Know Your Ayurvedic Herbs - IV

Ela: It is commonly known as elaichi and also cardamom seeds. Its botanical name is Amomum subulatum Roxb. Cardamom is a perennial plant; the simple, erect stems grow to a height of 6-10 feet from a thumb-thick, creeping rootstock. The seeds are used for pacifying vitiated kapha, vata, anorexia, colic, flatulence, peptic ulcer, vomiting, wounds, ulcers, cardiac debility, cough, bronchitis, fever and diarrhea.

Eranda (Rakhta): Its botanical name is Ricinus communis Linn. (Red variety). It is commonly known as erandi, red castor. It is a perennial, bushy, soft-wooded small tree with a thin grayish brown bark; leaves palmately lobed with seven or more serrate lobes. It is used for treating abdominal discomfort, constipation, inflammation, fever, ascites, bronchitis, cough, leprosy, skin diseases, colic and lumbago.

Gajapippali: Its botanical name is Scindapsus officinalis. It is commonly known as gajatipippali, baripippali, hastipippali. It is a large perennial climber, growing on trees and rocks. It is used for treating diarrhea, cough, bronchitis, pharyngitis and worm infestation.

Gandhatulasi: Its botanical name is Eusteralis quadrifolia. It is commonly known as peacock's tail, gandha tulasi. It is used for treating cough, asthma, bronchitis, fever, bacterial and viral infections and skin diseases. It is a small annual or perennial aromatic herb grows up to 1 meter in height.