The scientific name of Nirgundi is Vitexnegundo. It is commonly known as Chinese chaste, horseshoe vitex, five leaved chaste trees, Sinduvara, Sinduar, Samphalika, Sambhalu, Nila, Lakkigida, Aslak, Nishinda, Banna, Nagod, Indranee, Karunochchi, Nallavavilli, and Nocchi.
It is a large shrub with pens names of quadrangular shape and tomentosebranchlets. Nirgundi has a very distinctive and strong aroma. Its leaves release a strong smell when they are crushed. Nirgundi bears white or purple colored flowers.
It is a well-known Ayurvedic medicine in India and South Asia. It grows abundantly in a warm climate. The plant has a deep green color, which gives it a distinct appearance.
Benefits of using Nirgundi in Ayurvedic treatment
In Ayurvedic scriptures, it is recognized as 'SarvaRogaNivarani, ' which means it is remedial to almost all diseases. This title is bestowed upon Nirgundi because of its versatility in curing diseases. It can treat a multitude of diseases. Some of them are fatal. Nirgundi properties help to manage diabetes, epileptic attacks and seizures, hair problems, joint pain and arthritis, and many other diseases. Nirgundi is useful against the imbalance of all the three doshas of Vatta, Pitta, and Kapha.
Nirgundi is a remedy against diabetes. It improves insulin levels to its antioxidant properties. Thus, helping in maintaining the blood sugar level. Nirgundi has anti-inflammatory properties, and it restricts the activity of mediators, which cause swelling. Thus, it is used to treat inflammation and swelling. Experts say that applying Nirgundi paste to affected joints can help reduce arthritis and provide relief from the pain in joints.
Consuming Nirgundi powder daily for two times also works in similar ways. Nirgundi can also be used to treat piles. Consuming Nirgundi root powder can reduce the irritation of the inflamed tissues and help to manage piles. Nirgundi can be used to strengthen the hair and hair roots. It also boosts hair growth. Nirgundi oil can be applied to hair scalp to avoid infections due to bacteria and fungi. Massaging Nirgundi oil with seasons with oil on the scalp can prevent the greying of hair. Sometimes Nirgundi is also used to treat an upset stomach. Nirgundi can material against mild skin rashes.
Treating diseases/health problems using Nirgundi
Diabetes
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Science
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Ayurveda
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Diabetes can be effectively managed and reduced by Nirgundi. Nirgundi has antioxidant properties that help maintain the insulin levels in the body, which in turn maintains the blood sugar levels.
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An abnormality causes diabetes in the Vatadosha and Kaphadosha. This leads to the improper secretion of insulin hormone inside the blood from the pancreas. Nirgundi reduces diabetes due to its bitter or Tikta taste, pungent, or Katuodor. It brings Vatta and Pitta dosha back to normal functioning.
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Seizures
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Science
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Ayurveda
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Nirgundi paste has anticonvulsant properties. This helps in managing seizures and attacks. It also helps in preventing these attacks as it inhibits the activity of convolution causing components.
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According to the Ayurvedic scriptures, an imbalance in the Vatadosha affects the nerves. This causes seizures. Nirgundi has properties that balance the Vata. It is also an excellent Medhya or brain tonic. These properties strengthen the nerves and prevent seizures.
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Piles
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Science
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Ayurveda
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Nirgundi is a natural laxative and can improve bowel movement. It will thus reduce constipation, which is the prime reason for piles.
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Piles are known as Arsh in Ayurvedic scriptures. It results from a sedentary lifestyle with an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise on body movement. This habit leads to imbalances in all three doshas. The imbalance in Vatadosha mostly causes piles. It is a result of consistent constipation. Constipation leads to inflammation in the rectum veins, which further develops into piles. In extreme cases, it also causes bleeding. Nirgundi has Kashya or astringent properties that prevent constipation and also reduces bleeding.
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Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatism or rheumatoid arthritis is called Amavata in Ayurvedic scriptures. The collection of Ama causes it in the joints. Ama is the toxic waste generated due to incomplete digestion. The major cause of Ama is Agnimandya or the weakening of digestive fire. Nirgundi has Ushna or hot properties which restore the digestive fire and VataDosha. Thus, it prevents further accumulation of Vata.
Cough
Common cough is one of the most frequent diseases. The imbalance of Kapha causes it. It can lead to the clogging of the air pipe by the accumulation of mucus. Nirgundi has Ushna or hot properties, which helps in melting the mucus and ease its passage out of the body.
Epilepsy
In Sanskrit, epilepsy is called Apasmara. This disease is not new to Ayurveda. During an epileptic attack, the patient experiences constant flashes of seizures. These seizures are caused when there is an abnormality in the electrical activity of the brain. In a seizure attack, the patient becomes uncontrollable, and the body starts to move rapidly. Epilepsy is the result of an imbalance in all three doshasVata, Pitta, and Kapha. Nirgundi is a natural Medhya or brain tonic. It soothes the nerves and calms the brain cells. This reduces the probability of epilepsy. Further, it also decreases the effects of an epileptic attack.
Arthritic pain
Arthritis can lead to extreme pain in the joint and restrict joints movements. Nirgundi can reduce this pain. Nirgundi can cure both Oesteo Arthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Nirgundi paste or oil can be applied to affected joints for quick results.
Grey hair
Nirgundi is an excellent Keshya. It prevents the greying of hair. It also balances the Kapha. Kaphadosha is an important factor that aids in the greying of hair. In addition, it also strengthens the hair.
Forms of Nirgundi in Ayurveda with Recommended Dosage:
Nirgundi can be used both internally and externally. There are various ways through which you can ingest Nirgundi. Similarly, there are different methods to apply Nirgundi to your skin and other parts of the body.
If you have not consulted with your doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner, it is best to do so. Also, there are some popular methods to use Nirgundi. They are as mentioned below. Information is also given about the dosage amount for each form of Nirgundi. You can then follow these dosage recommendations for effective results.
• Nirgundi Juice: 2 to 4 spoonful or 10 to 20 ml once a day. Initially, start with two spoonfuls.
• Nirgundi Powder: ¼ to ½ spoonful or 1.5 to 3 grams two times a day.
• Nirgundi Oil (externally): 2 to 3 drops to be used 1 to 3 times a week or as per the directions given by your doctor.
• Nirgundi Capsule: 1 to 2 capsules two times a day or as per the directions given by your doctor.
Given below are the procedures to use each form of Nirgundi:
• Follow the steps below to take Nirgundi Juice:
a. Take 2 to 4 spoonful or 10 to 20 ml of freshly extracted Nirgundi juice.
b. Add an equal quantity of water to it. Drink this solution once a day before having your meal.
• Follow the steps below to take Nirgundi Powder
a. Take ¼ to ½ spoonful or 1.5 to 3 grams of Nirgundi Powder.
b. Mix it with honey and swallow the paste before or after both lunch and dinner.
• Follow the steps below to take Nirgundi Capsule
a. Take 1 to 2 Nirgundi capsule.
b. Swallow it with milk either before or after both lunch and dinner.
• Follow the steps below to take Nirgundi Oil
a. Take 2 to 3 drops of Nirgundi oil on a clean cotton swab and gently massage it on the joint or affected area.
b. Leave it covered for about 10 to 15 min.
c. After 10 to 15 min, you can wash the area with lukewarm water to heal joint pain, wound, or ulcer.
d. It is best to use Nirgundi oil before a bath at least once every day of the week to get faster results.
• Follow the steps below to take Nirgundi Leaf Fumes
a. Keep a few Nirgundi leaves for drying. Burn a few well-dried leaves.
b. Inhale the fumes of the leaves to cure headaches.
• Follow the steps below to take Nirgundi Paste
a. Make a thick paste by crushing fresh Nirgundi leaves with few drops of water to aid the process.
b. Slightly heat the paste in a water bath or oil bath.
c. Apply the paste on the affected area to cure joint pain, muscle pain, or headaches.
Side effects of Nirgundi
Despite being such a healthy medicine against various diseases, the overuse of anything should be avoided. Nirgundi is no exception to this fact. If you overuse Nirgundi, you may suffer from the following symptoms:
• Stomach upset
• Itching
• Skin rash.
Precautionary guide while using Nirgundi
If you are pregnant or a nursing mother, it is best to consult your doctor or medical practitioner before taking Nirgundi paste or oil.
It is also advisable to consult the doctor before taking Nirgundi if you are already prescribed some other medicines or herbs.
FAQ’s about Nirgundi
Can Nirgundi cure microbial infections?
Nirgundi has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It in which state growth of bacteria and fungi which can cause infections. Nirgundi oil especially can be used to protect from microbial instructions.
Can Nirgundi help in reducing epileptic attacks and seizures?
Epilepsy is the result of an imbalance in all three doshasVata, Pitta, and Kapha. During an epileptic attack, the patient experiences constant flashes of seizures. These seizures are caused when there is an abnormality in the electrical activity of the brain. During a seizure attack, the patient becomes uncontrollable, and the body starts to jerk rapidly. Nirgundi is a natural Medhya or brain tonic. It soothes the nerves and calms the brain cells. This reduces the probability of epilepsy. Further, it also decreases the effects of an epileptic attack.
Does Nirgundi help in reducing the risk of HIV?
Nirgundi has anti-HIV property. It prevents the growth of the virus and inhibits its spread. Hence, Nirgundi is an important remedy against the risk of HIV due to its antiviral property.
Can Nirgundi reduce the effect of snake venom poisoning?
Nirgundi contains properties that immediately assist the production of antibodies against the snake venom poison. This strengthens the immune system and improves the immune response against the venom. Further, it also reduces the toxic power of the snake venom.
Can Nirgundi help reduce allergic reactions?
Yes, Nirgundi might help manage allergic reactions due to its anti-allergic activity. It inhibits the release of certain chemicals in the body that cause allergy and improve the immune response.
Can Nirgundi help reduce swelling and inflammatory reactions?
Nirgundi has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help in reducing inflammation and swelling. It also reduces the pain by restricting the growth of certain mediators that cause inflammation.
Can Nirgundi help reduce liver damage?
Yes, Nirgundi has liver-protecting properties. It contains many antioxidants that help to inhibit the radical's reaction and prevent the liver cells from damage.
Can Nirgundi help reduce fever and cough?
Nirgundi has antipyretic and analgesic properties, which help in reducing the fever. It is Ushna or contains hot properties, which reduces the cough and balances the Kaphadosha.
How do you store Nirgundi oil?
Nirgundi oil can be stored inside a glass jar or container with an airtight seal. It should be kept away from direct exposure to sunlight and heat.
Which are the different ways of using Nirgundi?
Oral Consumption:
Follow the steps below to take Nirgundi Juice:
a. Take 2 to 4 spoonful or 10 to 20 ml of freshly extracted Nirgundi juice.
b. Add an equal quantity of water to it. Drink this solution once a day before having your meal.
Follow the steps below to take Nirgundi Powder
a. Take ¼ to ½ spoonful or 1.5 to 3 grams of Nirgundi Powder.
b. Mix it with honey and swallow the paste before or after both lunch and dinner.
Follow the steps below to take Nirgundi Capsule
a. Take 1 to 2 Nirgundi capsule.
b. Swallow it with milk either before or after both lunch and dinner.
External Use
Nirgundi Oil
a. Take 2 to 3 drops of Nirgundi oil on a clean cotton swab and gently massage it on the joint or affected area.
b. Leave it covered for about 10 to 15 min.
c. After 10 to 15 min, you can wash the area with lukewarm water to heal joint pain, wound, or ulcer.
d. It is best to use Nirgundi oil before a bath at least once every day of the week to get faster results.
Nirgundi Leaf Fumes:
a. Keep a few Nirgundi leaves for drying. Burn a few well-dried leaves.
b. Inhale the fumes of the leaves to cure headaches.
Nirgundi Paste
a. Make a thick paste by crushing fresh Nirgundi leaves with few drops of water to aid the process.
b. Slightly heat the paste in a water bath or oil bath.
c. Apply the paste on the affected area to cure joint pain, muscle pain, or headaches.