Shaliparni (Shaliparni (Sthira, Saumya, Triparni, Pivari, Guha))
Shaliparni, or Desmodium gangeticum, is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used as a tonic, febrifuge, digestive, antiemetic, astringent, anti-asthmatic, and anti-inflammatory agent. Modern research explores its potential in respiratory health, inflammation, and analgesia.
Botanical name: Desmodium gangeticum. Also known as: Vidarigandha, Anshumati, Shalaparni, Sarivan, Salaparni, Shalapani, Salavan, Shalavan, Gitanaram, Kolakuponna, Nakkatokaponna, Pulladi, Moovilai, Pullati, Moovila, Nariyalavona, Murele honne, Sal Leaved Desmodium, Salparni, Salpunja.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Bronchodilator
Dosage
General Dosage: Dosage can vary based on age, health condition, and medical advice. It's best to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner before use. Powder: 1-3 grams per day with warm water or honey. Some sources suggest 3-5 grams. Decoction (Kwath): 15-30 ml once or twice daily on an empty stomach. Another source suggests boiling 1 tsp in water and filtering before use, but advises expert consultation. Some suggest 4-6 teaspoons of Kwath mixed with equal parts water, once or twice a day after light meals. Capsules: 1-2 capsules daily after meals with water.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Madhura, Tikta
- Virya: ["Ushna"]
- Vipaka: ["Madhura"]
Benefits
- Vatahara
- Pittahara
- Kaphahara
- Shothahara
- Jwarahara
- Atisaraghna
- Kasahara
Traditional uses
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Dyspnea
- Diarrhea
- Bronchitis
- Gout
- Hypertension
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Powder (Churna): Dry the Shalparni root, then grind it into a powder. This can be consumed with warm water or honey.
- Decoction (Kwath): Boil Shalparni powder in water until the volume is reduced. For example, ½-1 teaspoon of powder in 2 cups of water, boiled down to ½ cup.
- Topical Paste: Apply a paste to affected areas for skin conditions. This can be made using the powder mixed with plain water or rose water.
- Herbal Formulation: Shalparni is a key ingredient in Dashamoola Kwath and Rasayana combinations.
- Other Preparations: The juice of the roots or decoction of leaves can be used.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy: Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before use, especially in high doses.
- Interaction with Western Medicines: Seek your doctor's advice if taking Shalparni with allopathic medicines.
- Drug interactions: Shalparni may potentiate antihypertensives; monitor blood pressure if combining.
- Dosage: Consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner before use to determine the correct therapeutic dosage.
Side effects
- It is important to use Shalparni under professional guidance.
- Avoid using Shalparni during breastfeeding or pregnancy.
- Shalparni may lower blood sugar levels, so it should be used with caution in people with low blood sugar or those taking antidiabetic drugs.
- Discontinue use if any adverse reaction occurs. Allergic and irritant skin reactions are possible.
- High quantities might lead to gastrointestinal upset.
Interactions
- Shalparni may interact with prescription medications; therefore, a physician should be consulted before use. It may potentiate antihypertensives, so blood pressure should be monitored if combining.
- Seek your doctor's advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic / modern) medicines. If both Ayurvedic and allopathic medicines are advised together, then it is best to take Allopathic medicine first, wait for 30 minutes and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.
- Generally, Shalparni does not react with homeopathic medicine and goes well with most dietary supplements. However, if you are taking more than one product per day, please consult your doctor.
Clinical evidence
Limited clinical trials suggest potential therapeutic benefits for bronchitis, gout, and hypertension. A pilot trial showed improvement in FEV1 in asthma patients.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Vatahara
- Pittahara
- Kaphahara
- Shothahara
- Jwarahara
- Atisaraghna
- Kasahara
Classical clinical indications
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Dyspnea
- Diarrhea
- Bronchitis
- Gout
- Hypertension