Hindi Name : दालचीनी
Sanskrit Name : Tvak
English Name : Cinnamon
Latin Name : Cinnamomum verum
The cinnamaldehyde, its active compound, helps to fight various types of infection. Its essential oils also are known to boost immunity and protect against common cold and sore throat. Try the Turmeric and Cinnamon Detox Water to strengthen your immune system and fight infections.
Key Benefits :
- Powerful medicinal Properties
- Protects from Oxidative damage
- Protects against Bacterial and fungal L infection
- Protects against Brain diseases
Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi DC.) is a perennial herb known for its aromatic rhizomes and strong medicinal properties. It belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family (formerly classified under Valerianaceae) and grows primarily in the Himalayan regions of India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China. Traditionally used in Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha systems of medicine, Jatamansi is known for its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic, and sedative effects. It is highly regarded for its effectiveness in managing insomnia, epilepsy, various mental health conditions, and skin ailments.
Jatamansi Scientific Names
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum: Angiosperms
- Class: Eudicots
- Order: Dipsacales
- Family: Caprifoliaceae
- Genus: Nardostachys
- Species: Nardostachys jatamansi
Jatamansi Common Names
- English: Spikenard
- Sanskrit: Jatamansi
- Hindi: Jatamansi
- Tamil: Jatamamsi
- Telugu: Jatamamsi
- Bengali: Jatamansi
- Marathi: Jatamansi
- Punjabi: Balchad
Jatamansi Uses
- Stress and Anxiety Relief – Functions as a potent adaptogen and natural sedative, reducing stress, depression, and emotional instability.
- Hair and Skin Health – Widely used in Ayurvedic formulations for hair growth and preventing premature graying, Helpful in managing skin infections, inflammation, and eczema.
- Cardiovascular Protection – May lower blood pressure and stabilize heart rhythm due to its hypotensive and cardiotonic effects.
Phytochemical Constituents
Jatamansi contains a variety of active constituents responsible for its therapeutic effects:
- Sesquiterpenes: Jatamansone (Spironol), Nardostachone
- Essential oils: Nardol, Calarene, β-Sitosterol
- Alkaloids: Actinidine
- Flavonoids: Luteolin, Apigenin
- Glycosides and Sterols
References
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Vol. IV. Govt. of India, Ministry of AYUSH.
The Wealth of India: A Dictionary of Indian Raw Materials and Industrial Products – Raw Materials, Vol. 7. CSIR, New Delhi.
Panda, H. (2004). Herbs Cultivation and Medicinal Uses. Asia Pacific Business Press Inc.
Samadi, N., et al. (2014). “Neuropharmacological effects of Nardostachys jatamansi: A review.” Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, 17(12), 940–949.
Singh, R., et al. (2012). “An update on pharmacological potential of Nardostachys jatamansi DC.” International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 4(Suppl 4), 27–33.
Sharma, P.V. (1999). Dravyaguna Vijnana, Vol. II. Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, Varanasi.
Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a perennial herb renowned in Ayurvedic, Unani, and traditional Chinese medicine for its soothing, demulcent, and anti-inflammatory properties. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is mainly used for treating respiratory, gastrointestinal, and skin conditions. Its sweet taste and therapeutic actions make it one of the most widely used herbs in traditional medicine systems.
Yashtimadhu Scientific Names
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum: Angiosperms
- Class: Eudicots
- Order: Fabales
- Family: Fabaceae
- Genus: Glycyrrhiza
- Species: Glycyrrhiza glabra
Common Names
- English: Licorice / Liquorice
- Sanskrit: Yashtimadhu
- Hindi: Mulethi
- Tamil: Atimadhuram
- Telugu: Yashtimadhuka
- Malayalam: Irattimadhuram
- Kannada: Jethimadh
- Bengali: Josthimadhu
- Marathi: Jeshthamadh
Traditional and Medicinal Uses
- Respiratory Health – Acts as an expectorant, bronchodilator, and anti-inflammatory agent in conditions like cough, asthma, and bronchitis.
- Digestive Support – Used as a demulcent to soothe ulcers, gastritis, and hyperacidity, Promotes gut health and protects the mucosal lining.
- Skin Disorders – Applied topically or consumed internally for eczema, itching, and inflammatory skin conditions.
- Immunomodulatory and Rejuvenative (Rasayana) – Enhances vitality, immunity, and longevity; traditionally used as a rasayana in Ayurveda.
- Endocrine and Hormonal Balance – Studied for its effects on adrenal support and estrogenic activity.
Phytochemical Constituents
Yashtimadhu contains numerous bioactive compounds that contribute to its diverse therapeutic effects:
- Saponins: Glycyrrhizin (main active), Liquiritin
- Flavonoids: Glabridin, Liquiritigenin, Isoliquiritigenin
- Chalcones: Licochalcone A, B
- Polysaccharides: Arabinogalactans
- Other: Coumarins, Sterols, Starch, Sugars
References
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Vol. II, Government of India, Ministry of AYUSH.
European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.
Chandrasekaran, C.V., et al. (2011). “Dual inhibitory effect of Glycyrrhiza glabra on COX and LOX products in inflammation.” Inflammopharmacology, 19(4), 235–241.
Pastorino, G., Cornara, L., Soares, S., Rodrigues, F., & Oliveira, M.B.P.P. (2018). “Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): A phytochemical and pharmacological review.” Phytotherapy Research, 32(12), 2323–2339.
Aly, A.M., Al-Alousi, L., & Salem, H.A. (2005). “Licorice: a possible anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer drug.” AAPS PharmSciTech, 6(1), E74–E82.
Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants, CSIR, New Delhi.
Sharangdhar Samhita, Madhyam Khanda, Chapter on Amlapitta and Shwasa-Kasa Rogadhikar.
Nadkarni, K.M. (1954). Indian Materia Medica, Bombay Popular Prakashan.
Shilajeet (Asphaltum punjabianum) is a sticky, tar-like substance found primarily in the Himalayan and Tibetan mountain ranges. Over hundreds of years, specific plants slowly break down through the action of microorganisms, leading to its formation. Rich in fulvic acid and minerals, Shilajit is revered in Ayurveda as a potent rejuvenator (Rasayana) that promotes vitality, stamina, cognitive function, and overall health.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae (origin from plant decomposition)
- Division: Bryophyta / Mixed Organic Matter (Not a plant in itself, but derived from them)
- Class: Substance derived from organic and mineral sources
- Order: Not applicable (complex exudate)
- Family: Not applicable
- Genus: Asphaltum
- Species: Asphaltum punjabianum / Asphaltum bitumen
Common Names
- English: Shilajeet, Mineral Pitch, Asphaltum
- Sanskrit: Shilajatu, Shiladhatu, Silajatu
- Hindi: Shilajit
- Tamil: Ueraram
- Telugu: Silajatu
- Bengali: Shilajit
- Marathi: Shilajit
Shilajeet Uses
- Male Reproductive Health – Improves sperm count, testosterone levels, and libido, Used in treating conditions like erectile dysfunction and infertility.
- Cognitive Function – Supports memory, focus, and mental clarity, Acts as a neuroprotective agent by reducing oxidative stress in brain tissues.
- Diabetes and Metabolic Health – Enhances insulin sensitivity and helps in blood sugar regulation.
- Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant – Reduces chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, Supports joint health and manages arthritis-related pain.
Phytochemical Constituents
Shilajit is packed with natural compounds, including fulvic acid and vital minerals, making it a potent organic supplement. The primary bioactive constituents include:
- Fulvic Acid – Powerful antioxidant, carrier molecule for nutrients
- Humic Acid – Immunomodulatory and detoxifying properties
- Dibenzo-α-pyrones – Mitochondrial function enhancer
- Minerals – Iron, Zinc, Copper, Magnesium, Calcium
- Triterpenes, Sterols, Amino acids, Phenolic lipids
- Benzoic Acid, Uronic acids
References
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part-I, Volume IV, Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India.
Indian Materia Medica by Dr. K.M. Nadkarni, 3rd edition, Bombay Popular Prakashan.
Ghosal, S., Lal, J., & Singh, S.K. (1988). “Shilajit: Its origin, processing, and phytochemistry.” Chemical & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 36(9), 3863-3865.
Acharya, S.B., Frotan, M.H., Goel, R.K., & Tripathi, S.K. (1988). “Pharmacological actions of Shilajit.” Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, 26, 775-777.
Carrasco-Gallardo, C., Guzmán, L., & Maccioni, R.B. (2012). “Shilajit: A natural phytocomplex with potential procognitive activity.” International Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 2012, Article ID 674142.
Pandit, S., Biswas, S., & Jana, U. (2015). “Clinical evaluation of purified Shilajit on testosterone levels in healthy volunteers.” Andrologia, 47(6), 653–660.
European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.
Singh, H., & Singh, S. (2019). “Shilajit: A panacea for high-altitude problems.” International Journal of Ayurveda Research, 10(2), 89–94.
Hindi Name : चव्य, चाब, चाभ, चब
Sanskrit Name : चव्यम्, चविका, ऊषणा
English Name : Cavika
Latin Name : Piper retrofractum Vahl
It is a glabrous, fleshy climber, cultivated mainly in Southern Indiacultivated for its fruit, which is usually dried and used as a spice and seasoning. The fruit of Piper retrofractum is similar in appearance and taste to that of the Long Pepper (P. longum). This plant is a climbing vine with stems of about 3–4 mm in diameter. Its leaves have blades that are glabrous, lanceolate, with acuminate apex and asymmetric base, and are about 10–12 cm long and 3–3.5 cm wide.
Key Benefits :
- Helps in Getting Healthier and Ageless Skin
- Clears up Acne and Fights Free Radicals
- Improves Digestion and Metabolism
- It is useful in treating indigestion, abdominal colic, worm infestation, poisoning, anorexia, productive cough, asthma, bronchitis, fever, diarrhea, IBS, hemorrhoids, piles, fistula, chronic respiratory disorders, throat disorders and rheumatic conditions
Vavding (Embelia ribes) is a climbing shrub known for its small black berries, traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine. It belongs to the Primulaceae family and is native to India and Southeast Asia. The dried fruits are primarily used for their anthelmintic, digestive, and antimicrobial properties and are a key ingredient in classical formulations like Vidanga churna.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum: Angiosperms
- Class: Eudicots
- Order: Ericales
- Family: Primulaceae
- Genus: Embelia
- Species: Embelia ribes Burm. f.
Common Names
- English: False Black Pepper
- Sanskrit: Vidanga
- Hindi: Vavding
- Tamil: Vaivilangam
- Telugu: Vaividangamu
- Bengali: Babrang
- Marathi: Vavding
- Kannada: Vayuvidanga
Traditional and Medicinal Uses
- Anthelmintic Action – Widely used to expel intestinal worms and parasites, especially in pediatric formulations.
- Digestive Aid – Enhances digestion and appetite, commonly used in formulations for indigestion, flatulence, and abdominal discomfort.
- Antimicrobial Properties – Effective against infections caused by bacteria and fungi.
- Skin and Reproductive Health – Used in managing skin disorders, including acne and ringworm, Beneficial in reproductive health, especially for spermatogenesis and ovulation balance.
Phytochemical Constituents
The therapeutic actions of Embelia ribes are attributed to a wide array of bioactive compounds:
- Alkaloids: Embelin (primary active compound)
- Phenolic compounds: Embelin, Ribesin
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, Kaempferol
- Fatty acids: Linoleic acid, Oleic acid
- Sterols: β-Sitosterol
- Tannins: Polyphenols with antioxidant action
References
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part I, Volume IV, Govt. of India, Ministry of AYUSH.
Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.
Prajapati, N.D., Purohit, S.S., Sharma, A.K., Kumar, T. (2003). A Handbook of Medicinal Plants: A Complete Source Book. Agrobios.
Khare, C.P. (2007). Indian Medicinal Plants: An Illustrated Dictionary. Springer.
M. Duwiejko & M. Dondua (2001). “Chemical and pharmacological properties of Embelia ribes.” Fitoterapia, 72(4), 384–385.
Ghosal, S. (1985). “Active principles of Indian medicinal plants: Part 10—Embeline and related compounds.” Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 74(5), 482–486.
European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.
Black pepper (Piper nigrum), a globally popular spice, is celebrated for its sharp taste and distinctive aroma. It is made from the dried, immature berries of the Piperaceae family plant known as pepper. Beyond its culinary value, black pepper holds a significant place in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and modern herbal medicine for its digestive, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Black Pepper Scientific Name
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum: Angiosperms
- Class: Magnoliids
- Order: Piperales
- Family: Piperaceae
- Genus: Piper
- Species: Piper nigrum
Black Pepper Common Name
- English: Black Pepper
- Sanskrit: Maricha
- Hindi: Kali Mirch
- Tamil: Milagu
- Telugu: Miriyalu
- Bengali: Golmorich
- Marathi: Mire
Black Pepper Uses
- Digestive Stimulant – Stimulates digestive enzymes, improves appetite, and reduces indigestion, bloating, and flatulence.
- Respiratory Health – Used in formulations for cough, asthma, and bronchitis; acts as a mucolytic and expectorant.
- Metabolism Enhancer – Known to enhance bioavailability of other herbs (e.g., curcumin from turmeric) by promoting absorption.
- Antipyretic and Analgesic – Traditional use in fever management and as a mild pain reliever.
- Antimicrobial & Antioxidant – Exhibits strong antibacterial and antioxidant properties due to active alkaloids and essential oils.
Phytochemical Constituents
The key bioactive compounds in Piper nigrum are responsible for its pharmacological effects:
- Alkaloids: Piperine, Chavicine
- Essential Oils: Limonene, Caryophyllene, Pinene
- Phenolic Compounds: Flavonoids, Tannins
- Others: Piperidine, Piperettine, Lignans
References
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Govt. of India, Vol. I, Part I.
European Pharmacopoeia, 10th Edition, Council of Europe.
Srinivasan, K. (2007). “Black pepper and its pungent principle—piperine: A review of diverse physiological effects.” Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 47(8), 735–748.
Pradeep, K., Kuttan, G., & Kuttan, R. (2002). “Anti-inflammatory activity of extract of Piper nigrum Linn.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 79(2), 297–298.
Johri, R.K., & Zutshi, U. (1992). “An Ayurvedic formulation ‘Trikatu’ and its constituents.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 37(2), 85–91.
Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.
Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia (IHP), Revised Edition 2002, Indian Drug Manufacturers Association (IDMA).