Gojihva (Gojika, Gobhi, Darvika, Kharaparnini)
About
Gojihva (Onosma bracteatum) is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used for respiratory, urinary, and skin health. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Modern research supports its use in wound healing and acne treatment.
Botanical name: Onosma bracteatum. Also known as: Cow's tongue, Lisanussoar, Sedge herb, Goaza, Ganjaba, Goziya, Gaozaban, Dadishaka, Yettina Nalage, Darvipatra, Gauajihva, Kharaparni, Gauji, Gaozaban.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Wound healing
Dosage
Leaf and Flower Powder: 3 to 6 grams Decoction: 30 to 40 ml Tablets: 1-2 tablets, 3-6 times a day Cold infusion (flowers and fruits with licorice): 50-60 ml Fresh juice (leaves with honey and rock salt): 10 ml
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Astringent, Bitter, Sweet
- Virya: ["Cooling"]
- Vipaka: ["Sweet"]
Benefits
- Anti-inflammatory
- Blood purifier
- Diuretic
- Febrifuge
Traditional uses
- Skin diseases
- Urinary disorders
- Blood disorders
- Dysuria
- Fever
- Bronchitis
- Jaundice
- Epilepsy
- Kidney disease
- Cardiac muscle weakness
Dosha effects
- vata: increasing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: decreasing
Preparation methods
- Decoction (Kwath): Boil 1 tablespoon of powder in 2 cups of water until it reduces to 1 cup, then filter. A decoction made from the leaf of *Onosma bracteatum* is given in a dose of 30-40 ml to treat fever and difficulty in micturition.
- Cold Infusion: Soak the leaves in cold water for some time, then filter. The cold infusion of the leaf is used as a tonic, diuretic, demulcent, and alternative.
- Powder (Churna): The leaf and flower can be taken in powder form.
- Fresh Juice (Swarasa): Fresh leaves are crushed to obtain juice.
- Ash (Bhasma): Dry leaves are burned in open air and ash is made.
- Paste: A paste of Gojihva leaves can be applied to the affected skin areas. Fine paste of leaf is applied over non-healing ulcers, with sesame oil or oil of turpentine.
- Alkaline Water (Kshara Jala): The coarse powder of the drug is soaked in potable water. This is kept for 1-2 hours and later supernatant water is decanted. This alkaline water is administered in the dose of 5-8 ml twice daily.
- Herbal Tea: Onosma Bracteatum (GOJIHVA) can be made into an herbal tea. This tea can be consumed daily, either alone or in combination with other herbal teas for added flavor and benefits.
Contraindications
- Skin Irritation: Rare contact dermatitis can occur. A patch test is recommended before widespread topical use.
- Allergic Reactions: Hives or itching may occur in some individuals. Discontinue use immediately if such reactions develop.
- Pregnancy and Lactation: Internal use should be avoided due to a lack of reliable data. Topical, low-dose application might be acceptable under professional guidance.
- Blood-Thinning Medications: Shikonin, a compound found in *Onosma bracteatum*, may potentiate anticoagulant effects. Monitor INR levels if taking warfarin.
- Cold or Damp Conditions: Its cooling properties may not be suitable for individuals with a predominance of cold or damp conditions (Vata or Kapha imbalances), unless appropriately balanced with other herbs.
Side effects
- Overcooling: Excessive use may lead to a cooling effect on the body, exacerbating Vata-related symptoms like dryness or joint stiffness.
- Hypotension: Gojihva's cooling properties might lower blood pressure, potentially causing dizziness or fatigue in hypotensive individuals.
- Allergic Reactions: Rare cases of hypersensitivity may occur, resulting in skin rashes or gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Pregnancy and Lactation: Its strong cooling nature may not be suitable during pregnancy, as it could interfere with normal physiological heat levels.
- May not be suitable for individuals with a predominance of cold or damp conditions (Vata or Kapha imbalances) unless appropriately balanced with other herbs.
Interactions
- Gojihva may interact with diuretics or medications affecting kidney function.
- It's best to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you are taking medications.
Active compounds
- Alkannin
- Shikonin
- Flavonoids
- Saponins
- Tannins
- Resins
- Glycosides
- Phenolic compounds
- Carbohydrates
- Lycopsamine
- Supindine viridiflorate
- Onosmone
- Rosmarinic acid
Clinical evidence
Limited clinical trials are available. A clinical pilot study showed the efficacy of Ratanjot gel in reducing acne lesions. An animal study demonstrated improved wound healing with Gojihva extract.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Anti-inflammatory
- Blood purifier
- Diuretic
- Febrifuge
Classical clinical indications
- Skin diseases
- Urinary disorders
- Blood disorders
- Dysuria
- Fever
- Bronchitis
- Jaundice
- Epilepsy
- Kidney disease
- Cardiac muscle weakness
Frequently asked questions
What is Gojihva?
Gojihva (Onosma bracteatum) is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used for respiratory, urinary, and skin health. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Modern research supports its use in wound healing and acne treatment.
What are the benefits of Gojihva?
Anti-inflammatory. Blood purifier. Diuretic
How is Gojihva used in Ayurveda?
Decoction (Kwath): Boil 1 tablespoon of powder in 2 cups of water until it reduces to 1 cup, then filter. A decoction made from the leaf of *Onosma bracteatum* is given in a dose of 30-40 ml to treat fever and difficulty in micturition.
Published by herbs.directory