Kalmegh
Kalmegh is a plant which is also known as “Green Chiretta” and the “King of Bitters”. It’s botanical name is Andrographis paniculata and belongs to Acanthaceae family. In Sanskrit it is also known as Bhunimb.
Kalmegh is an annual herb found through India, specially in dense forests. It is an erect branched annual, 0.3-0.9 meters high, branches sharply quadrangular winged in the upper part; leave – lanceolate, acute, undulate, pale beneath; Flowers small, solitary distant, in axillary or terminal racemes or panicles
Chemical Constituents –
The major chemical constituents present in Kalmegh are kalmeghin and andrographolide that are responsible for its major therapeutic properties. It also contains diterpenes, lactones, and flavonoids.
Properties –
• Antioxidant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Hepatoprotective
• Antimicrobial
• Antibacterial
• Antiparasitic
• Immunomodulator
Part Used –
Whole Plant (Every part of the kalmegh plant body) may be used to obtain active pharmacological compounds for medicinal purposes.
Dosage –
• Kalmegh Juice – 1-2 teaspoon once a day.
• Kalmegh Churna – ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day.
• Kalmegh Capsule – 1-2 capsule twice a day.
Benefits –
• Liver Disorders
Kalmegh might be beneficial in the management of liver problems. It prevents the damage of liver cells caused by the free radicals. It might also be effective against chronic hepatitis B viral infection.
• Influenza
Kalmegh might be beneficial in the management of influenza. It inhibits the replication of influenza virus. It also decreases the activity of inflammatory mediators responsible for inflammation of lungs.
• Appetizer
It is effective in managing digestive problems like loss of appetite. It helps to improve the digestive fire as well as liver functions due to its Ushna (hot) nature.
• Tonsilitis
It might inhibit the inflammation of the tonsils. It also reduces symptoms like fever, sore throat and cough associated with tonsilitis.
• Ulcerative Colitis
It reduces inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis.It improves the digestive fire and helps in better bowel movement.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
Taking Kalmegh on a regular basis helps to control the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. It reduces Ama by improving the digestive fire. It also helps balance Vata due to its Ushna (hot) nature.
• Malaria
Kalmegh is useful in managing malaria. It has antibacterial and antiparasitic activities. This is due to its Tikta and Pitta balancing properties.
• Skin Disorders
It also has blood purifying activity. Together, Kalmegh might be useful in managing skin eruptions, boils and scabies.
Side Effects –
1.Dizziness
2. Drowsiness
3. Fatigue
4. Nausea
5. Vomiting
6. Diarrhea
7. Runny nose
8. Loss of appetite
Avoid using it in pregnancy and for lactating mothers.
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