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Himsra: Health Benefits, Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

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By NS Desk 08-Dec-2020

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Himsra, also known as caper bush, is a traditional Ayurvedic medicine whichis found in humid, Mediterranean countries. Capers, the unripened flower buds of this plant, have a piquant, exotic flavor and can be added to food as a spice or garnishing.

Himsra is beneficial in managing arthritis because it reduces pain and inflammation due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. According to Ayurveda, it has share balancing properties, which can reduce the symptoms of arthritis. It also protects the liver as it reduces oxidative stress due to its antioxidant properties. All parts of the plant roots, leaves, buds, and flowers help manage diabetes due to its anti-diabetic properties.

Himsra is good for the skin because it prevents premature aging as well as wrinkles. Applying a mixture of Himsra roots helps manage skin irritation such as fungus or inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. Apart from that, Himsra has also been found to improve the brain's memory and cognitive functions by having neuroprotective properties that prevent neurons from aging and retaining them for a more extended period.

What are the synonyms of Himsra?

There are different names of Himsra in other languages. Such as Ceper Plant in English. Kabara, Hainsaa, and Kanthara in Hindi. Himsra,Kantaka, Tiksna,Kanthari, TiksnaagandhaIn Sanskrit. In Urdu, it's called Kaba. It’s called Barar and Kaur in Punjabi. Kabra in Gujarati. In Kannada, it's called Katharimullinagida and Mullukattari. Capparo in Malayalam. Kabar in Marathi. In Oriya, it's called Kantiphali. It’s called Kokilakshamu in Telegu.

From where the Himsra is grown?

Himsra, Ayurvedic medicine, is a plant-based herb.

Benefits of Himsra

What are the benefits of Himsra for diabetes mellitus (type 1 and type 2)?

Modern Science

Ayurveda

According to Modern Science, Himsra is beneficial because it inhibits the enzymes involved in the breakdown of carbohydrates and lowers blood sugar levels. It also reduces oxidative stress and prevents damage to pancreatic cells due to its antioxidant properties. It helps lower blood sugar levels.

 

Diabetes, also known as Madhumeha, is due to the Vata-Kapha dosha imbalance of poor digestion. Impaired digestion leads to Ama's accumulation (a toxin in the body) in the pancreas cells and inhibits insulin function. Himsra helps manage diabetes due to its Vata-Kapha balancing,tikta (bitter), and Pachan (digestive) properties. It improves digestion, maintains the normal functions of insulin, and reduces the symptoms of diabetes.

 

 

What are the benefits of Himsra for fungal infections?

As per modern science, Himsra root extract helps in the management of fungal infections. This may be due to the presence of specific components (flavonoids) that have antifungal properties. It prevents the growth and multiplication of fungi that cause fungal infections. Apart from that, many other factors can increase fungal infections on the skin (like moisture trap and chafing), so dependence on Himsara for fungal infection should be done with caution.

What are the benefits of Himsra for worm infection?

According to modern science, Himsra leaves, and flower buds are beneficial in managing intestinal worms. It contains specific components (flavonoids) that have anthelmintic properties. It helps to get rid of parasites (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body. However, in case of severe conditions, one may have to take some power doses to reduce the impact of infections and then gradually shift towards lighter amounts for recovery.

What are the benefits of Himsrafor leishmaniasis?

Modern science says that Himsras can help manage the skin infection caused by parasiteleishmaniasis. It contains some components (alkaloids) that have anti-parasitic properties. It prevents the growth and multiplication of parasites and prevents disease. You can treat such infections by applying Himsra paste on your skin regularly to close the wound for internal healing.

How effective is Himsra?

  • There is not enough scientific evidence against Himsra being found beneficial for treating diabetes mellitus (Type 1 & Type 2), Leishmaniasis, Fungal infections, Worm Infections. However, topical medicines are preferred first for treating skin conditions.
  • Also, there is not enough evidence that Himsra can be useful in treating skin disorders for dry skin and skin disorders. However, one can use it as an additive for treating wounds and itches occasional use. For severe skin problems, it is better to consult a dermatologist.

Precautions when consuming Himsra

Allergies

As per modern science,Himsra can cause allergies in people sensitive to mustard oil or other family members. It can also trigger an allergic reaction in people who are food sensitive. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Himsra.

Breast Feeding

There is no scientific information available on the use of Himsra in breastfeeding. Since a specific diet is recommended to mothers during this period, it is advisable to avoid or consult a doctor before using Himsra while breastfeeding.

Other interaction

According to modern science, if a person consumes Himsra, hisblood sugar levels can drop. Therefore, patients taking antidiabetic drugs (or herbs) should avoid consuming Himsra with such medications.

Himsra lowers blood pressure. Therefore, patients taking antihypertensive drugs (or herbs) should be careful when using Himsra with such medications.

 

Pregnancy

According to modern science, there is not enough scientific information available for the use of Himsra during pregnancy. Since there are a lot of hormonal changes, a female goes through pregnancy. It is advisable to avoid or consult a doctor before using Himsra in pregnancy.

The recommended dose of Himsra

Optimal consumption of Himsra can include 1-1.5gms a day or as directed by a physician.

 

Ways of consuming Himsra

Himsra root powder

a. Take some dry Himsra roots.

B. Grind them to make a powder

C. Swallow 1–1.5 g (or as prescribed by a doctor) twice a day to reduce chest congestion.

Himsra paste

a. Take some dry Himsra roots.

B. Grind them finely.

C. Make a paste of this powder using water.

D. To get rid of skin disease symptoms, apply this paste once or twice a day on the affected area

Advantages of the Himsra

What are the benefits of the Himsrafor skin disorders?

As per modern science,Himsra is useful in skin disorders. The Himsra flower bud's topical application helps manage skin disorders as it contains some components that have antioxidant properties. These antioxidants protect the skin from sun damage and keep the skin healthy. It prevents the skin's redness and inflammation by blocking histamine release (mediator of allergy) due to its anti-allergic properties.

What are the benefits of Himsra for dry skin?

Himsra is beneficial for dry skin because it contains specific components (flavonoids, vitamins, etc.) with antioxidant, moisturizing, and protective properties. It protects the skin from free radicals from damage and moisturizes the skin. Applying the paste of the Himsra root's bark on the skin causes skin rashes and prevents drying.

Tips for using Himsra on dry skin.

a. Take some dry Himsra roots.

B. Grind them finely

C. Make a paste of this powder using water.

D. To get rid of dry skin, apply this paste once or twice a day on the affected area.

Precautions while using Himsra

Allergies

Scientific Approach Himsra can cause allergies in people who are sensitive to mustard oil or other members of its family. It can also trigger allergic reactions in food-sensitive individuals. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Himsra.

Breast Feeding

Scientific approach There is insufficient scientific evidence for the use of Himsra during pregnancy. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid or consult a doctor before using Himsra during pregnancy.

Pregnancy

Scientific approach There is insufficient scientific evidence for the use of Himsra during pregnancy. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid or consult a doctor before using Himsra during pregnancy.

 

Side effects of using Hinsara

As per modern science, there are the following side effects found while consuming Hinsara

1. Skin rash

2. Skin irritation.

3. Contact dermatitis

 

Commonly Asked Questions

Q) Is Himsra available in the market?

As per modern science: Yes, Himsra is available in various forms like raw herbs and extract on the market. You can buy it online or from the market. Canned caper berries, commonly used in kitchens, are also readily available in the market.

Q) How to store Himsra?

Himsra Fresh berries should be stored correctly in the refrigerator for long-term storage. Himsra powder should be stored in airtight containers away from moisture.

Q) Can we eat Himsra leaves?

Yes, you can eat Himsra (capers) leaves in salads or fish dishes.

Q) Does Himsra help with weight loss?

As per modern science, Himsra helps in weight loss. It reduces body weight by slowing the absorption of carbohydrates and improving its metabolism due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Hence, it helps keep you satiated for more extended periods leading to fewer hunger pangs and lowers food consumption.

According to the Ayurvedic approach, weight gain is an improper diet and lifestyle, which weakens the digestive fire. This increases Ama's accumulation and creates an imbalance in the Meda dhatu, whichleads to obesity. Himsra helps maintain average weight by keeping proper digestion due to Ushna (heat) and Deepan (appetizer) properties. It increases fire the Agni (digestive fire), prevents Ama's accumulation in the body, and reduces weight.

Q) Is Himsra beneficial in lowering blood pressure?

As per modern science, Himsra helps in lowering blood pressure due to its diuretic properties. It increases urine production in the body and promotes the removal of excess salts from the body. It prevents the formation of excess fluid in the body and reduces the pressure in the blood vessels.

Q) Is Himsra good for the liver?

As per scientific research: Himsra is good for the liver because it contains antioxidants that show hepatoprotective properties. It reduces oxidative stress and protects liver cells from damage by free radicals.

Q) Does Himsra help with brain disorders?

Scientology helps in the management of brain disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. It reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in neuronal (nerve) cells due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The antioxidants help improve memory and learning functions and prevent premature aging of the brain.

Q) Can Himsras be used in arthritis?

Himsra root extracts can treat symptoms such as arthritis and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatism. It contains some components that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These components prevent inflammatory mediators and reduce joint pain and inflammation.

Ayurvedic Himsra may be beneficial in arthritis, mainly due to the error imbalance of Vata Dosha. This imbalance can lead to specific symptoms such as inflammation or pain. Himsra helps in reducing the symptoms of arthritis due to Vata balancing andUshna (hot) characteristics.

Q) Does Himsra help with asthma?

According to the scientific method, Himsra fruit helps treat asthma due to specific components (flavonoids, polyphenols) that have Broncho relaxant properties. It relaxes the smooth muscles of the respiratory tracts and facilitates breathing and hence managing asthma symptoms.

As per Ayurvedic View, The main doshas involved in asthma are Vata and Kapha. The imbalanced Vata combines with deranged ‘Kapha Dosha’ in the lungsobstructing the lungs. This can cause gasping and difficulty breathing. This condition is called swas roga (asthma). Himasra helps to manage asthma due to its Vata-Kapha balance and ushna (hot) properties. It helps to remove obstructions in the respiratory tracts and leads to more comfortable breathing.

Q) Does the Himsra help in managing flatulence?

As per modern science, although there is not enough scientific evidence for the use of Himsra in flatulence. However, it is also used as a folk remedy for flatulence.

Flatulence is caused by an imbalance of the Vata and Pitta dosha. Low pitta Dosha and aggravatedVata dosharesults in less digestive fire, thereby weakening digestion. Poor digestion causes flatulence. Himsra helps fart due to its Vata balancing, Deepan (appetizer) Ushna (hot) properties. It helps to improve digestion by increasing Agni (digestive fire) and reduces flatulence.

Q) Is Himsra beneficial in burning?

In scientific medicine, the topical application of Himsra leaf extract can help in wound healing. It contains antioxidants, which promote wound shrinkage and increase collagen production. It reduces inflammation and heals wounds associated with irritation. The use of Himsra can help in the recovery of wounds and can close wounds for better healing.

Q) Is Himsra good for the skin?

As per modern science, himsra has been observed well for acne-prone skin because it helps manage skin irritation and itching due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It also prevents skin wrinkles and premature aging due to its anti-aging properties. However, there has been no scientific evidence for stretch marks treatment by Himsra, hence for that, it is better to consult a dermatologist.

Can Himsra be used in eye infections?

There is no scientific evidence for the use of Himsra in eye infections. The uncontrolled buds of the psalms have traditionally been used to manage eye infections and prevent cataracts.However, many brands claim to cure eye infections by adding certain ayurvedic substances but are actually harmful. They also add preservatives to improve the longevity of the product and thereby damage your eyes.

Disclaimer - The aim of the article is just to convey information to you. Use any medicine, therapy, herb or fruit please do it under the guidance of a qualified Ayurveda doctor.