Dactylorhiza hatagirea is a species of orchid. It is locally known as salam panja or hatta haddi and panchaule in nepali and himalayan regions. The name panchaule is derived from its shape, which resembles fingers of hand with 3-5 fingers. Salam panja is a perennial herb with long flowering stems.
The root of this plant is sweet in taste and is extensively used in Ayurveda for its health benefitting properties and high nutritional value. It has the ability to pacify the doshas. It is native of the Himalaya and found throughout from west to east at temperate to subalpine biocliates within 2800 – 4000 m altitude. It grows in moist places, open areas, shurb land and open meadows. It flowers in June – July.
In India, it is categorised as endangered in CAMP pokhara (2001) conversation list, and strictly banned for collection, utilization and sale. This medicinal herb is now categorized as critically endangered.
Because of the high value and rarity of the plant, the herb is sold at a very expensive price range of about Rs 6,000 to Rs 10,000. It is to be noted that there are many fake copies available in the market at a much cheaper price because of this reason.
Medicinal Properties
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-aging
- Antioxidant
- Antimicrobial
- Antibacterial
- Anti-cancerous
- Aphrodisiac
- Astringent
Alternate Names
Hatajiri, Hatajori, Panja, Salep, Marsh orchid, Hatta Haddi, Panchule (Nepali)
Benefits Of Hattahaddi
Salam Panja For Male Potency / Sexual Problems
According to ayurveda, salam panja is one the best herbs to treat male infertility due to its strong aphrodisiac properties. It increases the testosterone levels present in the blood. Testosterone is the male hormone that stimulates the sperm production and can directly affect fertility by causing decreased sperm production and indirectly by reducing sex drive and causing erectile disfunction. Increased level of testosterone in blood results in improved quality and mobility of the sperms.
It also increase sexual vigour and treats vajikarana or erectile disfunction. It can increase the strength of the penile tissue and also increase blood flow to aid in erection. It is known as a Sukrastambhaka which means it increases the time of intercourse by delaying ejaculation.
For treating spermatorrhoea, the refined tubers is mixed with misri and milk is given.
Ayurdamah or Nervine Tonic
The herb is also considered a great nervine tonic. It strengthens the nerves and is great for treating stress and anxiety. The chemical constituents which are present in it helps reduce high levels of cortisol hormones in the body.
Cortisol is the primary stress hormone which increases the sugar level in bloodstream and curbs the functions that would be nonessential or harmful in a fight like situation. Thus it helps calm the mind and the body. By reducing stress and calming body and mind it also promotes good sleep.
Anti Ageing Herb
Salam Panja is filled with antioxidants. The antioxidants present in salam panja protect the body from the harmful free radicals and slow damage to the cells caused by free radicals. It also reverses the process of anti ageing and reserves the elasticity of the skin to give a younger look.
Salam Panja For Immunity
Salam panja is one such herb which is loaded with the essential nutrients and has immunity-boosting properties that helps build a strong immune system. It provides strength and energy that the body needs. It is a purifying herb, consuming the root powder helps flush out the toxins from the body.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Salam panja is very useful in treating the gastroinstestinal problems. The vaidyas or healers of Uttarakhand garhwal, use it to treat dysentery, chronic diarrhea, amala pitta (gastritis) and indigestion.It improves the overall health of the digestive system and provide relief from stomach aches.
Studies show that the tuber extract of the plant if highly effective in eliminating E coli, which generally is a bacteria very resistant to synthetic drugs.
It is anthelmintic in nature which is why the root paste made from the root is useful to treat intestinal worms and other related disorders. The tuber paste consumed orally cures diarrhoea.
Bhishajyati Or Wound Healing
The root paste made from the root is used to treat cuts, burns and wounds when applied externally. It helps in the faster healing of the wounds by stimulating the regeneration of the skin cells and assists in the repair process of the body. It also reduces pain because of its anti inflammatory properties.
The juice of the herb can also be consumed to heal cuts and wounds. The paste obtained after rubbing tubers on stones, is applied on boils for wound healing caused due to burnt.
Debility And Weakness
The herb is widely used in Himachal Pradesh for treating general weakness. It is great for gaining strength and weight. It is useful for seminal debility and females who have weakness after leucorrhea and debilitated women after delivery.
Roots along with the fruit pulp of kunja (wild rose), Shilajeet and other ingredients are crushed and made into paste. The pills made from the paste are given as tonic in case of general weakness and debility.
Bone Fractures
In some places, it is also used for treating bone fractures. The boiled extract of tubers mixed with milk is given orally in the treatment of bone fracture.
How To Use – Common Uses
Weight Gain and Strength
- Take 10 gms of root powder with warm milk and sugar on empty stomach twice daily.
Chronic Diarrheoa
– Consume 1 tsp powder with buttermilk thrice daily.
Common Medicinal Preparations
Salem Pak is a very commonly used ayurvedic preparation with Salem panda as the main ingredient is used as a health tonic. It is an excellent remedy for male sexual problems, nervous debility, weakness, chronic diarrhea, laziness and muscle pain.
Precaution & Side Effects
– Consult a doctor in case of pregnant and lactating women.
– Not suitable for children.
– If taken in excess, it can lead to infertility in men.
Good information. DR.PATTAN