Avalguja (Bakuchi, Somaraji, Suparnika)
Avalguja (Psoralea corylifolia) is a significant herb in Ayurveda, known for its therapeutic properties, especially in treating skin conditions like vitiligo and eczema. It contains potent phytochemicals like psoralen and bakuchiol.
Botanical name: Psoralea corylifolia. Also known as: Aindavi, Avalguja, Bakuchi, Chanderlekha, Chanderprabha, Kushthahantri, Sitavari, Somaraji, Vejani, Vakuchi, Sugandha kantak, Krishnaphala, Chandraraji, Asitatvacha, Kalameshi, Somavalli, Bakuci, Sasankarekha, Babachi, Babchi, Bavanchiyan, Bhavaj, Bakuci, Bemchi, Babchi seeds, Psoralea seeds, Malay tea, Scurf-pea, Purple Fleabane, Fountain bush, West Indian Satinwood, Bavachi, Hakuch, Latakasturi, Kakuch, Barachi, Bakuchi, Habuch, Somraji, Hakucha Veeja, Bavanchalu, Bavanchi-vittulu, Bogi-vittulu, Karu-bogi, Kala-ginja, Bhavanji, Karpokarishi, Karpuva-arishi, Karpuvanshi, Kaarboka-arisi, Karpogalarisi, Babchi, Bavacha, Babichi, Bawchi, Babichi, Babachi, Bavachya, Bavachi, Bavanchi, Bavachi, Karkokil, Karpokkari, Kaurkolari, Babechi, Baukuchi, Bavachige, Bavanchi, Bauchige, Bhavantibeeja, Bhavanchigid, Babechi, Waghchi, Vabkuchi, Ba bakhi, Babchi, Bodi-ata.
Properties
Melanogenesis induction, Anti-inflammatory activity, Antimicrobial activity, Antioxidant activity
Dosage
Seed powder: 1–3 grams per day in divided doses. Oil: For external application. Tincture: 3–15 mL/day.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Pungent
- Virya: ["Ushna (Heating)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (Pungent)"]
Benefits
- Kushtaghna (anti-skin disease)
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
Traditional uses
- Kilasa (skin disease)
- Shvitra (leukoderma)
- Kandu (itching)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: decreasing
Preparation methods
- Seed Powder: The seeds can be ground into a powder for internal or external use.
- Oil: Bakuchi oil is available for external application.
- Tincture: Tinctures can be prepared for oral administration.
- Paste: A paste can be made with water for topical application.
- Traditional Methods: Traditional methods involve grinding plant parts and extracting them into carrier oils or spirits.
- Extraction Techniques: Advanced extraction techniques like chromatography, supercritical fluid extraction, pressurized liquid extraction, and microwave-assisted extraction are also used.
- Combinations: Psoralea corylifolia is often used with other herbs in various formulations.
Contraindications
- May inhibit anticoagulating activity, use caution with anti-coagulant applications.
- White variety not suitable for people with abdominal disorders, malabsorption syndrome and hemorrhoids.
Side effects
- Volatile oils from the fruits can irritate the skin and mucous membranes.
- Seed oil may cause skin discoloration if not used in proper dosage.
Interactions
- With Western medicines: It is best to seek your doctor's advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicines, and to allow a 30 minute gap between taking allopathic and Ayurvedic medicine.
- With Supplements: Generally, this product goes well with most dietary supplements. However, if you are taking more than one product per day, please consult your doctor for an opinion.
- Homeopathic medicine: This product does not react with homeopathic medicine.
Clinical evidence
Meta-analyses of up to 5 RCTs and databases tracking 10+ RCTs show that Psoralea corylifolia is effective for vitiligo and eczema. Clinical trials support its use in other skin conditions and as an anthelmintic.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Kushtaghna (anti-skin disease)
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
Classical clinical indications
- Kilasa (skin disease)
- Shvitra (leukoderma)
- Kandu (itching)
Frequently asked questions
What is Avalguja?
Avalguja (Psoralea corylifolia) is a significant herb in Ayurveda, known for its therapeutic properties, especially in treating skin conditions like vitiligo and eczema. It contains potent phytochemicals like psoralen and bakuchiol.
What are the benefits of Avalguja?
Kushtaghna (anti-skin disease). Deepana (appetizer). Pachana (digestive)
How is Avalguja used in Ayurveda?
Seed Powder: The seeds can be ground into a powder for internal or external use.