Aileya (Shilapushpa, Vriddha, Kalanusaryaka, Elavaluka, Sugandhi, Harivaluka)
Pistacia integerrima, known as Aileya in Ayurveda, is a medicinal plant found in the Himalayas and surrounding regions. Its galls are valued for therapeutic properties, and it is traditionally used for various ailments, including digestive, respiratory, and skin disorders.
Botanical name: Pistacia integerrima. Also known as: Crab's Claw, Gallnut Tree, Zebrawood, Kakarsinghi, Kakra, Shani/Shringi, Karkatshringi, Kakshringi, Kakarsinga, Saraiyappottai, Shnai, Khanjar, Thoak, Kakroi, Kakring, Kakra, Kakkar, Kakarsinghi.
Properties
Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Immunomodulatory
Dosage
A general dosage mentioned is 2-4 grams. It is crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare provider or Ayurvedic practitioner for precise dosage recommendations tailored to individual needs and health conditions.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Sweet, Astringent
- Virya: ["Cooling"]
- Vipaka: ["Sweet"]
Benefits
- Antidiarrheal
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Antioxidant
- Hepatoprotective
Traditional uses
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Cough
- Asthma
- Indigestion
- Skin infections
- Fever
- Hepatitis
- Jaundice
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Extracts: Extracts can be prepared using solvents like distilled water, methanol, or ethanol. The powdered plant part (galls, leaves, bark, or roots) is soaked in the solvent for a period (e.g., overnight or for 7 days), then filtered and concentrated.
- Powder: The galls are collected, dried, and ground into a powder for medicinal purposes. This powder can be administered directly or used as an ingredient in more complex formulations.
- Decoction: A decoction can be prepared by boiling the herb in water.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Allergies to plants in the Anacardiaceae family
- Interactions with blood-thinning medications
- Lactation
- Pre-existing health conditions
Side effects
- Possible side effects include nausea or gastrointestinal upset, especially with excessive use.
- May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly those allergic to plants in the Anacardiaceae family.
Interactions
- May interact with blood-thinning medications.
- Potential interactions with other herbal supplements should be reviewed.
Clinical evidence
Limited clinical trials are available, with preliminary studies focusing on animal models. Research suggests potential antidiarrheal, liver-protective, and immunomodulatory activities. Further well-designed clinical trials are needed to validate these findings in humans.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Antidiarrheal
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Antioxidant
- Hepatoprotective
Classical clinical indications
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Cough
- Asthma
- Indigestion
- Skin infections
- Fever
- Hepatitis
- Jaundice
Frequently asked questions
What is Aileya?
Pistacia integerrima, known as Aileya in Ayurveda, is a medicinal plant found in the Himalayas and surrounding regions. Its galls are valued for therapeutic properties, and it is traditionally used for various ailments, including digestive, respiratory, and skin disorders.
What are the benefits of Aileya?
Antidiarrheal. Anti-inflammatory. Antimicrobial
How is Aileya used in Ayurveda?
Extracts: Extracts can be prepared using solvents like distilled water, methanol, or ethanol. The powdered plant part (galls, leaves, bark, or roots) is soaked in the solvent for a period (e.g., overnight or for 7 days), then filtered and concentrated.