Pushkarmool (Pushkaramula (Paushkara, Pushkara))
Medically Reviewed by Ayuveda Clinical Team (Lead Medical Reviewer: Dr. Nitin Mohite, BAMS, MBA • Medical Logic Developer, UK • Clinical Profile • LinkedIn).
About
Pushkarmool is a potent Ayurvedic herb primarily known for its benefits in respiratory and cardiovascular health. It's traditionally used to alleviate cough, asthma, bronchitis, and congestion, while modern research highlights its hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and cardioprotective properties.
Botanical name: Inula racemosa. Also known as: Indian Elecampane, Manu, Poushkara.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Cytotoxic, Expectorant, Bronchodilator, Antioxidant, Hypolipidemic
Dosage
1-3 grams of powder per day, or as directed by an Ayurvedic practitioner. Dosage for decoctions and other preparations may vary.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
- Virya: ["Ushna (Hot)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (Pungent)"]
Benefits
- Kasahara (Relieves cough)
- Shwasahara (Relieves asthma)
- Hridya (Cardiotonic)
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
- Kapha-vata har (Reduces Kapha and Vata)
Traditional uses
- Kasa (Cough)
- Shwasa (Asthma)
- Hridroga (Heart disease)
- Aruchi (Anorexia)
- Mandagni (Digestive impairment)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Churna (Powder): Dried root is ground into a fine powder. Typically taken with warm water, honey, or ghee.
- Kwath (Decoction): Boil the root in water until the liquid is reduced. Consumed warm.
- Infused Oil: Dried root soaked in sesame oil for an extended period, used for massage.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy (due to potential uterine-stimulating effects)
- Pitta imbalance (may exacerbate heat-related conditions if taken in excess)
- Severe hypertension (use with caution due to stimulating properties)
Side effects
- Mild stomach discomfort if taken in excess.
Interactions
- Consult a doctor if taking with other Western (allopathic/modern) medicines. It is advisable to take allopathic medicine first, wait for 30 minutes, and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.
Active compounds
- Alantolactone
- Isoalantolactone
- Flavonoids
- Polysaccharides
- Essential oils
- Alkaloids
- Phenolic compounds
- Terpenoids
Clinical evidence
Clinical trials suggest that Pushkarmool possesses hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and cardioprotective properties. Studies on animals suggest improvement in cardiac ischemia. A clinical trial combining Pushkarmool with Guggulu and Arjuna showed positive results in lipid profile and cardiovascular risk factors.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Kasahara (Relieves cough)
- Shwasahara (Relieves asthma)
- Hridya (Cardiotonic)
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
- Kapha-vata har (Reduces Kapha and Vata)
Classical clinical indications
- Kasa (Cough)
- Shwasa (Asthma)
- Hridroga (Heart disease)
- Aruchi (Anorexia)
- Mandagni (Digestive impairment)
Frequently asked questions
What is Pushkarmool?
Pushkarmool is a potent Ayurvedic herb primarily known for its benefits in respiratory and cardiovascular health. It's traditionally used to alleviate cough, asthma, bronchitis, and congestion, while modern research highlights its hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and cardioprotective properties.
What are the benefits of Pushkarmool?
Kasahara (Relieves cough). Shwasahara (Relieves asthma). Hridya (Cardiotonic)
How is Pushkarmool used in Ayurveda?
Churna (Powder): Dried root is ground into a fine powder. Typically taken with warm water, honey, or ghee.
Classical & Scientific References
- Classical monographs on Pushkarmool in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu and Dravyaguna Vijnana.
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.
- Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana Ch. 4 — Dravyadi Sangrahaniya) & Sushruta Samhita.
Published by herbs.directory