Know the Ayurvedic Importance, Benefits and Uses of Kalmegh

2021-12-13 18:39:14

Medicinal plants have been in existence since ancient times which man has been using to get rid of diseases. The plants from which the medicine is obtained are mostly wild plants. One of these plants is also Kalmegh which is usually found near houses, along roads and in wooded bushes. This plant is green in colour and the texture of its leaves is like that of chilli plants. Its leaves have a bitter taste. Kalmegh is also known as Kalnath, Mahatikta, Green Chiretta. Its scientific name is Andrographis Paniculata.

Medicinal Importance of Kalmegh

Kalmegh is a medicinal herb that is used in traditional medicine. The more bitter the taste, the more it is beneficial in fighting diseases. Kalmegh is commonly used to treat fever, mainly dengue fever. It also fights free radicals and boosts immunity. The anti-bacterial properties present in Kalmegh are also known to reduce the symptoms of common cold, sinusitis and allergies. Apart from this, Kalmegh is used to treat diseases like constipation, loss of appetite, intestinal worms, stomach problems, skin diseases and cancer. It is known for its remedy due to its bitter and pungent taste. Therefore, it is considered the best medicine in Ayurveda.

Benefits of Kalmegh

Helpful in getting rid of viral fever-

In Ayurveda, Kalmegh is used to treat chronic fever. Kalmegh has anti-oxidative properties which are helpful in improving health and fighting dangerous diseases. For this, boil 3 to 4 grams powder of Kalmegh in water until about one-fourth of the water gets burnt. After that drink this water. It strengthens the immune system and provides relief from frequent colds and fever. Apart from this, antiviral properties are also found in Kalmegh which prevents viral infections like cough and cold.

Effective in the treatment of dengue and chikungunya-

Kalmegh is considered effective for the treatment of dengue and chikungunya. Due to dengue fever, platelets in the body start decreasing continuously. In such a situation, taking a tablet or decoction of Kalmegh in the morning and evening increases the platelet count. Apart from this, drinking a decoction of basil with Kalmegh, dry ginger, chhoti pippali and jaggery is also beneficial in dengue.

Helpful in purifying the blood-

Kalmegh is used as a medicine to purify the blood. It has antibacterial and antiviral properties which help in removing the toxic particles from the body. For this, soak the powder of Kalmegh and Amla in the night. Now filter its water in the morning and drink it. By doing this, the toxic particles are passed out through urine which purifies the blood.

Beneficial for skin-

Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are found in Kalmegh which are effective in removing many skin related problems. It helps in treating skin conditions like acne, eczema, normal-dry skin. For this, grind the Kalmegh plants finely and make a paste. Now apply this paste to the affected parts. By doing this it fights against acne and acne-causing bacteria. It also naturally provides clean, clear, smooth and glowing skin. Apart from this, by washing the wounds with its decoction, the wounds also heal quickly.

In getting rid of worm infestation-

Kalmegh has antiparasitic properties which help in destroying the worms that occur in the stomach and intestines due to which it is good medicine for stomach worms. For this, consuming decoction of Kalmegh is beneficial.

Get rid of constipation-

The powder of Kalmegh proves to be effective in providing relief in stomach cramps, constipation, diarrhoea etc. For this, boil the powders of Kalmegh, Amla and liquorice till about half of the water gets burnt. After this, filter that water well and drink it twice a day. By doing this the complaint of constipation can be removed.

Control diabetes-

Anti-diabetic properties are found in Kalmegh which helps in controlling diabetes. For this, the consumption of Kalmegh plant extract works effectively for type 1 diabetes. Apart from this, it enhances the functioning of pancreatic beta-cells. Simultaneously, low serum insulin concentration increases, while elevated decreases serum glucose.

Beneficial in indigestion, heartburn-

The taste of Kalmegh is very bitter. It is generally believed that the bitter herb is beneficial for stimulating the digestive system. It also helps in relieving gastrointestinal problems like indigestion, acid reflux, etc. The bitter herb is also known to promote the production of saliva in addition to stomach acid and digestive enzymes, according to Michigan Medical Reports. It improves the digestive health of the body.

Helpful in increasing immunity-

The immune system works to keep the body healthy. In such a situation, the immunity of the body increases by the consumption of Kalmegh because it has immunomodulatory properties which actively works to enhance immunity.

Helpful in relieving insomnia-

Insomnia means lack of sleep due to many reasons including anxiety, stress, depression etc. In such a situation, it is good to consume Kalmegh. The problem of insomnia is removed by taking the extract of Kalmegh because Kalmegh acts as an anti-stress which helps to relieve stress which leads to good sleep.

Uses of Kalmegh

• Kalmegh churna is consumed with water.
• The extract of its leaves is consumed.
• The paste of its leaves is applied to the wound.
• The leaves of Kalmegh are also consumed in the form of juice.

Side effects of Kalmegh

• People with hypersensitivity should not use Kalmegh.
• Pregnant women should avoid excessive consumption of Kalmegh.
• Consuming it in excess can cause allergies.
• Excess consumption of Kalmegh can cause low BP and low sugar.
• Excessive consumption of Kalmegh can cause loss of appetite.
• Taking Kalmegh with other medicines can cause infection. Therefore, while taking any kind of medicines, take Kalmegh only according to the advice of the doctor.