Showing posts with label herbal cure. Show all posts
Showing posts with label herbal cure. Show all posts

Wednesday, 21 September 2011

Wild carrot: Daucus carota is natural contraceptive

By Syed Akbar
Daucus carota or wild carrot is an important medicinal plant whose herbal properties have 
been known to man for almost two millennia. Wild carrot or jangli gajar has a number of 
medicinal properties and herbal doctors down the ages have been prescribing it for 
problems ranging from acidity and gas to control of blood sugar, and from treating common 
cold to fighting depression.

Care should be taken while selecting the plant as it closely resembles poison hemlock. 
Wild carrot seeds, leaves and flowers should be purchased only from a reputed herbal 
store. While selecting the plant one should take the help of a botanist to make sure that 
it is Daucus carota and not poison hemlock.

This plant is grown in hilly areas and is native to north India. It is rich in ascorbic 
acid (vitamin C). It kills worms in the stomach and intestines. It also fights bacteria. 
Essential oil obtained from wild carrot prevents formation of wrinkles on face and body. 
Some herbal doctors prescribe wild carrot for treatment of schizophrenia. It has 
anti-inflammatory properties too.

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Home remedies
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Take a few crushed seeds of wild carrot and consume them for birth control. The natural 
chemicals present in wild carrot interfere with the reproductive system and prevents 
formation of pregnancy.

Herbal tea prepared from wild carrot leaves keeps the body in good health. Take a couple 
of leaves, put them in a cup of water and boil it. Filter the decoction and consume it 
twice a day.

Infusion obtained from the wild carrot plant is said to keep the stomach and intestines 
in good order. Soak the wild carrot leaves or seeds in a glass of water for at least six 
hours and the infusion that obtained can be filtered and used for a healthy digestive 
system.

Infusion of wild carrot has diuretic properties and thus it promotes easy flow of urine.

Herbal doctors often recommend wild carrot infusion to fight renal (kidney) stones.

Chewing of a few seeds clears the gas from the digestive tract and provides relief from 
flatulence.

Delphinium denudatum: Jadwar is a de-addiction herb

By Syed Akbar
Delphinium denudatum, known as Jadwar in Hindi and Urdu, is a plant that lives in high 
altitudes. It once dominated many parts of high mountain regions including Himalayas. But 
today it is an endangered species and only a few plants are left. In Sanskrit it is 
called Nirvisha. The root of Delphinium is used in medical formulations in Unani and 
Ayurveda.

Research studies have shown that Delphinium has been quite useful in de-addiction of drug 
addicts. The root extract has been found to reduce the withdrawal symptoms in people on 
de-addiction therapy. Ayurveda and Unani doctors prescribe Delphinium for a number of 
diseases and health issues including treatment of infertility in men and menstrual 
problems in women. It is a natural analgesic and is prescribed for relief from toothache.

Herbal doctors also recommend Jadwar in treatment of fungal infections, skin diseases, 
asthma, cough, jaundice and nervous problems. It is considered as a natural blood 
purifier. Jadwar is also prescribed for people who have digestive problems. It provides 
relief from painful wounds and inflammation.

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Home remedies
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Those addicted to drugs and on de-addiction therapy may try the root extract of 
Delphinium denudatum for relief from withdrawal symptoms associated with drug abuse. 
Herbal doctors prepare root extract at their de-addiction centres.

Paste obtained from the root of Delphinium can be applied to injuries for relief. The 
paste can also be applied to skin for relief from inflammation and dermatological 
problems.

A little of Delphinium root paste can be applied to the aching tooth for relief from 
pain. Just gently rub the paste against the affected tooth.

Many herbal doctors recommend Delphinium for treatment of infertility in men. Root powder 
can be taken in small quantities daily to improve the sperm count and motility. In case 
of women, the root powder can be taken to control irregular monthly cycles.

Readymade herbal formulations of Delphinium are available in herbal stores and with 
Ayurvedic and Unani doctors.

Bandicoot berry: Leea indica control diarrhea

By Syed Akbar
Leea indica or bandicoot berry is a small herbal tree found in many parts of the country. 
It is widely used in ethnomedical systems by various tribes in deep forests. There have 
been scientific research studies of late on the medicinal properties of Leea indica and 
they indicate it antioxidant property. Thanks to its antioxidant property it is 
considered as a natural medicine for inhibition or prevention of cancer.

The root and leaves of Leea indica are used in medicinal formulations. Ayurveda and Unani 
doctors also use Leea indica in their preparations. Herbal practitioners consider it as a 
natural coolant that gives a “cooling effect” to the body. During summer it is one of the 
natural coolants that quench the feeling of thirst.

Many tribal communities have been using Leea indica for treatment of diarrhoeal diseases. 
It is also used in cases of chronic dysentery. Other medicinal uses include skin 
ailments, gastric ulcers, vertigo (a severe form of dizziness) and digestive issue.

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Home remedies
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For relief from colic (sudden, abrupt pain), herbal doctors prescribe decoction obtained 
from the root of Leea indica. Take a few grams of Leea indica roots, wash them properly 
and prepare decoction adding a cup of water. Filter the solution and consume a little 
quantity. Tribal medicine prescribes Leea indica for colic pains.

Intake of a little quantity of powder obtained from the root of Leea indica gives relief 
from chronic dysentery.

A few drops of juice obtained from the fresh leaves of Leea indica sets the digestive 
system right.

Herbal doctors recommend external application of a little quantity of juice of Leea 
indica leaves on the head for relief from severe forms of dizziness like vertigo.

Paste of Leea indica roots if applied on the affected portion of the skin gives relief 
from skin issues like rashes and allergic reactions.

Friday, 9 September 2011

Decalepsis hamiltonii: Swallow root kills typhoid germs

By Syed Akbar
Decalepsis hamiltonii or swallow root is an ancient herb that has been
used for centuries by tribes deep in the jungles, down the Vindhyas.
Though there have been several claims on its medicinal properties,
it's only of late that scientific studies are conducted to verify some
of them. It has been found to be good against bacterial infection
including Salmonella typhii that causes typhoid and Helicobacter
pylori that is responsible for ulcers in the stomach and even cancers.

The root of Decalepsis is used in herbal medicine, particularly
Ayurveda and Unani. It is regarded as a blood purifier and general
health tonic to boost the immune system. Research on rats has shown
that it has anti-diabetic properties. It is found to protect the liver
and prevents formation of cholesterol deposits in the blood vessels.

Decalepsis should be used in small quantities as excessive intake may
lead to health troubles. Pregnant women and lactating mothers should
avoid Decalepsis as a precautionary measure. Those planning for a
surgical procedure should stop taking Decalepsis at least 15 days
before hospitalisation, as the herb is known to dilute the blood.
Those on anti-coagulant and blood thinning medicines should avoid
Decalepsis.

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Home remedies
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The root extract of Swallow root works as a general tonic since it has
anti-oxidant properties. It also prevents cancers of various types.
Ready-made root extract of Swallow root is available in herbal stores.
One may also go in for Swallow root tonic to keep the physiological
functioning of the body in good condition. Alternatively, one can take
a few grams of fresh or dried root and prepare decoction adding it to
a glass of water. Filter the decoction and consume it.

A little quantity of Swallow root powder daily will help in prevention
of complications linked to diabetes.

Recent studies have shown that Swallow root can be used in cancer
therapy along with the regular medicines. Root extract or powder can
be consumed in a little quantity to prevent cancer complications.

Swallow root powder is often prescribed to reduce swelling
(inflammation), and in treating typhoid. It is regarded as a good
appetiser. A little of root powder before the meal will increase the
hunger.

Wednesday, 24 August 2011

Semecarpus anacardium: Marking nut controls white patches

Syed Akbar
Leucoderma or white patches is a skin condition whose occurrence is shrouded in mystery. 
Despite the advancement in medical sciences it’s not still clear what exactly triggers 
leucoderma. Research has been going on the world over to understand the medical mechanism 
that triggers this skin problem, and find a permanent cure through medication.

Ancient Indian medical texts have described the problem of leucoderma in detail and have 
suggested that Semecarpus anacardium is a natural remedy. Though the skin problem does go 
completely through Semecarpus, it helps in keeping it under check. Semecarpus anacardium 
is known as bhilavan in Hindu and Urdu and as marking nut in English.

A number of health benefits have been attributed to this herb by Ayurveda and Unani 
doctors. It is also practiced by tribals and those following the forest medicine. The 
health benefits include control of white patches on the skin, piles, cough, nervous 
problems, infertility in men, healing of wounds, and relief from joint pains, baldness 
and enlargement of spleen.

As is the case with many herbs, Semecarpus should be used with caution, particularly when 
it is consumed internally. It may create health issues in young children, pregnant and 
lactating women and the elderly.

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Home remedies
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Those suffering from piles may take Semecarpus tonic readily available in herbal stores. 
Alternatively, one can prepare extract from the Semecarpus fruit at home. Take the fruit, 
wash it properly and boil it in a little quantity of water. A tablespoon of this 
decoction can be taken. In case of juice obtained from Semecarpus fruit, a few drops are 
sufficient.

The oil obtained from Semecarpus fruit can be mixed with coconut oil and applied on white 
patches, wounds, and skin portions affected by acne, ringworm and eczema. The oil can be 
applied on the scalp for treatment of alopecia or baldness.

The oil of Semecarpus can be applied on swollen and painful joints for relief from 
arthritis.

The juice obtained from Semecarpus can be applied on cracked heels for relief from pain.
A little quantity of Semecarpus tonic is used internally every day for treatment of 
paralysis.

Commiphora wightii: Guggulu reduces body weight

Syed Akbar

Commiphora wightii or guggulu is used widely in homes in India, mainly to drive away evil 
spirits. It is also used for religious ceremonies. Apart from its use for religious 
purpose, guggulu is a natural medicine to reduce the body weight. It is a natural remedy 
for people suffering from overweight and obesity. The gum latex of this plant has several 
medicinal properties and many people burn it as incense for a feeling of goodness.

In English guggulu is known as Indian Bedellium and the plant is cultivated in many part 
of the country. Readymade capsules of guggulu are available in herbal stores and several 
weight loss programmes include it as part of the obesity treatment therapy.

It should be taken in small quantities for better results. In excess quantity it will 
cause health problems like irritation, skin rashes, loose motions and headache. Pregnant 
women should not use guggulu as it may cause miscarriage. Guggulu therapy is not 
recommended for children too.

Herbal doctors recommend guggulu for health issues like urinary disorders, haemorrhoids, 
high blood cholesterol and rheumatic pains. It is believed that guggulu reduces the blood 
cholesterol levels and burns excess fat, keeping the body healthy.

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Home remedies
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Readymade guggulu capsules are available in herbal stores. Follow the course for weight 
reduction. Alternatively, one may take small quantities of guggulu gum latex twice a day 
to reduce the body weight, burn fat and control blood cholesterol levels.

Herbal doctors recommend smoke of guggulu for earache. According to them, one should take 
a small piece of guggulu gum latex and burn it. The smoke can be directed towards the ear 
in which there’s pain. Guggulu smoke therapy helps in giving relief from earache.

Guugulu extract can be mixed with sesame oil and gently massaged on the affected parts of 
the body for relief from rheumatic pains and swelling of joints.

A little piece of guggulu gum, ginger and honey can be taken to control the body weight 
and fight obesity.

Wednesday, 10 August 2011

Curcuma caesia: Black turmeric cures stomach problems

Syed Akbar
Black turmeric or Curcuma caesia is an endangered medicinal plant grown in hilly areas of the country. It is fast dying and needs to be conserved for future generations. Curcuma caesia is a wonder herb and contains the highest content of curcumin, a chemical substance with many curative properties, among all curcuma or turmeric species. It is perhaps one of the few medicinal plants that is used in black magic as well as herbal 
treatment.
Curcuma caesia is used in Kali pooja and many practitioners of black magic use the herb in the fire pit set up for the purpose. Apart from its “spiritual ability” to drive away evil forces, Curcuma caesia has wide ranging herbal properties. It is prescribed for treatment of piles, impotency, menstrual disorders and epilepsy. It is used both externally and internally. Externally, it is used for treatment of wounds, white patches on the skin and leprosy sores. It is capable of enhancing fertility levels.
Some herbal doctors prescribe it for treatment of piles and enlargement of spleen and certain types of tuberculosis. The rhizome as well as the leaves of the plant are used in medical formulations.
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Home remedies
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If you are suffering from toothache, take a little quantity of Curcuma caesia or black turmeric powder and rub it gently against the teeth. You will get relief from the problem. Ensure that only a little quantity is used, as excess of Curcuma caesia powder may induce vomiting.
Take a fresh rhizome of black turmeric or kali haldi, wash it properly and crush it. Apply it to wounds and nagging sores for relief and quick healing.
Those suffering from leucoderma or white patches on the skin may apply the paste of Curcuma caesia rhizome on the skin. Readymade herbal preparations are also available in the market.
Curcuma caesia provides relief from stomach problems including indigestion. Take a little of the rhizome and chew it for relief from indigestion or stomach pain. It also helps in easy digestion and proper functioning of liver and kidneys.

Wednesday, 3 August 2011

Holarrhena antidysenterica: Bitter oleander or Kutaja stops amoebic dysentery

Syed Akbar
Holarrhena antidysenterica is popularly known as Kutaja among Ayurveda doctors. As the name antidysenterica suggests, this herb has properties that fight against dysentery of all types including the one caused by Entamoeba histolytica. In English this herb is called Bitter oleander or dysentery rose. The bark and seeds of the plant are used for treatment of a number of ailments particularly those related to stomach and intestines. Holarrhena is a good appetizer too and helps in easy digestion of food.
This is an ancient herb and finds mention in ancient Ayurvedic texts written by Charaka. Since it is considered good for digestive system, extracts from Holarrhena are used for treatment of bleeding piles and diarrhea too. Practitioners of herbal medicine believe that Kutaja is a divine herb bestowed by the Almighty. The herb should be used in limited and prescribed quantity only.
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Home remedies
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Decoction obtained from bark is prescribed for killing harmful worms in the digestive tract. The decoction also gives relief from fever. Readymade capsules and tonics prepared from Kutaja are available in market for treatment of dysentery.
Take seeds and powder them in a grinder. Sieve it to obtain fine powder. It can be sprinkled on wounds for quick healing. Ayurvedic doctors use the seed powder of Holarrhena for dressing of wounds. Paste obtained from the bark of the plant can be used for relief from painful boils
It can also be taken as a general health tonic. Take a few grams of the bark of Holarrhena, wash it properly. Put it in a glass of water and boil it for 10 minutes to obtain decoction. Take a tablespoon of decoction twice a day for good health, and to fight stomach disorders and bleeding piles.

Monday, 25 July 2011

Barleria prionitis or Porcupine flower: Vajradanti keeps dental health

By Syed Akbar
Barleria prionitis or porcupine flower is an ornamental plant, but some consider it as a weed. Ayurveda, Unani and other traditional systems of medicine the world over recognize the importance of Barleria prionitis as for as dental or oral health is concerned. Thanks to its unique properties of keeping teeth in good health and fighting tooth decay and gingivitis, this plant is popularly known as Vajradanti.
Apart from its dental benefits, Vajradanti is prescribed by practitioners of herbal medicine for problems like fever, respiratory diseases including whooping cough, joint pains including those related to arthritis, healing of wounds and boils, and curing of cracks in heels.
Some herbal experts believe that Barleria prionitis controls nocturnal emission and premature ejaculation in men. It is also recommended for removing worms from the digestive system. Other benefits of this herb include promotion of hair growth, increase in urine output and relief from scabies.
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Home remedies
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Herbal doctors recommend decoction of Barleria prionitis root for treatment of viral fevers. Take a few leaves, fresh or dried, wash them properly and put them in a bowl. Add a glass of water and boil it to obtain decoction. Filter the solution and consume it in small quantities twice a day.
If you are suffering from bleeding gums, loose teeth, dental cavities and sensitive teeth, Barleria prionitis is the best natural bet. You can do a mouth wash prepared from the root of this herb. Alternatively you can take dried leaves or roots, make them into powder. Take a little quantity and brush your teeth. It keeps the teeth strong and healthy.
The leaves of Barleria prionitis can be crushed and applied on wounds, boils and in joints for relief. It also reduces swelling.
Crushed leaves can also be applied on the scalp to fight fungal growth and promote hair growth. They can also be applied on cracks on the heels for relief.
Herbal doctors suggest dried bark powder for whooping cough. Paste obtained from roots can be applied on boils for relief from pain.

Sunday, 17 July 2011

Crinum latifolium: Milk and wine lily gives long and healthy life

By Syed Akbar
Crinum latifolium or milk and wine lily is a wonderful plant thanks to its “double” properties. It works on prostate gland in men and ovaries in women. Known in Sanskrit as Madhuparnika, this herb finds a special place in the “royal medicine” of Vietnam, where kings and queens in the past used this herb for a long and healthy life. In India, Crinum is used in Ayurveda and Unani preparations for a variety of health issues, and as a general tonic. Readymade herbal formulations of Crinum latifolium are available in herbal 
stores.
This herb is grown in gardens and houses as an ornamental plant. Its flowers resemble those of common garden lily. The bulb and leaves are used in medicinal formulae. Besides keeping the prostate and ovaries in good health, Crinum also helps in fighting cancers associated with these organs.
The bulb of Crinum has pungent taste. The bulb is often roasted for external applications. Extract of Crinum is used as a general tonic. It is believed that this herb helps in regulation of hormonal secretions and regeneration of body tissues to keep the body hale and healthy for a longer period. Care should be taken while using this herb for internal consumption as excess intake may upset stomach and cause vomiting. In small quantities, Crinum gives many health benefits.

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Home remedies
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Take the bulb of Crinum, wash it properly and crush it. Apply it on joints for relief from rheumatic pains. The paste of Crinum helps in dilation of the blood capillaries in the area of application. Herbal doctors believe Crinum acts as rubefacient, though there’s no scientific evidence to the effect thus far.

The crushed bulb can be applied on piles for relief. It is also often prescribed for wounds and abscesses.

Herbal doctors recommend the juice obtained by crushing the leaves of Crinum as ear drops for relief from ear pain.

The extract from bulbs is used internally in small quantities for longevity and healthy life. Crinum extract is believed to keep ovaries and prostate gland in proper function. Some recommend Crinum of treatment of fibroids in the uterus.

Ayurveda and Unani doctors prescribe Crinum for treatment of prostate and ovarian cancers. Readymade herbal formulations of Crinum can be used.

Sunday, 10 July 2011

Acorus calamus: Sweet flag or Boch fights epilepsy

By Syed Akbar
Acorus calamus or Sweet flag is a wonder herb that has been in use in all systems of medicine including allopathy. In Sanskrit it is called Vacha, while in Hindi and Urdu it is popular by the name Boch. The rhizome of the plant is used in herbal preparations including ointments and balms for skin ailments, and treatment of burns. The rhizome is used in its dried form. A word of caution about this herb is that it should be taken in very minute quantities as it will cause vomiting and nausea if consumed in excess dosage. A teaspoon of rhizome powder is recommended twice a day.

Balms prepared from Calamus is used in massage to tone up the muscles and keep the skin in good condition. It is used in treatment of fevers particularly malaria, pain, stomach upsets, headache and tooth trouble. It is a laxative and diuretic. Calamus is also considered as natural herb to promote appetite. Some herbal doctors suggest Calamus for treatment of abdominal pain. In Ayurveda, it is considered as a tonic for the brain and nervous system as it improves memory in people suffering from amnesia or loss of memory. It is also recommended for asthma and killing intestinal worms.

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Home remedies
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Persistent cough can be treated by inhaling the smoke of the dried rhizome. Make sure that too much smoke is not inhaled.
Extract obtained from the rhizome of Calamus provides relief from headache and toothache. It is also considered good for oral problems.
Readymade Calamus capsules are available in herbal stores. They can be consumed as prescribed by herbal specialists for treatment of epilepsy. Ensure that the prescribed dosage is followed.
Calamus rhizome powder can be made into an ointment by adding a little of coconut oil for external application to treat small burns.
A little of Calamus root can be chewed for relief from motion sickness.
Calamus tonics are available for improving memory power. Infusion obtained from Calamus rhizome can also be used.

Saturday, 9 July 2011

Shorea robusta: Indian dammer gives relief from bleeding piles

By Syed Akbar

Shorea robusta is considered a holy tree by Hindus and Buddhists. Ancient Indian texts show that Shorea or common sal is a favourite tree of Lord Sri Vishnu. Also known as Indian dammer, Shorea robusta finds its use in Ayurveda, Unani and tribal systems of medicine. It has a number of medicinal properties but the tree is valued for its ability to stop bleeding piles and provide relief to the patient.
Bark, leaves, fruit and resin of Shorea are used in medicinal preparations. The resin is also burnt as incense and the fumes thus obtained are said to have medicinal properties. Shorea ointments for skin troubles, breast enhancement and for bleeding piles are available in herbal stores.
Some herbal doctors consider Shorea as a natural remedy for diabetes, nervine pain, arthritis, burns, ulcers, and jaundice and skin infections. It has anti-bacterial properties too.

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Home remedies
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Resin obtained from Shorea robusta bark is used for relief from arthritis. Take a few grams of Shorea resin and add it to the white of egg. Mix them well with a spoon and apply the paste on the affected portion. It gives relief from joint pains caused by arthritis.
Herbal cream prepared from Shorea leaves is applied to wounds for quick healing. It kills germs including bacteria.
For those suffering from diarrhea, a mixture of Shorea robusta and Mimosa pudica powder is administered orally. When taken in small quantities (one gram), it provides relief from diarrhea.
Robusta resin is taken orally in small quantities for goiter. Goiter is caused due to iodine deficiency.
In case of anaemia, intake of Shorea leaf powder with honey will help in improving the RBC count.
Herbal doctors point out that fumes of Shorea resin provide relief from uncontrollable hiccups.

Mother's Care

Mother's Care
Minnu The Cat & Her Kittens Brownie, Goldie & Blackie

Someone with Nature

Someone with Nature
Syed Akbar in an island in river Godavari with Papikonda hills in the background

Recognition by World Vegetable Centre

Recognition by World Vegetable Centre

Under the shade of Baobab tree

Under the shade of Baobab tree
At Agha Khan Akademi in Kenya

Gateway to the Southern Hemisphere

Gateway to the Southern Hemisphere

Convention on Biodiversity

Convention on Biodiversity
Syed Akbar at the 11th Conference of Parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity