In the Ayurvedic medical system, Argyreia speciosa Sweet (Family: Convolvulaceae) is a significant ‘rasayana’ herb that is widely utilized as an adaptogen. In English, it is usually referred to as Hawaiian Baby Woodrose, Elephant Creeper or Woolly Morning Glow; in Sanskrit, it is known as Vridhadaraka, which means ‘anti-ageing.’ [3] The Vriddhadaru plant is a climbing vine. Due to their therapeutic qualities, the plant’s stems, roots, and leaves are all employed in Ayurvedic medicine contributing to overall healing. [1]
In this article, we will explore the benefits of the vidhara plant also known as vriddhadaru, its properties, side effects, precautions and more!
Vriddhadaru & Its Role In Ayurveda
Due to its rose-purple flowers and green foliage, the vidhara plant is grown as an ornamental in gardens and also used to enhance the asthetic value in various houses. This plant is found throughout India up to a 500-meter altitude. Bengal, Assam, Orissa, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Kerala are among the states where the plant is widespread. The plant grows best in damp areas like lakeshores and riverbanks.
Ayurveda lists numerous vidhara benefits. The vidhara plant has a wide range of bioactivities, including antiulcer, antitumor, antidiabetic, hypoglycemia, hypotensive, spasmolytic, anti filarial, antibacterial, and CNS depressive properties. Additionally, it is well known for its diuretic, anabolic-androgen aphrodisiac, antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties.[3]
What is Vriddhadaru?
Vriddhadaru is a creeper plant widely found in the Indian subcontinent. It is used as an ornamental plant due to its distinct colour of flowers. It is also consumed as a vegetable in a few parts of India.
Ayurveda mentions various vriddhadaru benefits such as its use in the management of diabetes, hypertension, and anoxeria. The vidhara root benefits include its consumption as a health tonic. It is also used in cases of rheumatism and neurological disorders. [3]
Identifying Vriddhadaru
The Vriddhadaru plant thrives in diverse environments, commonly flourishing near riverbanks, lakeshores, and slightly moist areas. It also adapts to semi-deciduous forest regions, often as undergrowth. Initially, it takes the form of a bush during the first two years of growth but later transforms into a robust woody climber. These climbers can ascend to heights exceeding 10 meters. Characterized by ovate leaves, they measure approximately 20-25 cm in width and 20-30 cm in length. The lower surface of the leaf is entirely covered with hair, which gives the leaf a silvery soft woolly appearance. The vidhara plant blooms with striking purple to rose-colored flowers, resembling large funnels. The thin roots are usually 2-4 mm in diameter and show a somewhat smooth brownish exterior. [4]
Properties & Facts About Vriddhadaru
Since time immemorial, Ayurveda mentions vidhara uses. The following are some of the properties of the vidhara plant.
- Beneficial in the management of fever, cough, dyspnea, rheumatoid arthritis, edema, and aggravated Vata.
- The leaves are used to treat wounds and conditions like allergies and skin infections since they have antibacterial and antifungal qualities.
- The plant has powerful digestive qualities.
- It supports a healthy metabolism and aids in controlling bowel movements.
- Manages obesity.
- Functions as a nerve tonic and aids in the treatment of nervous system disorders such as rheumatism and anxiety.
Vriddhadaru Health Benefits
The following are the various health benefits of the vidhara plant.
- Effects of Vriddhadaru on Brain
One of the vidhara root benefits include a significant impact on brain health. Research indicates that when the root extract is dissolved in water and administered at doses of 100 and 200 mg per kilogram of body weight, it notably enhances memory. It also effectively counters memory loss caused by substances like diazepam, scopolamine, and even natural ageing. Furthermore, it reduces the level of acetylcholinesterase in the brain, suggesting its ability to alleviate learning and memory impairments.[3]
- Antimicrobial Effects of Vriddhadaru
The seed oil of the vriddhadaru plant possesses antifungal and antibacterial properties. The seed has antiseptic properties against a variety of phytopathogenic fungi and bacteria. Research indicates that the ethyl acetate fraction found in the seed and flavonoid sulphates, namely quercetin 3’7 di-O methyl 3-sulphate and kaempferol 7-O methyl 3-sulphate, were efficient in preventing the growth of the bacteria that cause tuberculosis.[3]
- Vriddhadaru as Aphrodisiac
One of the vriddhadaru benefits for male is its aphrodisiac property. The Vidhara plant is efficient in increasing the sex drive, at the same time several studies found that vriddhadaru benefits for male can include treating and managing conditions such as functional impotence, premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and spermatorrhoea, without having any negative side effects.
- Vriddhadaru an Anti-Oxidant & Anti-Inflammatory
Studies indicate that both the roots and leaves of the Vidhara plant possess anti-inflammatory properties and act as analgesics, reducing pain. Additionally, research suggests that the leaf extract of Vriddhadaru is as effective as aspirin in relieving pain. Consumption of Vidhara powder benefits include enhancing the body’s resistance to various forms of stress and boosting the immune system.
- Effects of Vriddhadaru on Liver
The vriddhadaru plant is useful in promoting liver health and reducing liver damage. The leaves of the vidhara plant may be utilized as a herbal cure to treat liver ailments due to its hepatoprotective properties.
- Benefit of Vriddhadaru in Diabetes
Due to the plant’s strong anti-diabetic qualities, consuming vriddhadaru roots may help lower blood sugar levels in both healthy and diabetic individuals. It has been demonstrated that topical use of the leaf extract accelerates the healing of diabetic wounds, which typically take longer to heal.
- Other benefits of Vriddhadaru
The following are some of the other benefits of the vidhara plant
- In order to treat cuts and wounds, the leaves can be warmed and then applied to the affected area.
- Vidhara leaves can be additionally useful for treating bed sores.
- Vidhara plant can also be used for the treatment of internal bleeding caused by any kind of disease, colitis, and ulcers.
- This plant is useful for treating dog bites as well.
Precautions While Using Vriddhadaru
- Before adding Vidhara to your routine, consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner is advisable.
- During pregnancy and lactation, it’s generally recommended to avoid Vidhara due to limited studies on its effects on the fetus or nursing infant.
- Following the recommended dosage provided by an Ayurvedic expert is crucial, as excessive consumption may result in undesirable effects.
- Additionally, it’s important to note that allergies are common to plants in the Convolvulaceae family, such as sweet potato or morning glory.
Side Effects of Vriddhadaru
Although there are no major side effects of the Vidhara plant, a few things need to be kept in mind while consuming it.
Vidhara may result in nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, among other gastrointestinal discomforts. Vidhara has mild sedative qualities and may make you drowsy.
Conclusion
The Vidhara plant is a cherished gem in the realm of ornamental foliage that also boasts remarkable health benefits according to the principles of Ayurveda. Beyond its aesthetic charm, Vidhara mool benefits include its ability to combat stress and foster mental wellness.
Disclaimer
The information mentioned here is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be an alternative to medical treatment by a medical practitioner. Please consult a professional medical practitioner before any dietary modifications.
FAQs:
Is Vidhara safe?
Moderate consumption of Vidhara is generally safe, but excessive intake may lead to adverse effects.
How much to consume Vidhara?
There are several methods to use Vidhara Mool in your daily routine: you may drink it as a tea or as a supplement, or you can add it as a spice to your meals. To tailor the dosages to your needs, it is advised that you consult your healthcare professional.
References:
- The Traditional Importance of the Argyreia Speciosa Sweet Gabrie Gazzani. : 02-Jan-2024, DOI: 10.35248/2167-0412.23.12.468
- Hypoglycaemic Effect of Vriddhadaru [Argyreia nervosa (Burm. f.) Boj.] in Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rabbits. January 2016
- Medicinal uses and biological activities of Argyreia speciosa Sweet
(Hawaiian Baby Woodrose) An Overview. Ancy Joseph, Samuel Mathew, Baby P Skaria and E C Sheeja. 2010
