Tejasvini (Tejasvini (Tejavati, Tejohva, Tejani, Tejaswati))
Tejasvini, known as Zanthoxylum alatum, is a herb traditionally used in Ayurveda for its potential Kapha and Vata-alleviating properties and its application in managing respiratory and oral conditions. Modern research explores its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities.
Botanical name: Zanthoxylum alatum. Also known as: Toothache Tree, Yellow Wood tree, Winged Prickly Ash, Tumbura, Napali Dhaniya, Tejbal, Tejohva, Tejasvini, Tejovati, Vanaja, Saurabha, Tejaphal, Tumburu, Tejaphalam, Tejasvini, Timur, Nepali Dhane, Gujarati, Tirmira, Faaghir, Chi-it, Mak kak, Phagir karava khandan, Kavava dahana kushada, Mukthrubi, Nepal, Timur.
Properties
Antimicrobial activity, Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory activity, Cytotoxic activity
Dosage
Seeds: 7-14 seeds for abscesses, arthritis, bruises, gastritis and swellings. Stem bark: 10-20 grams for preparing a decoction. Powdered Pericarp (Churna): 500–1500 mg daily in divided doses with warm water post-meals for digestive support. Ethanolic Extract (Tincture): 1:5 w/v, 20–30 drops twice daily (diluted in water) to manage mild pain or bloating. Essential Oil: 0.5–1% topical blend in carrier oil (sesame or coconut) for muscle aches, applied up to 3 times daily. Decoction: 3–5 g of dried pericarp boiled in 200 mL water, reduced to 50 mL, taken once daily.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Tikta (Bitter), Katu (Pungent)
- Virya: ["Ushna (Hot)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (Pungent)"]
Benefits
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
- Shoolahara (Analgesic)
- Krimihara (Anthelmintic)
- Swasahara (Anti-asthmatic)
- Kasahara (Anti-cough)
Traditional uses
- Kasa (Cough)
- Shwasa (Dyspnea)
- Mukharoga (Oral diseases)
- Vataroga (Vata disorders)
- Dantaroga (Toothache)
Dosha effects
- vata: decreasing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Decoction: Boil the bark or dried pericarp in water and reduce to the desired volume.
- Paste: A paste of the seeds or leaves can be made for topical application. The thorns can be rubbed with lemon juice to make a paste.
- Powder (Churna): The pericarp can be powdered for oral consumption.
- Essential Oil: The essential oil from the fruits can be extracted and used topically after dilution.
- Infusion: Bark and seeds can be used to make an infusion.
- Toothbrush: Tender twigs can be used to brush teeth.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy may be unsafe. It's best to avoid it during both pregnancy and breastfeeding due to a lack of safety information.
- Stomach or intestinal problems: Avoid if you have ulcers, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, infections, or other digestive tract conditions, as it can irritate these conditions.
- Potential for burning sensation: It may cause a slight burning sensation in the stomach due to its hot potency.
- Possible allergic reactions: Allergic contact dermatitis is possible in sensitive individuals. A patch test is recommended before use.
- Gastric discomfort: Overdoses may cause gastric discomfort or increased acidity, especially in those with peptic ulcers.
Side effects
- Tejohva might produce mild burning sensations due to its fiery intensity.
- Undiluted essential oil can cause mucosal irritation or a burning sensation if applied near the eyes or genitals.
- Possible allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals (patch test recommended).
- Gastric discomfort or increased acidity in those with peptic ulcers if overdosed.
- May cause a slight burning sensation in the stomach because of its hotness.
- Northern prickly ash bark might be safe for most people, but the potential side effects are not known.
- Not enough is known about the safety of using northern prickly ash berry as medicine or what the potential side effects might be.
Interactions
- If taking with other western (allopathic/modern) medicines, it is best to seek your doctor's advice. It is generally advised to take allopathic medicine first, wait 30 minutes, and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.
- Generally, this product goes well with most dietary supplements. However, if you are taking more than one product per day, consult your doctor for an opinion.
- Northern prickly ash can stimulate digestive juices and cause irritation, which can worsen stomach and intestinal problems. Do not use if you have ulcers, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, infections, or other digestive tract conditions.
- Using northern prickly ash bark during pregnancy might be unsafe. It's also wise to avoid northern prickly ash if you are breastfeeding.
Clinical evidence
Limited clinical trials are available, but some studies suggest potential antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer benefits. One study also indicates stress-reducing effects.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
- Shoolahara (Analgesic)
- Krimihara (Anthelmintic)
- Swasahara (Anti-asthmatic)
- Kasahara (Anti-cough)
Classical clinical indications
- Kasa (Cough)
- Shwasa (Dyspnea)
- Mukharoga (Oral diseases)
- Vataroga (Vata disorders)
- Dantaroga (Toothache)