Indian birthwort

Scientific name of Indian birthwort: Aristolochia indica

Name of Indian birth wort in different languages:-

English: Aristolochia

Sanskrit: Sunanda

Hindi: Eswaramooli, Ishwar mul.

Malayalam: Garudakkodi-ഗരുഡക്കൊടി, Eswaramulla-ഈശ്വരമുല്ല, Karalakam-കരളകം, Urithookki -ഉറിതൂക്കി)

Plant description:

It is a perennial climber shrub; it reaches a height of 5 m to 7 m. on trees, at the altitude of 600 m., and covered with thick foliage. The flowers are yellowish brown, once a year to produce seeds.

Leaf Arrangement

Useful plant parts:

Whole plant, leaf, roots, rhizomes

Medicinal Uses:

Indigestion, Blood pressure, Skin diseases, Snake bites, Diarrhea, fever, inflammation, Bronchial asthma relieving Rhumatic(Vata) diseases, bronchial asthma and cough, Gastric problems.

Chemical content:

Aristolochic acid

Indian birthwort Ayurveda medicinal uses

Indian birthwort, scientifically known as Aristolochia indica, is a plant that has been used in traditional Indian medicine, known as Ayurveda, for various medicinal purposes. However, it’s important to note that the use of Aristolochia species, including Aristolochia indica, has been a subject of controversy due to potential toxic effects on the kidneys and other organs. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any plant or herb for medicinal purposes.

In Ayurveda, Indian birthwort has been traditionally used for the following purposes:

1. Respiratory Disorders: It is believed to be helpful in treating respiratory conditions such as asthma, cough, and bronchitis.
2. Digestive Disorders: Indian birthwort is used in some Ayurvedic formulations for digestive disorders. It is thought to have properties that can help improve digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort.
3. Skin Conditions: It has been employed in traditional medicine to address skin issues like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Wound Healing: Some formulations in Ayurveda include Indian birthwort for its potential wound-healing properties.
5. Anti-inflammatory Properties: It is believed to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may be beneficial for conditions involving inflammation.
6. Antimicrobial Properties: In traditional medicine, it has been used for its potential antimicrobial properties, which could be useful in fighting infections.
7. Menstrual Disorders: Indian birthwort is sometimes used in Ayurvedic medicine to help regulate menstrual cycles and address conditions like irregular periods.
8. Antioxidant Properties: It is believed to possess antioxidant properties, which may help in protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.
9. Rheumatic Disorders: It has been used traditionally for conditions like arthritis and rheumatism, potentially due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
10. Fever: It is believed to have properties that may help reduce fever.

Again, it is important to emphasize that the use of Indian birthwort and other Aristolochia species has raised concerns due to potential toxicity, particularly to the kidneys and other organs. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult a qualified healthcare practitioner, preferably one well-versed in traditional medicinal practices, before using Indian birthwort for any purpose.

Furthermore, due to the potential risks associated with Indian birthwort, some countries have imposed restrictions or bans on its use in herbal products. Always ensure that any herbal remedies you consider using are sourced from reputable and trusted suppliers.

It is one of the ingredients in the Ayurveda medicines like-

• Maha Vishagarbha Tailam
• Neelikadi Tailam 
• ParanthyadiThaila
• Mathala Rasayanam
• Neeli Grutham
• Maha Vishagarbha Tailam
• Neelikadi Tailam
• Paranthyadi Thailam
• Neelidalathi Thailam