Kalmegh (Kalamegha)
A herbaceous annual plant, typically growing up to 1 meter in height, with a slender, erect stem. Leaves are lanceolate to ovate, 3-12 cm long and 1-4 cm wide, with entire margins. Flowers are small, white with purplish streaks, and borne in axillary or terminal racemes. Fruits are…
Botanical name: Andrographis paniculata. Also known as: Kalmegh, King of Bitters, Bhui-neem, Chirayata, Bhunimba, Bhutikam, Kattrna, Bhustrna), Kalmegha, Kirayat, Nilavembu, The Creat, Green Chireta, Indian Echinacea, Oli-kiryata, Kariyatu, Nelavepu, Kiriyattu, Bhuinimba, Nelaberu, Sambiloto, Hempedu Bumi, Chuan Xin Lian.
Properties
Bitter (Tikta), Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha), Potent (Ushna).
Dosage
Varies depending on the preparation and condition, typically ranging from 1-3 grams of dried herb or equivalent extract.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Bitter
- Virya: Hot
- Vipaka: Pungent
Benefits
- Reduces fever
- Improves liver function
- Boosts immunity
- Acts as an antioxidant
- Possesses anti-inflammatory properties
Traditional uses
- Treatment of liver disorders
- Management of infections
- Relief from inflammatory conditions
- Support during common cold and flu
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: decreasing
Preparation methods
- Decoction (Kwath): Boil 1-2 teaspoons of dried Kalmegh powder in 2 cups of water until reduced to half. Strain and consume warm.
- Powder (Churna): Finely powdered dried herb, taken with warm water or honey.
- Tincture: Standardized liquid extract, dosage as per manufacturer's recommendation.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Individuals with very low blood pressure
Side effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
Interactions
- May interact with anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications due to potential blood-thinning effects.
- May interact with immunosuppressants.
Clinical evidence
Andrographis paniculata has demonstrated significant efficacy in various clinical studies, particularly for its hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory actions. Its use in managing liver disorders and infections is well-supported by research.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Antipyretic
- Hepatoprotective
- Immunomodulatory
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Antimicrobial
- Antidiabetic
Classical clinical indications
- Hepatitis
- Jaundice
- Fever
- Cough
- Common cold
- Skin diseases
- Diabetes
Frequently asked questions
What is Kalmegh?
A herbaceous annual plant, typically growing up to 1 meter in height, with a slender, erect stem. Leaves are lanceolate to ovate, 3-12 cm long and 1-4 cm wide, with entire margins. Flowers are small, white with purplish streaks, and borne in axillary or terminal racemes. Fruits are…
What are the benefits of Kalmegh?
Reduces fever. Improves liver function. Boosts immunity
How is Kalmegh used in Ayurveda?
Decoction (Kwath): Boil 1-2 teaspoons of dried Kalmegh powder in 2 cups of water until reduced to half. Strain and consume warm.