Know your Ayurvedic herbs - I

Adrakha: Its botanical name is zingiber officinalis, while it is commonly known as ginger. Ginger is commonly used in treatment of dyspepsia i.e. indigestion, tastelessness, loss of appetite, distension of abdomen i.e. flatulence, intestinal and biliary colics, nausea, vomiting etc. Dried ginger is an effective remedy for acute/chronic cough, common cold and fever. Ginger is a proven remedy in menstrual disorders, and is also used as an aphrodisiac. Ginger is known for its pain killing properties and is used in all types of pain, internally or externally.

Ajamoda: Its botanical name is Apium graveolens. It is also known as celery seed. It is used for treatment of asthma, bronchitis, cough, sinus congestion, excess mucus accumulation, flatulence, intestinal cramps, Spasms, muscular cramps and muscular tension. Ajmoda benefits heart pain caused by nervous constriction and can also help ease the pain of dysmenorrhoea and menstrual cramps. Ajmoda seed is a specific Ayurvedic herb for treating kidney and bladder discomfort.

Ajwain: Its botanical name is Trachyspermum copticum or carum copticum. They are popularly known as carom seeds and Bishop's weed. According to ayurveda, ajwain is a powerful cleanser. It is helpful for stimulating the appetite and enhancing digestion. It is recommended to help alleviate gas and discomfort in the stomach. It is also helpful for the functioning of the respiratory system and the kidneys.

Akarakarabhah: Its botanical name is Anacyclus Pyrethrum. The other names are Akarkara herb, Pellitory. It is used for treating pains, inflammation, worm infestation, weakness in nerves and vessels, impotence, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, paralysis, epilepsy, arthritis especially rheumatoid arthritis, mouth and teeth related problems, throat related problems.

Amalaki: Botanical name of this plant is Emblica officinalis (Greek), Phyllanthus emblica (Latin), and the other names being Indian gooseberry, Dhatri and Amla. Amalaki is also known as a rasayana (having restorative and balancing effects on the 3 constitutional elements that govern human life: Vat, Pit, Kaph).It is used in Ayurveda as a cardiotonic, aphrodisiac, antipyretic, anti-diabetic, cerebral and gastrointestinal tonic. It raises the total protein level and increases the body weight due to positive nitrogen balance. It has been found to have an anabolic effect.

Apamargh: Botanical name is Achyranthes Aspera. Other names are Prickly chaff-flower plant, Apamarg kul. It is used fro treating bacterial infections, fungal infection, heart related problems, high blood pressure, pain in abdomen, chronic constipation, fever, urine related disorders and diabetes.

Arjuna: Botanical name of this plant is Terminalia arjuna. Arjuna is one of India’s sacred tree, named for Arjuna.Its bark is considered an important cardiac aid, used in treating many types of cardiovascular disorders. Its effect on the ovarian tissue may produce an estrogen like activity that enhances the repair of endometrium and stops bleeding.

Asoka: Its botanical name is Saraca indica. Ashoka is an excellent herb for gynecological problems. It is useful in stimulating the uterus, the endometrium and the ovarian tissues, uterine bleeding associated with fibroids, leucorrhoea, menstrual disturbances without producing any side effects. Apart from this it is also useful for other ailments such as internal piles, diabetes, dyspepsia, indigestion, burning sensation, blood disorders, fractures, tumors, bites, ulcerations, and skin discoloration.

Ashwagandha: The botanical name of Ashwagandha is Withania somnifera, the other names are Winter Cherry, Indian ginseng. This plant belongs to family Solanaceae. Normally, both roots and leaves of this plant are used for medicinal purposes; however it is roots which are used most. Ashwagandha is a very powerful Adaptogen/Anti Stress agent, improves sexual vitality, anti arthritic, immune- modulator and mild sedative.