Also known as Andrographis paniculata, Kalamegha or Bhunimba is one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda. It is also known as the ‘King of Bitters’, owing to its extremely bitter taste. Ayurveda mentions many properties of Kalamegha that make it an effective remedy for various diseases such as diabetes, skin diseases, cancer, etc.
According to Ayurveda, Kalamegha has Pitta and Kapha pacifying properties. Therefore, it is also highly effective in treating various gastro-intestinal and upper-respiratory tract disorders. Kalamegha is also a popular immunity-booster herb and is used to prevent allergies and infections in the body.
Benefits of Kalamegha or Bhunimba:
Kalamegha offers many health benefits to the body, making it one of the most important herbs of Ayurveda. Following mentioned are a few of these benefits.
- Reduces Chronic Inflammation:
Andrographolide, an active component found in Kalamegha, helps to reduce chronic inflammation in the body. Therefore, it is also highly effective in the management of many liver problems.
- Alleviates Nausea:
Ayurveda mentions Kalamegha or Bhunimba as an effective remedy to alleviate nausea and vomiting.
- Purifies Blood:
Kalamegha is one of the best Ayurvedic herbs to remove toxins from the blood. The Pitta balancing properties of Bhunimba further help to purify the blood.
- Eliminates Ama:
According to Ayurveda, the accumulation of Ama or harmful toxins is the root cause for a majority of diseases. Kalamegha helps to remove these toxins from the body and prevent many health complications.
- Improves Digestion:
Kalamegha is known to balance Pitta in the body. It, therefore, aids in improving the digestive fire in the body and stimulating bowel movements. It is also highly beneficial in improving appetite in the body. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of Kalamegha help to treat and prevent stomach ulcers.
- Boosts Immunity:
The immunomodulatory activity of Kalamegha or Bhunimba helps to boost the functioning of the immune system. It is considered one of the most effective herbs for boosting immunity in Ayurveda.
- Reduces Oxidative Stress:
Kalamegha is rich in antioxidants that help to fight free radicals in the body and reduce oxidative stress. Therefore, it is highly beneficial in the treatment of many chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, etc.
- Prevents Bacterial and Viral Infections:
The antimicrobial, antibacterial and antiviral properties of Kalamegha or Bhunimba helps to treat and prevent many allergies and infections in the body. According to Ayurveda, Kalamegha is a highly effective remedy for treating a common cold, flu, fever, etc.
- Treats Skin Diseases:
Owing to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, blood-purifying and Pitta-pacifying properties, Kalamegha is known to treat and prevent many skin disorders such as acne, eczema, skin boils, eruptions, etc.
- Aids in the Management of Diabetes:
Kalamegha stimulates insulin secretion and helps to lower the levels of blood glucose in the body, thereby aiding in diabetes management. In addition, Kalamegha is also rich in antioxidants that further aid in reducing the risk of diabetes complications.
- Helps in Cancer Treatment:
Kalamegha is one of the best herbs to treat cancer. It possesses anticancer activities that inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells in the body.
- Treats Rheumatoid Arthritis:
According to Ayurveda, rheumatoid arthritis is caused due to the accumulation of Ama. As Kalamegha is highly effective in removing Ama from the body, it helps to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of Kalamegha or Bhunimba help in reducing pain and stiffness in joints, improving the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
How to Use Kalamegha?
Kalamegha can be used in the form of juice, churna, powder or tablets. However, the dosage and method of consumption depend on the health condition of the person.
Side Effects of Kalamegha
Kalamegha has no adverse effects on the body. However, mild side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, diarrhoea, etc can be experienced, depending on the body constitution of the person. Therefore, it is advised to only use the herb after consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner. It is also recommended that pregnant and lactating mothers should not take Kalamegha without the supervision of a physician.
Takeaway
Kalamegha aids in the treatment of many diseases such as diabetes, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. It is also highly effective in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Therefore, Kalamegha is one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda. However, consulting a professional is recommended before using the herb.
