Botanical Name: Sida cordifolia

Common Name:

English: Indian country mellow
Sanskrit: Bala,Bariyar, Khareti
Also, known as: Khireti, Nilatutti, Bariyaara, Vaatyaalikaa, Vatyalika, Bhadrabalaa,Bhadrabala, Flannel weed, Balini, Sumanganaa,Sumangana, Kharayashtika, Bhadraudani,Kunayi, Khirhati, Balaa, Khahethi

Habitat: Throughout India

Origin: India

Parts Used: Above the ground parts

General Information:

Bala (Sida cordifolia) is native to tropical regions of India and Sri Lanka and is a revered and most valuable herb in Ayurveda - the ancient traditional medical system of India.

Sida cordifolia is an erect perennial plant reaches up to 200 cm in height, with the entire plant covered with soft white felt-like hair that is responsible for one of its common names, "flannel weed". The stems are thin, long, hairy and greenish yellow. The yellow-green leaves are oblong-ovate, covered with hairs, and 3-8 cm long by 2-6 cm wide. The flowers are dark yellow, sometimes with a darker orange center, with a hairy 5-lobed calyx and 5-lobed corolla.

Bala is said to contain five of the six tastes, a rare property, indicating that it provides nourishment from the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and space) also,balance all the dosa (vatta, pitta, kapha).

Bala is associated with Parvathi, the ancient Hindu goddess of beauty and grace.

How to use:

Powdered Herb:

There are different ways to use powdered herb.

Food Preparation: You can add powdered herb to any super food herbal smoothie, sauces, spreads and even cookies. Also for children, you can mix powdered herb with honey or glycerin to make paste. The thicker the paste, the more potent and herbal in taste. The sweet taste of honey and glycerin will help medicine go down. This method is also known as "Electuaries".

Capsules: Encapsulating your own powdered herb at home, gives you assurance that the contents of the capsules are pure herb and no filler or any other products. These capsules can be taken with liquid.

Poultice: Poultice can be made with an herbal powder and liquid (mostly water) to form a paste which is then applied to the skin. This method is very helpful for skin conditions.

Herbal shot: Powdered herb can be mixed with water, fruit juice or other liquid to make herbal shot.

Precautions:

You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

All information on this website is for educational purpose ONLY

This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Bala Herb Powder (Country Mallow )