Home Medicine
Let us discuss about Kai Vaithiyam, Paatti Vaithiyam and many more.
For Cold & congested nose
1.
Boil sukku powder(Dry ginger powder) or eucalyptus leaves in one litre
of water & inhale the steam. Make sure to cover youself with a
blanket.(like Vethu pidikarathu or aavi pidikarathu)
2. Have a mixture of lemon juice and honey when you are suffering from cold.
3.
For nagging cough and chest congestion, boil 3 cups of water with 2
fresh betel leaves and 4 crushed peppercorns, till the water is reduced
to half. Strain and drink every morning and night with a teaspoon of
honey.
Paati Vaithiyam for Cold & Cough
1. For cough, add a pinch of salt with two pinch of turmeric powder in one glass of warm water and gargle.
2. Keep a piece of ‘Chita rathai’ in your mouth.(You can get Chita rathai in naatu marundu kadai).
3. Chew a clove with a piece of Sugar Candy (panag KalKandu).
4.
Take a half teaspoon of sukku(dry ginger) powder, a pinch of clove with
a pinch of cinnamon powder and honey in a cup of boiled water and drink
it as tea.
5. Take 1 cup of hot milk with a pinch of turmeric powder and add 1/2 spoon black pepper powder fried in ghee.
6. In a glass of hot milk add pepper powder,turmeric powder and jaggery. Drink the milk before going to sleep.
7. Boil thulasi in a glass of water. Allow it to boil till the water reduces to half. Drink it mixing little honey to it.
8. Eat the powder of dried ginger and cumin with sugar for relief from cough.
9. Have the mixture of mustard paste and honey for good relief from cough.
10. Kashayam for cold and cough that will have immediate relief
Adhimadhuram
Chitharathai
Kandathippili
Chukku
Perichangai (dates unriped)
Panankarkandu
Take
little of each of the above ingredients and make them into small chunks
and boil in 4 cups of water. Water should reduce to half and good aroma
should come from the boiling water.
Take the above warm water either filtered or just like that twice a day.
11. Eat the powder of dried ginger and cumin with sugar for relief from cough.
12. Have the mixture of mustard paste and honey for good relief from cough.
13.
For a good relief from cough, mix equal quantities of basil (tulasi)
juice, honey and ajwain (omum) juice and drink on an empty stomach.
14. For fever and cough of children, give some honey mixed with water.
15. Drink basil water everyday, it helps in keeping throat infection and cough at bay.
Sleeping Problem
1. Drink a cup of warm cow milk with rock candy or honey before going to bed at night.
2. Gently massage the soles of the feet with sesame oil. Rub oil into the scalp.
3. Keep your feet in a tub filled with warm water and salt. It will give you freshness. Do this before going to bed.
Treatment for head lice
1.
Before going to bed, spread leaves of Karunthulasi (Ocimum Sanctum no
labiatae) also known as Krishna thulasi on your pillow. Sleep on the
leaves. Lice will go away unable to bear the smell of the leaves.
2. Apply paste of neem on the hair and leave it for 30 minutes. Rinse it throughly.
This will help in removing the lice. Do it once a week continuously for 1 month
Premature greying of hair
1.
Gooseberry juice one litre and fresh kadukkai juice one litre are mixed
in a glass container. 100 gm of serankottai or semecarpus anacardium
nut is cut to pieces and added to this mixture. This mixture is then
transferred to a glass bottle and the lid closed tight. The bottle is
buried in earth for one month. After one month, take the bottle out,
filter the ingredients. Take two litres of pure coconut oil, heat it
over stove and add the filtered liquid onto coconut oil. Heat the
mixture for sometime.Do not let it not boil. Cool the oil and filter it
again. Save the oil in a bottle. Apply one teaspoonful of this oil to
your scalp for luscious hair growth. This also helps to cure premature
graying.
2. For premature greying and dizziness.
Curry leaves
(Karuveppilai) (about 250 gm) are ground to a fine paste and then
moulded to small round flat forms and dry it in shade. Heat coconut oil
1kg over stove and add this dried curry leaf cakes when the oil is about
to boil. Once cooled, store the oil in a glass bottle. Regular
application of this oil will gradually cure premature graying.
Kashayam for cold and cough
1. Take equal amounts of
Pepper
Jeeragam
Dhaniya
Omum (ajwain)
Kandathippili
Sathakuppai
Dry neem flowers
Dry ginger
Fry
each till golden brown & grind everything together.(Do not grind it
too smoothly). To 2 tsp powder add 2 cups of water & boil. Reduce
to 1 cup, strain, add honey & drink. Drink twice a day.
2. For
nagging cough and chest congestion, Boil 3 cups of water with 2 fresh
betel leaves and 4 crushed peppercorns, till the water is reduced to
half. Strain and drink every morning and night with a teaspoon of honey.
3.
A few tulsi leaves boiled in water for the first cup of tea in the
morning, taken regularly, is good for the heart and prevents frequent
colds.
4. Lemon juice, honey and ground pepper with hot water instead of bed tea also works most of the time.
5.
Boil few Drumstick leaves, karpooravalli leaves, thoothuvalai leaves,
dry ginger, pepper, garlic, beetle leaves in two cups of water. When the
water reduces to less than one cup, strain and drink the kashayam twice
when affected with cold.
Treatment for sore throat
1. Remove
outer skin of Cardamom (elaichi), powder it in a mixie, and add to milk
and drink. Cardamom in warm water is also good for dry tongue and
thirst.
2. Boil milk well. Add 10 pieces of powdered black pepper, along with honey and turmeric powder, before very slowly drinking it.
Treatment for foot crack
1.
Dry roast alum ( padikaram in tamil) in an iron kadai or ladle. After
roasting, powder it, make a paste with olive oil or coconut oil. Apply
it for a few days – it is very effective.
2. Apply coconut oil after
washing the feet with soap . After applying the oil on the feet, wear a
pair of thick socks. Leaving this application overnight can surely
provide positive results in few days.
3. Apply the pulp of a ripe banana on the dry or cracked area of the heel. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse it clean.
4. Soak the feet in lemon juice for about 10 minutes. Do this once in a week.
Home remedy for sun tan and skin darkness
1.
Take some curd and mix some honey in it. Apply this along the tanned
parts of your body. This will make wonders to remove the tans when
applied continuously for 15 days.
2. Apply dosai/ idly dough on your
skin after applying coconut oil. Leave it for 15 - 20 minutes and wash
it. This will impriove the complexion of the skin.
Treating sore breast when feeding baby
Feeding mother often face with the problem of sore breast. Here is a simple home remedy for treating the same.
1.
Take some grated cocunut, grind it and take the coconut milk. Boil the
coconut milk in low flame. Boil till the oil floats on the top of the
liquid. Now take the liquid from the flame, and store it in a container.
Apply this liquid on the sour breat to heal. This is safe for both the
baby and the mother.
Prevent constipation for small babies
1.
Dry grapes is a good remedy for constipation among babies. Dry grapes
come in light brown and dark brown colours. Boil 3 raisins in water with
saunf and filter. Give the baby the filtered ticoction.
Vasambu for babies
Vasambu
by itself is a great medicine to treat gassiness and stomach-ache in
infants. Becasue of its medicinal values, its also called 'pillai
valarpaan' in tamil or 'herb that protects babies'. It helps in removing
gassiness, stomach discomfort, chest cold etc.
1. Vasambu is cut
into small circular pieces and then tied around the wrist, again this is
supposed to be good for the stomach. A minute paste of vasambu and
honey also helps. Abdominal distension is treated by oral ingestion of
vasambu (sweet flag) or external application of the root, which had been
burnt in flame and made into a paste with breast milk.
This is
purely the contributor's experience. Pl consult your doctor/physician
before introducing to anything. The author/website owners cannot take
any responsibility for any outcomes that may arise from following the
advice given above.
Home remedy for Sinus
1. Fry 50-g .of
black pepper and 100 g of fenugreek seeds (methi) slightly grind and
keep. Mix 10 small pinches of the ground powder, with one spoon of honey
and consume after lunch and dinner. Mix ginger extract and coconut oil,
and heat. Take bath after rubbing the above on head. (Sufficient
dilution before application is essential, to avoid irritation)
Home remedy for asthma
1.
Take 15 thulasi leaves, 2 cloves (lavangam), 10 black pepper. Soak in
water and boil. After 15 minutes of boiling, filter it, add some milk
with 2 tea spoons of honey and drink.
2. Eat two beetle leaves with 10 black pepper to get releaved from congestion at respiratory track.
3. Drinking egg added to the hot milk clears the congestion in the respiratory track.
Keerai and their uses in different ailments
Health is Wealth. Much of grandma's advice is based on common sense and our ancient knowledge of herbs.
1. Mudakkathan keerai - arthritis
2. Tippili - asthma
3. Bitter gourd - Blood sugar
4. Papaya – cholesterol
5. Aadathodai , tulasi leaves with peppercorns - colds & cough
6. Ginger - gastric complaints
7. Jeera, ginger , sukku – indigestion
8. Keezhanelli or karsilanganni – jaundice
9. Araikeerai - Lactation for feeding mother
10. Vallarai - improve memory
11. Arugampul - general good health always
Home remedy for dandruff
1.
Apply gingelly oil with lemon juice(1 tsp) on the scalp. Leave it for
1/2 an hour. Then wash it with shampoo. This done every week for a
month, will reduce dandruff.
2. Soak fenugreek seeds(vendhayam) in
sour curd overnight. Next day morning grind the fenugreek seeds and
apply it over the scalp. Leave it ofr 20 - 30 minutes. Then wash it off.
This will reduce the dandruff as well reduce hair fall. Note :
fenugreek cools the body, so be careful not to keep it applied for long
time. Also take care, when you are sufferng with cold or sinus problems.
3.
Grind aloe vera and fenugreek into a paste and apply it on the scalp.
Rinse your scalp after half an hour to get rid of dandruff.
Note
:Aloe vera and fenugreek cools the body, so be careful not to keep it
applied for long time. Also take care, when you are sufferng with cold
or sinus problems.
Home remedy for Arthiritis
1. A daily serving of fresh fish or fish oil capsules helps to give relief of arthritis and other joint pains.
2. 3-4 walnuts taken daily, on an empty stomach, will help.
Mensuration Problems among Ladies
There
is a common problem for all ladies to get their mesuration cycle during
critical days. You can check this harmless methods – of course you
can’t say , they will work 100 %. It varies with individuals, but they
are absolutely harmless. These methods will not affect your harmonal
functionalities.
1. If you suddenly get at odd times:
Buy sabja
seeds (Thiruneetru Pachilai seeds) ( used for falooda). Soak 1 tsp in ¼
cup curds overnight. Swallow it in the morning on an empty stomach.
Bleeding will stop.
2. To postpone the mensuration cycle:
Everyday
in the morning take the above sabja seed – curd mixture, eat 2 bananas
& drink a cup of water. You are not likely to get it the whole day!
or
On
an empty stomach eat a handful of raw fried bengal gram (pottukadalai
or udaitha kadali used for chutney) & drink a cup of water. You can
have coffee only after minimum one hour. You are not likely to get it
the whole day.
3. To prepone the mensuration cycle:
On an empty stomach drink 1 tbsp of ginger juice mixed with 2-3 tbsp of jaggery.
or
Eat seasame seeds+ jaggery ( 1 tbsp each) together.
or
Eat groundnut with jaggery (you can take groundnut burfi)
4. Have a mixture of gingelly oil and egg, for 3 days, for menstrual disorders.
5. You will get a great relief from menstrual pain , if you have a gooseberry daily.
Kashyam for Pregnant Ladies from 7th Month
Pregnancy
Kashayam used from the 7 th month will help ease the delivery. The
kashayam is made from simple ingredients at home. The following
kashayams will be given every night before sleep to the pregnant woman.
For each day till the delivery of the baby, any one kashayam can be
given at night. For better results, you can follow one by one a day. The
kashayams should be filtered before serving to the pregnant lady.
Method : 1
1 teaspoon Jeeragam
2 inch x 2 inch block of palm jaggery (karupatti in Tamil)
2 cups of water
Dry
roast the jeeragam. Once the aroma comes add the water and palm jaggery
block. Let it simmer and reduce to 1/2 cup. Switch off the stove and
serve it warm.
Method : 2
1 teaspoon Methi seeds
2 inch x 2 inch block of palm jaggery (karupatti in Tamil)
2 cups of water
Dry
roast the Methi (Vendhayam) seeds. Once the aroma comes add the water
and palm jaggery block. Let it simmer and reduce to 1/2 cup. Switch off
the stove and serve it warm.
Method : 3
4 stems of Curry leaves(karuvepilai) (remove the leaves and use the stems alone. Each stem should be 10 inch in size)
2 inch x 2 inch block of palm jaggery (karupatti in Tamil)
2 cups of water
Add
the water and palm jaggery block along with the water and curry leaf
stems in a pan. Let it simmer and reduce to 1/2 cup. Switch off the
stove and serve it warm.
Method : 4
4 stems of Drumstick leaves (remove the leaves and use the stems alone. Each stem should be 10 inch in size)
2 inch x 2 inch block of palm jaggery (karupatti in Tamil)
2 cups of water
Add
the water and palm jaggery block along with the water and drumstick
leaf stems in a wide skillet. Let it simmer and reduce to 1/2 cup.
Switch off the stove and serve it warm.
Method : 5
1 teaspoon Sombu
2 inch x 2 inch block of palm jaggery (karupatti in Tamil)
2 cups of water
Dry
roast the Sombu in a pan. Once the auroma comes add the water and palm
jaggery block. Let it simmer and reduce to 1/2 cup. Switch off the stove
and serve it warm.
Method : 6
1/2 inch piece of dry ginger (sukku in Tamil) crushed slightly
2 inch x 2 inch block of palm jaggery (karupatti in Tamil)
2 cups of water
Add
the crushed dry ginger piece with the water and pal jaggery in a wide
skillet. Let it simmer and reduce to 1/2 cup. Switch off the stove and
serve it warm.
Day 7:
Lavangam - 1 no with the head part
removed (This kashayam alone will be given once in a month. On the
seventh month it starts with 1 lavangh and it is incresed as 2 nos by
8th and 3 by 9th.
2 inch x 2 inch block of palm jaggery (karupatti in Tamil)
2 cups of water
Dry
roast the Lavangam in a pan. Once the aroma comes add the water and
palm jaggery block. Let it simmer and reduce to 1/2 cup. Switch off the
stove and serve it warm.
These kashayams eases up urination and
cures the edema especially in the lower limbs in the later months of
pregnancy. These should be strictly had only after the start of seventh
month.
Prevent Wrinkles on Face
1. Rub ground onion on your face. Leave it for 10 minutes and wash it. Do this daily.
2. Apply whipped egg whites on face and let dry, then wash. Do it once in a week.
Indigestion for babies
1.
Juice of ginger and honey is given for babies suffering with
indigestion. It is best remedy for babies not fed by mother milk and
depends on tin food products.
For head ache
1. Grind small onions and apply on the fore head and have good sleep to get relieved from head ache.
Tooth Ache
1. For tooth ache, keep a clove on the affected area.
2.
For relief from toothache.. Take two basil leaves, a grain of salt and a
pinch of pepper powder and press against the affected tooth.
3. If you have bad breath, drink at least five glasses of water in the morning.
For stomach Ache
1. Chew some cumin and sugar for relief from stomach pain.
2. Apply gingely oil on the stomach and massage at the naval point.
Remove Stretch Marks after Pregnancy
Stretch marks face with time, but never disappear entirely, because they form when the elasticity of the skin is destroyed.
1.
Massage til oil daily on the area. Mix besan with curd and a little
turmeric and apply it on the area three times a week. Wash it off when
it dries and then apply til oil as advised.
January 27, 2009 2:56 AM
K R Suresh said...
Mooligai
Vilvam ( Bael)
Indian
bael(Aegle marmelos), a native plant of India, has spread over wide
areas of southeast Asia. The ripe fruit and unripe fruit, as well as the
roots, leaves and branches have all been used in traditional medicine.
This ayurvedic herb is commonly found in India especially in dry hilly
area and up to 4000 feet altitude from sea level. It is usually present
in Indian temples.
Medicinal Properties
Indian bael, as
various extracts, has analgesic, antidiabetic, antidiarrheal,
antifungal, antihistaminic, antihyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory,
antiproliferative, antipyretic, antiulcer, radioprotective, and
thyroidal effects. These pharmacological effects are of unknown clinical
impact, given the contemporary absence of documentation of such in the
standard medical literature. There consequently is a need for clinical
studies that substantiate therapeutic uses of Indian bael.
Uses
1. The ripe fruit is a good and simple cure for dyspepsia.
2. The root improves appetite and relieves nausea.
3. The roots, and the bark of the tree are used in the treatment of fever by making a decoction of them.
4. The unripe and half-ripe fruits improve appetite and digestion.
5. It is also used as a mild sedative.
6. The fruits are very useful in chronic diarrhoea and dysentery.
7. The leaves of the tree are useful as expectorant, also in catarrh, diabetes and asthmatic complaints.
8. The oil from the tree is used as ears.
9. The leaves are used in treatment of eye disorders and ulcers.
10. The leaves has been used for weakness of the heart and beriberi.
Puliyamaram ( Tamarind Tree )
Tamarind
trees are very common in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu and
Andhra Pradesh. It is from the bean and pea family, and is grown both as
a fruit and shade tree. Its yellow-orange flowers are quite attractive.
The tamarind tree grows well in semi-dry tropical climate as well as in
humid tropical areas. It can develop up to 25m tall, with 3” – 8”
fruits that are brown and pod-like
Medicinal Properties
It
produces fruits that are rich in potassium, phosphorus, minerals,
magnesium, and calcium, and high amounts of carbohydrates and essential
amino acids. It also has vitamin C and trace amounts of vitamin A and
iron. Over all, the tamarind contributes a great deal as a natural aid
to the development of a healthy body.
Uses
1. Tamarind is used as an Ayurvedic Medicine for gastric and/or digestion problems.
2. The leaves have been traditionally used in herbal tea for reducing malaria fever.
3. The brown, sticky and tangy pulp is used in a variety of delicacies.
4. The fruit is said to cure fever and also been used as a mild laxative.
5. The seeds have been traditionally used to cure diabetes and intestinal ailments.
6. The bark of tree is useful in treating scorpion bites.
7. The fruit pulp is digestive, anti flatulent, cooling laxative and antiseptic.
8. Tamarind seed oil is used for making paints and varnishes.
9. The tree is widely used in silviculture as it performs well as a wind-break, preventing soil erosion.
10. The woods can also be made into agricultural implements and furniture.
Naaval maram ( Java plum )
Java
plum (Syzygium cumini) is a ever green tree has oblong leaves that are
smooth, glossy and have a turpentine smell. The bark is scaly and grey,
and the trunk forks into multiple trunks about 3 – 5ft from the ground.
It has fragrant white flowers in branched clusters at the stem tips, and
purplish-black, oval edible berries. The tree starts bearing fruit at 4
- 7 years, and each berry has only one seed.
Medicinal Properties
Glucose
and fructose are the principal sugars in the ripe fruit and not even a
trace of sucrose is detected. It is a good source of minerals and
provides fewer calories. The sodium and potassium content is also less
compared to the other fruits. The seed is also rich in protein and
carbohydrates. It also contains traces of calcium.
Uses
1. Java Plum is used as a mild astringent and pungent carminative.
2. The bark is used for anaemia.
3. The bark and seed is used for diabetes.
4. The leaves are used for diarrhoea and fever.
5. The seed is used to stabilise blood pressure.
6. Ripe fruit is used to cure scurvy.
7. Decoction of bark is gargled to cure spongy gums and other mouth diseases.
8. Paste made from burnt bark in any blanch oil is applied over scalds and burns.
9. Ripe fruit is preserved as fruit candies and jams.
10. The juice of ripe fruit is used for preparing sauces as well as beverages.
Vilaampazham ( Wood apple )
Wood
Apple a woody fruit of a medium sized tree, Aegle marmelos of family
Rutaceae. The pinnate leaves bear spine at the base. The flowers are
reddish; bark thick, comparatively soft and brownish. The fruit is
fairly large, globular with diameter 5-16 cm having woody rind. Ripe
fruits have soft, fleshy, yellowish edible pulp with numerous seeds
embedded within the pulp.
Medicinal Properties
The ripe fruit
is rich in beta-carotene, a precursor of Vitamin A; it also contains
significant quantities of the B vitamins thiamine and riboflavin, and
small amounts of Vitamin C.
Uses
1. This fruit is more popular as medicine than as food.
2. It is much used in India as a liver and cardiac tonic.
3. when unripe, it is used as an astringent means of halting diarrhea and dysentery.
4. It is an effective treatment for hiccough, sore throat and diseases of the gums.
5. It's leaf juice mixed with honey is a folk remedy for fever.
6. Leaves, bark, roots and fruit pulp are all used against snakebite.
7. The root juice was once popular as a remedy for snakebites.
8. The pulp is poulticed onto bites and stings of venomous insects, as is the powdered rind.
9. The leaf decoction is given to children as an aid to digestion.
10. It is also useful in preventing cancer of the breast and uterus .
Sombu ( Fennel seeds )
Fennel
is a hardy perennial related to parsley, often cultivated as an annual.
The flower heads are collected before the seeds ripen and threshed out
when completely dried. Fennel is most commonly known as a sweet cooking
spice, however, both the seed and the leaves are used for their
medicinal value. Fennel is a good example of cooking with herbs to
flavor food for additional nutrition as well as giving healthy benefits.
Medicinal Properties
The
major constituents of Fennel, which include the terpenoid anethole, are
found in the volatile oil. Anethole and other terpenoids inhibit spasms
in smooth muscles, such as those in the intestinal tract, and this is
thought to contribute to fennel’s use as a carminative . Related
compounds to anethole may have mild estrogenic actions, although this
has not been proven in humans. Fennel is also thought to possess
diuretic (increase in urine production), choleretic pain-reducing,
fever-reducing, and anti-microbial actions. The seeds are used as a
flavoring agent in many herbal medicines, and to help disperse
flatulence.
Uses
1. Promotes function of the spleen, liver and kidneys.
2. Good for jaundice when the liver is obstructed or to improve appetite.
3. Relieves colon disorders.
4. It has since been used as a wash for eyestrain and irritations.
5. Good for the cancer patient after chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
6. The seeds are used as a flavoring agent in many herbal medicines, and to help disperse flatulence.
7. The seeds, and roots, also help to open obstructions of the liver, spleen & gall bladder.
8. It is carminative, a weak diuretic and mild stimulant.
9. Fennel was once used to stimulate lactation.
10. It allays hunger and was thought to be a cure for obesity.
Katrazhai (Aloe Vera)
Aloe
has been well known for centuries for its healing properties, and both
oral intake and topical dressings have been documented to facilitate
healing of any kind of skin wound, burn, or scald - even speeding
recovery time after surgery
Medcinal properties
The raw plant
is best, but commercial preparations can also be used, especially for
taking orally, as this plant tastes horrible. Other topical uses include
acne, sunburn, frostbite (it appears to prevent decreased blood flow),
shingles, screening out x-ray radiation, psoriasis, preventing scarring,
rosacea, warts, wrinkles from aging, and eczema.
Uses
1. It is an excellent natural antibiotic.
2. It strengthens digestion, prevents the formation of gas and helps to improve large intestinal flora.
3. It purifies the blood, aids digestion of protein and promotes proper metabolism in the body.
4. Turmeric is used in treatment for fever and mild stomach upset.
5. It is also used in infection, arthritis, dysentery, jaundice and other liver problems.
6. It is used to treat chest congestion, menstrual discomforts and many more ailments.
7. It helps to relieve carpel tunnel syndrome, joint inflammation and prevent cancer.
8.
It is also extensively used in treating cough problem. Add a pinch or
two of turmeric to warm milk to soothe respiratory aliments such as
cough or asthma.
Nellikai ( Amla )
Amla is a fruit which
commonly called as "Nellikani" in tamil. This fruit contains medicinal
properties and is used many treatments. Amla is an extensively used herb
in making ayurvedic medicines. Amla is supposed to rejuvenate all the
organ systems of the body, provide strength and wellness. According to
ayurvedic experts regular usage of amla will make our live more then 100
years like a youth.
Medcinal properties
The fruit is rich in
vitamin C and Pectin. This is an antioxidant with the free radical
scavenging properties, which may be due to the presence of high levels
of superoxide dismutase. It is a good antioxidant, antitumour &
antimicrobial.
Uses
1. 1.It is very helpful in skin diseases.
2. It promotes glow on skin and delays wrinkles or loosening of skin.
3. It stimulates hair follicles thus promoting hair growth and also improves texture of the hair.
4. It prevents premature graying of hairs and dandruff.
5. Amla act as natural hair conditioner and provides good nourishment and also helps in normalizing blood supply
6. It acts as an effective natural cure for indigestion, acidity, constipation, gastric troubles, and flatulence.
7. It is helpful in improving liver function.
8. It helps in lowering cholesterol and blood sugar level.
9. It has very good results in chronic cough, child hood and allergic asthma and tuberculosis.
10. It provides nourishment to the nerves and is helpful in paralytic conditions.
Vembu ( Neem )
Neem
is a very famous herb and possesses miraculous medicinal properties.
Neem has been used as pesticide since early ages because of its
remarkable property of fighting away with pest and microorganism. Neem
has the potential to benefit every person on the planet as it can
balance ecological problems like deforestation, erosion and global
warming along with providing an astonishing variety of products that are
environmentally friendly.
Medcinal properties:
Every part of
the plant is used i.e. flower, leaves, bark, seed, oil and branches.
Neem is a multipurpose herb, which is recommended in every type of
ailment.
Uses:
1. It works as blood purifier and is very
helpful in eradicating toxins from the blood that are supposed to cause
harm to the skin.
2. Neem helps in proper healing of wound without causing any infections and septic conditions.
3. It acts as an effective natural cure for skin diseases like skin problems like acne and blemishes.
4.
It helps our body to counter mild infections. For any type of bacterial
infection, doctors always recommend to take bath of water soaked with
neem leaves.
5. It helps in early healing of burns and injuries.
6.
It is also helpful in providing internal glow to the skin by providing
natural supplements that are required for good and healthy skin.
7. It is extensively used in hair fall and early graying of hairs.
8. It has good results in the treatment of eczema and even ringworms.
9. Neem also find its application in dandruff and in lice growth.
10. It is helpful in removing dark circles under the eyes.
11. It helps making our immune system very strong and efficient to fight against any foreign invasion.
12. It works as an anti inflammatory and pain relieving agent.
13. It stimulates liver for proper functioning therefore helps in maintaining proper secretions of liver.
14. It helps in fighting with the intestinal worms there by act as a deworming agent.
Thulasi (Tulsi)
Tulsi
is an aromatic herb found everywhere in India. It is the most
worshipped plant in Hindu culture. This herb contains such a chemical
composition that no mosquitoes and flies can come near the plant because
of its peculiar odor. Thereby by planting tulsi in courtyard keeps our
home safe from any diseases caused by these organisms.
Medcinal properties
Plant
parts used are leaves, flower, seeds and root. It is being used in
variety of herbal ayurvedic formulations. Tulsi herb is dominantly used
in bronchitis and asthmatic conditions.
Uses
1. It acts as anti bacterial and anti parasitic, therefore is widely used in infectious diseases.
2. It work as appetizer and promotes digestion by helping in secretion of digestive enzymes.
3. Tulsi juice when mixed with ginger juice is very effective in abdominal disorder in children.
4. It is an effective natural cure for upper respiratory tract infection (URTI).
5. It works as good expectorant relieving from wet cough.
6. It is very useful in bronchitis and asthmatic conditions.
7. It works as antibiotic eliminating the bacteria.
8.
It is widely used in fever as it act as antipyretic, pain reliever, and
provides strength to our body. Take powder of tulasi leaves with dried
ginger and sugar with hot water in fevers.
9. It also possesses anti-cancerous properties.
10. Tulsi juices are very effective in earache.
11. It works as a powerful antioxidant thereby helps in preventing early aging signs and makes the skin young.
Manjal (Turmeric)
Turmeric
is a valuable herb extensively used in India Ayurvedic and Chinese
medicine. Turmeric is used extensively in Indian, Middle East, Moroccan,
African and Southeast Asian cookery, especially in curries, vegetables,
rice, fish and meat dishes to add color and flavor. Considered a
cleansing herb for the whole body, it gives energy and grants
prosperity. The finger like stalk is scalded, dried and used for
medicinal preparations. Turmeric is great for the skin.
Medcinal properties
Turmeric
has been trditionally regarded as important source of medicine. It is
an anti-oxidant.Burnt turmeric is used as tooth powder to relive dental
troubles. Mixed with lime it is applied externally to get relief from
sprains and pains.
Uses
1. It is an excellent natural antibiotic.
2. It strengthens digestion, prevents the formation of gas and helps to improve large intestinal flora.
3. It purifies the blood, aids digestion of protein and promotes proper metabolism in the body.
4. Turmeric is used in treatment for fever and mild stomach upset.
5. It is also used in infection, arthritis, dysentery, jaundice and other liver problems.
6. It is used to treat chest congestion, menstrual discomforts and many more ailments.
7. It helps to relieve carpel tunnel syndrome, joint inflammation and prevent cancer.
8.
It is also extensively used in treating cough problem. Add a pinch or
two of turmeric to warm milk to soothe respiratory aliments such as
cough or asthma.
Paagarkai (Bitter gourd)
Bitter Gourd is
one of the most popular vegetables in China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand,
India and the Philippines. Bitter Gourd, also called Bitter Melon, has
an acquired taste. The plant is grown mainly for the immature fruits
although the young leaves and tips are edible. Bitter Melon seed has
hard skin and needs warm/moist soil conditions during germination. It
may fail or take a long time to germiante if the soil temperature is too
low. Bitter Melon is a long-season, high-humidity and warm-climate vine
plant and needs to grow along supports.Bitter Melon, also known as
Bitter Gourd is a herb that helps regulate blood sugar levels and keeps
body functions operating normally. It has well known result in diabetes
mellitus.
Medcinal properties
It has well known result in
diabetes mellitus. Its principle constituents are lectins, charantin and
momordicine. Bitter melon is not only beneficial in diabetes mellitus
but is also very beneficial in many other disorders that have been
troubling mankind.
Uses
1. It stimulates pancreas to work and secrete all the secretions properly.
2. It is also used in treating diabetes mellitus as it has an action similar to insulin thus helping in glucose metabolism.
3. Bitter gourd helps in stimulating liver for proper secretions of bile juices.
4. It helps in easier digestion of food as it promotes secretion of digestive enzymes.
5. It also helps in good assimilation of food.
6. It works as an appetizer.
7. It helps in destroying worms present in gastro intestinal tract.
8. It helps in purifying blood and helps us from infection from microorganism and toxins that are created by there presence.
9. It is very commonly used in skin diseases especially it finds it application in acne and black spots on face.
10. Bitter melon works as an anti-inflammatory agent thus helping in subduing any kind of oedema present on body.
11.
It is extensively used in chronic cough as it has expectorant
properties and helps in releasing the sputum accumulated in respiratory
tract and lungs. Asthmatic patients are believed to have a very good
relief if it is regularly taken.
Vellari kai ( Cucumber)
Cucumber
is a very edible fruit which comes from the cucumber plant, which is
part of the gourd family. It is being used for different purpose as it
can be eaten raw or cooked. With so many health benefits it becomes one
of the most important parts of food diet as well as skin diet. Cucumber
can claim to be a water body as it has 90% water. It is known to be a
cooling agent due to the water in it.
Medcinal properties
The
flesh of cucumbers is primarily composed of water but also contains
ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and caffeic acid, both of which help soothe
skin irritations and reduce swelling. Cucumbers'hard skin is rich in
fiber and contains a variety of beneficial minerals including silica,
potassium and magnesium The silica in cucumber is an essential component
of healthy connective tissue, which includes muscles, tendons,
ligaments, cartilage, and bone. Cucumber juice is often recommended as a
source of silica to improve the complexion and health of the skin, plus
cucumber's high water content makes it naturally hydrating—a must for
glowing skin. Cucumbers are also used topically for various types of
skin problems, including swelling under the eyes and sunburn. Two
compounds in cucumbers, ascorbic acid and caffeic acid, prevent water
retention, which may explain why cucumbers applied topically are often
helpful for swollen eyes, burns and dermatitis
Uses
1. As cucumber and the skin share the same level of hydrogen, it becomes easier for cucumber to mask all the problem areas.
2. It helps in soothing and softening your skin which can get you relaxed in no time.
3. With so many useful ingredients in cucumber it can help you in treating so many skin problems.
4. It has become part of daily beauty product into face packs, facials, juice and many other things which can affect your skin.
5. Due to its cooling effect it can be termed as a magic wand for all your skin problems.
6. The cleaning and cleansing property helps your skin tremendously making it soft and supple.
7. The regular intake of cucumber juice is very useful both internally and externally.
Vendhayam ( Fenugreek )
Fenugreek
is used both as a herb (the leaves) and as a spice (the seed). It is
cultivated worldwide as a semi-arid crop. Fenugreek has grown wild in
India, the Mediterranean, North Africa, Southern Africa for centuries.
It also has medicinal benefits like it is used in reducing the blood
sugar level and blood pressure, it is rich in vitamins, minerals and
proteins. In India, fenugreek seeds are mixed with yogurt and used as a
conditioner for hair. It is also used as a digestive aid. It is one of
the world's oldest medicinal herbs.. Fenugreek seeds are ground and
roasted and used to flavor to curry. The seeds are also soaked and then
powdered and used to make lip balm and tonic. Fenugreek's leaves, which
are high in iron, are used in salads..
Medcinal properties
Fenugreek
has a long history of medical uses in Ayurvedic medicine, and has been
used for numerous indications, including aiding digestion, and as a
general tonic to improve metabolism and health. Fenugreek is a practical
herb for all mucus conditions of the body, particularly the lungs, by
helping to clear congestion. Use fenugreek for head colds, constipation,
bronchial complaints, asthma, and sinusitis.
Uses
1. Fenugreek seeds are rich in vitamin E and is one of the earliest spices known to man.
2. Fresh fenugreek leaves are beneficial in the treatment of indigestion, flatulence and a sluggish liver.
3. The dried leaves of the fenugreek is used as a quality flavour for meat, fish and vegetable dishes.
4.
An infusion of the leaves is used as a gargle for recurrent mouth
ulcers. A gargle made from the seeds is best for ordinary sore throat.
5.
Fresh Fenugreek leaves paste applied over the scalp regularly before
bath helps hair grow, preserves natural color, keeps hair silky and also
cures dandruff.
6. Topically, the gelatinous texture of fenugreek
seed may have some benefit for soothing skin that is irritated by eczema
or other conditions.
7. It has also been applied as a warm poultice to relieve muscle aches and gout pain.
8. Fenugreek seeds reduces the amounts of calcium oxalate in the kidneys which often contributes to kidney stones.
Karisalankanni (False Daisy)
Karisalankanni
(Eclipta prostrata) is the herb of choice in treating liver diseases.
This herb grows in marshy areas throughout the year. It grows abundantly
during the rainy season. There are two varieties of karisilankanni, one
has yellow flowers and the other white. The yellow one is more potent.
Medcinal properties
karisalankanni
is also a specific remedy for jaundice. It has a great medicinal value
in the treatment of hair. Karisalankanni is said to protect against
night blindness and other eye diseases probably because of its high
carotene content.
Uses
1. It is good for teeth, skin and hair.
2. It induces appetite.
3. It aids digestion and helps expel fecal matter from the large intestines.
4. It heals ulcers.
5. It cleans the liver and encourages secretion of bile.
6. It cures inflamed liver also called fatty liver.
7. It expels intestinal worms, cures coughs and asthma, and tones the body.
8. The yellow variety is said to be particularly good for the skin and eyes.
Keezhanelli (Niruri)
Keezhanelli
is a common annual weed from the genus Phyllanthus that contains more
than 700 species. The plant grows up to no more than 1½ feet tall. It
has small yellow flowers.This plant has been highly valued in a number
of countries "for its curative properties; in India the plant is often
used by traditional medical practitioners for a variety of ailments,
including asthma, bronchial infection" and diseases of the liver.
Medcinal properties
Traditionally,
phyllanthus has been used to treat jaundice, gonorrhea, frequent
menstruation, dysentery and diabetes.Clinical studies conducted with the
extract of this plant, points to its great therapeutic efficacy, in the
treatment of hepatitis B. It has also been shown to be effective
against infective hepatitis (hepatitis A). It has antifungal, antiviral,
and anticancerous properties.
Uses
1. It has also been used topically as a treatment for skin ulcers, sores, swelling, and itchiness
2. The antiseptic,coolant, stomachic and diuretic properties of this plant have been utilized in traditional medicine.
3. Its efficacy in the field of gastro intestinal disorders like dyspepsia,diarrhoea, constipation, and dysentery is undisputed.
4. It has a urolithic property, dissolving renal calculi.
5. Also used in cough, asthma and other bronchial affections.
6. Entire plant ( Root, stem, leaf area)are having its medicinal value and the whole plant is used in Ayurvedic formulation.
Pirandai (Veldt Grape)
Pirandai
or Veldt Grape, is a curious climbing plant with tendrils and 4-ribbed
to 4-winged stems. Stems are short, jointed with conspicuous
constrictions and are usually nearly leafless. Botanical name of this
plant is Cissus quadrangularis is an ancient medicinal plant native to
the hotter parts of Ceylon and India. It was prescribed in the ancient
Ayurvedic texts as a general tonic and analgesic, with specific bone
fracture healing properties.
Medcinal properties
Cissus
quadrangularis contains high amount of vitamin C, carotene A, anabolic
steroidal substances and calcium. It is one of the very frequently used
herb by traditional bone setters of India.
Uses
1. It is mainly used as healer of bone fractures.
2. Cissus helps preserve muscle tissue during times of physical and emotional stress.
3. It has been proved to be highly effective in relieving pain
4. Reduces swelling and promotes the process of healing of the simple fractures .
5. It is also used for piles.
6. Best home remedy for asthma and cough.
7. Prevents loss of appititte
8. It is used to cure digetive disorders.
Vaal Milagu (Cubeb)
Cubeb
is a climbing perennial plant,which grows tall, up to 20 feet high,
with dioecious flowers in spikes. The leaves are oval shaped and green
in color. The fruit is brown and round. It's Odor is aromatic and taste
is pungent and somewhat bitter. It is commonly called as cubeb,
tailed-pepper and java pepper.
Medcinal properties
It has
antiseptic, antiflatulent and expectorant properties. Medicinal
properties of cubeb are due to the presence of a volatile oil which
formerly was thought to stimulate healing of mucous membranes.
Uses
1. 1.It is commonly used to treat problems with the digestive and urinary tract.
2. Cubeb berry relieves gas and bloating in the digestive tract.
3. The crushed berries are smoked, and the inhaled smoke produces a soothing effect in certain respiratory ailments.
4. The berries are used to treat the symptoms of bronchitis.
5. Paste of cubeb is used as a mouthwash.
6. Dried cubebs internally for oral and dental diseases, loss of voice.
7. It is used to cure fevers and cough also.
8. It can releive infections in the urinary system.
9. Cubeb berry has expectorant properties so that it can thin mucus.
Vaeli Paruthi (Pergularia Daemia)
Pergularia
daemia is a perennial herb growing widely along the road sides of
India. It has been used in folk medicine for the treatment of liver
disorders. The whole plant is of high medicinal value. It' s botanical
name is Asclepiadaceae.
Medcinal properties
It is astringent,
acrid, emetic, expectorant and laxative.The aqueous and ethanolic
extracts obtained from aerial parts of Pergularia daemia were evaluated
for hepatoprotective activity in rats by inducing liver damage by carbon
tetrachloride.
Uses
1. It is used for cough.
2. It increases the levels of total protein.
3. It lowers total cholesterol.
4. It cures digestive disorders.
5. Best remedy for menstrual diorders.
Pudhina (Mint Leaves)
Pudina(Mint
leaves) is a perennial herbaceous plant. Leaves are opposite and
sessile type. Grows all over the country. It is a fragrant plant. So it
is used in curry hugely. It's botanical name is Mentha viridis
Medcinal properties
The
entire plant is antibacterial, antifibrile. Mint is carminative,
stimulative, stomachic, diaphoretic and antispasmodic. Peppermint has
the highest concentrations of menthol, while preparations of spearmint
are often given to children.
Uses
1. It is used to stop vomiting, hiccup, fever and coughs.
2. Mint has several medicinal uses in treating skin problems.
3. It is especially useful in treating acne, itching, inflammation, and burns.
4. It is effective in headache and cough sore throat.
5. It is especially useful in treating acne, itching, inflammation, and burns.
6. It makes a good carminative and digestive aid.
7. Menthol obtained from this is used in balm.
8.
It is also used as flavoring agent in culinary
preparations.Itimmediately neutralises the incompatibility of any food
article.
9. It is very popular in the food and confectionary industry.
Seenthil Kodi (Guduchi)
Seenthil
Kodi (Guduchi) also called Tinospora cordifolia is an herbaceous vine.
The Sanskrit name guduci means the one, which protects the body. Guduci
grows throughout India in deciduous as well as dry forests. It is said
to climb over the highest trees, and to throw out aerial roots which
reach the length of 30 feet. It is a perennial deciduous twiner with
succulent stem and papery bark. The flowers are yellow, axillary,
long-stalked racemes. The fruit is pea-sized, subglobose drupes, red in
colour. The plant flowers in June and fruiting occurs in November.
Medcinal properties
It
is antiperiodic, antipyretic, alterative, diuretic,
anti-inflammatory.The Sanskrit name guduci means the one, which protects
the body. It is a constituent of several compound preparations.
Uses
1. It is used in fever, urinary disorders, dyspepsia, general debility and urinary diseases.
2. It is also used in treatment of rheumatism and jaundice.
3. The medicated oil of the plant is effectively used to reduce the pain.
4. It works well on all the seven dhatus tissues and keeps the systems in balance.
5. It alleviates bodyheat, thirst, burning sensation to the skin and vomiting if any, due to pitta.
6. It is used in the treatment of gout and rheumatic disorders.
7. It is traditionally used as a household remedy, for chronic fever.
8. Guduci is recommended in the skin diseases.
9. It effectively relieves the itching and oozing.
10.
It is immensely helpful in the digestive ailments like worm
infestations, and loss of appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting, etc.
Inji (Ginger)
Ginger
is a natural spice and is known worldwide for its smell and pungent
taste. Ginger has been used by Chinese herbalists have used ginger for
almost 2,500 years as flavor in food and also as a herbal medicine.
Medcinal properties
There
are numerous health benefits of ginger. It helps in curing problems of
nausea, digestion, circulation and arthritis. Ginger is wonderful for
warming up the entire body & fighting off all/any nasty germs. It is
high in vitamins A, B complex & C, minerals, calcium, phosphorus,
iron, sodium, potassium & magnesium - no wonder our ancestors used
Ginger!
Uses
1. Ginger is good for the respiratory system.
2. It is good to fight against colds and flu.
3. Ginger offers substantial protection from stroke and heart attack because of its ability to prevent blood clotting.
4. Ginger, a multifaceted herb, is crucial in the battle against cardiovascular disease.
5. Relieves headaches and pains.
6. Helps to clear sore throats.
7. Good for upset stomach and indigestion.
8. It is very effective as a cleansing agent through the bowels and kidneys and also through the skin.
Milagu (Black pepper)
Black
pepper is the dried mature but unripe berry (fruit) of Piper nigrum, a
branching vine or climbing, perennial shrub. Black pepper is the most
important spice of India and world due to its day-to-day use. It is
therefore rightly considered as the 'king of spices'.
Medcinal properties
It
has been considered as a powerful remedy for various disorders of
anatomical system. It is prescribed as an effective cure for dyspepsia,
malaria, etc.
Uses
1. Pepper is used as an antiepileptic and analgesic .
2. Ayurvedic medicine uses Piper nigrum to destroy Kapha and is said to be Vipaka in taste.
3.
It is said to stimulate the digestion; diminish semen; relieve asthma,
cough, heart trouble and pains; heal diabetes and piles; and destroy
worms.
4. It increases Pitta, and decreases Kapha and Vata.
5. Pepper is the main ingredient in some of the most important Ayurvedic medicinal preparations used to control diseases.
6.
It is also used as a carminative and for sprue, coughs, asthma, piles,
tuberculosis and disorders of the spleen, among others.
7. Pepper is also useful as a stimulant or "vitalizer.
8. Black pepper has been used in the treatment of gonorrhea, cholera, cough, disorders of the urinary system and malarial fever.
9. Its aromatic properties have been used in treating dyspepsia and flatulence.
10. Paste containing pepper is applied locally for boils, piles, rheumatic pain, headache, prolapsed rectum and toothache.
Karpuravalli (Country Borage)
Coleus
Ambonicus or Karpuravalli (in Tamil), is a plant that must be grown in
homes where there are children. This plant carries the flavour of
camphor and hence the name. Karpuram in Tamil means camphor.This plant
has been used by locals for a long, long time. It is mainly used as to
treat coughs and colds, especially in infants. While many native forms
of medicine have been proved to be effective in some instances, only in
recent times real scientific studies have started.
Medcinal properties
Stimulant,
expectorant and diaphoretic. Juice of fresh leaves is used in urticaria
and other allergic conditions; antibacterial,antitubercular. The oil
exhibits antihistaminic property in vitro on smooth muscles of the
uterus and the intestines. It also possesses muscle-relaxant action;
bactericidal and fungicidal properties. The leaves contain glucosides of
luteolin and apigenin.
Uses
1. A domestic remedy for coughs and cold.
2. Prevents gas formation.
3. Increases absorption of nutrients.
4. Aids in digestion.
5. Helps regulate female menstruation.
6. Helps eliminate toxins from the body, promotes perspiration.
7. Helps promote circulation.
8. Helps regenerate cells and tissues and promotes longevity.
9. Increases the efficiency of a system or organ.
Kuppaimeni (Indian Nettle)
Indian
nettle or kuppai meni in Tamil, which grows wild even in the cities.
Its scientific name is Acalypha indica. It is a common annual shrub in
Indian gardens and waste places throughout the plains of India. The leaf
petioles are long and slender. The leaves are oval in shape.
Medcinal properties
The
medicinal property of this plant has been known to Siddha medicine
where it is called Poonai Vanangi (the plant adored by cats) and is used
in portions for skin ailments.
Uses
1. It is used to cure ulcers.
2. pain of snake-bite.
3. Juice of this plant is used in skin diseases.
4. Best remedy for asthma, pneumonia.
5. Their juice mixed with oil forms an application in rheumatic arthritis.
6. Drop a little of this mixture in each nostril gives relief from running nose.
7. Used to cure Tooth ache, ear ache.
8. Best home made remedy for severe cough.
9. Applied on skin for burns.
Katrazhai (Aloe Vera)
Thulasi (Tulsi)
Manjal (Turmeric)
Paagarkai (Bitter gourd)
Karisalankanni (False Daisy)
Keezhanelli (Niruri)
Pirandai (Veldt Grape)
Vaal Milagu (Cubeb)
Vaeli Paruthi (Pergularia Daemia)
Pudhina (Mint Leaves)
Seenthil Kodi (Guduchi)
Inji (Ginger)
Karpuravalli (Country Borage)
Kuppaimeni (Indian Nettle)
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