What is Laksha and it's benefits
Laksha is a unique natural substance obtained not from a plant, but as a resinous secretion from an insect. It is a secretion of laccifer lacca Insect. In Ayurveda, it is considered a potent medicinal agent with numerous healing properties. It has been used since ancient times, especially in wound healing, bone repair, and skin care.
Latin Name: Laccifer lacca.
Vernacular Names:
- Hindi: Lac
- Bengali: Lakh
- Tamil: Arakku
- Telugu: Laksha
- Kannada: Laksha/Aragu
- Malayalam: Arakku/ Laksha
- Marathi: Laakh
- Gujarati: Laakh
- Punjabi: Kikkar
- English : Lac/ shellac
Sanskrit Name:
Laksha, Palankasha, Vrekshaamaya, Alaksha, Yaava, Jaku
Laksha benefits & Ayurvedic Description
The lac insect feed on the sap of trees such as Palash ( Butea monospermia), Ber ( Zizyphus mauritiana), Babul ( Acacia Arabica), Khadira(Acacia Catechu), Peepal (Ficus religiosa). These insects secret the resinous secretion which is known as Lac. It is crushed ,seived and washed to remove impurities. The medicinal laksha is used after purification.
Ras ( Taste)
- Madhur (Sweet)
- Kashay ( Astringent)
Veerya ( Potency)
- Sheet (Cold)
Vipaak ( Post-digestive effect)
- Madhur (Sweet)
Guna ( Qualities)
- Laghu (Lightness)
- Snigdha (Oily)
Classical Categorization
Bhavprakash nighantu – Harithkyadi varga ( group)
Kaiyadev Nighantu – Aushadi Varga
Raj Nighantu- Pippalyadi Varga
Dhanvantari Nighantu- Chandanadi Varga
Benefits of Laksha
Promotes healing of fracture
Laksha is a rich source of calcium which helps promote a faster healing process in bone fractures. It enhances the calcium deposition on the bones, promoting faster recovery. Regular use of this resin may help reduce pain due to its Vata balancing nature.
Treats Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis means ‘porous bones. It is a disease that weakens the bones, increasing the risk of fracture. It is known as Asthi-Majjakshaya in Ayurveda, occurs because of degeneration or deterioration of bone tissue. This is due to an imbalance of Vata dosha in the body. Laksha along with other herbs helps prevent the degeneration of bones by providing essential natural calcium. It also provides relief from pain due to its Vata balancing, thereby helping manage osteoporosis.
Helps in bleeding disorder
Laksha is having cold potency ( sheet verya) and also it is astringent in nature. As a result of this it is very useful to stop bleeding. It helps in stopping bleeding whether it is due to external injury or whether it is due to any other problem like piles, heavy flow during mentsrual cycle, nasal bleeding.
Useful in Skin problems
Laksha can heal different skin issues, including itching, flakiness, and dryness. It also contains antiseptic and antifungal properties to cure different dermatological conditions. Moreover, Laksha can bring back the glow and liveliness of your skin by removing the pigmentation on face.
Helps in wound healing
The laksha uses are also evident in treating wounds. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are present in the resin of Laksha t. Therefore, it is extremely beneficial in reducing bleeding and infections. It will help in speeding up the process of treating wounds, injuries, and cuts.
Advantages of Laksha in Ayurveda
Rakthpitta : Helps in bleeding disorder such as nasal bleeding, heavy periods and ulcerative colitis
Hikka: Useful in problem of Hiccups.
Kas : Useful in cough
Jvara : helps to relieve fever of any origin
Vrana: Useful in healing of wounds
Kushta : Treats skin problems
Krumi : Useful in worm infestation.
Visarp: relieves the burning senastion and pain in herpes
Bhagna hita: Useful in healing of fractures and dental caries
Chemical composition
The lac contains resin, dye, wax, albuminiacs matter, mineral matter and water, resinoltannols of aleuritic acid, erthrolaccin, lacconic acid.
How to use laksha
Laksha can be consumed in various forms, including:
- Laksha powder: This form can be taken directly by making powder from made from the resin. 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of this powder with milk/honey/ water two times after meals.
- Laksha resin (Gum): 2-3 grams per day. Soak 3 gms of laksha resin in cup of water and leave it overnight. Drink this water next morning.
- Part Used : Resin (Gum)
What are the side effects of laksha
Like any other Ayurvedic herb this resin is having many health benefits . However , it may have some side effects as well they include.
Allergic Rashes
If someone is sensitive to laksha they may see skin rashes or redness and ithching. In this condition it is advisable to discontinue the use .
In excess it may irritate the stomach lining and cause gas and bloating. Therefore it must be taken in proper dosage.
Precautions
Avoid taking Laksha if you are experiencing constipation, as its astringent properties can worsen the condition by further reducing bowel movements.
During breast feeding avoid consuming Laksha
Avoid consuming Laksha during pregnancy due to lack of research on safety during pregnancy.
Always use lac ( laccifer lacca) in recommended dosage to avoid potential side effects such as nausea and bloating. It is better to ask Ayurveda doctor about dose and suitability for your body type.
If you have pre existing medical conditions or taking any medications, consult a doctor before using this resin. This ensures that there are no harmful interactions or contraindications.
Don’t use it continuosly for long period of time . Take break to allow your body to respond appropriately. Also when we use any herb continuosly ,then the body becomes use to it and it don’t respond to it.
Store Laksha in cool and dark place to maintain its potency and prevent it from contamination. Proper storage helps in retaining its therapeutic value.
Home Remedies of laksha
For Bone fracture & healing :
Laksha + Ashwagandha + Arjuna
How to use: Mix equal parts of powdered Laksha, Ashwagandha, and Arjuna.
Take 1 teaspoon twice a day with warm milk.
Effect: Helps in bone healing and strengthening.
For Bleeding disorder :
Laksha Powder + Mishri
Mix Laksha churna (powder) with powdered Mishri (rock sugar).
Take 1 tsp with cold water twice a day.
Effect: Helps reduce internal bleeding and excessive menstrual flow.
For wound healing :
Laksha Paste
Make a paste of Laksha powder with honey or ghee.
Apply it directly to clean wounds.
Effect: Accelerates healing, prevents infection, and reduces inflammation.
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 Laksha take to start showing benefits ?
It depend on any existing disease, overall health, your prakriti ( genetic make up) all these factors plays a role in how quickly Laksha powder benefits are seen.
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 seeds ?
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 Laksha
Laksha is the main ingredients in following medicines
Lakshadi guggulu : It is one of the ayurvedic medicine which is used to treat osteopororis, osteo arthritis of knee joint, back pain and sciatica.
Chandanbala lakshadi oil: This oil is used to relieving burning sensation, bleeding disorder, to relieve fatigue and to give strength to muscles and ligaments.
Lakshadi tailam : Used for external application to relief pain muscle and joint pain.
Conclusion
Laksha is a great ayurvedic herb with numerous health benefits. It is beneficial in treating osteoporosis, improving strength and vitality, relief from back pain , improving skin health and aids in wound healing.
So have you ever this resin of lac for any of the health issues ? if yes then share your experience with others.
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.
.
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.
.
