~ Herbs ~

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Psyllium Husk

Botanical Name(s): Plantago Ovata Husk
Family Name: Plantaginaceae
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Plantaginaceae
Genus: Plantago afra
Species: P. psyllium
Popular Name(s): Indian Plantago, Ispaghula, Fleam, Spogel Seeds, Isabgol, Sand Plantain, Flea Seed
Parts Used: Husk, Seed.   
Habitat: Mediterranean region and commercially grown in Northwestern India.

Description
Psyllium seed husk is a portion of the seeds of the plant plantago ovate. The husk covers the seeds that form a part of many foods. Psyllium husk is a natural, water soluble, gel-reducing fiber that becomes mucilaginous when wet. The plant contains 70% soluble and 30% insoluble fiber. It is native to India and Pakistan. The annual crop is cultivated in the Northwestern region of India. Rajasthan alone accounts for 60% of the world’s production of psyllium. It is cultivated in over 50,000 hectares in Mehsana, Banaskantha and Sabarkantha districts of Gujarat and Jalore, Pali, Jodhpur, Barmer, Nagaur and Sirohi districts of Rajasthan. It is commonly known as ispaghula and isabgol.

Plant Chemicals
(+)- monomeric arabinose, xylose, rhamnose, galacturonic acid, semi drying fatty oil, aucubin.

Uses & Benefits of Psyllium Husk
Psyllium husk is used to relieve chronic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticular disease and diarrhea.
It has diuretic, emollient and cooling properties.
The husk can be used whole, in its natural state, or dried, chopped or powdered for easy consumption.
It can be combined with clay and taken as a detoxification drink.
Psyllium husk is used as a regular dietary supplement to improve and maintain regular GI transit.
It also helps in lowering cholesterol and controlling diabetes.
They are used in inflammatory conditions of mucous membrane of gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts.
The plant is used in the treatment of amoebic and bucillary dysentery.
It increases the stool weight and the level of stool moisture.
The husk is used in fecal incontinence from liquid stools or diarrhea and helps with the management of hemorrhoids.
It treats ulcerative colitis, anal fixtures and Crohn’s disease.
It is often recommended after anal or rectal surgery and during pregnancy.
Psyllium husk enhances the sensation of fullness and reduces hunger cravings.
To improve digestion and intestinal tract health, take one psyllium husk capsule per day.
Incorporating psyllium husk and other sources of fiber, like guar gum and oat bran, into the diet aids weight loss.
Using psyllium as a poultice helps to reduce skin irritation, boils, abcesses and inflamed eyelids.

Caution
Regular exposure to psyllium dust can result in allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.
If taken with inadequate amount of water, the husk can obstruct gastrointestinal tract, especially in those people who have had prior bowel surgeries or anatomic abnormalities.
Diabetic patients should avoid psyllium husk, if they have problems keeping the blood sugar levels under control.

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Indian Kino

Binomial Name(s): Abrus precatorius
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Subfamily: Faboideae
Tribe: Dalbergieae
Genus: Pterocarpus
Species: P. marsupium
Popular Name(s): Malabar Kino
Parts Used: Heart Wood, Leaves and Flowers
Habitat: Found in the Western Ghats, in the Karnataka-Kerala region

Description
Indian kino, botanically known as Pterocarpus Marsupium, is a medium to large; deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. It turns the water blue as soon as it comes in contact with it. The plant species is native to India, Sri Lanka and Nepal. It was particularly found in certain areas of the Western Ghats, in the Karnataka-Kerala region. The herb is known by different names in different regions, like Piasal (in Orrisa), Malabar, Benga and Bijiyasal (in western Nepal) and so on. The leaves, bark, and gum of Indian kino is used for curing a number of ailments. Because of its medicinal properties, the plant species is cultivated for commercial purpose in many parts of the world. Be it for treating skin conditions or serving as an astringent, the herb is popular for its diverse health benefits.

Plant Chemicals
Epicatechin, pterosupin, liquiritigenin, isoliquiritigenin, marsupol, marsupinol, carpusin, epicatechin, pterostilbene, kinotannic acid, beta-eudesmol, kinoin, kino-red

Uses & Benefits of Indian Kino
Indian kino has many therapeutic and medicinal properties and is used in treating conditions like elephantiasis, diarrhea, leucoderma, rectalgia, cough, dysentery, and grey hair.
The crushed leaves of the plant are used externally for the treatment of boils, sores and certain types of skin diseases.
Consumption of the herb helps to lower the lipid and glucose levels of the body.
It leads to the significant reduction in the blood sugar levels, in diabetic patients.
One of the major effects of Indian kino in human body is that it helps to prevent cell proliferation and induces apoptotic effect in tumor cell lines.
It is also used as an astringent and helps to cure dental problems, like toothache.
The herb also has anthelmintic properties and is a bitter acrid and an anodyne.
Indian kino prevents the leakage of electrolytes, caused by herbicide-induced oxidative damage.
The herb cures ailments like leprosy, leucoderma, rectalgia, constipation, hemorrhages and even rheumatoid arthritis.
Indian Kino exhibits strong antihyperlipdemic properties and helps in reducing total cholesterol, LDL, VLDL and serum triglyceride levels in the human body. It, however, does not cause any change in the HDL cholesterol levels.
The herb also has antimicrobial properties and is used to act against certain types of bacteria and virus.
Another vital function of the herb is that it has scavenging properties, which work against mitochondrial lipid peroxidation.

Caution
Indian kino does not cause any allergic reactions or any other side effects on consumption.

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Kudzu

Botanical Name(s): Pueraria Tuberosa
Family Name: Fabaceae
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Subfamily: Faboideae
Tribe: Phaseoleae
Genus: Pueraria
Species: P. tuberosa
Popular Name(s): Indian Kudzu, Red Indian Kudzu, White Indian Kudzu, Siali, Dari.
Parts Used: Tubers.   
Habitat: Found in dry deciduous to moist deciduous forests

Description
Pueraria Tuberosa, commonly known as kudzu, is a climber with woody tuberculated stem. It is a climbing, coiling and trailing vine with large tuberous roots. The tubers are globose or pot-like, about 25 cm across and the insides are white, starchy and mildly sweet. Leaves are trifoliate and alternate, while the leaflets are egg-shaped, with round base and unequal sides. They are 18 cm long and 16 cm wide and are hairless above. Flowers are bisexual, around 1.5 cm across and blue or purplish-blue in color. The fruit pods are linear, about 2 to 5 cm long and constricted densely between the seeds. They have silky, bristly reddish-brown hair. Seeds vary from 3 to 6 in number. Common names of kudzu are shimiabatraji in Bengali; badar, bankumra, bedarikand, bolaikand, patalkand and dedarikand in Hindi; badra, bhadra, dari, pitham, vendari and virdari in Marathi; saloha, salar, siali and sural in Punjabi; bhukushmandi, gajavajipriya, gajeshta, gandhaphala, ksriravalli, srigalika, shukla and vidarika in Sanskrit; darigummadi and kubayatige in Telugu; and buinkakarkara, handiphuta and katoka in Oriya.

Plant Chemicals
(+)- carbohydrates, crude fiber, crude protein, ether extr, ß-sitosterol, sucrose, glucose, fructose.

Uses & Benefits of Kudzu
Kudzu tubers reduce dryness of the body and ease bowel movement. They are very helpful in relieving constipation.
The herb acts as rasayana and slows down the ageing process.
It strengthens body and boosts its immunity.
Kudzu is used for the treatment of dysuria, cough, rheumatism, erysipelas and malarial fever.
The roots are used as a demulcent and refrigerant in fevers. They are used as cataplasm for swellings of joints.
The herb is an aphrodisiac, emetic and a general tonic.
Kudzu rejuvenates the male reproductive system and increases both quality and quantity of semen that increase its count and mobility.
The herb reduces vata and normalizes kapha, which increases shukra dhatu. This shukra dhatu helps in increasing hard erections, libido and sexual energy.
It acts as a galactogogue and is very useful for nursing mothers.
Including this herb in your diet rejuvenates skin and increases fairness and glow.
Kudzu is widely used in skin diseases that cause discoloration.
It revitalizes the whole body and increases muscle bulk.

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Pomegranate

Binomial Name(s): Punica Granatum
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Subclass: Rosidae
Order: Myrtales
Family: Lythraceae
Genus: Punica
Species: P. granatum
Popular Name(s): Anar
Parts Used: Seeds, Flowers
Habitat: Commonly cultivated as ornamental and fruit tree in southwest zones of Asia

Description
Punica granatum, commonly known as Pomegranate, is a species of fruit-bearing deciduous shrub or small tree, growing to 5-8 m height. The leaves are opposite or sub-opposite, glossy, narrow, oblong, entire, 3-7 cm long and 2 cm broad. The flowers are bright red, with five petals each. Native to the southwest zones of Asia, the plant species was originally cultivated in the Caucasus region in ancient times. Pomegranate was later introduced in parts of Latin America and California by the early Spanish settlers, during the year 1769. There, the plant species was mainly used for the purpose of juice production. Today, pomegranate is widely cultivated in North India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan and parts of the Middle East. The cultivation of the fruit usually takes place during the months of September to February in the Northern Hemisphere, while in the Southern Hemisphere; it is from March to May.

Plant Chemicals
Pomegranate is a rich source of potassium and antioxidant polyphenols. These polyphenols mainly include hydrolysable tannins called punicalagins. Polyphenols catechins, gallocatechins, and anthocyanins such as prodelphinidins, delphinidin, cyanidin, and pelargonidin are other phytochemicals present in the plant species.

Uses & Benefits of Pomegranate
Pomegranate is great for curing a number of ailments and diseases. The juice of its fruit helps to reduce the risk of strokes, heart diseases and heart attacks. It prevents the formation of Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol, through its antioxidant properties and hence, helps in the clearance of blood clots in the arteries.
Many women claim that the extracts of the fruit helps to overcome feelings of weakness or malaise during and after menopause.
The fruit is a rich source of vitamins and is particularly high in vitamin A, C E and folic acid.
Regular intake of pomegranate juice helps to reduce the possibility of developing Alzheimer’s disease by the elderly.
It also helps to strengthen the normal human defense mechanism and prevents the occurrence of certain types of cancer. This is mainly because of the fact that the fruit contains high amounts of antioxidants called flavenoids, which are believed to counteract the actions of cancer-causing radicals and thereby promote good health.
Another major health benefit of pomegranate is that it helps to prevent and control anemic conditions like weakness, dizziness, fatigue and hair loss, as it provides support to the blood by supplying it with iron.
A decoction of its seeds is used to treat syphilis. The juice helps treat jaundice and diarrhea. Even the juice of its flower is used to treat nosebleeds.
The fruit pulp and seeds of pomegranate are stomachic.
It also helps to cure conditions like diabetes, osteoarthritis and atherosclerosis.
The antioxidants present in pomegranate contribute to the antiviral properties in the fruit.
Curing skin inflammation and similar type of skin conditions is yet another beneficial effect of consuming pomegranate on a regular basis.

Caution:
Certain allergic reactions may occur due to consumption of pomegranate. Serious reactions like difficulty in swallowing, skin rashes, wheezing and swelling of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue may also occur at times.

[MysteRy]

Pomegranate Seed Oil

Botanical Name(s): Punica Granatum
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Myrtales
Family: Puniacaceae
Subclass: Rosidae
Genus: Punica L.
Species: Punica granatum L.
Popular Name(s): Pomegranate, Pom
Parts Used: Pomegranate Oil
Habitat: Cultivated all over India

Description
Pomegranate is a species of fruit-bearing, deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 5-8 m tall. The leaves are opposite or sub-opposite, glossy, narrow, oblong, entire, 3-7 cm long and 2 cm broad. The flowers are bright red, with five petals each. The fruit is between an orange and a grapefruit in size. Punica Granatum is extensively cultivated throughout Armenia, Azerbaijan, the Middle East, Afghanistan, Pakistan, North India, the drier parts of Southeast Asia, Peninsular Malaysia, the East Indies, and tropical Africa. In the Northern Hemisphere, the season for pomegranate fruit is from September to February. In the Southern Hemisphere, the season stretches from March to May.

Plant Chemicals
The fatty acids present in Punica Granatum are Icosanoic- 0.4% , Linoleic- 7.1% , Linolenic (Conjugated)- 4.4% , Linolenic(Alpha)- 0.4% , Oleic- 5.7% , Palmitic- 3.0% , Punicic- 71.5% , Stearic- 2.1%

Uses & Benefits of Pomegranate Seed Oil
Pomegranate is well known for antioxidant properties. It helps in preventing the formation of skin cancer by reducing the frequency of lesions and limits the occurrence of tumors as well.
Pomegranate seed oil is extensively used in cosmetic products to revitalize dull or mature skin.
The oil adds moisture to the skin and consists of natural estrogenic properties. It is anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial, improving skin elasticity and protecting the skin as well.
It provides relief from minor skin irritations, such as dry skin, eczema, psoriasis and sunburned skin. The oil obtains its strong anti-inflammatory properties from the conjugated fatty acids present in it.
Pomegranate seed oil also helps in reducing swelling and easing muscular aches and pains.
Some studies have also shown that the oil works to stimulate Keratinocyte proliferation, thereby promoting regeneration and strengthening of the epidermis.
Pomegranate is one of the few plants that are a source of conjugated fatty acids. It also contains an abundant amount of punicic acid, which has been called a “super CLA”. Its effect is more potent than the ordinary CLA. Studies suggest that this may support the immune system and build the natural ability of the body to fight against ailments like human cancer, obesity, diabetes and heart diseases.
Phytoestrogens, which are similar to the estrogens produced naturally by the human body, are also contained in pomegranate seed oil. Using pomegranate seed oil has served to ease the symptoms associated with menopause and pre-menopause, such as mood swings, hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and diminished appetite.

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Quince

Botanical Name(s): Cydonia oblonga
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Rutaceae
Genus: Cydonia
Species: C. oblonga
Popular Name(s): Bael, Apple Wood, Holy Fruit Tree
Habitat: Found all over deciduous forests in India.

Description
Quince is a small deciduous tree, growing 5-8 m tall and 4-6 m wide, related to apples and pears. Just like the two, it has a pome fruit, which is bright golden-yellow when mature, pear-shaped, 7-12 cm long and 6-9 cm broad. Quince is the only member of the genus Cydonia and native to Southwest Asia in the Caucasus region, which experiences warm temperature. The immature fruit of the plant is green in color, with dense grey-white pubescence. As the fruit matures, its color changes to yellow and it develops a hard and heavily perfumed flesh.

Uses & Benefits of Quince
Quince is used in treating diarrhea, dysentery, and constipation. It has aromatic, astringent, cooling, and febrifuge properties and acts as a tonic for heart and brain.
The dried pits of its fruit are used to remedy soreness of throat and relieving cough. The pits are soaked in water and the solution is consumed like a cough medicine. It is commonly used for children and is 100% alcohol free.
Quince is commonly grown in the central and southern areas of Europe, where the summers are hot enough for the fruit to ripen. It is used for making a juice in Germany, known as Quittensaft.
In the Balkans, quince is used for making brandy.
Quince tree is planted as a symbol of fertility, love and life in countries like Slavonia and Croatia.
In Malta, the fruits of quince are used to make jams. It is also believed that a teaspoon of quince jam, dissolved in a cup of boiling water, relieves intestinal discomfort. Quince is used to make jam in Lebanon as well.
In Iran, Quince is called ‘Beh’. It is used raw as well as in jams. The seeds of the plant are used to treat pneumonia and lung disease.
Quince seeds are boiled and then ingested to remedy Pneumonia in Afghanistan.
In Pakistan, quince fruits are stewed together with sugar until they assume a bright red color. The resulting stewed quince, known as muraba in local language, is preserved in jars and consumed like jam.
The powder made from quince leaves helps in reducing digestion-related problems, like indigestion and diarrhea. It also works to promote appetite, nourishes heart and helps against blood clotting, in case of injuries and hemorrhages.
Quince helps in relieving inflammation of the internal organs, especially of the uterus.
Quincy juice proves to be very effective against diabetes and urinary problems. It also helps against respiratory disorders like cough, cold and asthma.

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Rhubarb

Botanical Name(s): Rheum Emodi
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Polygonaceae
Genus: Rheum
Species: R. rhabarbarum
Popular Name(s): Himalayan Rhubarb, Indian Rhubarb, Thuzna, Revat Chinni
Parts Used: Seeds
Habitat: Grown throughout the valleys in Himalayan region at altitude of 3200m -5200m.

Description
Rhubarb is a group of herbaceous perennial plants that grow from thick short rhizomes, comprising the genus Rheum. The large, somewhat triangular leaf blades are elevated on long, fleshy petioles. The flowers are small, greenish-white, and borne in large compound leafy inflorescences. Though the leaves of rhubarb are toxic, the plant, especially its stalk, has medicinal uses. In the past, the tender stick of rhubarb (dipped in sugar) comprised of an affordable sweet for children in parts of United Kingdom and Sweden. Rhubarb is still consumed in this way in Western Norway.

Uses & Benefits of Rhubarb
Rhubarb is used as purgative and astringent tonic. Its stimulating effect, combined with aspirin properties, renders it especially useful in atonic dyspepsia.
The herb can be used as a strong laxative. Its roots have been used as a laxative for about 5000 years. They have an astringent-like effect on the mucous membranes of the mouth and nasal cavity.
The root and stem of the plant are rich in anthraquinones, such as emodin and rhein. These substances are cathartic and laxative, which is also the reason why rhubarb acts a slimming agent.
The root of the plant is also used in traditional Chinese medicine. It was also used in the medieval Arabic and European prescriptions.
Rhubarb is used for making jams and sauce. It is also cooked with strawberries or apples as a sweetener or with stem or root ginger, to make various types of jams and sausages.
It is also used to make a strong dye, which creates a golden hair color and is suitable for those who have light brown or blondish hair. Simmer 3 tbsp of rhubarb root in 2 cups of water, for about 15 minutes. Leave overnight, and strain in the morning. First, test on a few strands of hair to see the effect, and then pour through the hair for a rinse.
The leaves of the plant are used to make an effective organic insecticide for leaf-eating insects, such as cabbage caterpillars, aphids, peach and cherry slug etc).

Caution
The leaves of the plant contain poisonous substances such as oxalic acid, which is a nephrotoxic and corrosive acid. The oxalic acid content of the plant may vary, though the typical value is around 0.5%. Its leaves should not be cooked with soda, which increases its poison content
It is believed that another unidentified toxin is present in the leaves. It might be anthraquinone glycoside, also known as senna glycosides. It also makes the consumption of rhubarb leaves harmful.

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Rose Petals

Botanical Name(s): Rosa Centifolia
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Rosaceae
Genus: Rosa
Species: R. centifolia
Popular Name(s): Red Rose, Pink Rose
Parts Used: Red Rose petals, Pink Rose petals, Rose oil, Rose leaves, Rose buds, Rose Calyx, Rose roots.
Habitat: Cultivated throughout India

Description
Rose plants are usually shrubby, in appearance with long drooping canes and grayish green leaves. The flowers are round and globular, with thin overlapping petals that are highly scented. The shrub is erect, with a height of 3 to 6 feet. The branches are closely covered with nearly straight prickles. The shoots of the plant are also erect. The leaves are unequally pinnate and there are 5 to 7 leaflets, which are oblong or ovate. The flowers of rose plant, which account for the petals, are large and pinkish or red in color. The flowers vary in hues, form and size. There are 100 documented varieties of flowers from this plant.

Plant Chemicals
The petals contain volatile oil, tannic acid, coloring matter, saccharine matter, mineral salts, and salts of malic and tartaric acids, etc. In addition to substantial proportions of vitamin C, rose petals contain other chemical amalgams, which comprise 11 per cent of pectin and three per cent of a mix of malic and citric acids. Researchers are of the opinion that the presence of malic acid and citric acid are the reason behind the laxative and diuretic effects.

Uses & Benefits of Rose Petals
Rose petals are rejuvenating and prove to be a tonic.
They are used to treat internal asthma, high blood pressure, bronchitis, slow circulation, diarrhea, dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), cough, fever and fluid retention, indigestion, insomnia, palpitation, stress and urinary tract infections.
Due to their strong and pleasant fragrance, rose petals are used for making essential oils and perfumes.
They are ingested as a tea to provide a comforting effect and diminish body temperatures during high fevers.
The tea also effectively cleanses toxins and heat from the body.
The infusion prepared from the rose petals is used to alleviate cold and flu symptoms.
The infusion is also effective in treating sore throats, runny nose and congested bronchial tracts.
The petals effectively combat infections in the digestive system and restore the normal and essential bacteria in the intestines.
They have a diuretic effect and hence, are beneficial in relieving excessive fluids from the urinary bladder.
Rose petals help to get rid of the waste and toxic substances in the body, through the kidneys.
They alleviate problems of insomnia, depression, fatigue and comfort tetchiness.

[MysteRy]

Safed Musli

Binomial Name(s): Chlorophytum Borivilianum
Kingdom: Plantae
Class: Monocotyledons
Series: Coronarieae
Family: Liliaceae
Genus: Chlorophytum
Species: C. borivilianum
Popular Name(s): Safed Moosli, Shaqaqule, Dholi Musli, Khiruva, Shedheveli, Swetha Musli, Taniravi Thang
Parts Used: Seeds and roots
Habitat: Northern and western India

Description
Safed Musli is a medicinal plant, with small, usually white flowers, produced on sparse panicles up to 120 cm long. In some species of the plant, the panicle also bears plantlets, which take root on touching the ground. Since times immemorial, the tuber root and rhizome of the plant have been used for the purpose of curing human ailments and infections. Its use as an effective aphrodisiac agent has opened up channels for its commercial cultivation in a number of regions around the world. Its unparalleled therapeutic and medicinal properties have made it a key ingredient in the preparation of a number of Ayuvedic formulations. It is also gaining increased importance as a health-tonic, which boosts the general immune system of the body. The herb grows naturally in the central zones of India, as the temperature and climatic conditions prevailing there are suitable for its growth. Sandy loam soil, with suitable drainage system, is perfect for the growth of Safed Moosli. Due to its diverse medicinal benefits, the plant has been recognized as the sixth most important herb by the Medicinal Plants Board, to be preserved and protected.

Plant Chemicals
Safed Musli contains carbohydrates (35-45%), fiber (25-35%), alkaloids (15-25%), saponins (2-20%), and proteins (5-10%).

Uses & Benefits of Safed Musli
Safed musli is a very popular aphrodisiac agent, with no side effects. It is often prescribed for enhancing male potency and overcoming signs of fatigue. It is particularly used for individuals with low sperm count and low libido.
It is also regarded as an energy booster in asthmatic conditions. The roots of the herb are also used to strengthen the general immune system of the body.
The tuber roots of the plant have been used since ancient times, to prepare nutritive tonic for sexual weakness and is used in Ayurvedic medicines even today.
Safed musli proves useful as a nutritive tonic for both the mother and the fetus, during pregnancy and is also used to replenish the body fluids during the post-partum stage.
The herb improves the quantity and flow of breast milk, in feeding mothers.
It has many health promotional benefits. It is used to control and prevent obesity and its side effects.
The activities of vitamin C and antioxidant enzymes are also enhanced by the use of this plant species.
Research has indicated that the plant species is used for curing diabetes and arthritic conditions.
Safed musli is also beneficial in the treatment of natal and postnatal problems.
Its regular use causes increase in the level of High Density Lipoprotein (HDL or good cholesterol) and decrease in the plasma and hepatic lipid profiles.
Apart from rejuvenating the reproductive system, the herb prevents premature ejaculation and is also used in chronic leucorrhoea.

Caution
There are no known side effects of Safed Musli, if taken under prescribed doses. Higher doses may, however lead to gastrointestinal upset.

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Sandalwood

Binomial Name(s): Santalum Album
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Santalales
Family: Santalaceae
Genus: Santalum
Species: S. album
Popular Name(s): Sandalwood, Chandana, White sandalwood, Yellow Sandalwood, Chandan, Chandanam, Srigandha
Parts Used: Wood and Oil
Habitat: Grown primarily in India

Description
Sandalwood can be described as the fragrant woods yielded by trees in the genus Santalum. The stem grows 20 to 30 feet high, is heavy and straight-grained and varies in color. It is white when young, and yellow and orange in color when old. Its oval leaves are covered with a whitish bloom; its small flowers are varying in color. The plant species is normally found in the dry peninsular areas of India, right from the peaks of the Vindhya to the southern zones of Tamil Nadu and Mysore. Apart from this, it is also found in some other states within the country, like Madhya Pradesh, Utter Pradesh, Orissa and Rajathan. The species have been utilized since ancient times for curing a number of ailments and diseases. It is very popular as an essential oil and its fragrance is also of great significance. For such reasons, cultivation and trading of this plant species have been done throughout the ages and the species has been exploited to such an extent that it is almost on the verge of getting extinct.

Plant Chemicals
Santalol (a-santalol, b-santalol)
Hydrocarbons (santene, aand b santenes and nor-tricycloekasantalene)
Alcohols (teresantalol and santenol)
Aldehydes (nor-tricycloekasantalal and isovaleraldehyde)
Ketones (santalone and l-santenone)
Acids (teresantalic acid and a-and ß-santalic acids)
Uses & Benefits of Sandalwood
Sandalwood is very beneficial for treating gastric irritability and any other kind of gastric ailments. A mixture of about 22 grams of a watery emulsion of the wood with rice water, sugar and honey is used for treating this condition. The wood is also used in the treatment of dysentery.
Since ancient times, sandalwood paste has been used to relieve headache and control the body temperature during fever.
The paste is also as a remedy for prickly heat and prevents excessive sweating during adverse environmental conditions. To control profuse sweating, a mixture of dry sandalwood powder and rose water can be applied over the area.
Sandalwood paste is also used for healing inflamed skin.
Certain eruptive and inflammatory skin conditions like erysipelas, itchy eruptions like prurigo and certain other inflammatory diseases of the face can be healed by using an emulsion or a paste of the wood.
Sandalwood oil is very helpful in curing scabies and even for the removal of pimples.
The oil of sandalwood is useful in the treatment of gonorrhea and is also used for treating dysuria and cystitis.
The wood as well as the oil of the plant has been employed since ages as an expectorant, diuretic and a diaphoretic. The oil of the plant is particularly beneficial against infections by Eberthella typhosa and Escherichia coli.
Sandalwood essential oil helps to moisturize and hydrate ageing, dry or flaky skin as well as to relieve itching and inflammation. Its astringent action balances oily skin conditions.
The oil also helps to clear up a dry cough and boosts the digestive system, especially helpful in diarrhea. It is used to treat general chest complaints as well.

Caution
Excessive use of sandalwood can result in allergic reactions, photoallergy, dermatitis, itchy skin, and depigmented macules, in some individuals.

[MysteRy]

Reetha

Botanical Name(s): Sapindus Mukorossi
Family Name: Sapindaceae
Kingdom: Plantae
Subkingdom: Tracheobionta (Vascular plants)
Division: Magnoliophyta (Flowering plants)
Class: Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledons)
Subclass: Rosidae
Order: Sapindales
Family: Sapindaceae (Soapberry family)
Tribe: Andropogoneae
Genus: Sapindus (Soapberry)
Species: Sapindus Mukorossi (Chinese soapberry)
Popular Name(s): Soapnut, Soap Nut, Soapberry, Soap Berry, Washnut, and Wash Nut, Ritha, Aritha, Dodan, Doadni, Doda, Kanma and Thali
Parts Used: Soapnuts, Soapnut Shells, Soapnut Shells Powder
Habitat: Temperate to Tropical regions throughout North India and Nepal in hills and plains in deep clayey loam soil with areas experiencing nearly 150 to 200 cm of annual rainfall.

Description
An attractive medium sized deciduous tree, Reetha (Sapindus mukorossi), stands up to 20 m in height, with gray smooth bark and pinnate leaves. The tree bears leaves in 5-10 pairs, with large drupes. The trunk of the tree is straight and cylindrical, going 13-16 ft in height and has an umbrella-like hemisphere measuring about 16 ft in diameter. The tree is ever-growing and in 70 years of existence, it can attain a height of up to 82 ft and a girth of up to 9-16 ft. The size of the leaflets tapers towards the tip of the rachis.

The flowers on Reetha plant grow during the summer season and are small in size and greenish white in color. The fruit appears in July and August and ripens by the months of November and December. This ripened fruit is then either sold in the market as soap nut or collected for seeds, as they tend to germinate easily. The dried fruit has a soapy texture and is used to prepare quality shampoos, detergents and a substitute for washing hands. Moreover, the plant is soft and green when it is fresh.

Plant Chemicals
3-O-agr-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1?2)-[agr-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1?3)]-ß-D-glucopyranosyl (21,23R)-epoxyl tirucalla-7,24-diene-(21S)-ethoxyl-3ß-ol (1) and 3-O-agr-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1?2)-[agr-L-arabinopyranosyl-(1?3)]-ß-D-glucopyranosyl (21,23R)-epoxyl tirucall-7, 24-diene-(21S)-methoxyl-3ß-ol (2).

Uses & Benefits of Reetha
Reetha is used as the main ingredient in soaps and shampoos for washing hair, as it is considered good for the health of hair. The trend of washing hair with soapnut (reetha) is still followed in many local households.
The jewelers in India use this plant to bring back the lost brightness of ornaments made of precious metals like gold, silver, etc.
The herb is also used in the treatment of extra salvation, migraine, epilepsy and chlorosis.
It has been placed as a popular herb in the list of herbs and minerals in Ayurveda and is used as an important ingredient in cleansers and shampoos. In addition, it is used for the treatment of eczema, psoriasis, and for removing freckles.
Reetha is also used for removing lice from the scalp, as it has gentle insecticidal properties.
The plant is known for its antimicrobial properties that are beneficial for septic systems.
It is an important herb that is used in the treatment of contaminated soil. Moreover, it has also been used for washing and bleaching cardamoms, further helping in improving the latter’s color and flavor.

Caution
Reetha has no adverse effects, but direct contact with the eyes should be avoided.

[MysteRy]

Soapnut

Botanical Name(s): Sapindus Trifoliatus
Family Name: Sapindaceae
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Sapindales
Family: Sapindaceae
Genus: Sapindus
Species: S. trifoliatus
Popular Name(s): Small Soapnuts, Reetha, Soapberry, Washing Nuts.
Parts Used: Fruits, Soapnut Shells.   
Habitat: Grows wild in South India

Description
Sapindus Trifoliatus, also known as Soapnut, is a large tree found in South India, with a height of up to 25 meters. The compound leaves are alternate and pinnate, about 25 to 30 cm long. The leaflets are elliptic-lance shaped, smooth with tipped points and slightly oblique based. They are often found in pairs of 2 or 3 and are 8 to 18 cm long and 5 to 7.5 cm wide. The greenish-white flowers are terminal with velvety panicles. They can be seen in the months of November, December and January. The fruit is velvety when young and turns hard and smooth on maturing.

Soapnuts are commonly known as phenil, risht and rishtak in Hindi; kekru in Manipuri; phenil, rinthi and ritha in Marathi; punalai, punthi and puvanti in Tamil; cavakkaay, pasakkottamaram and uruvanchi in Malayalam; kunkuduchettu and phenilamu in Telugu; amtalakaayi, norekaayi and togate mara in Kannada; ritha in Bengali, Konkani and Oriya; phenil and reetha in Urdu; aritha in Asamese; arithi, aritho and arithu in Gujarati; hrishtah, phenaka, phenil, rishtah, rishtak, rita, sarishta and urdhvashodhanah in Sanskrit.

Plant Chemicals
(+)- saponin A, saponin C, sapindosid A, sapindosid B, emarginatoside-B, emarginatoside-C, carrageenan, histamine, serotonin, zymosan, type II cyanolipids, fatty acid, oleic acid, arachidic acid, 11-iecosenoic acid, cisvaccenic acid, 13-eicosenoic acid.

Uses & Benefits of Soapnut
Soapnut is used for curing eczema, treating psoriasis and removing freckles.
It serves as an excellent hair tonic and thus, is a popular ingredient in the preparation of Ayurvedic shampoos and cleansers.
The herb is also used for removing lice from the scalp, since they have gentle insecticidal properties.
The crushed seeds are widely used for making soaps and shampoos. They are antibacterial, antifungul, stomachic and spermicidal.
Regularly washing your skin with soapnuts prevents many skin diseases and makes skin gentle.
The seeds are used in the treatment of hemicrania (migraine).
A thick watery solution of soapnut is used for the relief of hysteria and epilepsy.
Soapnuts are popular alternative to the laundry detergent among those trying to live in an environment-friendly style.
The fruit has emetic, tonic, astringent and anti-helmintic properties that are used for treating asthma.
The roots and bark are considered as a mild expectorant and demulcent.

[MysteRy]

Sarsaparilla

Botanical Name(s): Smilax regelii
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Liliales
Family: Smilacaceae
Genus: Smilax
Species: S. regelii
Popular Name(s): Indian Sarasaparilla, Anantamool
Parts Used: Root
Habitat: Found in Central India

Description
Sarsaparilla is a woody wine that can grow up to a height of 50 m. It has small flowers and black, blue or red fruits, in berry-like form, which are eaten by the birds. It is a member of the lily family and is native to the tropical and temperate parts of the world, such as South America, Jamaica, the Caribbean, Mexico, Honduras, and the West Indies. Its long, tuberous rootstock produces a vine, which trails on the ground and climbs by means of tendrils growing in pairs from the petioles of the alternate, orbicular to ovate, evergreen leaves. The small, greenish flowers grow in auxiliary umbels.

Plant Chemicals
Sarsaparilla's main plant chemicals include acetyl-parigenin, astilbin, beta-sitosterol, caffeoyl-shikimic acids, dihydroquercetin, diosgenin, engeletin, essential oils, epsilon-sitosterol, eucryphin, eurryphin, ferulic acid, glucopyranosides, isoastilbin, isoengetitin, kaempferol, parigenin, parillin, pollinastanol, resveratrol, rhamnose, saponin, sarasaponin, sarsaparilloside, sarsaponin, sarsasapogenin, shikimic acid, sitosterol-d-glucoside, smilagenin, smilasaponin, smilax saponins A-C, smiglaside A-E, smitilbin, stigmasterol, taxifolin, and titogenin. Majority of sarsaparilla's pharmacological properties can be attributed to the plant steroids sarsasapogenin, smilagenin, sitosterol, stigmasterol, and pollinastanol; and the saponins sarsasaponin, smilasaponin, sarsaparilloside, and sitosterol glucoside.

Uses & Benefits of Sarsaparilla
Sarsaparilla is also used to treat venereal diseases, herpes, arthritis, gout, epilepsy, insanity, chronic nervous diseases, abdominal distention, intestinal gas, debility, impotence and turbid urine.
Its root has been used by the indigenous populations of Central and South America since centuries, for conditions such as sexual impotence, rheumatism, skin ailments, and as a general tonic for physical weakness.
The tribal people in Peru and Honduras have long used the plant for curing headaches, joint pain and common cold.
Many traditional medicine practitioners use the plant root, both internally and externally, for treating leprosy and skin problems such as psoriasis and dermatitis.
European physicians use sarsaparilla root as a tonic, blood purifier, diuretic, and sweat promoter.
Sarsaparilla has been used worldwide for treating gout, syphilis, gonorrhea, wounds, fever, cough, scrofula, hypertension, digestive disorders, and cancer.
Today, the herb is available extensively in the form of tablets, capsules and tincture products. Most of the plant root being used to produce herbal medicines comes from cultivation projects in Mexico and Latin America as well as China.
It is combined with other herbs in the naturopathic and herbal medicine practices, for its tonic, detoxifying, blood-purifying and lymph-cleansing properties.
The plant root is one of the ingredients in a range of herbal remedies prepared for skin disorders, libido enhancement, hormone balancing, and sports nutrition formulas.

Caution
There is no known toxicity or side effects that have been documented for sarsaparilla. However, ingestion of large doses of saponins may cause gastrointestinal irritation.

[MysteRy]

Senega Roots

Botanical Name(s): Polygala Senega, Polygala Vulgaris
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Polygalaceae
Genus: Polygala
Species: P. amarella
Popular Name(s): Seneca snakeroot
Parts Used: Roots
Habitat: Cultivated in India

Description
Polygala Senega has a perennial branching root, from which several erect, simple, smooth, round, and leafy stems annually rise, around nine inches to a foot in height. The stems are occasionally tinged with red or purple at the end, but are green near the top. The leaves are alternate or scattered, lanceolate, pointed, smooth, and bright green on the upper surface. The outer three sepals in the flower of the plant are generally green and small in shape. In contrast, the inner two sepals are bigger in size and bright blue in color. They can also be in white, mauve or pink in color. Fresh senega root has a pleasant smell, similar to that of wintergreen. This fragrance is so because it contains approximately 0.1 % methyl salicylate. However, the active ingredient in the herb is a complex mixture of triterpenoid saponins. The concentration of triterpenoid saponins may range from 8 to 16%. Northern senega, which grows in the northwestern states of United States, is considerably larger than the regular variety. It is also darker in color.

Plant chemicals
Seneca snakeroot contains a series of saponins, constructed from the 2, 3, 27-trihydroxy-oleanane 23, 28-dioic acid triterpene skeleton (presenegenin). A variety of methoxy-cinnamate esters are attached at the internal sugar of the C-28 chain. These saponins have been named senegins ?-?V and senegasaponins A-C, which can be analyzed by HPLC. Several other species of Polygala contain distinct, but very similar saponins based on the same sapogenin. An extensive series of ester oligosaccharides, senegoses A-O, have been isolated from P. senega var. latifolia.

Uses & Benefits of Senega Roots
Senega root makes a persistent stimulant, which mainly influences the respiratory membranes, though the influence also extends to other mucous membranes, all the secretory organs, the uterus and the circulation.
The herb promotes a smooth flow of saliva, stimulates expectoration, and causes an odd irritating sensation in the feces. It is chiefly used as an expectorant in old coughs, asthma, and respiratory debility. The stimulant action of the root on the bronchial mucus membranes facilitates the coughing up of mucus from the chest. This makes wheezing easy.
The plant is believed to possess sweat-inducing and diuretic properties. The leaves are also used for preparing tea.

Caution
Consumption of the herb in large doses can lead to a nauseating feeling. It is best used when combined with a large part of relaxing and demulcent agents.

[MysteRy]

Shankapushpi

Botanical Name(s): Convolvulus pluricaulis
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Solanales
Family: Gentianaceae
Genus: Convolvulus
Species: MIcrophyllus
Popular Name(s): Sankh Pushpi, Shankhini, Kambumalini, Samkhapushpi, Sankaphuli
Parts Used: Entire plant and juice
Habitat: Found in India and Burma

Description
Shankhapushpi is a perennial herb that seems like morning glory. Its branches are spread on the ground and can be more than 30 cm long. The flowers are blue in color (5mm) and the leaves, which are elliptic in shape (2mm), are located at alternate positions with branches or flowers. Known as Aloe weed in English, the herb is commonly found in India, especially in the state of Bihar. All the parts of the herb are known to possess therapeutic benefits. It is believed to be the only herb that is capable of enhancing all the aspects related to brain power, such as learning, memory and the ability to recall. However, its popularity stems from its ability to treat insomnia effectively.

Plant Chemicals
Various chemical compositions, such as glucose, sucrose, glycosides, alkaloids and various acids etc, are found in the plant.

Uses & Benefits of Shankapushpi
Primarily, shankhapushpi is used as a brain tonic. It is one of the best and prominent natural medicines that help in improving memory. The whole plant of shankhapushpi is used in medical treatment. Its consumption also prevents memory loss.
The herb is also used as one of the most important ingredients in the treatment of disorders/syndromes, such as hypertension, hypotension, anxiety neurosis, stresses etc.
It is also beneficial in rejuvenation therapy and works as psycho-stimulant and tranquilizer.
The extract from shankhapushpi helps in reducing the level of cholesterol in blood, including triglycerides, phospholipids and fatty acids.
The herb is helpful in fighting ulcers that are formed in the body due to glycoprotiens and mucous secretions, improving the nerve tissues and bone marrow quality.
The studies on shankhapushpi have also put forward that it is beneficial in remedying hypothyroidism.
It is also one of the best herbs that are used for enhancing beauty and helps in nourishing all the layers of skin.
The herb serves to induce a feeling of calm and peace, promotes good sleep and brings relief in anxiety and mental fatigue. It brings a significant reduction in anxiety levels and neuroticism occurring due to varied stress levels.
Shankhapushpi has an invigorating effect on overall health and promotes health and weight gain.
It also helps in removing certain types of fatty acids that are harmful for the body.
Not much research has been published in the western medical literature on shankhapushpi. There is one study on the herb, which throws light on its anti-ulcer properties and its helpfulness in alleviating the symptoms of hyperthyroidism, by reducing the activeness of a liver enzyme.