Introduction
Vasambu is a traditional medicinal plant that is native to India. It is a type of grass, commonly found in the dry areas of the country. It has been used since ancient times for its medicinal properties and has been regarded as a natural remedy for pediatric ailments. The scientific name of this plant is Andropogon muricatus. It is known by various names in different parts of India such as Vasambu, Vasambu in Tamil, Gokharu in Hindi and Vayambu in Kannada.
The various parts of the plant such as the leaves, root, stems, and flowers are used for various therapeutic purposes. The leaves of the plant are used to treat fever, cold, and coughs. The root is used to treat jaundice and urinary tract infections. The stems are used to treat digestive problems and the flowers are used to treat skin diseases and wounds.
The plant is rich in many active components like flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, and alkaloids. These components exhibit various medicinal properties like anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, and anti-oxidant activities. They also help in reducing fever, improving digestion, and treating respiratory disorders.
Siddha Medicinal Uses of Vasambu
Siddha medicine is one of the oldest systems of medicine in India. It is known for its traditional approach to treating diseases and making use of natural herbs and minerals. According to Siddha medicine, Vasambu is used to treat pediatric ailments such as fever, cold, cough, diarrhea, vomiting, and indigestion.
1. Fever: The leaves of Vasambu are used to treat fever. A paste made of Vasambu leaves with water is applied on the forehead or chest of the affected person. This helps to reduce fever and improve the overall health of the person.
2. Cold and Cough: The leaves of Vasambu are also used to treat cold and cough. A decoction of the leaves is made and consumed to treat cold and cough. It helps to reduce the symptoms and improve the overall health of the person.
3. Diarrhea: The root of Vasambu is used to treat diarrhea. A decoction of the root is made and consumed to treat diarrhea. It helps to reduce the symptoms and improve the overall health of the person.
4. Vomiting: The leaves of Vasambu are also used to treat vomiting. A decoction of the leaves is made and consumed to treat vomiting. It helps to reduce the symptoms and improve the overall health of the person.
5. Indigestion: The leaves of Vasambu are also used to treat indigestion. A decoction of the leaves is made and consumed to treat indigestion. It helps to reduce the symptoms and improve the overall health of the person.
6. Respiratory Disorders: The stems of Vasambu are also used to treat respiratory disorders. A decoction of the stems is made and consumed to treat respiratory disorders. It helps to reduce the symptoms and improve the overall health of the person.
7. Skin Diseases: The flowers of Vasambu are also used to treat skin diseases. A decoction of the flowers is made and consumed to treat skin diseases. It helps to reduce the symptoms and improve the overall health of the person.
Health Benefits of Vasambu
1. Anti-inflammatory: The active components present in Vasambu possess anti-inflammatory properties. This helps to reduce inflammation and pain in the affected areas.
2. Antioxidant: The active components present in Vasambu also possess antioxidant properties. This helps to reduce oxidative stress in the body and prevents cell damage.
3. Immunity Booster: The active components present in Vasambu also help to boost immunity. This helps to fight against various infections and diseases.
4. Anti-microbial: The active components present in Vasambu also possess anti-microbial properties. This helps to reduce the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.
5. Cardiovascular Health: The active components present in Vasambu also help to improve cardiovascular health. This helps to reduce the risk of heart diseases and other cardiovascular problems.
Conclusion
Vasambu is a traditional medicinal plant that is native to India. It has been used since ancient times for its medicinal properties and has been regarded as a natural remedy for pediatric ailments. The various parts of the plant such as the leaves, root, stems, and flowers are used for various therapeutic purposes. The active components present in Vasambu possess various medicinal properties like anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, and anti-oxidant activities.
The Annai Medical College of Siddha and Research Centre (AMCSRC) in Kumbakonam, Thanjavur, Tamilnadu, India offers various traditional Siddha treatments for various pediatric ailments using Vasambu. The treatments offered include decoctions, pastes, and other traditional methods. These treatments help to reduce fever, cold, cough, diarrhea, vomiting, and indigestion. The treatments also help to improve overall health and boost immunity. Therefore, Vasambu is a great natural remedy for pediatric ailments and should be used under the guidance of a qualified Siddha practitioner.