Makhana (Makhana (Fox Nut))
Makhana, also known as fox nut or gorgon nut, is the seed of the Euryale ferox plant, a type of water lily primarily found in East Asia and India. It has a long history in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese medicine and is valued for its nutritional and therapeutic properties.
Botanical name: Euryale ferox. Also known as: Fox Nut, Gorgon Nut, Lotus Seed, Phool Makhana.
Properties
Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory activity, Regulation of blood sugar levels, Reduction of oxidative stress, Cardioprotective effects
Dosage
10-30 grams daily
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Madhura, Kashaya (Sweet, Astringent)
- Virya: ["Shita (Cooling)"]
- Vipaka: ["Madhura (Sweet)"]
Benefits
- Vrishya (Aphrodisiac)
- Balya (Tonic)
- Stambhana (Astringent)
Traditional uses
- Atisara (Diarrhea)
- Daurbalya (Weakness)
- Shukra Kshaya (Semen Deficiency)
- Pradara (Leucorrhea)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Contraindications
- Chronic constipation
- Bloating
Side effects
- Bloating if overconsumed
Interactions
- None reported
Clinical evidence
Several animal studies show promise for Makhana in areas such as anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, cardioprotection, and antidiabetic potential. However, more human clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Vrishya (Aphrodisiac)
- Balya (Tonic)
- Stambhana (Astringent)
Classical clinical indications
- Atisara (Diarrhea)
- Daurbalya (Weakness)
- Shukra Kshaya (Semen Deficiency)
- Pradara (Leucorrhea)