Introduction:
Kalmegh is also known as known as andrographis paniculata; it is a seasonal herb native to India and Sri Lanka. It is one of the most popular medicinal plants used traditionally for the treatment of diseases such as cold, fever, diabetes, hypertension, ulcer, bronchitis, skin diseases, diarrhea, and malaria. In the Indian system of medicine, Kalmegh is also widely used for its anti-fertility, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-stimulatory properties.
Health benefits of Kalmegh:
It helps with the common cold
It is believed that taking Andrographis or Kalmegh alone, or as part of an herbal combination product is likely to improve cough and sore throat in some people.
It can ease osteoarthritis
Taking Andrographis or Kalmegh extract daily helps to reduce pain and stiffness in people with mild or moderate osteoarthritis of the knee.
It is loaded with antioxidants
Kalmegh is loaded with antioxidants and polyphenols that may help to fight the harmful free radicals in our body. This, in turn, seems to protect the body cells from harmful bacteria and viruses.
Kalmegh has anti-inflammatory properties
The anti-inflammatory properties of Kalmegh potentially allow the body to fight infections effectively. Moreover, this herb may also help the body to repair tissue damage, and thus proves to be extremely useful. Kalmegh also helps to reduce swelling and pain caused by inflammation in the body.
It aids the digestive system
Kalmegh helps to effectively manage digestive problems like loss of appetite. It may also help to improve the digestive fire as well as liver functions.
It’s a great liver Tonic
Kalmegh also helps in the management of liver problems. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and liver protective properties, and may help to prevent the damage of liver cells caused by free radicals.
Kills intestinal worms
It is believed that Kalmegh helps in killing intestinal worms and supporting good intestinal health.
It has anti-acne properties:
Kalmegh also helps to treat skin ailments with its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Loaded with antioxidants, Kalmegh also helps in fighting harmful free radicals that are responsible for various health and skin ailments.
Antibacterial properties
The anti-bacterial properties in Kalmegh may allow the body to fight bacterial infections. Although Kalmegh appears to have weak direct antibacterial action, it may possibly have beneficial effects in reducing diarrhea and symptoms arising from bacterial infections.
Anti diabetic properties:
Andrographolide in Kalmegh helps reduce blood glucose levels. It may help in the release of insulin from the pancreatic cells, thus promoting the utilization of glucose. Since it is loaded with antioxidants, Kalmegh may also help in lowering the risk of diabetic complications.
Detox and skin cleansing
Studies suggest Kalmegh has blood purifying properties. It may help remove toxins from the blood, and manage skin diseases.
Antiviral properties
Studies suggest that Andrographolide in Kalmegh has antiviral properties. In fact, China mandated the use of andrographis by all doctors to overcome corona virus
Conclusion:
Today, Kalmegh is used all over the world. The plant still grows natively in India and is useful for more than just immune support. The dry and penetrating properties of the herb help to loosen the dense phlegm caused by increased kapha, and it also reduces pitta and kapha in the head and chest, helping to maintain a normal body temperature.
In addition, it potentially promotes a healthy respiratory tract, sinuses and throat, and may also be used externally to help balance excess pitta in the skin that causes skin ailments. A final word of caution, please consult your healthcare provider before using Kalmegh in any form.