Kshiravidari (Ikshugandha, Kasha, Kokilaksha, Kshirini, Dudhika, Swaduparni, Vikshirini)

About

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.

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.

Active compounds

• Scopoletin
• Resin Glycosides
• Lactones
• Saponins
• Taraxerol
• β-sitosterol

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

Frequently asked questions