Aak
Aak is a perennial large shrub growing to 4 m (13 ft) tall. It has clusters of waxy flowers that are either white or lavender in colour. Each flower consists of five pointed petals and a small “crown” rising from the center which holds the stamens.The plant has oval, light green leaves and milky stem. Fruit is having a pair of follicles with many, hairy seeds. It could be find as common weed in waste lands.
The name of this Aak plant is synonymous with Sun for the herb is very strong and astringent in action much like the powerful rays of Sun.
It’s botanical name is Calotropis gigantea which belongs to Asclepiadaceae family. It is known as Arka in Sanskrit and Madar in Hindi.
Chemical Constituents –
The latex of Calotropis gigantea contains cardiac glycosides, fatty acids, and calcium oxalate. The roots also contain Calotropone.
Parts Used –
Aak leaves, latex, root and flowers can be used for medicinal purposes.
Dosage –
• Root bark powder – 0.5 to 1 gm
• Flower powder – 1 to 2 gm
• Leaves Juice – 1 to 4 drops
Benefits –
• Asthma
Grind dried flowers of aak and make powder then mix a little bit of rock salt in it. You can eat this mixture like this or else you can drink this mixture with warm water as well. You can get relief from Asthma, cough, cold, etc. by using Aak flowers.
• Inflammation (Swelling)
Leaves of Aak have been used to remove inflammation of the body. Apply oil on the smooth surface of the leaves (ventral side), heat them, and apply to the swelling affected part of the body. If this treatment is used regularly for 5 to 6 days it definitely helps reduce inflammation.
• Skin Diseases
Its milk is very beneficial in skin-related disorders. Using this milk you can overcome various types of skin problems for sure. Apply this milk on the affected areas of skin and useful in ringworm, boils or sores. The antioxidants present in it are helpful in healing skin problems.
• Diabetes
Keep its leaves under the feet every morning and wear socks. Remove these leaves before sleeping at night that are useful to control sugar.
• Cleansing Property
The latex (Arka ksheera) obtained from the plant is used to induce vomiting and purgation in different body cleansing procedures.
Precautions –
Along with its useful medicinal properties, it also has a poisonous tendency. If you are using this plant or its formulation for a particular disease then you should contact your doctor before using it. Its high intake results in vomiting, diarrhea, slow heart rate, convulsions, and even death. So use it with caution because it is a very poisonous plant. Pregnant women and breastfeeding women should avoid it.
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