Nisoth (Indian Jalap): Know its Benefits, Uses and Side effects

2022-06-29 17:38:51

Nisoth, commonly known as Indian Jalap,is a plant that has many medicinal  properties and is used to treat various types of diseases. Nisoth is of two varieties - black and white among which,the white one is popularly used in the manufacturing of Ayurvedic medicines. Nisoth is an antipyretic and laxative plant, making it an excellent remedy for fever. It has the power to treat liver disease, heart problems, hemorrhoids, etc.

Medicinal Properties of Nisoth

Nisoth has various medicinal properties like anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, laxative, purgative, hepatoprotective and abortifacient properties.

Benefits of Nisoth

Treats constipation-

Nisoth has strong Virechak (Purgative) and rechana (laxative) properties, thereby increasing bowel movements and helpingto pass stool easily.

Eliminates worms-

Nisoth helps fight worm infestations due to its Krimighna (Anti worms) properties.

Cures cough and bronchitis-

Nisoth has kapha balancing properties, which helps to relieve respiratory problems like cough, bronchitis, asthma, and shortness of breath caused by excessive phlegm.

Reduces excess fat-

Nisoth has shown good results in reducing excess fat and swelling in the body by removing excessive water and toxins from the body due to its Virechak (cleansing) and detoxifying properties.

Treats piles-

Nisoth helps in treating piles and provides relief in symptoms such as itching, burning and swelling in the anal region  due to its Virechak (cleansing) properties that helps in clearing  up the constipation.

Helpful in arthritis-

Nisoth can reduce joint swelling and relieves pain in various areas of the body, thushelping in reducing  the  problem of arthritis.

Uses of Nisoth

• The powdered root of nisothis given as a laxative torelieve the problem of common constipation and hemorrhoids. It is given along with Triphala.

• It cleans Pitta and Kapha from the bowel.

• Nisoth helps with skin diseases as it removes inflammatory accumulations of water from the blood. For this, it is combined with Manjishtha, Kutki, Punarnava and Neem.

• Nisoth  mixed with guggulu, ginger and turmeric, iseffective in high cholesterol and obesity.

• Nisoth mixed with ginger, becomes very useful in rheumatic and paralytic diseases, anemia, jaundice and inflammation.

• It is given in a dose of 3 grams with Mishri for relieving jaundice.

• The root paste of nisoth can be used  topically to treat vitiligo, other skin diseases, alopecia, cervical, lymphadenitis, hemorrhoids, fistulas and ulcers.

Side effects and Precautions while using Nisoth

There are some side effects of using Nisoth as a medicine. Sometimes it can affect blood sugar levels and can cause other complications if taken without instructions and precautions. Young children and pregnant women are especially at risk for this side effect.

• Nisoth may react differently and cause harm to the body when combined with other drugs or medications.

• Nisoth's laxative properties can cause diarrhea if taken in large amounts. Therefore, it is advised to consult a doctor before taking it.

• Nisoth should not be taken in any form by children under 12 years of age.

• People suffering from appendicitis should stay away from Nisoth as it can cause problems.

• There is no sufficient evidence of the effect of nisoth in pregnancy and breastfeeding therefore it is best to avoid it during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Where is it found?

Nisoth is found in Australia, Africa and Tropical Asia. In India, it is found near wild gardens, majorly growingup to 900 m tall.