Kumari (Kumari (Grihakanya, Kanya, Ghritakumarika, Shatapatri))
Kumari, or Aloe barbadensis Miller (commonly Aloe vera), is a succulent plant renowned in traditional medicine, including Ayurveda. Modern research focuses on its therapeutic potential via topical and oral applications, primarily distinguishing between...
Botanical name: Aloe barbadensis.
Classical attributes
- Virya: []
- Vipaka: []
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: decreasing
Clinical evidence
Meta-analyses of up to 15 RCTs and databases tracking 20+ RCTs show that topical Aloe vera is effective for healing first- and second-degree burns, and has shown efficacy in psoriasis and wound healing. Oral Aloe vera gel has demonstrated potential benefits in managing symptoms of IBS, GERD, and improving glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, though larger, high-quality trials are still needed for some indications. Studies also support its use in oral health for plaque and gingivitis.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Rasayana (rejuvenating)
- Chakshushya (good for eyes)
- Bhedana (purgative)
- Raktashodhaka (blood purifier)
- Vranaropana (wound healing)
- Dahaprashamana (alleviates burning sensation)
Classical clinical indications
- Netraroga (eye disorders)
- Rasayana (rejuvenation)
- Kushta (skin diseases)
- Agnimandya (indigestion)
- Udara roga (abdominal diseases)
- Gulma (abdominal lump)
- Pliharoga (spleen disorders)
- Yakrit roga (liver disorders)
- Vrana (wounds)