Bandhujiva (Bandhujiva (Bandhuka, Rakta, Madhyahniko))
Bandhujiva, botanically known as Ixora coccinea, is a plant used in Ayurveda. It is traditionally used for diarrhea, menstrual problems, and skin diseases. Modern research indicates antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Botanical name: Ixora coccinea. Also known as: Jungle Geranium, Flame of the Woods, Jungle Flame, Burning Love, Bandhujivaka, Bandhuka, Raktaka, Raktapushpa, Rugmini, Rangan, Rookmini, rajana, Thetti, Techi, Chethi, Sinduram, Vedchi, Koranan, Mankana, Pendgul, bakora, Achiou, Kalsruh, Ketieu, Waish.
Properties
Antimicrobial activity, Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory activity, Anti-ulcer, Antidepressant
Dosage
Decoction (Kashaya): 3–10 g of dried root or 5–15 g of leaf material simmered in 200–300 mL water until reduced by half. Strain and sip 2–3 times daily. Powder (Churna): 125–500 mg of finely ground dried flowers or leaf in capsules, twice daily with warm water.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Astringent, Bitter
- Virya: ["Cooling"]
- Vipaka: ["Pungent"]
Benefits
- Antidiarrheal
- Antimicrobial
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Blood purifier
Traditional uses
- Diarrhea
- Painful periods
- Vaginal white discharge
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Ulcers
- Gonorrhea
- Skin diseases
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: increasing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Decoction (Kashaya): Simmer dried root (5–10 g) or leaves (10–15 g) in 200 mL water until reduced by half. Strain and drink twice daily on an empty stomach.
- Infused Oil: Macerate flowers in sesame or coconut oil for 7–10 days, then apply topically to acne, bruises, or joint pain once daily after a patch test.
- Ethanolic Extract: Powdered roots are extracted by maceration with ethanol (95%) for three days, repeating the process three times. The solvent is then distilled off.
- Ointment: Mix *Ixora coccinea* extract and clove oil in an ointment base, heating to 70-75°C with continuous stirring, then cooling.
Contraindications
- High internal doses (above 15g of decoction) may cause mild nausea or diarrhea in sensitive individuals.
- Rare cases of contact dermatitis have been reported from topical application of flower extracts. A patch test is recommended before full application.
- It may have an additive diuretic effect if taken with prescription diuretics (e.g., furosemide). Electrolyte levels should be monitored.
- Due to a lack of conclusive safety data, internal use should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation.
Side effects
- Gastrointestinal Upset: High internal doses (above 15 g decoction) can cause mild nausea or diarrhea in sensitive individuals.
- Allergic Reactions: Rare cases of contact dermatitis from topical flower extracts have been reported. A patch test is recommended before full application.
Interactions
- Diuretics: Potential additive diuretic effect if taken with prescription diuretics (e.g., furosemide). Monitor electrolytes.
- Pregnancy & Lactation: No conclusive safety data—best avoided internally. Topical use over small areas might be okay but consult your provider.
Clinical evidence
Preclinical studies, including animal and in vitro research, suggest that Ixora coccinea possesses antidiarrheal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antiulcer and antidepressant activities. Further well-designed clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects in humans.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Antidiarrheal
- Antimicrobial
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Blood purifier
Classical clinical indications
- Diarrhea
- Painful periods
- Vaginal white discharge
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Ulcers
- Gonorrhea
- Skin diseases