Ati Bala (Atibala (Rishyaprokta, Kankatika))

Properties

Anti-inflammatory activity, Analgesic activity, Antidiabetic activity, Antioxidant activity, Antimicrobial activity, Hepatoprotective activity

Dosage

Powder: 1-3 grams , or ½ to 1 teaspoon. Leaf juice and Decoction: 10-20 ml. Root Decoction: 30-50 ml, once or twice daily.

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Madhura (sweet)
• Virya: ["Shita (cooling)"]
• Vipaka: ["Madhura (sweet)"]

Benefits

• Balya (tonic)
• Vrushya (aphrodisiac)
• Dahashamaka (reduces burning sensation)
• Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
• Madhumehahara (anti-diabetic)

Traditional uses

• Diabetes
• Wounds
• Inflammation
• Respiratory disorders
• Digestive problems
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin conditions
• Piles
• Fever
• Eye problems

Dosha effects

• vata: balancing
• kapha: balancing
• pitta: balancing

Preparation methods

• Powder (Churna): Atibala can be taken in powder form, mixed with ghee or milk. For external use to promote wound healing, a paste can be made by mixing the powder with coconut oil. It can be combined with lukewarm water or honey for consumption.
• Decoction (Kwatha): A decoction can be prepared using the root, leaves or seeds. For toothaches, a decoction can be used as a mouthwash.
• Infusion: A root infusion can be used for fever and to act as a cooling agent.
• Paste: A paste of the leaves can be applied to boils and wounds.
• Medicated Oils: Atibala can be used in the preparation of medicated oils for external application.
• Bread: To treat uterus displacement, Atibala leaf powder can be mixed with wheat flour to prepare bread.

Contraindications

• Gastrointestinal irritation: Large doses of seed or root extracts may cause gastrointestinal irritation, especially in individuals with sensitive digestion.
• Hypotension/Diuretics: Those with hypotension or already on diuretics should be cautious, as the plant may mildly lower blood pressure or increase urination.
• Pregnancy and lactation: Pregnant and lactating women should avoid internal use unless prescribed, due to its potential effects on the reproductive system.
• Allergies: Since enough scientific evidence is not available for allergies caused by Atibala, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before using it.

Side effects

• Generally considered safe when used appropriately.
• Possible minor side effects include stomach upset or skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
• Large doses of seed or root extracts may lead to gastrointestinal irritation.
• In higher than normal levels, it can cause abdomen ache, headache, heartburn, nausea, or diarrhea.
• Those with hypotension or already on diuretics should be cautious.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid internal use unless prescribed.

Interactions

• With Western Medicines: Seek your doctor's advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic / modern) medicines. If both Ayurvedic and allopathic medicines are advised together, then it is best to take Allopathic medicine first, wait for 30 minutes and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.
• With Supplements: Generally, this product goes well with most dietary supplements.
• With Homeopathic medicine: This product does not react with homeopathic medicine.

Clinical evidence

Limited clinical trials and studies support the traditional uses of Abutilon indicum, primarily focusing on anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antidiabetic effects. More extensive, well-designed clinical trials are needed to validate these findings and explore other potential therapeutic applications.

Ayurvedic karmas

• Balya (tonic)
• Vrushya (aphrodisiac)
• Dahashamaka (reduces burning sensation)
• Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
• Madhumehahara (anti-diabetic)

Classical clinical indications

• Diabetes
• Wounds
• Inflammation
• Respiratory disorders
• Digestive problems
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin conditions
• Piles
• Fever
• Eye problems

Frequently asked questions