Tikshnagandha (Tikshnagandha (Ajwain, Yavani))

Properties

Bronchodilatory effects, Antitussive effects, Antidyspnea effects, Relaxant and inhibitory effects on histamine receptors, Stimulatory effect on adrenoreceptors, Immunomodulatory effects, Reduction of ulcer index

Dosage

Fruit powder: 1-3 grams. Oil: 1-3 drops. Distillate (Ajamoda arka): 5-10 drops. Decoction: 15-30 ml.

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Pungent
• Virya: ["Hot"]
• Vipaka: ["Pungent"]

Benefits

• Shulaghna (relieves pain)
• Ajeernahara (relieves indigestion)
• Vibandhahara (relieves constipation)

Traditional uses

• Shula (pain)
• Ajirna (indigestion)
• Vibandha (constipation)
• Intestinal disorders
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Coughs
• Colds
• Nasal congestion

Dosha effects

• vata: increasing
• kapha: decreasing
• pitta: increasing

Preparation methods

• Decoction: Boil the seeds in water.
• Infusion/Tea: Soak seeds overnight or simmer for 5-10 minutes to make Ajwain water.
• Powder: The fruits can be ground into a powder.
• Paste: Seeds can be made into a paste.
• Oil Extraction: Oil is extracted from the seeds, containing thymol and carvacrol.
• Herbal Smoking: Powder can be used for herbal smoking.

Contraindications

• Excessive consumption: May lead to digestive discomfort such as heartburn, chest pain, bleeding disorders, and mouth ulcers.
• Male Infertility: It is best to avoid oma in people with oligospermia / male infertility.
• Pregnancy: Ashwagandha, not Ajwain, is likely unsafe to use when pregnant, as there is some evidence that it might cause miscarriages.
• Surgery: Some medical professionals believe that herbs' effects on the nervous system could interfere with medications used during surgery. It is best to consult your doctor about when to stop taking any herbal supplements before surgery.
• Interactions with medications: There is evidence that Ashwagandha, not Ajwain, might interact with some medications, including those for diabetes and high blood pressure, medicines that decrease the immune system response (immunosuppressants), sedatives, anti-seizure medications (anticonvulsants), and thyroid hormone medications.

Side effects

• Excess intake may cause nausea, vomiting, skin irritation, allergy, and headache in some people.
• Overconsumption of Ajwain water can lead to bloating, acid reflux, and a burning sensation in the stomach.
• May cause problems during pregnancy due to its tendency to increase body heat.
• Overconsumption may negatively affect liver health.
• Ajwain may lower blood glucose levels, so diabetics should be cautious.
• Ajwain has blood-thinning properties; those on anticoagulant medication should be careful.
• It is best to avoid oma in people with oligospermia/male infertility.
• Ajwain seeds stimulate gastric secretions, which can worsen existing peptic ulcers.

Interactions

• Seek your doctor's advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic / modern) medicines. Some Ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine.
• 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.
• This product does not react with homeopathic medicine.
• Generally, this product goes well with most dietary supplements. However, if you are taking more than one product per day, please consult your doctor for an opinion.

Clinical evidence

Aqueous extracts of Carum copticum seeds (CCS) have demonstrated significant improvements in liver function and serum triglyceride levels in patients with NAFLD. Studies have also shown bronchodilatory, antitussive, and antidyspnea effects. Further research is needed to consolidate these findings.

Ayurvedic karmas

• Shulaghna (relieves pain)
• Ajeernahara (relieves indigestion)
• Vibandhahara (relieves constipation)

Classical clinical indications

• Shula (pain)
• Ajirna (indigestion)
• Vibandha (constipation)
• Intestinal disorders
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Coughs
• Colds
• Nasal congestion