Indian ayurvedic medicine | 219
Source material Indian name Parts used Main Example of use
constituent
Salvia officinalis Bahaman surkh Leaves Volatile oil Gargle, gingivitis
Treatment of thrush
Solanum indicum Bari-khatai, Fruiting Steroidal Chest and urinary infections
barhanta plant alkaloids Skin conditions (paste)
Tephrosia purpurea Sarphunkha Whole Flavonoids Cystitis
plant Dysentery
Facial oedema
Vitex agnus-castus Remuka Fruit Flavonols Diuretic
Stimulant
Zingiber officinalis Zanjibil Rhizome Oleo-resin Antiemetic, bronchitis
Rheumatism
Table 7.3Continued
Condition Typical ayurvedic treatment Other treatments
Acne Herbs – Andrographis(known as Chuan Apply melon to the skin
xin lianin TCM), guduchi, shatavari Yoga postures
Aloe vera juice Breathing exercises
Tea – cumin, coriander and fennel
Anxiety Calming tea – valerian, musta Relaxing bath
Almond milk
Acupressure
Athlete’s foot Tea tree oil Wash with neemsoap
Aloe vera gel and turmeric Neem oil applied
Boils Neempowder paste Cooling, healing paste of sandalwood and
Triphalawash turmeric
For people with diabetes: neem, turmeric, Poultice of cooked onions to draw
kutkitaken orally Liver cleanser (aloe vera gel)
Diarrhoea Ghee, nutmeg, ginger, sugar
Ginger powder with sugar. Mix and chew
Eye problems Triphalawash Cool water wash
Rosewater Gaze into the flame of a traditional ghee
lamp
Jet lag One hour before flight – ginger
On flight – drink water
After flight – rub warm sesame oil on scalp
Sore throat Garge– turmeric and hot water Avoid dairy produce
Ginger–cinnamon–liquorice tea Yoga postures
Breathing exercises
Table 7.4Examples of ayurvedic treatments for some common conditions