Description

This plant has been used medicinally since ancient times and is recorded in early classical texts. It exhibits antihyperglycaemic, antimicrobial, antirheumatic, antitussive, antiviral, astringent, demulcent, depurative, diuretic, emmenagogue, emollient, expectorant, galactagogue, refrigerant, resolvent, stimulant, sudorific, tonic, and vermifuge properties.

It is traditionally used in chronic cough, asthma, bronchitis, pleurisy, catarrh, sore throat, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, and various types of fevers. It is also beneficial in jaundice, diarrhoea, and haemoptysis. The herb promotes urination and menstrual flow and is traditionally believed to help dissolve calculi in the bladder, kidneys, and spleen. It is further used as a detoxifying agent in alcoholism and for expelling intestinal worms.

The plant is also widely used worldwide for hair care. When applied externally, it helps reduce hair fall, removes dandruff, improves hair texture, adds natural shine, and supports darker hair colour. Its long-standing use as a natural hair tonic makes it valuable in alopecia and dull, lifeless hair.

Recommended Dosage

• Powder: 5–7 g daily

Contraindications & Precautions

This herb has been shown in studies to lower blood glucose levels. Individuals with diabetes or hypoglycaemia should use it with caution and monitor blood sugar regularly. As it stimulates the uterus and promotes menstruation, it is contraindicated during pregnancy. Animal studies suggest anti-implantation effects; therefore, couples planning pregnancy or undergoing fertility treatment should avoid its use. Due to possible estrogen-like activity, it should also be avoided in estrogen-positive cancers.

Useful in the Following Conditions