Matsyakshi (Bahalika, Matsyagandha, Matsyadani, Gandali, Shakulakshaka)

About

Matsyakshi (Alternanthera sessilis) is an Ayurvedic herb known for its absorbent and cooling properties. It is traditionally used to alleviate skin diseases, balance Pitta and Kapha doshas, and purify blood disorders. Modern research suggests potential benefits in wound healing, liver protection, and blood sugar regulation.

Properties

Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory activity, Antimicrobial activity, Hypoglycemic effects, Epithelial regeneration

Dosage

Fresh Juice: 10-20 ml Decoction: 15-30 ml daily Powder: 3-7g

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Madhura (sweet), Tikta (bitter)
• Virya: ["Sheeta (cooling)"]
• Vipaka: ["Madhura (sweet)"]

Benefits

• Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
• Raktapittahara (blood purifier)
• Vranaropana (wound healing)
• Rasayana (rejuvenative)

Traditional uses

• Twak roga (skin diseases)
• Rakta vikara (blood disorders)
• Pitta vikara (Pitta disorders)
• Kapha vikara (Kapha disorders)
• Vrana (wounds)
• Daha (burning sensation)
• Jwara (fever)

Dosha effects

• vata: balancing
• kapha: decreasing
• pitta: balancing

Preparation methods

• Fresh Consumption: Can be consumed fresh as a leafy vegetable – boiled, sautéed, or as chutney.
• Juice (Swarasa): Fresh juice of the plant.
• Decoction (Kwatha): Boiling leaves in water. A general method is to add 1 tablespoon of powder to 2 cups of water, boil and reduce to 1 cup, then filter.
• Paste (Kalka): For external application on ulcers or wounds. Fresh leaves can be crushed into a paste.
• Medicated Oil: Fine paste of Matsyakshi, sesame oil and decoction of the plant are taken in 1:4:16 ratio and oil is cooked. This is filtered and used to apply to the scalp.
• Medicated Buttermilk: Fresh leaves churned with buttermilk, then cooked with pepper and salt.

Contraindications

• Concentrated extracts or high doses of its juice may cause loose stools, mild abdominal discomfort, and frequent urination.
• Use with caution in patients with hypotension, individuals on diuretic or anti-hypertensive medications, and people with chronic kidney disorders.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid therapeutic use without consultation.
• Children under 5 years old should not use concentrated forms.
• Elderly patients on multiple medications, especially blood thinners or diuretics, should seek professional advice due to the plant's mild diuretic potential.

Side effects

• Loose stools
• Mild abdominal discomfort
• Frequent urination (mild diuretic effect)

Interactions

• Due to its diuretic effect, it might enhance the action of diuretic medications.
• May help regulate blood sugar levels, so caution is advised when taken with anti-diabetic drugs to avoid hypoglycemia.

Active compounds

• Alkaloids
• Tannins
• Ascorbic acid
• Flavonols
• Triterpenoids
• Steroids
• β-sitosterol
• Stigmasterol
• Campesterol
• Lupeol

Clinical evidence

Preclinical trials and in vivo studies suggest that Alternanthera sessilis may have potential therapeutic benefits, including wound healing, hepatoprotection, antihyperglycemic activity, and anti-pyretic effects. Meta-analyses of preclinical trials and databases tracking in vivo studies show promising results.

Ayurvedic karmas

• Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
• Raktapittahara (blood purifier)
• Vranaropana (wound healing)
• Rasayana (rejuvenative)

Classical clinical indications

• Twak roga (skin diseases)
• Rakta vikara (blood disorders)
• Pitta vikara (Pitta disorders)
• Kapha vikara (Kapha disorders)
• Vrana (wounds)
• Daha (burning sensation)
• Jwara (fever)

Frequently asked questions