Nilavembu (Chiretta): Benefits, Uses And Ingredients

Introduction

Nilavembu is a herbal tonic that is made from herbs that helps to boost immunity and support overall body health. Nilavembu uses have been mentioned in Siddha medicine since time immemorial and it is considered helpful in fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue. Can this tonic prevent COVID-19? The Ministry of AYUSH under the Govt of India has recommended 60ml of Nilavembu decoction twice a day during these difficult times of the pandemic.

Nilavembu Kashayam best treats fever, cold and dengue. It is easy to prepare in just 25 minutes. Nilavembu Kashayam powder contains various herbs like nilavembu, vetiver, vilamichai ver, korai kizhangu, black peppercorn, ginger and sandal powder. We are going to discuss the nilavembu plant and the multiple benefits and uses of its kashayam in this blog.

Composition and Chemical compounds

Nilavembu is a potent antipyretic and expectorant herb, it has a rich concentration of diterpenoids, lactones, diterpene glycosides, flavonoids and flavonoid glycosides. The main active component is considered to be andrographolide and andrographis extract that possesses several therapeutic properties like an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, vermicidal, laxative, hypoglycaemic, hepatoprotective, digestive and cholagogue.

Benefits of Nilavembu Kashayam

Looking for natural ways to boost immunity? Nilavembu kashayam is an herbal remedy that will do you good. It is a medicinal herb that supports overall health. Here are some benefits that this Ayurvedic medicine offers.

1. Helps to Manage Blood Sugar Levels, Arthritis, Liver Diseases, and Cancer

Nilavembu helps to manage blood sugar levels and is useful for people suffering from diabetes. It also helps fight cancer and detoxifies the liver.

2. Reduces Risks of Fever

Its rich source of antimicrobial and antiviral properties helps manage all kinds of fever including dengue, typhoid, influenza, malaria, and chikungunya.

3. Helps in Arthritis

Its rich source of anti-inflammatory properties relieves inflammation in joints. It is best recommended for rheumatoid arthritis as it works well in managing its symptoms.

4. Supports Skin Problems

Nilavembu Kashayam plays an important role in purifying blood because of its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Its bitter taste helps flush toxins from your blood, relieving skin problems. It is used extensively in managing skin boils and eruptions.

5. Supports Digestion

Known for its super digestive capabilities, this herbal tonic helps to reduce the formation of gas, constipation, bloating, ulcers, and abdominal pain.

6. Helps in Ulcers

Its rich source of anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties plays an important role in managing different ulcers such as mouth ulcers, peptic ulcers, ulcerative colitis, etc.

7. Reduces Risks of Heart Problems

Its bitter taste protects the heart by strengthening heart muscles, limiting cholesterol build-up, heart blocks, blood clots, and managing blood pressure.

8. Reduces Risks of Respiratory Problems

It has been a traditional medicinal tonic that aids in good respiratory health. Its high levels of anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and anti-asthmatic properties play a vital role in cold, cough, flu, and clearing fluid in the lungs, thus helping you breathe easy.

9. Supports Immunity

This herbal tonic shields the body from germs and infections and also aids in the faster healing of body wounds. It also supports body strength and helps to relieve weakness and fatigue.

Preparation & Dosage To Be Taken

Before knowing the dosage of Nilavembu Kashayam you need to know how to prepare it at home. Here’s how you make it.

How to Prepare at Home?

• Boil 3 tablespoons (10 grams) of Nilavembu Kashayam herbal powder in 240 ml of water.
• Strain the concoction.
• Consume 60ml of it twice every day on an empty stomach
• Add jaggery or honey to boost taste. (Optional)

Based on my experience, I have observed that Nilavembu has been traditionally used for various purposes. One such use includes its potential as an antidote for snakebites and stings from poisonous insects. This makes it a valuable resource for possibly addressing dangerous situations and providing potential relief from their dangers. A snakebite or a similar injury from an animal should always be dealt with via a professional opinion.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

Dosage For Diseases

Different diseases have different dosages that can cure the severity of the problem. Here is what you need to know.

• For Chikungunya: 40ml of Nilavembu Kashayam 2 times every day before meals.
• For Dengue: 30ml of Nilavembu Kashayam along with 10ml of papaya juice twice every day.

I recently read an interesting study! Researchers were curious to know if Nilavembu might help shield mice from the harmful effects of alcohol. They discovered that certain proteins from Nilavembu showed potential in protecting the mice’s liver and kidneys from damage caused by alcohol. This suggests that these proteins may potentially offer protection against the negative effects of alcohol in our bodies as well. However, it’s important to note that more research is needed, especially on humans, to fully understand their benefits.

Dr. Smita Barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.

General Dosage for All Ages

*Best Before Meals*

• Infant (0 to 12 months): 2.5ml to 5ml
• 1 to 3 years old: 5ml
• 3 to 5 years old: 5ml to 7.5ml
• 5 to 12 years old: 7.5ml to 15ml
• 13 to 19 years old: 15ml to 30ml
• Adult (19 to 60 years old): 30ml to 60ml
• Pregnant Woman: 15ml to 30ml (On doctor’s prescription)
• Lactating Mother: 30ml to 60ml (On doctor’s prescription)

NOTE: Make sure you take the following dosage based on a doctor’s prescription.

Side Effects of Nilavembu Kashayam

When you use this herb in the right proportion, it does not cause any side effects. There are several nilavembu benefits and it is extremely effective in normalising the aggravated levels of Sama Pitta doshas and Kapha doshas in the body. However, overdosing of nilavembu can lead to sterility in both males and females. It can also cause anorexia, GI distress and emesis. It is strictly forbidden for use by pregnant women, lactating mothers and people suffering from hypotension, duodenal ulcer, bleeding disorder, hyperacidity and oesophageal reflux disease. You must consult an ayurvedic doctor before starting to take the herb if you have any health condition.

Let me highlight a potential traditional use of Nilavembu. In Tamil Nadu, it has been traditionally used for the management of Dysmenorrhea, a condition characterised by painful menstrual cramps. It is often combined with black pepper to enhance its therapeutic effects. Thus, Nilavembu may act as a natural remedy for providing relief from menstrual pain and discomfort.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Nilavembu Kashayam has loads of benefits for your body and it has been recommended by the Ministry of AYUSH to support the immune system. However, here are some asked questions that will give you an insight into this herbal medicine.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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