All posts by Dr. Rajesh Vishwanathan

About Dr. Rajesh Vishwanathan

Hi, I am Dr. Rajesh Vishwanathan. I am a Family Physician with a deep interest in Diabetes and Alternative Medicine. I live and practice in Mumbai, India. My aim is to make the world a better place by introducing Alternative medicine with the main stream, so as to have an Integrative System of Medicine, that is both gentle and holistic.

Shalparni: an Ayurvedic herb.

Introduction:

Shalparni is one of the most powerful herbs used in the traditional system of Ayurveda that fosters indispensable medicinal and therapeutic benefits. The leaves of Shalparni resemble the leaves of Shaala, hence it is also known as Shaalparni. The root of this plant is one of the herbs in Dashammola laden with numerous ayurvedic properties.

This herbal plant is known by different names in vernacular Indian languages:

  • Hindi – Sarivan,Salaparni
  • Sanskrit – Vidarigandha, Anshumati , Shalaparni
  • Bengali – Shalapani
  • Marathi – Salavan
  • Gujarati – Shalavan
  • Telugu – Gitanaram, Kolakuponna, Nakkatokaponna
  • Tamil – Pulladi, Moovilai
  • Malayalam – Pullati, Moovial
  • Kannada Nariyalavona, Murele honne
Health Benefits of Shalparni
Remedies Bronchitis

Shalparni is extremely valuable in controlling bronchitis.  According to Ayurvedic medicine, bronchitis is termed Kasroga and it is caused by poor digestive function. The potent Ushna and Kapha pacifying nature of Shalparni herb reduces Ama and gets rid of excess mucus from the lungs, thereby offering respite from the symptoms of bronchitis.

Digestive Health

Shalparni is well-known to enhance gut health and offer relief from gastritis, diarrhoea, nausea and flatulence is also suggested for the management of anorexia. Further, this herbal formulation helps to treat peptic ulcers, by lessening acid secretion and increasing the release of mucins that safeguards the intestinal lining and cells.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a disorder where disruption of Vata dosha and accumulation of Ama (toxic remains) takes place in the joints. The Ama gets accumulated in the joints resulting in severe joint and muscle pain. Shalparni extracts help to reduce Ama owing to its Ushna potency and vata balancing property. Thus, regular use of this herbal

Medicine offers respite from the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis such as pain and swelling in the joints.

Male Reproductive Health

This powerful herbal supplement is highly suggested for boosting men’s reproductive health. Shalparni is attributed to possessing Vrishya (aphrodisiac) traits that augment male sexual performance by increasing the blood flow to the penis and improving the quality and quantity of semen. Furthermore, taking this supplement helps to correct premature ejaculation and promotes vitality and strength.

Treats Headache

Topical application of Shalparni aids in easing headaches caused due to stress. The vata pacifying nature of Shalparni is valuable in relieving pain and relaxing the strained muscles. Applying Shalparni leaves powder or juice extract on the forehead alleviates headache and fatigue-related symptoms.

Precautions

Shalparni may be involved in allergic and irritant skin reactions, so it is advisable to consult with your ayurvedic practitioners before taking it. There is not enough scientific evidence on the effects of Shalparni during pregnancy or lactation period, it is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using this herbal extract without medical supervision. Also, there is no reliable information on its effects on managing diabetes. So, consult your doctor before taking Shalparni in case of diabetes.

Medicinal uses of Datura plant.

Introduction:

Datura is a plant species that has many powerful medicinal values when consumed raw. It can be widely used to treat many diseases in folk medicine.   Datura is the one in nine poisonous plants, but it also has many health benefits. The leaves, fruits, roots, flowers, and stem of this plant contain different medicinal values and have been used to treat diseases since ancient times.

It has lots of powerful properties that help to treat pain during the surgery and the symptoms related to asthmatic conditions. It is a powerful narcotic plant that provides numerous health benefits.  It helps to treat fever, stimulate sleep, promote the functioning of the heart, relieve pain, and improve fertility and hair growth.

Medicinal Properties of Datura

  • Antispasmodic
  • Analgesic or Anodyne
  • Sedative
  • Hypnotic
  • Digestive
  • Expectorant
  • Bronchodilator
  • Emetic
  • Cardiac Stimulant
  • Soporific
  • Uterine Stimulant
  • Intoxicant
Health Benefits & Medicinal Uses of Datura

Treats fevers:

The Datura fruit contains powerful temperature reducing and anti-parasitic actions that help to treat many types of fever.  Thus, it prevents the severity of the infections in your body. Datura fruit also effectively cures the fever caused by cold, cough, and influenza.

Cardio-protective action:

Heart diseases are the severe diseases that occur due to many reasons. Datura contains effective values for improving heart health.   It is a powerful cardio-protective plant that contains many antioxidants, so it plays a main role in treating various heart diseases. It calms your mind, body, and heart system. 

Treats Respiratory infection:

Datura is an effective natural herb that helps to treat several respiratory diseases. It is effectively used to treat asthmatic ailments and provides the great treatment. 

The powerful anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties of Datura help to provide effective treatment for all kinds of respiratory diseases such as cold, cough, asthma, flu, and bronchitis. 

Treats insomnia:

Datura contains a powerful sedative property that helps to provide high-quality sleep by calming your nervous system. It helps to regulate the level of cortisol that is a stress hormone and reduces stress. 

Improves sexual function:

Datura is a traditional natural remedy for improving fertility in both males and females. The powerful aphrodisiac property of Datura helps to decrease anxiety and stress and induces the hormone of the reproductive system that improves libido.  It is an effective herb that promotes stamina and virility for males. Smoking Datura helps to increase sexual energy. 

Reduces the delivery pains:

Datura effectively helps to reduce the pain that occurs during delivery. Consuming Datura provides great relief from pain and mental stress.            

Helps Digestion:

The powerful carminative and digestive properties of Datura provides effective treatment for all digestion-related diseases.  The anti-flatulence property of Datura helps to treat flatulence, constipation, abdominal cramps, bloating, intestinal gas, and abdominal distension by preventing gas formation in the intestine. 

It also helps to decrease the high-level acid production in the stomach and improves the digestive system and absorption of nutrients.

Immune boosting function:   

Datura contains numerous effective antioxidants, ascorbic acid, and vitamin C that help to improve your immune system and protect your body from many infections by fighting against microbes that cause infections. 

Improves the mood and anxiety levels:

Datura contains a positive effect for improving the mind. It helps to decrease stress, calms the mind, and improves the mood by regulating the particular hormone levels in your body. 

Improves skin health:

Datura contains huge amounts of powerful antioxidants and vitamin C that helps to treat damage of oxidative free radicals that occur due to sun rays. 

It also treats various symptoms of aging, such as dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles, and spots. Datura helps to decrease, such as pimples, acne, and makes your skin glow.

Side effects of Datura:

Consuming a high amount of Datura may cause the following side effects.

  • Restlessness
  • Fever
  • Dry Mouth
  • Vertigo
  • Increases heart rate
  • Muscle stiffness

Conclusion:

Datura is an effective medicinal plant that contains many powerful medicinal properties and numerous health benefits. It provides effective treatment for several diseases such as respiratory diseases, mental disorders, skin diseases, improves digestive system, fertility, and sexual performance. Datura is safe to use when consuming the proper dosage of purified parts.

Medical benefits of Bitter melon (Bitter gourd).

Introduction:    

Bitter melon — also known as bitter gourd or Momordica charantia — is a tropical vine that belongs to the gourd family and is closely related to zucchini, squash, pumpkin, and cucumber.  It’s cultivated around the world for its edible fruit, which is considered a staple in many types of Asian cuisine.

100 grams of raw bitter melon provides:

  • Calories: 21
  • Carbs: 4 grams
  • Fiber: 2 grams
  • Vitamin C: 99% of the Daily Value (DV)
  • Vitamin A: 44% of the DV
  • Folate: 17% of the DV
  • Potassium: 8% of the DV
  • Zinc: 5% of the DV
  • Iron: 4% of the DV

Uses:                                            

Can help reduced blood sugar

Thanks to its potent medicinal properties, bitter melon has long been used by indigenous populations around the world to help treat diabetes-related conditions. In recent years, several studies confirmed the fruit’s role in blood sugar control.

Cancer fighting properties
Research suggests that bitter melon contains certain compounds with cancer fighting properties.   For example, one older test-tube study showed that bitter melon extract was effective at killing cancer cells of the stomach, colon, lung, and nasopharynx – the area located behind the nose at the back of your throat
Reduces cholesterol levels

High levels of cholesterol can cause fatty plaque to build up in your arteries, forcing your heart to work harder to pump blood and increasing your risk of heart disease.  Several animal studies found that bitter melon may decrease cholesterol levels to support overall heart health.

Improves fiber intake

Bitter melon makes an excellent addition to a weight loss diet, as its low in calories yet high in fiber. It contains approximately 2 grams of fiber in each 100-gram serving.

Bitter melon also has laxative properties, which may help to support digestion if you are constipated

Potential side effects:

When enjoyed in moderation, bitter melon can be a healthy and nutritious addition to your diet.  However, consuming high amounts of bitter melon or taking bitter melon supplements may be associated with several adverse effects.

In particular, bitter melon has been linked to diarrhea and abdominal pain.

It’s also not recommended for women who are pregnant, as its long-term effects on health have not been extensively studied.

Due to its impact on blood sugar, you should consult with your healthcare provider before eating it if you’re taking any blood sugar-lowering medications.

Also, talk with a healthcare professional before supplementing with bitter melon if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications, and be sure to use as directed.

Conclusion:

Bitter melon is a fruit in the gourd family with a unique appearance and flavor. It’s not only rich in several important nutrients but also linked to numerous health benefits, including improved blood sugar control and cholesterol levels.

 People who are pregnant or on certain medications — particularly blood sugar-lowering medications — should speak to their healthcare provider before consuming high amounts or taking supplements.

An Ayurvedic plant with medicinal properties – Boswellia.

Introduction:

Boswellia serrata is an herbal resin made from the gum of the boswellia tree that holds a place of significance in many religious ceremonies in India and around the world. Also known as Indian frankincense, olibanum, and salai guggul, it has a long history of use in Ayurveda as a rejuvenative herb for supporting joint comfort and mental clarity.

Boswellia resin has a long history of use for medicinal, religious, and cosmetic purposes. Along with other frankincense species, boswellia serrata is viewed as an important source of boswellic acid, a naturally occurring constituent of boswellia often used in the pharmaceutical industry.

Benefits of Boswellia;

Joint and Bone Health. In Ayurveda, boswellia gum resin is revered for its ability to promote joint comfort and mobility thanks to its soothing, detoxifying effect on the bone tissue.  

Detoxification. Boswellia promotes healthy circulation and helps facilitate the removal of Natural toxins.  In addition to clearing blockages from the channels of the body  

 

Menstrual Comfort. Boswellia’s inherently soothing, cleansing qualities can promote a more comfortable menstrual period, especially in women with dysmenorrhoea. 

Mental Health. Boswellia is thought to open the mind and to have an effect on the sixth chakra, which is associated with deep knowledge and intuition and has a connection with the pineal gland.

Irritable bowel disease Due to the herb’s anti-inflammatory properties, boswellia may be effective in treating inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis.

Side effects:

May increase the pelvic blood supply and increase the menstrual flow. It may also cause nausea and acid reflux. Rarely can it cause skin rashes.

Contraindications:

Boswellia is not recommended for those who are pregnant or nursing. It can also be potentially unbalancing for those with weakened digestion.

Conclusion:

People throughout history have used frankincense it to improve personal satisfaction and combat various ailments. The oil’s aromatic properties are said to promote feelings of relaxation, peace, and overall wellness.

It’s also thought that frankincense can help support cellular function, so it’s often used to soothe skin and reduce the appearance of blemishes.  It has also been tried for various anti-inflammatory properties.  In recent years, researchers have looked at the possible effects of frankincense or its extract, boswellia, on certain cancers. A word of caution, please check with your health care provider before you use Boswellia.

 

Health benefits of Gotu Kola.

Introduction:

Gotu kola, scientifically known as Centella asiatica, is a perennial plant with a significant place in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Native to the wetlands of Asia, particularly in India, Sri Lanka, China, and Indonesia, this plant is characterized by its kidney-shaped leaves and small, pinkish-red flowers. Gotu kola belongs to the Apiaceae family and is renowned for its medicinal properties.

Gotu kola, considered a miracle plant revered for its exceptional medicinal properties in Asian cultures, has been used for centuries in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese medicine. This remarkable plant has gained increased recognition in contemporary herbal medicine for its versatility in addressing health concerns ranging from cognitive function to wound healing. 

Health benefits of Gotu Kola:

Improves memory and cognition

Gotu kola’s neuroprotective effects are marked, where the herb has shown promising results. The active compounds in Gotu kola, particularly triterpenoids, have demonstrated antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress in the brain. Oxidative stress is a significant factor in the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Gotu Kola has shown to protect the brain and enhance memory and cognition.

Wound healing and skin repair:

Gotu kola’s benefits for skin healing can be attributed to its rich content of triterpenoids, particularly asiaticoside and asiatic acid. When the skin is injured or wounded, inflammation and oxidative stress are common challenges the body faces. Triterpenoids in Gotu kola act as powerful antioxidants and releases wound healing substances, combating the harmful effects of oxidative stress and reducing inflammation. By doing so, they create an optimal environment for the skin’s usual healing mechanisms to operate efficiently.

Stress management:

Gotu kola exhibits anxiolytic effects by enhancing GABA synthesis. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter associated with having calming effects on the nervous system.

Enhances circulation and reduces swelling:

Gotu kola’s triterpenoids strengthen blood vessel walls and reduce capillary permeability.  These actions contribute to improved venous tone and reduced leakage of blood and fluid into surrounding tissues, addressing key issues in venous insufficiency and poor circulation. Using Gotu Kola 60-120 mg daily for 4-8 weeks results in improved microcirculatory parameters and rate of ankle swelling.

Anti aging benefits:

Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are two causes of unhealthy and premature aging. As a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, Gotu kola can neutralize harmful free radicals responsible for cellular damage and acceleration of the aging process. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the skin, Gotu kola can help protect the skin from fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, irritation, and redness.

Beneficial in Arthritis:

The anti-inflammatory properties of Gotu kola may help treat pain and arthritis.

Safety precautions and interactions:

Gotu kola has been safely used in doses of up to 180 mg daily for up to one year or 1,000 mg daily for 60 days. Gotu kola is generally well-tolerated but may cause gastrointestinal upset (oral administration) or dermatological irritation (topical use) in some cases.

Gotu kola may also interact with the following medications

  • Hepatotoxic medications
  • Cholesterol-lowering drugs
  • Diabetes medications
  • Diuretics
  • Sedatives

Conclusion:

Gotu Kola has a good concentration of triterpenoids, This makes Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is a potent herbal remedy used in traditional medicine for centuries. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can be applied to treating various health concerns, including those pertaining to the neurological, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal systems.  Future research efforts will continue to refine our understanding of this herb’s diverse applications and therapeutic potential. Gotu Kola is generally safe for use as a supplement.  Always consult with your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplement or making any changes to your diet or exercise routine.

Shankpushpi  – a wonderful Ayurvedic herb.

Introduction:

Shankhpushpi or Shyamaktanta is a perennial herb that is used for its medicinal benefits.  It helps to manage digestion and constipation due to its mild laxative property. It improves mental health and might help in managing depression due to its antidepressant activity.  According to Ayurveda, Shankhpushpi helps to calm down the brain and relieve stress as well as anxiety. It also improves memory by acting as a brain tonic.

What are the synonyms of Shankhpushpi?

Convolvulus pluricaulis, Shyamakranta, Syamakranta, Visnukranta, Speedwheel, Sankhaholi, Vishnukarandi, Vishnukranti, Krsnakranti, Shankavall, Vishnukrantha and Krishna-enkranti,

Medical uses of Shankpusphi:

  1. Poor Memory
    Shankhpushpi improves memory and concentration levels due to its Medhya (improves intelligence) property.

    2. Insomnia

Shankhpushpi helps to manage stress and insomnia by relaxing the mind due to its Vata balancing and Medhya properties.

3. Epilepsy

Shankhpushpi helps to lower the risk of epilepsy and other mental disorders due to its Medhya and Rasayana properties.

4. Indigestion and Constipation
Shankhpushpi
improves digestion and manages gastrointestinal disorders such as constipation, jaundice, dysentery, piles dyspepsia because of its mild laxative nature.

5. ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)
Shankhpushpi
improves concentration and attention span in children suffering from ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) due to its Medhya (improves intelligence) property.

Other uses of Shankpusphi

Anti-wrinkle

 Shankhpushpi oil helps in controlling wrinkles and increases moisture content in the skin. It also helps to reduce degeneration of skin cells and works as anti-aging agent.

Anti acne

Applying Shankhpushpi helps to control acne. It prevents excess sebum production, removes clogging of pores and reduces inflammation.

Premature graying and hair growth

Shankhpushpi prevents premature graying, controls hair fall and promotes hair growth.

Wound healing


Shakhpushpi helps in quick healing of wound, decreases swelling and brings back the normal texture of the skin. It also helps to reduce skin inflammation.

Conclusion:

According to Ayurveda, Shankhpushpi helps to calm down the brain and relieve stress as well as anxiety. It also improves memory by acting as a brain tonic due to its Medhya (improves intelligence) property. You can take Shankhpushpi powder along with warm milk or water to help boost memory and concentration. As always, before starting any Ayurvedic preparation it is better to consult your healthcare specialist.

The benefits of Manjistha Plant (Rubia Cardifolia).

Introduction:       

In Ayurvedic medicine, Manjistha is a blood purifying herb. It cools and detoxifies the blood, removes stagnant blood, and dissolves obstructions in the blood flow. Manjistha also helps protect gums from receding. It is also believed to have astringent and anti-oxidant properties.  It has shown that it regulates blood pressure, blood vessel constriction, and helps protect from blood clot formation. Manjistha can also be used to treat uric acid and arthritis. Combined with other products, it can treat urinary infections, diarrhea, dysentery, and chronic fevers.  Manjistha can be used to treat irregular menstruation. This herb can be used both internally and externally to bring luster to your skin and make it glow.  Manjistha also helps removes pimples, freckles, other discolorations, and promotes the healing of skin tissues damaged by injury or infection.

Uses:

Blood purifier

Manjistha is a great blood purifier. It cleanses the blood and removes all toxins from it. Symptoms of skin diseases are effectively tackled by Manjistha. It also boosts immunity levels.

Heals skin injuries

Manjistha is a medicine benefit which treats cuts and bruises on our body whereby skin tissues get damaged. Manjistha promotes the healing of skin tissues damaged by. injury or infection.

Calcium deficiency

It is useful in the treatment of rickets and calcium deficiency

Useful in skin diseases

Manjistha is important herb used in skin pigmentation or skin whitening treatment. It offers antibacterial and antioxidant properties to skin which help in skin infection, skin complexion and acne. It is also useful in treating eczema, psoriasis, herpes, dermatitis and itching of the skin due to varied conditions.

Useful in dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation)

It is useful in correcting painful menstruation in women. It is also useful in natal conditions of the uterus.

Removes gall stones                

In addition to removing gall stones, Manjistha herb cleans and regulates the pancreas, spleen, liver, and kidneys. All of these organs have a role in digestion and cleansing of the body. By regulating these organs, Manjistha indirectly promotes proper digestion and a clean bodily system.

Useful in Diabetic ulcers

Manjistha has the capability to heal diabetic ulcers. It can be consumed in the form of capsules or decoction.

Has anti tumor effects

Manjistha has the power to destroy many benign as well as malignant tumors.

Side effects of Manjistha

It is not recommended for uses during pregnancy. It can change the colour of urine perspiration, tears and breast milk. Some of the chemicals in Manjistha can rarely cause malignancy.

Conclusion:

Traditionally, Manjistha has been used in the treatment of liver fluke, maggots, dysentery, wounds, and intestinal worms in animals. Manjistha is commonly used as a blood purifier. It has many other therapeutic properties like calcium channel blocking, anti-diabetic, anti-stress, and anti-platelet. Before starting the treatment it is recommended that subjects should consult their health care provider.

Benefits of Haritaki.

Introduction:

Harad or Haritaki (Scientific name – Terminalia chebula) is known by various names across various parts of India. It has been termed as a miraculous herb by Ayurvedic experts.

This small bitter fruit that is often found in Indian households works magically to cure many ailments. It is a versatile herb and has antipyretic, antioxidant, digestive, astringent, purgative and anti bilious effects. 

Types of Haritaki (Harad)

Depending upon the habitat where it is abundantly found, the medicinal properties, as well as based on the color and shape, there are 7 different types of Haritaki.

  • Vijaya Haritaki.
  • Chetaki Haritaki.
  • Rohini Haritaki.
  • Putna Haritaki.
  • Jayanti Haritaki.
  • Abhaya Haritaki.
  • Amrita Haritaki.

Uses of Haritaki:

Improves digestion

The carminative properties of Haritaki powder facilitate digestion by increased secretion of digestive juices, increased breakdown of food, better absorption of nutrients, and improves the overall gut health, which is considered as the root cause of almost all other ailments. It relieves the symptoms of heartburn, bloating, flatulence, reflux, stomach ache, etc. It facilitates the release of abdominal gas and relieves abdominal distention.

Helps weight loss:

Haritaki powder or Harad powder flushes out toxins, improves digestion, boosts metabolism, all of which helps in losing weight easily. It burns the excess fat deposits and lowers LDL cholesterol or bad cholesterol, giving you a well-toned and slim body.

Heals wounds faster

Haritaki has been used since ancient times to help wounds heal faster and cure infections due to its potent anti-fungal, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial elements. It is also used for the treatment of various skin issues such as ulcers, sores, and fungal infections.

Increases the libido:

Haritaki is identified as a natural aphrodisiac. Owing to its Rasayana properties, it promotes sexual and reproductive health in both males and females.

Benefits the brain

The neuroprotective qualities of Haritaki powder prevent memory loss, delays the progression of dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. Haritaki is considered the organic way of promoting brain health due to its antioxidant properties. It increases focus, concentration, memory, and alertness.

Has a cardio protective effect

Haritaki is beneficial for heart health. Haritaki powder serves as a cardiac tonic, increases the strength of cardiac muscles, reduces cholesterol, optimizes functioning of cardiovascular system, and prevents fluid build-up in the body.

Manages cough well

Haritaki powder is used for treating phlegm. Haritaki powder controls the Kapha dosha and help clearing respiratory diseases arising from it. It reduces cough and clears chest and nasal congestion.

Manages Diabetes:

Regular consumption of Haritaki or Harad, activates the production of insulin from the pancreatic β-cells, regulates the secretion of insulin to lower blood glucose level.

Benefits the hair and skin

Haritaki helps in preventing hair loss. Haritaki is beneficial for hair problems like dandruff, scalp infection and hair fall. Haritaki is also used for cleansing of hair, and it promotes hair growth. 

Haritaki has been used since ancient times for treating skin allergies, acne, and ulcers. Haritaki is rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C, and nutrients like magnesium and potassium which is great for skin health. You can apply Haritaki paste on the skin, also consuming Haritaki or Haritaki Powder flushes out toxins from the body which gives an internal glow to your skin.

Conclusion:

Haritaki is one of the most beneficial, miraculous, and rejuvenating herbs in the treasure of Ayurveda that is good not just for our physical well-being but also helps enhance our spiritual growth.

Medicinal  benefits of Pineapple

One whole pineapple, a ripe, fresh tropical fruit, cut out and isolated on a white background. The prickly exterior of the raw food hides the juicy, sweet, yellow dessert treat inside. A gourmet Hawaiian meal ingredient, the crop may be grown organically for part of a vegetarian, healthy eating diet.

Introduction:

Pineapple contains nutrients and beneficial compounds, such as vitamin C, manganese, and enzymes, to help aid digestion. Eating pineapple may help boost immunity, lower cancer risk, and improve recovery time after surgery.

1 cup (165 grams) of pineapple chunks contains:

  • Calories: 82.5 kcal
  • Fat: 0.198 grams (g)
  • Protein: 0.891 g
  • Carbs: 21.6 g
  • Fiber: 2.31 g
  • Vitamin C: 78.9 milligrams (mg), 88% of the Daily Value (DV)
  • Manganese: 1.53 mg or 109% of the DV (for women) and 2.3mg or 66% of the DV (for men)
  • Vitamin B6: 0.185 mg, 11% of the DV
  • Copper: 0.181 mg, 20% of the DV
  • Thiamine: 0.13 mg, 11% of the DV
  • Folate: 29.7 micrograms (mcg), 7% of the DV
  • Potassium: 180 mg, 4% of the DV
  • Magnesium: 19.8 mg, 5% of the DV
  • Niacin: 0.825 mg, 5% of the DV
  • Pantothenic acid: 0.351 mg, 7% of the DV
  • Riboflavin: 0.053 mg, 4% of the DV
  • Iron: 0.478 mg, 3% of the DV

Benefits of Pineapple:

Promotes tissue healing

“Pineapple is the only food known to contain bromelain, an enzyme that helps your skin and tissues heal.  Consuming bromelain from pineapple might also help your skin heal after surgery or injury.

Fights inflammation

“Inflammation is a natural process that occurs in our bodies to help fight off illness, the anti-inflammatory power in bromelain can help fight inflammation and may suppress the growth of certain tumors.

Of course, eating pineapple isn’t a cancer-free guarantee. “But eating lots of colorful fruits and vegetables, including pineapple, is a good way to help prevent cancer and other health conditions.

Aids digestion

Here’s another reason to make pineapple your go-to dessert: Pineapple contains a significant amount of fiber, which is associated with better digestion. Bromelain is also thought to aid in digestion, though there’s not enough scientific evidence to say for certain. 

Relieves arthritis pain

The anti-inflammatory power of pineapple’s bromelain may provide pain relief for people with osteoarthritis.

May help with weight loss

Most weight loss experts recommend a diet rich in fruits and vegetables if you’re trying to shed pounds. But pineapple could be your diet’s best fruit friend because its enzymes just might help with fat burning.

Helps with post-workout recovery

When your muscles work hard, they produce inflammation — leading to that inevitable soreness that can sideline you for up to three days. But popping pineapple into your diet might help you get back to your training regimen a little sooner. “The anti-inflammatory power in pineapple could soothe muscles and may help them recover more quickly.

Supports heart health

Pineapples contain potassium and fiber, both of which are important for maintaining heart health.

  • Potassium helps to regulate blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
  • Fiber helps to lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.

May improve fertility

According to some studies it is seen that eating foods that are rich in antioxidants can help prevent infertility. Because free radicals can damage the reproductive system, foods with high antioxidant activity like pineapples are recommended for people who are trying to conceive.

May prevent asthma:

The beta-carotene that is found in plant foods like pineapples helps lower the risk of respiratory inflammation and asthma.

Prevents depressive illnesses:

A study found that consumption of vegetables and fruits that have a high content of nutrients may be of importance in the case of preventing depressive disorders.

Conclusion:

Benefits of pineapple (Ananas comosus) include the fact that it’s high in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C for immune system support and potassium for heart health. It’s also the best source of the enzyme called bromelain, which helps with digestion and has anti-inflammatory effects. Vitamin C is the most abundant vitamin in this fruit, while antioxidants like flavonoids and tannins within also help fight oxidative stress. Some of the positive effects of pineapple include helping normalize blood sugar and blood pressure, decreasing constipation, supporting fertility, fighting cancer, reducing inflammation of the bowels, and more.

Medical benefits of the Shatavari plant.

Asparagus Racemosus Willd

Introduction:

Shatavari is also known as Asparagus racemosus.  It is a member of the asparagus family. It is also known as an adaptogenic herb. Adaptogenic herbs are said to help the body cope with physical and emotional stress. Shatavari is a general health tonic to improve the strength of the body and is a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine.

Benefits of Shatavari:

Antioxidant properties

Antioxidants prevent free radical cell damage and also battle oxidative stress, which is the main cause of disease. Shatavari is high in saponins.  Saponins are compounds that exhibit antioxidant properties.

Anti-inflammatory properties

Racemofuran found in Shatavari and has significant anti-inflammatory properties. Its action is similar to COX 3 inhibitors and exhibits anti inflammatory properties, while being gentle on the digestive system.

 Boosts the immune system
Shatavari is used in Ayurveda as an immune booster and animal studies clearly show that it has the capacity to resist infections in animals, when judiciously administered
 Has anti-tussive properties
Shatavari root juice is a natural cough remedy. It is used extensively in West Bengal, India and is considered to be as effective as codeine.
 Helps relieve diarrhea.
It is used in folk medicine to relieve diarrhea and it also has the ability to stop castor oil induced diarrhea.
 Acts as a diuretic
It has the ability to rid the body of excessive fluid and is used in patients with congestive cardiac failure.

Treats peptic ulcer disease

Shatavari is useful in treating bleeding peptic ulcer disease and small ruptures in the esophagus and small intestine that can have devastating life threatening complications such as perforation.

Dissolves kidney stones:

Shatavari root extract prevents to formation of oxalate stones and also increases the magnesium concentration in the urine and thus help prevent stone formation
 Regulates blood sugar levels
Shatavari has spooning that stimulates insulin levels but the mechanism of action largely remains unclear.
 Anti aging properties
The spooning in Shatavari root protect skin damage due to their free radical scavenging activity and thus prevent the excessive formation of wrinkles and also prevent skin collagen break down and maintains the elasticity of the skin.

Mood elevating properties

Shatavari is used in ayurveda to tackle depression

Possible side effects of taking Shatavari:

This includes:

  • rash
  • fast heart rate
  • itchy eyes
  • itchy skin
  • difficulty breathing
  • dizziness

Conclusion:

Shatavari has been used in ayurvedic medicine for centuries. However, not enough scientific studies on humans have been done to recommend it for any medical condition. That said, it’s safe to eat it in small amounts, and doing so will allow you to reap its antioxidant and immune-boosting benefits.