Twak

Hindi Name : Dalchini

Sanskrit Name : Twak

English Name : Bark Cinnamon

Latin Name : Cinnamomum zeylanicum Breyn Pennel

A small evergreen tree with aromatic bark of about 6-8 m in height found growing wild in southern coastal regions of India. The bark is used as culinary spice and also in medicines.

 

Cinnamon Medicinal Uses

Cinnamon bark is one of the common ingredients in spice mixtures used in India. Dalchini is known to increase salivation and to improve digestive functions as recommended by Indian Ayurveda. It also acts as a local antiseptic by virtue of its antibacterial action.

Shunti

Shunti basically the dry form of ginger is a common spice in the Indian kitchen. Comparatively having less heating effect on the body than the fresh ginger, Shunti / Dry ginger can be used to replace fresh ginger in all the recipes. It is an important ingredient in Ayurvedic formulations like Gokhsuradi Guggulu, Kanchanar Guggulu, Karpur Hinguvati, Vasadivati, Pratirodha Kalpa, Dadimastak Churna, Trikatu churna and Tulsi-Ginger Herbal Tea.

Shunti is vata and kapha alleviating.

It bears an enormous number of pharmacological activities among those, Neuro-protective activity and activity against colon cancer have facilitated the extent of further research for finding out less toxic and more potent drugs for the better treatment of related diseases. Ginger is extensively used around the world in foods as a spice. Ginger has been used for cold-induced disease, nausea, asthma, cough, colic, heart palpitation, swellings, dyspepsia, loss of appetite, dyspnoea, vomiting, gastritis, thirst, post partum disorders and rheumatism. It is a carminative & antipyretic and is used to treat bronchitis, gastrointestinal disorders and piles.

It is used externally as a paste in inflammations, rheumatoid arthritis, painful oedematous conditions and headaches. In fever with chills, dry ginger powder is rubbed on the body.

Madhunashini

Madhunashini (Gymneme sylvestre R.Br.) is an important medicinal climber acclaimed for its anti-diabetic properties. Its preparations have profound actions on the modulating taste, particularly suppressing sweet taste sensations. For this reason gymnema sylvestre is known in Hindi as gurmar or “sugar destroyer”. It is widely found growing in the tropics of Africa, Asia and Malaysia. In India, this plant is found growing in abundance in the forests of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Bihar. Due to its raising demand in South East Asian countries, the plant is becoming endangered particularly in Tamil Nadu.

Uses:

Gymnema has pronounced effects on blood sugar, at least among diabetics. Within the past two decades researchers have determined that gymnema extracts mat even play a role in the treatment of Type 1 diabetics, who typically need daily injections of insulin to control the disease. Gymnema taken orally lowers blood glucose levels and improves blood fat and cholesterol profiles. This climber is extensively used in almost all the Indian system of medicine as a remedy for rheumatism, cough, ulcer and pain in eyes. It is also useful in inflammations, dyspepsia, constipation, jaundice etc., Roots have been reported as remedy for snakebite. The anti-diabetic property of the plant is attributed to the presence of mixture of triterpines and saponins in the leaves. These have been designated as gymnemic acids A,B,C and D, which have the gymnemagenin and gymnestrogenins.

Haritaki Or Karakkaya Or Kadukkai Or Harad

Haritaki, known by the vernacular names Harad in Hindi, Kadukkai in Tamil, Karakkaya in Telugu and Indian hog plum in English is one of the three rejuvenating herbs that constitute the miraculous Triphala formulation.

Also referred as “chebulic myrobalan”, it is the dried fruit of the Haritaki tree which goes by the botanical name Terminalia chebula and is native to India but also widely distributed in China, Nepal and Srilanka. Haritaki is generally used in the dried powdered form and has a distinct brownish-black colour and oblong in shape.

Coined as the “king of herbs” by many ayurvedic healers, this miraculous fruit holds great significance in the holistic healing of ayurveda and is extensively used for curing various ailments due to its laxative, astringent, purgative, anti-bilious and anti-oxidant nature.

Depending upon the habitat and shape there are seven types of haritaki available in India mainly, Jayanti Haritaki, Abhaya Haritaki, Amrita Haritaki, Putna Haritaki, Rohini Haritaki, Vijaya Haritaki, Chetaki Haritaki.

Haritaki characterizes all five tastes mainly Katu (i.e. pungent), Tikta (i.e. bitter), Kashaya (i.e. astringent), Madhur (i.e. sweet) and Amla (i.e. sour). It has Laghu and Rukhsha Guna (i.e. light and dry property), Tikshna Virya (hot potency) and Madhura Vipaka (i.e. sweet after digestion).

Ways To Take Haritaki In Different Seasons:

Haritaki is usually available in powdered form and has to be taken by infusing it in warm water or in the form of a decoction or tea. Try to take this powder in the specified way given below to reap its benefits.

In autumn, it can be ingested with desi kand or mishri.

In summers, it can be taken along with jaggery.

In early winters, try to consume it with ginger, and in late winters take it alongside long pepper (gaja pippali).

In autumn season, consume it with natural or flavoured honey to reap its benefits. 

But if the entire regimen is hard to follow throughout the year, you can consume haritaki with just honey or long pepper.

Health Benefits of Haritaki

Promotes Digestion

Being a potent digestive, haritaki is enormously beneficial in improving the digestive functions of the body by increasing the absorption of essential nutrients from the food. The powdered fruit also has a mild laxative effect on the body and hence treats constipation by decreasing flatulence, cleansing the intestines and removing waste products from the body. It is also extremely effective in reducing stomach acidity and minimalizing the chances of various stomach ulcers.

Enhances Weight Loss

Addition of this herb to your daily diet not only improves digestion but also plays a key role in reducing obesity. It effectively detoxifies the body by removing AMA toxins (Ama is the toxic product of improperly digested food. It blocks the subtle channels of the body, disturbs digestion and attracts localized imbalances of the Doshas that may give rise to disease) and reduces sudden hunger pangs and a craving for unhealthy dietary choices. A glass of warm water infused with haritaki powder and honey not only sheds away the fat deposits but also energizes the body and promotes longevity.

Manages Diabetes

Several scientific researches strongly advocate the use of haritaki for managing diabetes and keeping the blood sugar levels under control. The production of insulin from the pancreatic β-cells become active on consumption of the haritaki powder. It also helps to reduce the breakdown of starch into glucose which in turn regulates the secretion of insulin and leads to low blood glucose level.

Improves Oral Hygiene

Haritaki is traditionally used as a mouthwash for treating and curing various problems related to oral hygiene like gum disease, mouth ulcers, oral sores. The potent anti-bacterial nature of this herb makes it highly significant in alleviating bacterial invasion from the oral cavities thereby preventing cavities and tooth decay.

Good For Skin And Hair

The excellent antibacterial and antioxidative nature of this powerful herb promotes overall skin and hair health and is strongly advised for various skin infections like acne, pimples, rashes, boils etc. It is also useful in treating scalp infections like dandruff, itching and hair fall. Application of haritaki paste on the affected area can speed up wound healing and cure acne and pimples and also prevent further breakouts.

Effect On Doshas

The miraculous herb balances all the three doshas mainly Vata (i.e. air), Pitta (i.e. digestion) and Kapha (i.e. earth and water).

Adverse Effects

Although, haritaki is extremely beneficial for the health and has a host of therapeutic benefits, overconsumption or consuming without consultation with an ayurvedic doctor or healer might cause dehydration, diarrhoea, fatigue or leave a prolonged bitter after taste. Hence, it is always advisable to consult a doctor before consuming haritaki supplements or using the powder regularly.

Conclusion:

The incredible fruit in its dried powdered form holds high significance in treating a myriad of health benefits including indigestion, gastritis, lung disease, obesity, dental problems, jaundice, impotency--*, cough, cold, asthma, vision defects, urinary tract infections and hair and skin problems. Haritaki is available in various forms and can be ingested in all the seasons by infusing it with different additives. Try to take it in specified dosage *-after a proper consultation with the doctor.

Vibhitaki Or Bibhitaki Or Baheda

Baheda is also known as “Bibhitaki” in Sanskrit which means “The one that keeps away from diseases”. It is one of the main constituents of “Triphala” which is used for the management of common cold, pharyngitis and constipation. Baheda tree is a large deciduous tree found in the greater part of India. All parts of the tree are used for medicinal purposes, especially the dried fruit. The fruits of Baheda are astringent (bitter) and acrid (sour) in taste.

Baheda is beneficial in relieving cough and cold symptoms due to its antimicrobial and anti-allergic properties. Taking Baheda powder along with honey helps relieve cough as it improves immune health. Baheda churna is an effective home remedy to improve digestion. It can be prepared by adding Baheda churna to a glass of warm water and consumed regularly. It also helps prevent constipation by loosening stool and promoting bowel movements due to its laxative property.

According to Ayurveda, Baheda powder helps in weight loss as it improves metabolism and reduces Ama by increasing the digestive fire.

Baheda fruit is beneficial for skin problems such as acne and acne scars due to its antibacterial property. Applying Baheda fruit powder with rose water on the face prevents the growth of bacteria. Massaging Baheda powder along with rose water and Baheda oil (mixed with coconut oil) on the hair and scalp helps promote hair growth and controls dandruff due to its astringent and Ruksha (dry) properties.

An important precaution with Baheda is that it should be avoided during hyperacidity or gastritis. This is because of its hot potency that might increase these conditions.

What are the synonyms of Baheda?

Terminalia bellirica, Vibhita, Akaa, Aksaka, Bhomora, Bhomra, Bhaira, Bayada, Beleric Myrobalan, Bahedan, Bahera, Tare kai, Shanti Kayi, Babelo, Balali, Tannikka, Bahera, Thanrikkai, Thanikkay, Bibhitaki

What is the source of Baheda?

Plant Based

Amlaki

Amalaki is renowned for its immunity and antiaging benefits and is an excellent supplement during the fall and winter seasons. According to Ayurveda, fall and early winter are characterized by Vata Dosha. In Vata Dosha there is a predominance of cold, dry, rough, light, mobile, subtle, clear, dry and astringent qualities, all of which can be harsh on the system. Furthermore, aggravation of Vata can spread easily to the other two Doshas and lead to lower immunity and resilience, which is the pathway to disease and aging. Prevention is the primary approach emphasized in Ayurveda to stay in balance during this seasonal transition, and Amalaki is the most popular ancient ally from Ayurveda for health and vitality.

Amalaki, commonly known as the Indian gooseberry, is the term used for the Ayurvedic medicinal use of the fruit of the Amla tree. It is considered the “mother” as it performs the job of taking total care of the mind-body system and is known as the ultimate healer due to its immune restorative properties. In the Charaka Samhita – one of the root texts for Ayurvedic science – Charaka states, “Of all the rasayanas, Amalaki is revered as one of the most potent and nourishing; Amalaki is the best among rejuvenative herbs.” Rasayanas in Ayurveda are rejuvenating therapies which support antiaging and longevity.

Amalaki contains Emblica officinalis in traditional use. Its primary quality and main therapeutic benefit is Vayastapana, which means “stopping the ageing,” and it is the theme of many rejuvenating compositions like Chyavanaprash, a classical Ayurvedic recipe which has been used as a tonic for the young and old for centuries. Ancient documents encourage the use of Amalaki as an everyday food to promote healthy living, and it has been heralded as an aphrodisiac.

The benefits of Amalaki are numerous, which part of why it is considered to be the best antiaging ingredient in all of Ayurveda.

Rich Vitamin C content - the highest source of heat stable Vitamin C

Source of polyphenols and supports digestion, metabolism, elimination and normal liver function

Excellent for the hair and skin

Amalaki contains five of the six tastes according to Ayurveda, lacking only in salty. It is sour, sweet, bitter, astringent and a slightly pungent. This range of tastes make it beneficial for all Doshas, which means – everyone can benefit from Amalaki, regardless of individual mind-body constitution. Its sweetness and sourness creates a strengthening and balancing effect on Vata, its sweetness and astringency balances Pitta, and its astringent and pungent aspects help to dry out the dampness of Kapha.

Ayurvedic Properties:

Rasa (taste): Sour, sweet, pungent, bitter, astringent

Veerya (action): Cooling

Vipaka (post-digestive effect): Sweet

Calcuim

Calcium is a mineral that is an essential part of bones and teeth. The heart, nerves, and blood-clotting systems also need calcium to work.

Calcium is commonly taken by mouth for the treatment and prevention of low calcium levels. It is also used for conditions linked with low calcium levels including muscle cramps (latent tetany), osteoporosis (weak bones due to low bone density), rickets (a condition in children involving softening of the bones), and osteomalacia (a softening of bones involving pain). Calcium is sometimes taken by mouth to reduce high levels of the parathyroid hormone (hyperparathyroidism) and for symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) along with many other conditions.

Calcium carbonate is taken by mouth as an antacid for "heartburn." Calcium carbonate and calcium acetate are also taken by mouth to reduce phosphate levels in people with kidney disease.

Calcium is also used as a mouth rinse to prevent and reduce pain and swelling inside of the mouth following chemotherapy. Calcium is given intravenously (by IV) for very low calcium levels of the blood and related symptoms. It is also used for high potassium levels in the blood.

Calcium-rich foods include milk and dairy products, kale and broccoli, as well as the calcium-enriched citrus juices, mineral water, canned fish with bones, and soy products processed with calcium.

Calcium can interact with many prescription medications, but sometimes the effects can be minimized by taking calcium at a different time. 

The bones and teeth contain over 99% of the calcium in the human body. Calcium is also found in the blood, muscles, and other tissue. Calcium in the bones can be used as a reserve that can be released into the body as needed. The concentration of calcium in the body tends to decline as we age because it is released from the body through sweat, skin cells, and waste. In addition, as women age, absorption of calcium tends to decline due to reduced estrogen levels. Calcium absorption can vary depending on race, gender, and age.

Bones are always breaking down and rebuilding, and calcium is needed for this process. Taking extra calcium helps the bones rebuild properly and stay strong.

The Institute of Medicine has set Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) and Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) for calcium. Getting this amount from diet, with or without supplements, may be enough to keep your bones healthy. Doctors may recommend higher doses.

Category	Calcium:  (RDA)
0-6 months	200 mg/day
7-12 months	260 mg/day
1-3 years	700 mg/day
4-8 years	1,000 mg/day
9-18 years	1,300 mg/day
19-50 years	1,000 mg/day
51- 70 years	1,200 mg/day (women) 1,000 mg/day (men)
70+ years	1,200 mg/day