Sadabahar
Sadabahar also known as the ‘Madagascar Periwinkle’ is a well-known flower that has secured its place both in modern medicine and herbal remedies.Coming from the Apocynaceae family, Sadabahar goes by the botanical name Catharanthus roseus. It is of evergreen origin and grows to a height of 1-2.5 meters. It is found almost all around the world. The flowers of Sadabahar usually come in two varieties, one dark pinkish-purple and the other milky white.
Chemical Components –
The host of bioactive constituents present in Sadabahar include reserpine, ajmalicine, catharanthaine, lochnerin, serpentine, lochnericin, vinorelbine, vincamine, and vindesine.
Two more alkaloids present in Sadabahar, i.e. vincristine and vinblastine are used in the treatment of certain blood cancers.
Useful Part –
Leaves, root powder and flowers of Sadabahar are the most useful part of this beautiful herb.
Dosage –
• Leaves – 6 to 8 leaves
• Flower – 4 to 5 flowers
• Root powder – 250 to 500 mg
Health Benefits –
• Regulates Diabetes
Diabetes, also known as Madhumeha in Ayurveda is an aggravation of the Kapha doshas which usually occurs due to the lowering of the functioning of Agni (i.e. digestive fire) causing a spike in the blood sugar levels within the body. The excellent hypoglycaemic property of Sadabahar plays a significant role in alleviating blood sugar. The production of insulin from the β-pancreatic cells becomes active in taking this flower extract. It helps to reduce the breakdown of starch into glucose which in turn leads to low blood glucose levels.
• Respiratory Anomalies
Sadabahar is an effective ayurvedic remedy for all sorts of Kapha aggravating disorders. The bulk of active constituents in this flower offers an ultimate remedy for treating respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis, COPD, cough and cold symptoms. It also helps in removing mucus deposits from the respiratory tract and provides relief from sore throat, cough and congestion.
• Hypertension
Sadabahar acts as a natural antihypertensive agent which normalises the blood pressure levels and keeps it under check. It holds high significance in high-pressure conditions. By improving the heart functions, it enhances cardiovascular endurance which brings the blood pressure to a stable level and maintains balanced readings.
• Augments Skin Health
Sadabahar treats the various signs of aging like wrinkles, fine line, spots, dark circles, etc. It is also highly effective in case of skin infections like eczema, rosacea and actively helps in reducing acne, pimples and bequeaths a smooth and glowing skin.
Make a paste of the fresh leaves of Sadabahar, Neem and mix it with turmeric powder and rose water to get a smooth paste. Apply this pack evenly onto the face and allow it to dry. Later wash off with cool water. When done on alternate days, this face pack is extremely effective against acne and other skin infections.
• Improves Cognitive Functioning
Sadabahar is a potent traditional remedy to increase the functioning of the brain. The powerful antioxidants and flavonoids present in it improve the memory capacity, concentration, calmness, focus, and alertness of an individual.
• Regulates Menstrual Flow
Sadabahar holds high significance in regulating periods, treating postnatal ailments, even helps to treat excessive abdominal pain/bleeding(dysmenorrhoea) and PCOD.
• Wards Off Cancer
The abundance of potent anti-cancer, antimetastatic and antimutagenic properties in the leaves and flowers, make sadabahar a potent alternative treatment of certain cancerous condition. Not only does it increase the immune power and vitality of the patient but also reduce the size of the tumor and prevent further metastasis. The presence of active ingredients vincristine and vinblastine is especially useful in the case of Leukemia and Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
• Wound Healing
Laden with anti-microbial and healing properties, Sadabahar effectively heals wound and prevents skin infections. Just make a paste of turmeric and sadabahar leaves and apply it on the wounds 2-3 times a day to speed up healing process.
Side Effects –
On intake of excessive quantities of sadabahar extracts, it can cause certain side effects including diminished blood pressure levels, constipation, etc.
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