Khadira (Acacia Catechu): The Skin-Benefitting Herb: Uses, Benefits, Side-Effects

Khadira Benefits Feature Image

In this universe, every plant has a medicinal purpose. – Charaka Khadira’s biological roots lie deep in ancient Ayurvedic literature (pun not intended) – having been mentioned by Charaka in “Kashaya Skandha,” “Kushthagna,” and “Udardaprashamana Gana” as well as in “Salsaradi Gana” by Sushruta. It also came to be known in the Vedic periods, Rigveda … Read more

Top 5 Ayurvedic Magical Herbs That Help Cure Diabetes

Diabetes is a lifestyle disease which is spreading faster in the world than any other health issue. According to WHO (World Health Organisation), “the number of people with diabetes has risen from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014”. Recent research also shows that 1 in every 11 people in the world has diabetes. It would be safe to assume that there will not be a single person who does not know a diabetic in their personal life, and some might know more as well. Let’s face it, all of us are tired of gulping pills after pills for back pains, neck pains, thyroid, PCOD, diabetes.. and the list goes on and on. Today in this post, I would like to discuss Top 5 Natural Ayurvedic Herbs that you can incorporate in your life and get that blood sugar level in control. Some herbs are known to even completely cure diabetes.

1. Vijaysar

Vijaysar For Diabetes
Vijaysar For Diabetes

Vijaysar or Malabar Kino or Indian Kino Tree (scientific name: Pterocarpus marsupium) is a tree native to India, Nepal and Sri Lanka. Its bark is known as a ‘miracle cure for diabetes’ as it has anti-diabetic and hypoglycaemic properties.

The bark of Vijaysar tree is used to make tumblers and utensils. Water kept in these Vijaysar wood tumbler overnight, when consumed by a diabetic, can control blood sugar levels along with high blood pressure, obesity and joint pain. It reduces overall cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein and serum triglyceride levels in the body. It balances insulin levels. It is a kapha and pitta dosa pacifier. Vijaysar is also available in powdered form.

Apart from its anti-diabetic effects, it improves digestion, purifies the blood and also removes excess fat from the body.

Method of Consumption

Keep 1 glass of water in the Vijaysar wood tumbler overnight. In the morning, the colour of the water will change to brown. Drink it. After about a month, the water will stop changing colour. Now you can break the glass in pieces and soak 1 piece overnight. Drink the water next morning on empty stomach. Do this till all pieces are used. You will need another tumbler after all pieces are used. If you don’t want to break the glass, you can scratch the insides of the tumbler so it can be used again. Vijaysar tumblers are cheap and can be easily found online. Find it on Amazon here

Vijaysar Side Effects

There are no known side effects of Vijaysar. It is a safe herb to use and can be used long term.

2. Chirayta (Chirata For Diabetes)

chirayta kalmegh for diabetes
Chirayata For Diabetes

Chiryata (scientific name: Swertia Chirata) as known as Chirata is a herb native to the northern Himalayan region of India and Bhutan. It is bitter and pungent in taste. According to ancient Ayurvedic text ‘Charak Samhita’, Chiryata has many medicinal properties. It is specifically known for its anti-diabetic properties. It keeps blood sugar under control by stimulating the pancreatic cells to secrete more insulin.

Method of Consumption

Soak 1 spoon of Chirata in 200ml of water overnight. Remove Chirata leaves from the water in the morning and drink the remaining water on an empty stomach. Do not take more than the recommended amount.

Purchase Chirata by clicking here

Chirayta Caution and Side Effects

Chirayta herb should only be used for age 10 and above. Also should be avoided during pregnancy. If you have intestinal ulcers, the use of Chirayta can make it worse so avoid. It is also not advisable to take it for very long periods.

Since it increases the production of insulin in the body, it is advised to monitor blood sugar carefully when taking Chiryata as it can cause hypoglycemia. It is generally known that Chiryata only shows an anti-diabetic effect when blood sugar is higher than normal range so there is less probability of hypoglycemia but it is recommended to not take it as medicine along with allopathic diabetes medication as it might cause blood sugar to go too low. It is always best to take the advice of a doctor before using this herb.

3. Saptarangi

Saptarangi Salacia Oblonga

Saptarangi (scientific name: Salacia Oblonga) has been used in Ayurveda traditionally for its anti-diabetic properties. Saptarangi is native to India and Sri Lanka. It contains Glycosidase Inhibitors and Kotolanol which are known for controlling blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetics. Apart from having anti-diabetic properties, it is also being widely used now as a weight loss supplement. The bark of the root of Saptarangi is used for controlling sugar, serum cholesterol and serum triglycerides and it increases good cholesterol HDL. It also works in improving the liver and pancreas function and treats Diabetes in the long term.

Method of Consumption

Saptarangi root powder 1 gm per day on empty stomach.

Caution and Side Effects

If you are pregnant or nursing, don’t take Saptarangi. Also if you are going into surgery, it is advisable to stop usage at least 2 weeks before surgery as it may interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. It is also advisable to not consume if for long periods of time and consult a physician before taking this medicine.

4. Gudmar (Madhunashini or Gurmar)

Gudmar Gymnema Sylvestre - Sugar Destroyer - For Diabetes
Gudmar Gymnema Sylvestre – Sugar Destroyer – For Diabetes

Gudmar (scientific name: Gymnema Sylvestre) is also known as Madhunashini which means ‘sugar destroyer’ in Sanskrit. It is a herb found throughout India but is found abundantly in the central and southern parts of India. Gudmar leaf is used in Ayurveda, Homeopathy as well as Unani Medicine for the treatment of diabetes.

When used for a long period of time, Gurmar leaves reduce blood sugar levels by increasing insulin secretion. It has an extraordinary quality of suppressing the taste of sweet foods. This intern diminishes the sugar cravings and suppresses the appetite. Chewing on Gudmar leaves paralyses both sweet and bitter taste.

Apart from being anti-diabetic and sweet suppressant, it also helps reduce obesity and constipation. It reduces cholesterol levels and helps remove toxins from the liver. It has a slight purgative effect and also acts as a mild aphrodisiac.

Method of Consumption

In leaf powder form, 3-5gms mixed with cow milk consumed in the morning. 1-2 fresh leaves can also be chewed in the morning every day to keep sugar in control.

Purchase Gudmar by clicking here

Gudmar Side Effects

If taken as a lone blood sugar lowering medicine, it has no side effects but combined with other medicines, it can have hypoglycaemic effects like lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea, and headache.

5. Guduchi (Giloy)

Giloy Tinospora Cordifolia
Giloy Tinospora Cordifolia

Guduchi (scientific name: Tinospora Cordifolia) is one of the most beneficial plants for type 2 diabetes. It is found in the tropical region of India, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. It is also known as ‘Amrita’ which means Elixir as it has many extremely beneficial properties. An interesting thing about this plant is that it is known to never die. If you plant an ages-old Guduchi stem, it will grow again. Apart from being anti-diabetic, it is also anti-piratic, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic.

Guduchi fights with diabetes by increasing the production of insulin as well as burning excessive sugar in the blood. In recent years, it is also being used abundantly for treatment of Dengue fever as it is said to increase the platelet count in the blood. Enough evidence of the same has not been found.

Method of Consumption

Fresh Giloy juice can be prepared by blending the stem, leaves and some water. Consume it every day in the morning on empty stomach. Don’t consume anything for the next 30 minutes.

Another method is to smash a small piece of the stem in a mortar and boil it in a glass of water on low heat. Boil till the water remains half. Drink slowly after cooling down a bit. Don’t consume anything for the next 30 minutes.

Giloy Side Effects

It is not recommended to take giloy before and after surgery as it affects the control of blood sugar levels.

People with auto-immune diseases should also avoid this herb as it can overstimulate the immune system. Giloy works to improve the immunity which intern can aggravate the auto-immune condition.

Note: Please take the advice of a proper Ayurvedic practitioner before taking any medicine or herb. This article is only for reference purposes.

 

Did you find this post useful? Would you like to get back to it later? Save THIS PIN below to your Pinterest Natural Herbs or Health board!

Holistic Benefits & Side Effects of Himalayan Snow Mountain Garlic

Snow Mountain Garlic, also known as Kashmiri Lahsun or Himalayan Garlic or Ek Pothi Lahsun is a specific variety of garlic found in the Himalayan region. It is much smaller in size compared to the commercial garlic consumed in everyday life. In Ayurveda, it is a highly revered medicine and considered very effective alone for many ailments including Lung Cancer, Diabetes and Asthma. According to modern research, it is found to be seven times more potent than commercial garlic.

HImalayan Snow Mountain Garlic
Himalayan Snow Mountain Garlic

Growing Conditions – How it is grown?

Snow Mountain Garlic is grown as well as native to the Kashmir region of India. It’s grown in 1800 meters above sea levels in high altitudes, in an extremely dry and snowy area with very little oxygen availability. Himalayan Garlic is considered one of the purest varieties of garlic as it is grown in lack of industrial pollutants in the soil.

Benefits of Snow Mountain Garlic / Himalayan Garlic

Snow Mountain Garlic is considered to have antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. It contains a compound named allicin, which gives the garlic a pungent smell. This compound has antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Himalayan Garlic is also rich in Copper, Selenium, Phosphorous, Manganese, Sulphur, Vitamin B6, B1 and C, Calcium. Here are a few most important benefits of including it in your diet.

Heart Diseases

Kashmiri Lehsun is excellent for heart diseases. It strengthens the cardiovascular system and cures heart troubles. It helps maintains the hearts normal functions. Cholesterol is considered one of the main reason for many heart diseases. Snow mountain garlic reduces the possibility of coronary diseases by reducing cholesterol levels. It reduces LDL Cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. It prevents the formation of the blood clot and lowers blood thickness and density which lowers the possibility of strokes and heart blockage. It is also used as a blood-thinning agent.

Hypertension

It reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Hydrogen Sulphide found in garlic relaxes the muscles and limits the blood pressure in a healthy range. It is especially beneficial for Hypertension (HBP).

Cancer Treatment

It is best used as a medicine for cancer treatment. It stops the multiplication of cancer cells and reduces the possibility of cancer from developing. It is useful in curing Pancreas, Colon, Prostate, Lung and Stomach Cancer. Only 3 to 4 cloves of garlic a day, if consumed on a regular basis, can help fight lung diseases and cancer.

Diabetes

It is also beneficial in reducing diabetes. It controls and reduces blood sugar levels. Allicin, when combined with Vitamin B thiamine, triggers the pancreas to make insulin.

Respiratory Disorders

It cures common cough, cold and flu easily. Regular consumption of Kashmiri Lehsun in winter reduces the chances of mucous formation and inflammation around the throat. It is also a good remedy for patients suffering from respiratory disorders like asthma and bronchitis.

Brain Tumour

It rejuvenates the brain and helps cure brain tumours. Research shows that the sulphur content of Himalayan Garlic combats Glioblastoma which is a kind of a brain tumour.

Immunity

It increases immunity. It can be used as a regular immunity boosting supplement.

Digestive Disorders

It helps reduce digestive disorders like acid reflux and indigestion but only as preventive medicine. If you suffer from chronic acidity, gastritis, and heartburn, it is not recommended to consume Himalayan Garlic.

Constipation

It also regulates and improves bowel movement. It is also helpful in relieving constipation.

Skin Problems

Due to its antibiotic and antifungal properties, it is also used to cure skin eruptions like acne.

Liver Health

It is considered excellent in maintaining liver health. It also helps in fighting liver-related diseases like typhoid and jaundice.

Intestinal Problems

It is also a favourable medicine for intestinal ailments like Ascaris, Cholera.

How To Eat – Method Of Consumption?

The most beneficial ingredient of snow mountain garlic is allicin compound. This compound is destroyed when we cook the garlic. To get the medicinal benefits of garlic you need to peel the garlic with your hands (no metal usage like the knife), crush the garlic clove lightly with hand and wooden/stone mortar (Do not use metal as it destroys the medicinal properties), and then leave it for 10 to 15 minutes. If you don’t want to crush the garlic, you can just chew it. Consume 2 cloves in the morning on empty stomach for most problems. Drink 1 glass of warm water after consuming the garlic.

Snow Mountain Garlic Side Effects

There are no known side effects of consuming Snow Mountain Garlic when consumed in moderation. Medical advice should always be taken on the quantity of consumption. A healthy person can take up to 2 cloves every day to boost immunity and as preventive medicine for many ailments, but more than that is not advisable as it has a blood thinning effect which can lead to other health problems.

Since garlic of any kind is a stimulant to the nervous system and is considered warm in nature, it is advisable to not consume it during hot summers.

Purchasing Availability – Where To Buy?

Snow Mountain Garlic might be hard to find in local stores but is very easily available online. I have added a few links below to both for India and other countries.


India:

Garden of Saints Kashmiri Lahsun – 200gms

Profchef Kashmiri Garlics – 500gms

Leeve Dry Fruits Kashmiri Garlic – 200gms

USA and UK:

NutrActive Kashmiri Lehsun – 50gms

 

Did you find this post useful? Would you like to get back to it later? Save THIS PIN below to your Pinterest Natural Living, Health or Ayurveda board!

Snow Mountain Garlic Benefits Pinterest Pin 2

Acidity Causes, Precautions & Top Ayurvedic Remedies for Acidity Relief

Acidity Causes and Ayurvedic Remedies Feature Image

Acidity, acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastritis are groups of diseases caused by excess secretions from gastric glands of the stomach; these include hydrochloric acid, bile juice, and various other enzymes. Acidity refers to the heartburn and formation of gas in the stomach resulting from the excess secretions. The acid may irritate … Read more

Top 10 Ayurvedic Remedies For Constipation

Ayurvedic Remedies For Constipation Feature Image

Medical Reviewer: Dr Surabhi Rawat Constipation is one of the most common ailments in modern life. With the advent of junk food, aerated drinks, over salty food and a lifestyle of eating out, little activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption, constipation is a common consequence. We tend to see chronic constipation as just a small issue … Read more