Hibiscus

                                                                          Hibiscus

                                                                        Hibiscus

 MEDICINAL USE OF Hibiscus:-

Hibiscus ( Hibiscus rosa-sinensis , Family: Malvaceae) acts as an antiseptic, aphrodisiac, astringent, cholagogue, demulcent, digestive, diuretic, emollient, purgative, refrigerant, resolvent, sedative, stomachic and tonic. All the parts of Hibiscus plant are useful medicinally. Hibiscus leaves are emollient, diuretic, refrigerant and sedative. Leaves, seeds, and mature calyces exhibit diuretic and antiscorbutic properties. Succulent calyx, boiled in water, is used as a drink in bilious problems. Fruits act as antiscorbutic. Bitter roots are used as aperitive and tonic. Mucilaginous leaves can be used as an emollient and as a soothing cough remedy. Hibiscus leaves make excellent shampoo. Flower extract has been used in many folk remedies for liver disorders, high blood pressure and as aphrodisiac. Hibiscus relieves stomach problems, sweetens breath and soothes nerves. An extract of the hibiscus flowers lower cholesterol content in blood serum and helps to prevent oxidation of LDL (bad cholesterol). Daily uptake of Hibiscus tea is useful for reducing high blood pressure.

(Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) Hibiscus is one of the most common garden shrubs used for hedges. It grows in any soil with little care. The flower is solitary, half opened in the morning, but as the weather warms up, it opens fully. The foliage of this shrub is deep green in color or variegated.

Parts Used: The whole plant

Medicinal Use

• Coughs and colds

• Gentle laxative and a softener of inflamed parts

• Soothes internal and external wounds and sores, it also soothes the alimentary tract and relieves inflammation

• Lowers body heat

How to Use

• The decoction of hibiscus roots is used for coughs and colds.

• The leaves make a gentle laxative and soften inflamed parts.

• The application of the crush flowers soothes external wounds and sores. The infusion of the petals of the flower soothes and protects the alimentary tract, relieves inflammation and lowers body heat.

• In fevers, an infusion of the flowers help to reduce body temperature

Medicinal Uses of Datura

 

                                                                           Datura

                                                              Datura

Datura metel.
Common names: Downy Thorn-Apple, Devil's Trumpet.
Common Hindi name: Dhatura.
A wild plant in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
Plant: 80cm shrub-like annual herb.
Flower: 7cm across.
Highly poisonous. This plant may be toxic if ingested in any quantity, symptomatically expressed as flushed skin, headaches, hallucinations, and possibly convulsions or even a coma.
One of the 50 fundamental herbs used in Chinese herbology.

                                                              fruits of Datura

MEDICINAL USES:-

Datura metel is known as an anticholinergic, meaning it reduces spasms by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses. Additionally, datura metel is a well-known plant with deliriant properties, or capable of causing hallucinations or delirium. It has been the choice of many cultures over the years for astral or shamanistic journeys, or as a rite of passage.
Its ability to control spasms has led to datura metel being used frequently in Chinese herbology to treat the wheezing of asthma, and in Vietnam datura metel is added to asthmatic cigarettes. Great care must be taken when using this herb, as the toxic dose is very close to the medicinal dose. The wrong dosage can induce hallucinations, severe intoxication, and even death. Use of datura metel should be closely monitored by an experienced practitioner trained in herbology.
The alkanoids contained within the plant is what makes it effective as a anesthetic. Alkanoids are chemical compounds produced by a large number of organisms, and many have pharmaceutical effects. The alkanoids in datura are hycosamine, hycosine, and atropine.

Ginkgo biloba

                                                              Ginkgo biloba

                                               single bilobed leaf of G. biloba

Other Names: Ginkgo, Maidenhair Tree, Golden Fossil Tree

Medicinal use of G. biloba:-

 Extracts of the fruit and leaves of the Ginkgo tree have been used in China for over 5,000 years. Ginkgo Biloba has been historically used in alternative medicine for Heart disease, Kidney disorders, Alzheimer's, Asthma and as an energy builder. Recently western researchers have been studying ginkgo biloba as a treatment for senility, hardening of the arteries, and as a treatment for oxygen deprivation. In over 34 human studies on Ginkgo it increases the body's production of the universal energy molecule adenosine triphosphate, commonly called ATP. This activity has been shown to boost the brains energy metabolism of glucose and increase electrical activity. Scientists also discovered that ginkgo contains an abundance of useful compounds including the antioxidants Vitamin C and carotenoids, but it is the flavanoid compounds collectively known as "ginkgolides" that are the most remarkable. The ginkgo flavonoids act specifically to dilate the smallest segment of the circulatory system, the micro-capillaries, which has a widespread affect on the organs, especially the brain. Researchers have also reported that Ginkgo extracts effectively increase blood circulation and increase oxygen levels in brain tissues. Ginkgo is also a powerful antioxidant that prevents platelet aggregation inside arterial walls, keeping them flexible and decreasing the formation of arteriosclerositic plaque. It has also been shown to help restore circulation to areas of the brain damaged by stroke. Ginkgo has a positive effect in Dementia cases, fighting free radicals in the blood system, protecting against chromosomal damage (proven with Chernobyl workers). Ischemia-induced spinal cord injury protection, heart muscle ischemia and reper-fusion injury protection. Protection against retinal damage, helping with tinnitus, headaches, vertigo, hearing loss, depression, allergies, atherosclerosis, cardiac arrhythmia, diabetic peripheral disease, eczema, glaucoma, impotency, retinitis, to treat asthma, to aid digestion, and bring back sexual energy as well as treating early stages of Alzheimer's disease. The brain is one of the most metabolically active tissues in the human body. It uses a great deal of energy which requires a steady supply of oxygen and glucose. Unlike most other tissues, the brain has very little energy reserve which makes it extremely susceptible to the effects of poor blood supply. When circulation is inadequate, the brain cannot function at its full capacity. The big news for ginkgo came in October 1997 when the Journal of the American Medical Association published the results of a study that confirmed that ginkgo had a positive effect in cases of dementia. They used only patients whose main problem was mental impairment, whether someone had termed it Alzheimer’s or not. They used every control imaginable and rated progress on three different scales to make sure that their results were accurate. Researchers even went so far as to switch everyone from the placebo to the real medicine and vice versa in the middle of the study. There is no doubt about it. Ginkgo stopped the progress of the disease in most cases, and many cases reversed the damage. A Swedish study showed that ginkgo improved the distance-vision of people who already showed signs of degeneration in the retina. The disease macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness, is strongly related to hemorrhages in the fine blood vessels in the eye, possibly due to oxidative stress. By strengthening the tiny blood vessels in the eye, and by acting as an antioxidant, ginkgo provides a double whammy against eye diseases. It eliminates waste material and inhibits the clumping of blood platelets and prevents circulating platelets from sticking together, which contributes to heart problems, strokes and artery conditions. Ginkgo is an adaptogen herb, which helps the body with stressful situations. It is also helpful in the treatment of allergies, Alzheimer's disease, anxiety attacks, arthritis, ADD, circulatory disorders, cancer, coughs, depression, dizziness, equilibrium problems, headaches, heart & lung problems, memory loss, mood swings, muscular degeneration, tinnitus, toxic shock syndrome, varicose veins, vascular impotence & vertigo. Studies have shown that the length of time a person uses this plant leaf is very important. With ginkgo, the effectiveness may not be felt for twelve weeks. While most people note some improvement in just two to three weeks, others take longer to respond. Ginkgo biloba extracts are relatively considered safe and free of side effects, though taking very large doses may lead to diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, which can be controlled by reducing the amount consumed. Those taking blood thinners should consult with their physician before taking ginkgo biloba in high doses, due to their blood thinning tendencies. It is also advisable to discontinue use prior to surgery.

                                 

Calotropis gigantea

                                                            Calotropis gigantea

                                                       Calotropis gigantea


Common name: Milkweed, Rui (madar)

Nature of  Calotropis gigantea

A common shurb of wasteland and rode side. the leaves are thick, opposite, decussate in arrangement and coated with white powder. flowers are in umble and blue in colour.
Distribution: Throughout india on plains on wastelands.

Special characteristics of Calotropis gigantea :
Its typical leaves and flowers, which are quite unique in structure.

Medicinal uses of Calotropis gigantea :

Dry leaf powder used for treating wounds and boils. leaves found to be effective on elephantiasis.
flowers along with jaggery are useful against cough and improving appetite.
the mixture of latex, turmeric and sesame oil, useful in treating scabies.

Leaves and flowers used for worshiping lord Hanuman.
position : Very common.

Asparagus

                                                     Asparagus racemosus

                                                               flower of Asparagus


Indications:
Shatavari is perhaps best known as a female rejuvanitive. It is useful for infertility, decreased libido, threatened miscarriage, menopause, leucorrhea and has the ability to balance pH in the cervical area. Dry membranes, such as those on the vaginal wall, are also brought into balance through the herbs demulcent action.
Men may benefit from the herb as well in the treatment of impotence and general sexual debility. In addition to it's applications for reproductive organs, Shatavari is also quite effective for stomach ulcers, hyperacidity and diarrhea. Dry and irritated membranes in the upper respiratory tract are soothed by this herb making it useful in cases of bronchitis and chronic fevers. It is believed to bring into balance all of the body's fluids.
Medicinal Uses:

The most important herb in Ayurvedic medicine for women

Used internally for infertility, loss of libido, threatened miscarriage, menopausal problems. It both nourishes and cleanses the blood and the female reproductive organs. It is a good food for menopause or for those who have had hysterectomies, as it supplies many female hormones. It nourishes the ovum and increases fertility. This herb is known to increase Sattva, or positivity and healing power. It also enhances the feelings of spiritual love, and increases Ojas.

The male reproductive system will also benefit from Shatavari. It may be used in cases of sexual debility, impotence, spermatorrhea, and inflammation of sexual organs.

Useful for hyperacidity, stomach ulcers, dysentery, and bronchial infections.

Shatavari Benefits / Benefits of Shatavari:

• Shatavari supports reproductive health by toning and nourishing the female reproductive organs
• Shatavari maintains healthy hormonal balance
• Shatavari treats PMS symptoms by relieving pain and controlling blood loss during menstruation.
• Shatavari supports normal production of breast milk for nursing mothers
• Shatavari relieves menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. By producing estrogens it makes up for low estrogen levels in women who are menopausal or have had hysterectomies or oophorectomies
• Used in India as a best-known and most often-used herb for women
• Shatavari supports normal function of the immune and digestive system
• Shatavari also increases libido

                                                                Ferula asafoetida


 USES-   Asafoetida (Ferula asafoetida) is a common culinary spice, a perennial plant, known also as Giant Fennel, Hing, Ferula or Devil’s Dung. It is native to India, the Mediterranean region and the Middle East. In ancient times it was believed that Asafoetida can ward off evil spirits and demons. Health benefits of Asafoetida were used in Ancient Rome, where it was consumed along with garlic to banish many common diseases and ailments. In Asia, it was used to treat intestinal parasites and fungal infections.
Asafoetida consists of various natural elements: two thirds of it are carbohydrates, about 16% is water, and 7 % are minerals like iron, calcium, phosphorus, sulfur compounds and others. This herb is also a good source of fiber, proteins and vitamins. 100 g of Asafoetida powder has 297 calories. Since the early ages it’s known for its great sedative, spasmodic, expectorant, antibacterial, anti-fungal, carminative, nervine stimulant and other valuable medicinal properties. For preparing various herbal remedies and herbal preparations, mostly Asafoetida powder and tincture are used.


Though this medicinal plant has been used for many centuries in cooking as it adds a special flavor to the vegetable meals, the list of Asafoetida health benefits and medicinal uses is quite large. First of all, it can be used to treat various respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis, coughs and others. For this purpose, it is recommended to try Asafoedita concoctions or combine this herbal remedy with honey, onion juice and betel juice. Besides, this remedy can be used to treat many digestive problems and related ailments like flatulence, colic, abdominal pains, spasmodic disorders, excessive gas, constipation, weak digestion and so on.

Another important type of Asafoetida health benefits is treating numerous women’s problems like painful or irregular periods, leucorrhoea, etc. Studies have shown that this medicinal herb can be used to prevent premature labor. Also this is one of the best natural remedies for post-delivery period as it can effectively cure various stomach disorders. In addition, natural remedies with Asafoetida can be recommended to men for treating impotency. Sedative and relaxing properties are also very important health benefits of Asafoetida which can be used to relieve the symptoms of nervous tension, depression, mood swings, hysteria, as well as children’s nervous disorders.
Since the early times Asafoetida was used to relieve the condition of those people who suffer from high blood pressure. It is considered one of the most effective herbal remedies to treat toothache: for this purpose, it can be combined with lemon juice. Other important Asafoetida health benefits include easing the condition of those who suffer from insect of snake bites, relieving migraines and headaches, being an antidote for opium. Do not forget to consult a health care specialist prior to starting any sort of therapy involving Asafoedita, because in some people this medicinal herb can cause side effects like nausea, dizziness, stomach burning, etc.

                                               Withania  somnifera

                                                            withaferin A
Withania somnifera, also known as Ashwagandha, Indian ginseng, Winter cherry, Ajagandha, Kanaje Hindi, Amukkara (Tamil), Samm Al Ferakh, is a plant in the Solanaceae or nightshade family. Withania coagulans (Dunal) (Paneer dodi, Ashutosh booti) is a related species


Ashwagandha in Sanskrit means "horse's smell," probably originating from the odor of its root which resembles that of a sweaty horse.
The species name somnifera means "sleep-inducing" in Latin.

Medicinal Uses of Ashwagandha
According to Charaka Samhita, Ashwagandha is strong. Sushrut and Chakradutt also consider it to be strong. According to them there is no other plant in Ayurveda, which can provide so much of strength. Chakradutt says that consuming this medicine for 15 days regularly with milk, ghee or plain water brings back the youth fullness. It is very effective in case of Leucoderma, bronchitis and asthma according to Kirtikar and Vasu. Nadkarni says that Ashwagandha is a tonic, which increases sperm count and sexual potency. In the rural areas vegetable made out of this plant is given to TB patients. It increases the iron content in the blood. Sohat has termed it anti-tumor. It is considered to be one of the seven ayurvedic herbs capable of curing AIDS. The Bidaphyrine chemical present in the plant is capable of killing the cancer cells. C.A. Mayor has compared this herb with the famous Ginseng and Ashwagandha is called as Indian Ginseng.
Ashwagandha for Weakness:

Taking Ashwagandha powder with milk, ghee or water cures weakness in children, weakness in old people and reduces the aging process. (Available Kohinoor Gold Capsules with one of the ingredients as Ashwagandha)

Ashwagandha for Sleeplessness:

Taking ashwagandha powder with ghee made out of cow milk or sugar cures sleeplessness and pain in the hips.

The decoction is beneficial to cure tuberculosis. Adding honey in the juice of winter cherry leaves cures the problem of sleeplessness due to joint pain.

Pain in the Hips and Back Pain:

Adding sugar candy and ghee in Ashwagandha powder cures pain in the hips and backache. (Available Arthcare Massage Oil containing Ashwagandha)

Ashwagandha for Weak Eyesight:

Add liquorice in Ashwagandha powder and take it with amla juice to cure weak eyesight

Ashwagandha for Old Age Problems:

Taking Ashwagandha powder with honey and ghee regularly for one month in winter season cures old age problems.

Ashwagandha for Heart Pain:

Take Ashwagandha powder and Baheda with jaggery for quick relief in heart ache. ( Available Cardocare Capsules containing Ashwagandha)