walls of arteries. If you have low blood
    pressure, it means you have less power of digestion. If you have high blood
    pressure, it is a more serious condition which is called hypertension. Ayurveda
    sees hypertension as a manifestation of the three doshas which can be classified
    as:

    1. Pitha: Hypertension
    is associated with liver disorders and the accumulation of internal heat.

    2. Vata: Hypertension
    due to worry, strain, overwork, anxiety or insomnia and other nervous system
    disorders.

    3. Kapha: Hypertension
    due to oedema, obesity, tiredness, and high cholesterol.

    For those who have Vata-induced
    Hypertension, garlic is good. For Kapha-type, Trikatu can be used
    for treatment. And for those with Pitha-type, saffron or turmeric in a
    base of aloe gel can be used. Treatment using Brahma Rasayana is also advised.

    Those having high blood pressure generally
    should avoid dairy, butter, eggs and high fat foods, hot spicy foods,
    particularly those with mustard and onions. A simple home-remedy involves
    taking crushed garlic and clove with honey which can be repeated once or twice
    a week. Nutmeg powder or Saraswat powder mixed with warm milk also can do good.

    Heart Attack

    Heart attack occurs when blood fails
    to reach to heart. It can be caused by arteriosclerosis or atherosclerosis. Arteriosclerosis
    means thickening and hardening of the blood vessels. In atherosclerosis, the walls
    of blood vessels harden and lose their elasticity which is caused by the
    deposition of fatty substances.

    Both arteriosclerosis and
    atherosclerosis can lead to high blood pressure and eventually to chest pain, stroke
    or sudden cardiac arrest and death. 1 gm of Guggul can be taken in the
    morning and evening for three months. Garlic also can be taken along with
    honey.

     

    Some Simple
    Herbs

    Kantharimulaku: Fruits of ‘Bird’s Eye Chilli’ has the
    capacity to lower LDL-Cholesterol and raise the level of HDL- Cholesterol
    (Thomas, L. and, Kamath J.V., Evaluation of Anti-Hyperlipidemic Activity of
    Capsicum frutescens Extract, International Journal of Current Pharmaceutical
    Research, Vol 9, Issue 4, 2017, 165-168).

    Ginger: The rhizomes of ginger can enhance the
    circulation of blood. They can also clean the blood vessels due to the presence
    of the active constituent called ‘gingerol’. It can also reduce the amount of
    LDL-cholesterol. As a simple treatment, water boiled with ginger rhizomes can
    be taken internally.

    Lemon: It possesses the capacity to clean blood
    vessels and avoid formation of blocks. Lemon juice mixed with honey and pepper
    powder can be taken for two weeks to get the desired effect. Another method
    involves boiling the rind of the fruit in 4 glasses of water and then taking
    internally with honey. This can be repeated thrice a day.

    Nellikka:  Known
    as Gooseberry, Amla or Nellikka can increase red blood cell
    count. It can be used to build and maintain new tissues. It contains gallic and
    ellagic acids, phyllembic acid, emblicol, alkaloids and Vitamin C which can are
    beneficial for the health of the heart.

    Neermaruth: The medicinal part Terminalia arjuna tree
    is its bark. Arjunarishta is a cardiac tonic which is often combined
    with ashwagandha, brahmi and guggul. Arjunarishta is
    a coronary vasodilator which can protect the heart and strengthen the
    circulation. It can also help to maintain the tone and health of the heart
    muscle. Six teaspoonfuls of Arjunarishta are given to the patient twice
    daily after food with an equal quantity of water.

    Garlic: It can be used to alleviate vata–doshas.
    It can control blood pressure and lower cholesterol. Garlic can also ensure
    proper circulation of blood. It prevents blood vessels from contracting. One
    glass of milk boiled with three pieces of garlic can be taken at bedtime. This
    can be made a daily routine to ensure health of the heart.

    Turmeric: It has the power to remove blocks in the
    blood vessels thanks to the presence of the active factor called ‘Curcumin’.
    One glass of warm milk mixed with one teaspoon full of turmeric powder with
    enough honey to adjust the taste can be taken at bedtime. Remember to consume
    400-600 mg turmeric every day.

     

    Special drink for
    the heart

    Take equal quantities of
    ginger-juice, lemon-juice, garlic-juice and mix them with equal amount of Apple
    Cider Vineger. Boil it to reduce it to half the quantity. Allow the mixture to
    cool and, before it is totally cooled, add water to make it double the quantity.
    Add some honey for taste. When fully cooled, this can be kept in a refrigerator
    and one tablespoon full can be taken in empty stomach every day. Do not drink
    water for 10 minutes. This can be repeated till the full mixture is consumed.

  • Medhya Rasayana in Ayurveda

    Ayurveda, the holistic science of life, since time immemorial focuses
    mainly on preserving youthful vigor, and extending longevity by delaying the
    ageing process. Noted Ayurveda practitioner Dr Asharani writes; –

    The traditional science of Ayurveda encompasses several principles
    describing the base of all creations. For instance, it mentions nine dravyas viz., Panchmahabhutas,
    Manas, Atma, Kala     and Dik.

    Among these, Kala is the most important, as it includes
    all creation in itself. Right from conception till death, Kala interacts
    with human beings and effects various changes in the body. Depending upon the
    type of changes that occur, lifespan is divided into     Bala (early stage
    of life),     Madhya (middle stage of life), and Jirna or Vriddhavastha (later stage of
    life).     Growth, achievement, maintenance and decay are the major changes carried
    out in the body during these stages. Growth involves both physical & mental
    development.

    While geriatric population, children and youth population, all,
     have to deal with various mental sufferings in the fast-paced modern
    life, the former (mostly in the age group of  60-65 years) have high
    susceptibility to cognitive & memory impairment, loss of perception,
    insomnia, fear, anxiety, depression, loss of immunity etc besides other senile
    diseases.

     Statistically, the prevalence of overall mental illness in
    children & young people is 12.5% with overloading stress, fear, anxiety,
    depression and lack of sleep affecting their learning capacity, social and
    mental functioning. These sufferings are nothing but imbalances in the mental
    functioning of Dhee (power of acquisition), Dhriti (power
    of retention) and Smriti (ability to recall). Hence, Ayurveda
    explores Rasayana therapy, Medhya Rasayana in
    specific, to deal with these disabilities.

    In Medhya Rasayana, a group of four cognition enhancing
    herbs that can be applied alone or in combination is used. These herbs possess
    multifold benefits in memory, cognition, intelligence, creativity and improves
    learning skills. It provides the brain with essential nutrients and improves
    the power of remembrance, retention and acquisition.

    Medhya Rasayana comprises of:

    1.      Whole plant Juice of Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica Linn.)
    with honey

    2.      Yastimadhu root (Glycirrhiza
    glabra     Linn.)     powder with milk

    3.      Juice of Guduchi stem (Tinospora
    cordifolia)     with honey

    4.      Paste of
    Shankapuhpi plant     (Convolvulus pleuricaulis Chois) with milk

    Mandukaparni plays a significant role in improving cognition and memory. Yastimadhu has
    anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative effects that increases blood circulation
    into the Central Nervous System, improves learning and memory; Guduchi 
    possess learning and memory enhancing properties, antioxidant and anti-stress
    action, enhances the cognition in normal and helps in cognition deficits, also
    helps in improving behavior disorders deficit and IQ levels; Shankhapushpi is
    found to be effective in treating anxiety, neurosis and used in cerebral
    abnormalities, insomnia, serve as wonderful nervine tonic and  enhances
    memory function, thanks to its antioxidant property.

    Other Medhya Rasayanas are:

    •      Vacha (Acorus calamus), Brahmi (Bacopa monniera), Jyotismati (Celastrus panniculata), Kushmanda (Benincasa hispida), Jatamamsi (Nardostachys jatamamsi), Ksheera (milk)
    and Ghrita (ghee).

    Various formulations like Kushmanda rasayanam, Brahmi
    ghrita    , Brahmi vati, Brahmi taila, Saraswatha
    ghrita    , Kalyanaka ghrita, Smriti sagara rasa, Medhya
    vati    , Jatamamsi taila, Shankpushpi preparations, Saraswatharista, Himasagara
    taila     also helps the geriatric as well as child population to overcome
    mental sufferings. Indication, dose and duration of these Rasayanas vary
    as per age and disease.

    Uses:

    1.      Insomnia:

    ·         3gms of Mandukaparni powder
    to be taken with a cup of warm milk an hour before sleep.

    ·         2 drops of Jatamamsi oil
    should be instilled to each nostril daily

    ·         Foot massage
    with Yastimadhu taila at bedtime

    ·         Drinking 2-3 gms
    of Shankpushpi powder, 1gm of cumin powder mixed in 100ml of
    warm milk.

    2.      Intellect promoting:

    ·         1-2 grams of Mandukaparni powder
    is mixed with ½ tsp of clarified butter in children.

    ·         For adults, 4-5
    fresh leaves of Mandukaparni are crushed with 10ml of cow milk
    and a paste is to be prepared and taken in an empty stomach.

    ·         2-3 gms each
    of Vacha powder, Shankapushpi powder to be
    mixed with 5-10ml of Brahmi juice.

    3.      For improving attention in mental
    lethargic conditions:

    ·         1 gm Mandukaparni
    powder, 250mg Vacha powder, 125mg black pepper powder, 5 gms
    of Sugar candy powder to be boiled in 250ml of milk and reduced to half the
    quantity and can be taken twice daily.

    ·         Head massage
    with Brahmi oil

    ·         10-15ml of
    decoction of Shankapushpi to be taken daily

    4.      In mental outbreaks, anger,
    restlessness with insomnia:

    ·         5ml of Mandukarni leaf
    juice and 5ml of Sankhapushpi fresh juice to be taken with
    250ml of warm milk.

    ·         Head massage
    with Brahmi oil

    ·         Massaging the
    forehead and scalp with Shankapushpi oil

     

     

    5.      Memory enhancement:

    ·         1-2 gms of Yastimadhu powder
    with 1/2tsp of ghee in children.

    ·         Dried stem of Vacha should
    be rubbed on a pumice stone along with 5ml of its essence to be taken along
    with 10ml of milk daily.

    ·         Swarna vacha (a thin gold
    wire is inserted in to a piece of Vacha stem): This stick is
    rubbed on a sterile flat surface/ wooden surface along with 10 drops of cow
    milk or breast milk for 30 seconds and the child should be made to lick this
    paste on empty stomach.

    ·         Consuming daily ½
    -1 tsp of Brahmi ghritha in an empty stomach.

    ·         1-2gms of Jatamamsi powder
    with 1tsp of honey.

     

    6.      Immune enhancement :

    ·         Eating 1-2 leaves
    of Guduchi daily

    ·         Kushmandha juice / Kushmandha
    rasayana

    At the outset, the modern society with high speed urbanization and
    industrialization is immensely changing the psychological and social structure
    of the individual and the impact on older people and children groups is far
    greater, producing long term stress, anxiety, lack of focus, depression,
    sleeplessness, memory loss etc. In total, these Medhya Rasayana herbs
    serve as CNS Antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, enhance cognition, act as stress
    buster, mood enhancer and stable the mind. These herbs also have a role to play
    in Neurodegenerative conditions, psychosomatic disorders, attention deficit
    conditions and behavioral disorders etc.

     

  • Shatavari and its medicinal uses

    Shatavari is known as the
    ‘Queen of Herbs’ as the herb is much effective in treating many disorders
    affecting women, especially the problems related to the female reproductive
    system. Noted Ayurvedic     practitioner Dr Pretty Prabhakaran gives a brief information on the
    herb found at low altitudes throughout India.

    Scientific name: Asparagus racemosus wild

    Family: Liliaceae

    Names

    Sanskrit     
    – Shatavari, Shatamuli, Shataveerya, Atirasa

    Hindi         
    – Satavar

    Malayalam – Shatavari

    Kannada    
    – Majjige gande

    Telungu     
    – Challa gadda

    English       
    – Asparagus

    Shatavari in Sanskrit means “the
    plant with hundred roots” owing to numerous roots of this natural herb. The
    stems are thorny, delicate, brittle and smooth. The leaves are reduced to
    minute spines. Flowers are white in simple or branched racemes. Fruits are
    globular and purplish in colour when they ripe. Roots are succulent and
    tuberous, from 30cm to 1meter in length and smooth tapering on both ends.

    Properties

    Rasa – Madhura, Tikta

    Guna – Guru, Snigda

    Veerya – Seeta

    Vipaka – Madhura

    Medicinal uses

    Useful part – rhizome.

    1)     
    It’s useful to mitigate
    aggregated vata & pitta and provides nourishment and has coolant
    properties. The extracted juice of rhizome mixed with honey is advocated in
    conditions like Leucorrhea – white, greenish or a slightly yellow discharge
    from the vagina, and Menorrhagia (menstrual periods with abnormally heavy or
    prolonged bleeding; need medical evaluation to rule out the cause of excess
    bleeding)

    2)     
    Medicated milk boiled with
    rhizome of Shatavari or its powder boiled in milk can be used to treat
    Urinary Tract Infection

    3)     
    Shatavari granules can be taken with
    milk by those suffering from Stanya kshaya (low breast milk)

    4)     
    Shatavari extract of rhizome can be
    taken with equal amounts of water for complaints like hyperacidity, Peptic
    Ulcer.

    5)     
    Shatavari helps in treating numerous
    hormonal problems and conditions like endometriosis (inflammation of the lining
    of the uterus) in females