Nirgudi (Indian privet)
Nirgudi (Indian privet) or Nirgundi is an Ayurvedic herb that grows in India. A few plants that are effective against various diseases and pains include Niragudi; For muscle relaxation, reducing pain and inflammation, rheumatism, skin diseases, headaches, etc. In Ayurveda, Niragudi is given along with Shilajita for all types of diseases.
Nirgudi is a plant belonging to the family Lamiaceae and its scientific name is Vitex nigundo. It is an aromatic and medicinal plant. Basil, sabja plants also belong to Lamiaceae family. Nirgudi is native to East and South Africa and warm regions of Asia and is found in Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Philippines. It is often seen growing on the banks of reservoirs and grassy areas.
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Nirgudi Shrub or small tree erect, 2–8 m. grows tall. Its trunk is pale brown. The leaves are jointed and finger-shaped with leaflets 3–5 and lanceolate. Each leaflet 2.5–4 cm. long and the middle leaf is the largest and is attached to the stem. Main stem 2–5 cm. is long The edges of the leaves are toothed and the lower side of the leaves has lobes. The pods are dark green above and whitish below. Flowers come in clusters. It is small and bluish white and the flower petals are of different sizes. Fruits succulent, oblong, 4 mm. And they are round in shape. They turn black or purple when ripe.
Nirgudi is used in traditional medicine in South and Southeast Asia. This plant contains castesin, isoorientin, chrysophenol, fuctose, luteolin etc. as major components. Animal studies have found that this plant has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and analgesic properties. Its leaves are used to repel mosquitoes. The leaves and fruits are anthelmintic and the juice of the leaves is effective against ulcers. The roots are expectorant, antipyretic and nutritious. In the Philippines, it is used to protect stored garlic from pests. The wood is used for burning and the flexible wood from the trunk of some species is used for weaving baskets. It is used for decoration and fencing.
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Benefits of Nirgundi
The health benefits of Nirgudi (Indian privet) are many, which we are detailing below. Just keep in mind that Nirgundi should be used to prevent physical problems. It cannot be relied upon for the treatment of serious illness. For this it is necessary to contact the doctor.
1. To reduce swelling
The use of nirgundi can be beneficial in the problem of swelling. According to a research published on NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information) website, it has anti-inflammatory properties. This effect may be helpful in reducing inflammation. It can also relieve arthritis. Swelling in the joints is also a symptom of arthritis. This is why it is considered effective for inflammation.
2. For headache
Nirgudi (Indian privet) has also been used for years to relieve headache problems. Research on this topic shows that nirgundi leaves have analgesic properties. Due to this effect it can reduce headache.
3. Menstruation
Nirgundi can also be used to regulate the menstrual cycle. According to research conducted on mice in this subject, Nirgundi leaves have the property of curing the condition of oligomenorrhea.
4. For women’s fertility
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) can affect fertility in women. The use of Nirgundi can be beneficial in this problem. According to a study conducted on mice, the flavonoids present in nirgundi extract have antiandrogenic effects. It can improve fertility status. It also acts as an anti-PCOS, which can improve women’s fertility.
5. For wound healing
Nirgundi may also be helpful in healing wounds. Almost all parts of its plant can be used to heal wounds. Apart from this, Nirgundi oil can also heal acne scars. It has wound healing and healing properties. Also, it is rich in antibacterial effect, which can kill the bacteria growing in the wound.
6. Sexual health
Nirgundi is also used to increase sexual potency. Research shows that it can improve sexual performance and erectile dysfunction in men. However, research also mentions that the juice of its leaves can reduce sexual feelings. For this reason, use it on the advice of a specialist.
7. For breastfeeding
Apart from curing health related problems, Nirgundi can also help in increasing breast milk supply. One study found that Nirgundi can increase breast milk production when taken in small amounts. At the same time, if it is consumed in excess, it can reduce the amount of milk produced (10). What quality of nirgundi helps in milk production is the subject of research.
8. Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis. Nirgundi is also considered beneficial in reducing this problem. Actually, gout is an inflammatory disease. Oil made from its leaves, Nirgundi seeds and leaf juice can all help in relieving it. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can provide relief from both gout and arthritis.
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9. For blisters
Nirgundi is also used to cure scabies. A research has revealed that its leaves have been used by people for years to make a living from barks and leaves. At the moment, it is not clear what effect it has on it.
10. For problems related to nerves
Nirgundi can also be used to treat problems related to nerves. Research has found that it can reduce nerve and inflammation. Nirgundi can also reduce the pain and swelling caused by nerve-related sciatica problems.
11. Elephantiasis (Elephant foot)
Nirgundi has also been traditionally used to cure the problem of elephantiasis. Actually, it is a bacterial infection, which can be caused by mosquito bites. Due to this, any part of the body starts growing abnormally due to inflammation
This article is for information only and consult your doctor for proper treatment.
Source – Marathi vishwakosh
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