Kshiravidari (Kshiravidari (Ikshugandha, Kasha, Kokilaksha, Kshirini, Dudhika, Swaduparni, Vikshirini))
Kshiravidari (Ipomoea mauritiana) is a trailing herb used in Ayurveda, known for its nourishing and rejuvenating properties. It is traditionally used as a nervine tonic, anti-inflammatory, and gastroprotective agent.
Botanical name: Ipomoea mauritiana. Also known as: Ikshugandha, Ikshuvalli, Payasvini, Dirghakanda, Bhuh Kumdaa, Bhooi Kumhdaa, Giant Potato, Vidaaree kand, Vidaaree kanda, Bhuh kumdaa, Kṣīravidāri, Kiri Badu (Sri Lanka), Kṣīravidārī mūla (root).
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Gastroprotective, Nervine Tonic, Adaptogenic, Immunomodulatory
Dosage
General Dosage: 1–3 grams of root powder twice a day with warm water or honey. Decoction: 30–40 ml twice daily for ulcers. Children: Half the adult dose for children aged 6–12, but only under professional supervision. Ayurveda Cart: 5-10 gm
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Madhura (Sweet)
- Virya: ["Sheeta (Cooling)"]
- Vipaka: ["Madhura (Sweet)"]
Benefits
- Balya (Tonic)
- Rasayana (Rejuvenative)
- Stanyajanana (Galactagogue)
Traditional uses
- General debility
- Emaciation
- Lack of lactation
- Hypertension
- Ulcers
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: increasing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Powder: The root is typically used in powder form.
- Decoction: A decoction can be prepared using the root.
- Paste: A paste of root powder with sesame oil can be used externally for joint pain.
- Milk or Water: The powder can be added to warm milk or water.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy: Avoid raw latex because of uterine stimulation.
- Hypotension: Start with small doses to prevent faintness.
- Anticoagulants: Scopoletin may alter platelet aggregation—monitor closely.
- Peptic ulcer with high acidity: Prolonged use could irritate if taken on an empty stomach.
Side effects
- High doses may cause mild nausea, diarrhea, or hypotension.
- The latex can cause skin irritation or contact dermatitis.
- Avoid raw latex during pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulation.
- Use cautiously if you have low blood pressure as it may cause dizziness.
- Prolonged use could irritate if taken on an empty stomach.
Interactions
- Scopoletin, a compound in *Ipomoea mauritiana*, might affect platelet aggregation, so caution is advised with anticoagulants like warfarin.
Clinical evidence
Limited clinical trials and animal studies suggest potential benefits for hypertension, sleep improvement, and gastroprotection. More research is needed to confirm these findings in humans.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Balya (Tonic)
- Rasayana (Rejuvenative)
- Stanyajanana (Galactagogue)
Classical clinical indications
- General debility
- Emaciation
- Lack of lactation
- Hypertension
- Ulcers