Gandhapalashi (Shathi, Shadgrantha, Gandhamulika, Gandharika, Gandhavadhu, Vadhu, Prithupalashika)
About
Gandhapalashi, or Spiked Ginger Lily (Hedychium spicatum), is a Himalayan herb traditionally used in Ayurveda for respiratory and inflammatory conditions. Its rhizomes are valued for their medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects.
Botanical name: Hedychium spicatum. Also known as: Spiked Ginger Lily, Shati, Gandhapalashi, Gandha sathi, Sandharlika, Gandhamulika, Kapur Kachri, Sandharlika, Shati, Kachri, Gandha Sathi, Kapurkachri, Kapurkachali, Goul Kachora, Seenakachora, Kachora, Gandha Hoo, Katcholam, Katchooram, Valiya Kacholam, Kapurakachari, Gablakachari, Gandhasunthi, Kachur, Kachoor, Seemai Kichchili Kizhangu, Poolankizangu, Seemai chevvai, Kachuralu, Gandha Kachuralu, Gandha Kendramu, Takhellei, Kapoorkachara, Katuri, Sati, Shoyee, Sati, Banadark.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant
Dosage
In powder form, the recommended dosage is 1-3 grams daily.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Astringent
- Virya: ["Ushna (Heating)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (Pungent)"]
Benefits
- Stambhana (Astringent)
- Grahi (Absorbent)
Traditional uses
- Respiratory disorders
- Fever
- Inflammation
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Powder: The rhizome is dried and powdered.
- Decoction: The rhizome can be used to prepare decoctions.
- Paste: A paste can be made for external applications.
- Oil: The rhizome is also processed via steam distillation to extract "Kapur Kachri oil".
Contraindications
- When used in the advised dosage, no side effects have been reported.
- It is advised to avoid the usage of Shati during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Ulcerative conditions of the gastrointestinal tract (without professional supervision).
- Severe Pitta disorders like peptic ulcers.
- Pregnancy in the early trimester - use only in minimal amounts.
- Always disclose existing health conditions or medication use to an Ayurvedic practitioner before adding Kapoor Kachari/Shati to your routine.
Side effects
- Generally considered safe.
- Some individuals may experience allergies or indigestion.
Interactions
- Specific interactions of Gandhapalashi with other drugs have not been reported.
Active compounds
- Terpenoids
- Essential Oils
- Hedychenone
- Sitosterol
- Cineole
- Terpinene
- Limonene
- Phellandrene
- p-Cymene
- Linalool
- Terpeneol
Clinical evidence
Clinical trials and studies suggest that Hedychium spicatum possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, and may be useful in treating respiratory disorders, including tropical pulmonary eosinophilia.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Stambhana (Astringent)
- Grahi (Absorbent)
Classical clinical indications
- Respiratory disorders
- Fever
- Inflammation
Frequently asked questions
What is Gandhapalashi?
Gandhapalashi, or Spiked Ginger Lily (Hedychium spicatum), is a Himalayan herb traditionally used in Ayurveda for respiratory and inflammatory conditions. Its rhizomes are valued for their medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects.
What are the benefits of Gandhapalashi?
Stambhana (Astringent). Grahi (Absorbent)
How is Gandhapalashi used in Ayurveda?
Powder: The rhizome is dried and powdered.
Published by herbs.directory