Patrakam (Patrakam (Tamalapatra, Patra))
Patrakam, known botanically as Cinnamomum tamala, is a valued herb in Ayurveda. Its leaves are used for their aromatic and medicinal properties. It is traditionally used for digestive and respiratory ailments.
Botanical name: Cinnamomum tamala. Also known as: Tamalpatra, Tejpat, Dalchini, Silkanthi, Kikoa, Kirkiria, Taj kalam, Taj kalami, Talispatri, Indian Bay Leaf, Malabar Leaf, Indian Bark, Indian Cassia, Tamaala, Patraka, Talisapatri, Pattai Illai, Tamalapatram, Pacilla, Vazhanayila, Edanayila, Akupatri, Pattaakulu, Tallishapatri, Talisha, Biryani aaku, baghāra āku, Tamalapatra, Daalchinitikki, Sambarapana, tamālpatra, Tamal patra, tejpātā, Tejapat, Daruchini, Dopatti, Tejpat, Tezpat, Malabathrum, Tej Patta, Tejpata.
Properties
Antioxidant activity, Antimicrobial activity, Anti-inflammatory activity, Modulation of blood glucose levels, Improvement of lipid profiles
Dosage
General Dosage: 3 grams (one third to half teaspoon) of Bay Leaves powder 2 times a day with water, 1-2 hours after meals. Bay Leaf Capsules: Take 2 to 4 capsules daily with warm water or as directed by your health practitioner. Each capsule contains 470mg of Bay Leaf powder. Powder with Honey: 3-5 g of Tejpatra bark powder mixed with honey for cough and asthma. Oil Extract: 3 to 5 drops for dysmenorrhea and inflammation of the uterus. 3 to 6 drops to treat health complications arising out of tuberculosis. Cold Infusion: 30-40 ml of cold infusion of the bark to improve cardiac muscle strength and stimulate renal function. Important Note: It is always advisable to consult a healthcare provider/practitioner before taking any supplement.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter)
- Virya: ["Ushna (hot)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (pungent)"]
Benefits
- Dipana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Shoolahara (pain reliever)
- Krimihara (anti-helminthic)
- Kasahara (anti-tussive)
Traditional uses
- Agni Mandya (low digestive fire)
- Aruchi (anorexia)
- Shoola (colic pain)
- Kasa (cough)
- Shwasa (asthma)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Powder: Tej Patta can be consumed in powder form.
- Herbal Tea: Boil ½ tsp of Tej Patta Powder in water and drink when lukewarm.
- Decoction (Kwath): Tejpatra is commonly used in Kwath (decoctions).
- Churna: Tejpatra is used in Churna formulations.
- Oil Extract: The oil extract of Cinnamomum tamala can be used for medicinal purposes.
- Paste: Paste of the bark can be applied to areas with swelling and pain.
- Culinary Use: The dried leaf and bark are used as a spice in many cuisines. Add a pinch of Tej Patta Powder to curries, soups, or teas.
- Inhalation: Powder of cinnamon, patra, black pepper, and cardamom can be inhaled for a running nose.
Side effects
- Hyperacidity and Oral Ulcers
- Excessive Urination and Sweating
- General precautions: Pregnant/Lactating women, children, or anyone with known pre-existing conditions should strictly take the advice of their healthcare provider.
Interactions
- Tejpatra does not react with homeopathic medicine.
- If mixing with other herbs, adjust the amount of Bay Leaves accordingly or consult your healthcare provider.
- If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on any medication, please consult a Doctor before use.
Clinical evidence
Limited human clinical trials exist for Cinnamomum tamala. Some small-scale studies have reported potential benefits for glycemic control, but the results are inconclusive due to small sample sizes and variability in study designs. Animal studies suggest potential anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidemic effects.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Dipana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Shoolahara (pain reliever)
- Krimihara (anti-helminthic)
- Kasahara (anti-tussive)
Classical clinical indications
- Agni Mandya (low digestive fire)
- Aruchi (anorexia)
- Shoola (colic pain)
- Kasa (cough)
- Shwasa (asthma)