Kunda (Kunda (Maghya, Sadapushpa))
Kunda, scientifically known as *Jasminum multiflorum*, is a jasmine species used in Ayurveda, known for its potential benefits in mood regulation, skin health, and respiratory support.
Botanical name: Jasminum multiflorum. Also known as: Downy Jasmine, Hairy Jasmine, Star Jasmine, Winter Jasmine, Kundphul (Hindi), Kunda (Sanskrit).
Properties
Modulation of GABA receptors, Upregulation of collagen synthesis, Antimicrobial activity, Anti-inflammatory activity, Antioxidant activity
Dosage
For jasmine flower tea, steep 2–3 g of dried *J. multiflorum* petals in 200 ml of hot water for 5–7 minutes. Traditionally, in Asthma, kundam flowers along with long pepper is given to drink with rice washed water (tandulodaka).
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Kashaya (Astringent), Tikta (Bitter)
- Virya: ["Shita (Cooling)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (Pungent)"]
Benefits
- Vishahara (Anti-poisonous)
- Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory)
- Dahahara (Relieves burning sensation)
Traditional uses
- Shirashoola (Headache)
- Visha (Poisoning)
- Kasa (Cough)
- Bronchitis
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: decreasing
Preparation methods
- Tea: Dried flowers can be steeped in hot water to make tea.
- Decoction: Flower decoctions are used for mild bronchitis and cough.
- Infused Oil: Jasmine-infused oils are used for hair and scalp care.
- Poultice: Kund leaves are used as poultice over wounds to promote healing.
- Aromatherapy: The essential oil can be inhaled. Jasmine scented tea is made with black or green tea by placing some Jasmine flowers in the tea and letting it sit for at least 24 hours so that Jasmine flower's aroma gets infused in the tea. Then, 225-250 ml of water is boiled first to add a teaspoon of Jasmine tea.
Contraindications
- Skin Sensitivity: Allergic dermatitis has been reported in rare cases during patch tests using jasmine oil.
- Photosensitivity: It may increase sun sensitivity, so it's advisable to wear sunscreen when using flower-infused oils on the skin before sun exposure.
- Pregnancy: Concentrated forms should be avoided during pregnancy.
- Bleeding Disorders: Use with caution if you have bleeding disorders or are on anticoagulant therapy due to potential coumarin content.
- Active Eczema: Avoid use on active eczema or broken skin as it may cause irritation.
- Hypotension: Jasmine inhalation may lower blood pressure in sensitive individuals.
- Drug Interactions: May potentiate sedatives and antidepressants. Consult a doctor before use if you are on such medications.
Side effects
- Skin irritation and allergic dermatitis have been reported in rare cases with topical use.
- Photosensitivity is possible, so sunscreen is advised when using flower-infused oils on the skin before sun exposure.
- Jasmine oil can cause contact dermatitis allergy in some people. It is advisable to use it with any other carrier oil to reduce its effect.
Interactions
- No major drug interactions are known. However, individuals on sedatives or antidepressants should consult a physician before aromatherapy with jasmine oil due to a potential synergistic CNS depressant effect.
Clinical evidence
Clinical trials indicate potential benefits of *Jasminum multiflorum* in anxiety reduction (RCTs show reduced cortisol and stress scores), collagen synthesis (in vitro studies), and hair/scalp care (community trial). A meta-analysis indicates a need for standardized extracts in future studies.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Vishahara (Anti-poisonous)
- Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory)
- Dahahara (Relieves burning sensation)
Classical clinical indications
- Shirashoola (Headache)
- Visha (Poisoning)
- Kasa (Cough)
- Bronchitis