The botanical name of Kalmegh is Andrographis paniculata which belongs to the family Acanthaceae. It is commonly called Green chireyta, Bhunimba and King of Bitter. It is one of the important Ayurvedic herbs. It has various health benefits. Whole plant is used as a medicine. The herb contains various chemical constituents such as andrographolide and kalmeghin.
Kalmegh is found throughout India. According to Ayurveda, the herb is described as hepatoprotective and antipyretic. In Shushruta Samhita, the herb’s cold infusion is mentioned for cure of liver disorders and fever. In Charaka Samhita, the herb is recommended for cure of jaundice. Various actions of the herb and its health benefits are discussed in this article.
Ayurvedic Properties of Kalmegh
Kalmegh has the following Ayurvedic properties:
- Acrid
- Bitter
- Laxative
- Cooling
- Vulnerary
- Antiperiodic
- Antipyretic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anthelmintic
- Expectorant
- Soporific
- Digestive
Health Benefits of Andrographis paniculata
Various health benefits of Kalmegh are given as follows:
- Blood Purification — Kalmegh herb is used as a blood purifier. Hence, it is used for treatment of various liver disorders like dyspepsia, jaundice, torbid liver, febrifuge, dermatological diseases and it is also an anthelmintic. It also prevents clotting of blood.
- Detoxifier — The herb is used to eradicate body heat and remove toxins from the body.
- Anti-bacterial — Kalmegh herb is an anti-bacterial.
- Pain Reliever — The herb is an excellent pain reliever as it has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used to bring down the body temperatures.
- Cancer — Kalmegh is also beneficial in fighting against cancer.
- Diabetes — The herb is also used to cure diabetes.
- Kalmegh is also used to get relief from sinusitis, flu, cough, bronchitis and upper respiratory tract infections. It also improves the immunity of the body.
The above are some of the medicinal properties of Kalmegh herb.
Kalmegh when taken in higher doses can sometimes cause infertility, dizziness and heart palpitations. Pregnant women and feeding mothers should avoid taking this herb, because it has abortifacient properties.
