Gandali (Sarpakshi, Nadikalapaka, Ganda Durva, Matsyakshi, Shakulakshaka)
Gandali, also known as Indian Snake Root (Ophiorrhiza mungos), is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used for fever, digestive issues, and inflammation. Modern research validates its immunomodulatory and anticancer properties.
Botanical name: Ophiorrhiza mungos. Also known as: Indian Snake Root, Mongoose Plant, Sarhati (Hindi), Patalagaruda, Bili garuda paathaala, Garuda paathaala (Kannada), Avlipori (Malayalam), Mungusavela, Nagvelli (Marathi), Sarpakshi, Sarpari (Sanskrit), Kirippuntu, Kirippurantan (Tamil), Sarpaakshi chettu, Sarpaari chettu (Telugu), Chak-lambi (Kuki), Dat-ketiya (Sinhala), Wal ekaveriya (Sinhala).
Properties
Topoisomerase I inhibition, COX-2 enzyme pathway downregulation, Free radical scavenging
Dosage
Information on specific dosages is not readily available. Consult with a qualified practitioner for appropriate dosage recommendations.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Katu (Pungent)
- Virya: ["Ushna (Hot)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (Pungent)"]
Benefits
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
- Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory)
- Vishahara (Anti-toxic)
Traditional uses
- Jwara (Fever)
- Ajeerna (Indigestion)
- Visha (Poisoning)
- Shotha (Inflammation)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Leaf Extract: Wash the leaves with tap water and distilled water, dry them, powder the dried leaves, and add the powder to distilled water. Stir this mixture at 80°C for 30 minutes, then cool, filter, and collect the supernatant.
- Decoction: A decoction can be made using the roots, leaves, and bark.
- Topical Application: The bruised roots can be applied to cutaneous eruptions; the leaves can be used to dress ulcers.
Contraindications
- A thorough health history and professional oversight are essential for safe use, especially if you have chronic conditions. It's always wise to seek professional guidance before trying any new Ayurvedic remedy.
- It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to potent alkaloids. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid it.
- Children under 12 require adult supervision and should take half the adult dose.
- Persons on anticoagulant or chemotherapy medications must consult their doctor because camptothecin analogs can interact unpredictably.
- It is best to seek your doctor's advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/ modern) medicines, and some Ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine. 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.
Side effects
- No specific side effects are mentioned in the provided documents.
Interactions
- No specific interactions are mentioned in the provided documents.
Clinical evidence
While promising in vitro and in vivo studies exist, including those demonstrating immunomodulatory, anticancer, and anti-venom activity, human trials are lacking. Further research is needed to validate these effects in clinical settings.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
- Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory)
- Vishahara (Anti-toxic)
Classical clinical indications
- Jwara (Fever)
- Ajeerna (Indigestion)
- Visha (Poisoning)
- Shotha (Inflammation)
Frequently asked questions
What is Gandali?
Gandali, also known as Indian Snake Root (Ophiorrhiza mungos), is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used for fever, digestive issues, and inflammation. Modern research validates its immunomodulatory and anticancer properties.
What are the benefits of Gandali?
Deepana (Appetizer). Pachana (Digestive). Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory)
How is Gandali used in Ayurveda?
Leaf Extract: Wash the leaves with tap water and distilled water, dry them, powder the dried leaves, and add the powder to distilled water. Stir this mixture at 80°C for 30 minutes, then cool, filter, and collect the supernatant.