LivAyur
April 18, 2022
Levant cotton plant, also known as Karpasa, is a medicinal plant used in many Ayurvedic treatments. It offers myriad health benefits and therapeutic uses to the body and mind. Cotton seeds are known to be excellent aphrodisiacs and nerve tonic, whereas the root bark of cotton is popular in the treatment of amenorrhea.
The root bark of cotton plants exhibits Laghu (light to digest) and Theekshana (strong and piercing) properties, whereas cotton seeds exhibit Snigdha (oily, unctuous) properties.
The Rasa or taste of the cotton plant is Katu or pungent. The root bark also has Kashaya or astringent taste.
The Veerya or potency of the root bark of the cotton plant is hot, whereas the seeds of the cotton plant are known to be Sheeta or coolant in nature.
Given these medicinal properties, cotton plants are known to be beneficial in pacifying Vata and Pitta Dosha in the body.
According to Ayurveda, the seeds of the cotton plant are used in the treatment of the following health conditions:
The root and root barks of the cotton plant are used to treat the following health problems:
Cotton plants are usually safe for consumption, but the root bark decoctions should not be used during pregnancy as they can contract the uterus. However, it can be consumed by lactating mothers or children. People with kidney problems should also avoid consuming cotton seeds or root bark.
The cotton plant is a highly beneficial Ayurvedic herb. It helps in the treatment of various diseases such as paralysis, constipation, heart problems, earache, tinnitus, etc. Consumption of cotton in the correct proportion and method can yield numerous health benefits to the body.
