Psoralea seeds

Scientific name of Psoralea seeds: Psoralia corylifolia

Name of Psoralea seeds in different languages:-

Sanskrit: Vachuki, Somaraji, Suparnika, Somavalli, Kalameshi

Hindi: Bakachi, Vakuchi.

Malayalam: Karkokil കാർകോകിൽ, Kushtanashini

Plant description-

Psoralia corylifolia-Kushtanashini or babchi is a small annual herb, erect, growing up to 120 cm tall, commonly found in sandy, loamy plains areas. Leaves are elliptic, rounded, and simple, covered with hairs, with many black dots, seeds are brown or black, flattened and oblong, kidney-shaped, 2 to 4 mm long and 2 to 3 mm wide, and, hard. Flowers are yellow or bluish-purple and dense, axillary, 10 to 30 flowered clustered, flowers occur from August to December. The fruit is 5 mm long, sub-globular, with a one-seeded pod.

Leaf Arrangement

Useful plant parts:

Whole plant, seeds

Medicinal uses:

To treat kidney disorders, healing of bone fractures, lower back, knee pain, bed wetting, impotence, hair loss, and vitiligo, White leprosy, intestinal worm, urine enhancer, scorpion bite, snake bite, Balances Kapha and Vata.

Ayurveda medicinal Uses

Psoralea seeds, commonly known as Bakuchiol seeds, are traditionally used in herbal medicine due to their potential therapeutic properties. Here are some of the herbal uses associated with Psoralea seeds:

1. Skin Disorders: Psoralea seeds are used topically for skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, and other dermatological issues. They are believed to have anti-inflammatory and skin-regenerating properties.
2. Hypopigmentation: Bakuchiol, a compound found in Psoralea seeds, is known for its potential to stimulate melanin production. This makes it valuable in treating conditions characterized by loss of skin pigmentation.
3. Anti-Inflammatory: Psoralea seeds may have anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful in reducing inflammation associated with various skin disorders.
4. Anti-fungal and Anti-bacterial: Some traditional practices use Psoralea seeds for their potential anti-fungal and anti-bacterial effects.
5. Aphrodisiac Properties: In some herbal practices, Psoralea seeds are believed to have aphrodisiac properties and may be used to support sexual health.
6. Bone Health: They are sometimes used for their potential benefits in conditions related to bone health and joint disorders.
7. Respiratory Conditions: Psoralea seeds may be used in traditional remedies for certain respiratory issues, although scientific evidence may not fully support this use.
8. Digestive Disorders: Some traditional systems of medicine use Psoralea seeds for digestive issues, although this use may not be widespread.
9. Wound Healing: They are believed to have wound-healing properties, aiding in the recovery process.

It’s important to note that while Psoralea seeds have been used in traditional herbal practices, scientific evidence for their efficacy and safety can vary depending on the specific use. As with any herbal remedy, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified herbalist or healthcare professional before using Psoralea seeds, especially if you have specific health concerns or are taking other medications. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual constitution and health condition, as well as guide you on the appropriate dosage and duration of use.

Chemical contents:

Flavonoids, coumarins, psoralidin meroterpenes, corylin

Psoralea seeds plant is one of the ingredients in Ayurveda medicines like-

• Moolakadyarishtam
• Pathyadi Choornam
• Kurinji Kuzhambu