Botanical Name: Andrographis paniculata nees

Common Name:

English: Rice bitters, Chirayta
Also, known as: Akar cerita bidara, Alui, Andrographidis Kraut, Bidara, Bhoonimba, Bhuinimo, Bhulimb, Bhuninba, Charayeta, Charayetha, Charita, Cheranta, Cherota, Chiraita, Chiretta, Chuan-hsin-lien, Chuan-xı¯n-lián, Công công, Faathalaaichon, Fathalaai, Fathalaichon, Fathalaijone, Halviva, Herba sambiloto, Hinbinkohomba, I-chienhsi, Kalafath, Kan-jang, Kariyat, Khee-pang-hee, King of bitters, Kiriathu, Kirta, kiryata, Kiryato, Lanhelian, Mahatikta, Mahatita, Naelavemu, Naynahudandi, nelavemu, Quasab-uz-zarirah, Sambilata, Sambiloto, Senshinren, Sinta, Xuyên tâm liên, Yaa kannguu yijianxi

Origin: India

Harvested: Wild

Parts Used: Aerial parts

General Information:

Andrographis paniculata nees grows wild mostly in tropical and moist deciduous forest of south east Asia & India. Kalmegh is as annual plant which has small shar branches, most often winged towards the apical region. The leaves of the plant are 5 to 10 cm long, flowers are tiny in panicle. The fruits of the plant are 18to 20 mm longer and 3 to 4 mm broad. Plant has very light odor, but taste is bitter. Stems are soft and can be broken easily. It is popular as “Kalmegh” across Asian subcontinent. Once upon a time it was well esteemed as bitter tonic in India. Over exploitation of plant make it scarce and it has become expensive across the market. It is sold as such in dry form; sometimes the leaves get separated, exposing the black twigs.

How to use:

Powdered Herb:

There are different ways to use powdered herb.

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

Capsules: Encapsulating your own powdered herb at home, give 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 purposes ONLY.

This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.

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

Kalmegh Powder