Ghritakumarika (Ghritakumarika (Kumari, Grihakanya, Kanya))
Ghritakumarika, known as Aloe vera, is a succulent plant with a rich history in traditional medicine. It is recognized for its therapeutic properties, particularly in skin care, wound healing, and gastrointestinal health.
Botanical name: Aloe vera. Also known as: Aloe, Ghritakumari, Ghrita-kumari, Ghṛtakumārikā, Ghṛtakumārī, Aloe indica.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Wound healing, Immunomodulatory
Dosage
There is not enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of garcinia might be. * For general use as a medicine, a quarter to half teaspoon with water, usually before food, once or twice a day, or as directed by an Ayurvedic doctor is sometimes recommended. * For improving sperm quality and regularizing periods, half to 1 teaspoon in the morning before food with half a cup of lukewarm water for 6-8 weeks has been used. * For children, a dose of 500 mg – 2 grams, once or twice daily after food, or as advised by a doctor may be appropriate.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Tikta (Bitter)
- Virya: ["Shita (Cooling)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (Pungent)"]
Benefits
- Raktashodhaka (Blood purifier)
- Vranaropana (Wound healing)
- Dahaprashamana (Relieves burning sensation)
- Pittashamaka (Pacifies Pitta)
Traditional uses
- Burns
- Wounds
- Skin diseases
- Inflammation
- Digestive disorders
- Constipation
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Topical: The gel directly from the Aloe vera leaf can be applied to the skin.
- Oral: Aloe vera juice and capsules are available for oral consumption.
- Ghee Preparation: In some Ayurvedic preparations like Kalyanaka Ghrita, the herbs are infused in ghee along with herbal water decoction. The solid waste is then filtered out.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Underlying health conditions
- Concurrent medications
Side effects
- The most common side effects include nausea, stomach discomfort, and headache.
- There have been reports of serious liver problems in some people who have taken products containing garcinia.
- Very high doses may cause diarrhea and indigestion.
Interactions
- Some Ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine. It is advised to take allopathic medicine first, wait for 30 minutes, and then take the Ayurvedic medicine after a gap of 15-30 minutes or as directed by a physician.
- Garcinia might increase a brain chemical called serotonin. Some medications also have this effect. Taking garcinia along with these medications might increase serotonin too much. This might cause serious side effects including heart problems, seizures, and vomiting.
- It is always best to seek your doctor's advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicines.
Clinical evidence
Meta-analyses of up to 10 meta-analyses and databases tracking 35+ RCTs show that Aloe vera is effective in wound healing, skin conditions (such as burns and ulcers), and may help manage blood glucose and lipid levels. However, oral use should be approached with caution due to potential side effects and drug interactions.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Raktashodhaka (Blood purifier)
- Vranaropana (Wound healing)
- Dahaprashamana (Relieves burning sensation)
- Pittashamaka (Pacifies Pitta)
Classical clinical indications
- Burns
- Wounds
- Skin diseases
- Inflammation
- Digestive disorders
- Constipation