|
Magazine
Well-being for all
|
Karpuravalli is a simple remedy for colds experienced by children.
|
COLEUS AMBONICUS, or Karpuravalli (in Tamil), is a plant that must be grown in homes where there are children. It is very useful in tackling infantile cold, cough and fever, something which has been extensively documented in Siddha literature. The juice of the leaf can be given with sugar candy for cough that affects infants. It is mixed with gingelly oil and sugar and applied to the forehead to stop a runny nose and bring down a fever. The best method to administer it is to extract it from the leaves, boil it well to remove the water and take about ½ tsp to one teaspoon while warm. This is very effective for respiratory infections.
The herb is also "heat producing", a digestive and constipating. It stimulates the functioning of the liver and is given in bilious conditions. Crushed leaves are used as a local application for headache and to relieve the pain and irritation caused by poisonous bites. It is also given to patients with kidney and bladder stones.
Coleus ambonicus, with its fleshy and aromatic leaves, is easy to grow, especially in a pot. It should not be watered in excess (It is easily propagated from cuttings).
For saplings and further information contact:
The Medicinal Plant Development Area,
Forest Department,
Government of Tamil Nadu,
Pulleri,
Chengalpattu Or Arcottankudisai, Vellore
Or
Centre for Traditional Medicine and Research,
Chennai.
Telephone: 441 5993, 440 5583,
E-mail: phyto@vsnl.net, herb95@hotmail.com
Text and photograph by
SHEELA RANI CHUNKATH
The writer is Chairperson, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board.
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Magazine
|
