What are the benefits of Aparajita
Aparajita also known as butterfly pea is known for its wonderful benefits it offers for human health such a promoting weight loss, detoxifying the body, pacifying the mind, enriching the skin texture and improving hair growth. In this article we will look into Aparajita plant and how it can be used to get maximum benefit.
Latin Name: Clitoria Ternatea
Vernacular Names:
- Hindi: Koyala
- Bengali: Aparajita
- Tamil: Kakkanam
- Telugu: Dintena, Sankupushpam
- Kannada: Oma, Omada kalu
- Malayalam: Shankhapushpam
- Marathi: Gokarni
- Gujarati: Garnee
- Punjabi: Jabain
- English : Butterfly pea
Sanskrit Name:
Vishnukranta, Yonipushpa, Girikarnika, Kokilaa
Aparajita Benefits & Ayurvedic Description
Aparajita plant or as we know it as Aparajita is an herbaceous, climbing twiner that grows perched on to other plants. It has bright green leaves and bright, blue, lilac or sometimes white colored flowers .
The bright blue flowers of this plant have been used as an ingredient in herbal tea as well as for cooking since centuries.
It is sometimes referred to as conch shell as well given its appearance. The plant grows commonly in all parts of India, Egypt, Afghanistan, Persia, Mesopotamia & Iraq etc.
Ras ( Taste)
- Katu ( Pungent)
- Tikta (Bitter)
- Kashay ( astringent)
Veerya ( Potency)
- Sheet (cold)
Vipaak ( Post-digestive effect)
- Katu (Pungent)
Guna ( Qualities)
- Laghu (Lightness)
- Rooksha (Dry)
Classical Categorization
In Ayurveda Charak acharya has classified Aparajita in group of herbs that used in nasya an panchkarma procedure (shirovirechnopag).
Bhavprakash nighantu – Guduchyadi varga ( group)
Benefits of Aparajita
Rich in antioxidants
Aparajita flowers are packed with antioxidants, primarily anthocyanins, which are responsible for their striking blue hue. These antioxidants combat free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress that can lead to chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Enchances cognitive function
The Aparajita flower is renowned for its neuroprotective properties. Compounds such as proanthocyanidins and flavonoids improve memory and cognitive function by increasing acetylcholine levels in the brain. Regular consumption can help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Promotes healthy skin and hair
Rich in vitamins and bioflavonoids, Aparajita is a boon for skin and hair care. They help improve skin elasticity, reduce signs of aging, and promote a natural glow. For hair, the flowers boost keratin production, prevent premature graying, and strengthen hair follicles.
Aids in weight management
Aparajita flowers are low in calories and rich in metabolism-boosting compounds, making them ideal for weight management. They help detoxify the body, flush out toxins, and reduce water retention.
Enhances Eye vision
Traditionally, Aparajita have been used to improve eyesight. They are rich in proanthocyanins, which increase blood flow to the capillaries of the eyes and prevent vision-related disorders.
Supports mental well-being
Known for its adaptogenic properties, Aparajita helps combat stress and anxiety. The calming effects of its tea promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Its role in balancing cortisol levels makes it a natural remedy for stress management.
Advantages of Aparajita in Ayurveda
Medhya: Improves intelligence
Kanthya: Helps to improve voice good for throat.
Sudrushita: Improves vision and good for eyes.
Kushth har : helps to relieve skin problems.
Mutra : Useful in cleansing urinary bladder .
Tridoshahar : Helps balance all the three dosha .
Vishaapah : help in detoxification
Smruiti- buddhida : Useful in improving memory and concentration.
Varieties of Aparjita
In Ayurveda two varieties of Aparajita has been described they are as follow
- Shwetapuspa Aparajita : The flowers are white in color.
- Neelpushpa Aparajita : The flowers are blue in color.
How to use Aparajita
Aparajita can be consumed in various forms, including:
- Aparajita root powder : 1 to 2 teaspoon powder with water or honey two times a day after meals.
- Aparajita flower tea: This is prepared by boiling the flowers of Aparajita in water, useful for weight loss and stress relief.
- Aparajita seed : It is good for external application to reduce pain and stiffness in joints.
- Part Used : Root, seeds and root bark.
Home Remedies of Aparajita
In Vitiligo or Leucoderma : Take root of Aparjita and make powder from it. Add little water to it to make paste from it. Apply this paste on the white patches on skin. The white patch will start to turn in skin color in 1 month.
For Migraine and other headaches : Make powder of Aparajita seeds and root in mixer grinder. Add water to it and make paste. Apply this paste on the forehead to get relief from all types of headache.
In hepatomegaly, ascitis : Take Aparjita seed powder 2 gms with luke warm water.
Cautions And Contraindications
While Aparjita has many benefits and is generally safe, however excess consumption is harmful.
Allergic to aparajita flowers, seeds or root.
Pregnant or lactating women and those on medications should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Frequently asked question
1.Can this herb be used while taking homeopathic medicine ?
Yes. This herb does not react with homeopathic medicine.
2.Can this herb/medicine be continued while taking supplements like multivitamin, omega 3, spirulina ?
Yes .Generally this herb goes well with most dietary supplement. However if you are taking more than one product per day please consult your doctor for opinion.
3. With western/modern medicine
Seek your doctors advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicine. Some ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine.
When taking ayurvedic medicine or herb with modern medicine it is best to keep one hour gap in between both the medicine.
4. How long does Aparajita take to start showing result ?
It depend on any existing disease, overall health, your prakriti ( genetic make up) all these factors plays a role in how quickly Aparajita shows benefits .
5.Can it be used in people with diabetes?
Yes. But always keep watch on your sugar levels. This herb can lower your blood sugar levels. Do not stop your diabetes medicine once you start taking this herb/medicine. Keep in touch with your ayurvedic doctor. They will guide you in this respect.
6.Are there any diet restriction( Pathya) while taking this herb ?
No .There are no such restriction while taking this product. However if you have been advised with any specific diet based on disease, you should continue to follow it.
Ayurvedic medicine that contains Aparajita
Aparajita is main ingredients in following medicines
Garbhpal ras : It is one of the ayurvedic medicine which is used to treat recurrent miscarriages.
Conclusion
The Aparajita is a remarkable plant with a diverse array of potential health benefits rooted in traditional medicine.
From enhancing cognitive function and alleviating stress to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, this vibrant blue flower is more than just a pretty face.
It’s benefits extend to hair and skin health, pain relief, fever reduction, and digestion improvement.
Please consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
This Article is written by Dr. Ashutosh Tiwari B.A.M.S, PGDCR Director of Risha’s Health And Ayurvedaa Solutions.He is having more than 20 years of experience in field of Ayurvedic medicine.
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Disclaimer :The content provided here is for informational purpose only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek medical advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concern you may have regarding a medical conditions.
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