Kokilaksha
Kokilaksha is considered as a Rasayanic herb (rejuvenating agent). In Ayurveda, it is described as Kokilasha, which means “having eyes like the Indian Cuckoo”. It’s botanical name is Asteracantha longifolia and belongs to Acanthaceae family. It’s common name is Talamkhana.
Kokilaksha is a small plant growing to a height of 3-5 feet with small thorns or hairy parts all over the plant. The stem resembles to that of sugarcane. The flowers of the plant are of purple color. The seed are black in color and it swell and becomes slimy when it comes in contact with water or saliva.
Chemical Constituents –
The plant gave lupeol, stigmasterol and hydrocarbons, the seed gave sterols and the flowers have apigenin glucuronide.
Properties –
• Aphrodisiac
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Immunity booster
Parts Used –
All parts of this plant are used (leaves, seeds, root) for medicinal purposes.
Dosage –
• Kokilaksha seed Powder – 3-5 gm twice a day.
• Kokilaksha Capsule – 1-2 capsule twice a day.
• Decoction- 5 to 10 ml
Benefits –
• Male Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction in men can be in the form of loss of libido i.e., having no inclination towards a sexual act. There can also be a low erection time or semen expelled soon after a sexual activity. This is also referred to as ‘early discharge or premature ejaculation‘. Taking Kokilaksha helps to correct male sexual dysfunction and also improve stamina.
• Malnutrition
Regular use of Kokilaksha helps to manage malnutrition. This is due to its Balya (strength provider) property which gives strength to the body. Kokilaksha provides instant energy and fulfills the calorie requirement of the body.
• Oligospermia
1 tablespoon of the seed (Talamkhana) or its powder is added to is added to 300 ml of hot water and kept for a while.
Churned well, filtered. Added with a teaspoon of sugar candy powder and administered. This is a useful remedy for oligospermia.
• Gout
Kokilaksha gives relief from the symptoms of gout due to its Vata-Pitta balancing property.
• Urinary and gall stones
The dried whole plants are taken and burnt and ash is made. This is dissolved in water in the ratio of 1:100. Later it is filtered and the filtrate is given twice or thrice daily. It is effective in liver gall bladder stones and urinary calculi.
• Diabetes
Kokilaksha has antioxidant property and it stimulates the production of insulin from insulin-producing cells. Due to this, it may be useful in lowering blood glucose levels
• Liver Disorders
The decoction of the root of Asteracantha longifolia is given in a dose of 10 ml to treat jaundice and swelling of the body. It is also used for hepatomegaly and swelling of abdomen.
Side Effects –
There is no known side effects of this herb.
Pregnant and lactating mothers should avoid to use it .
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