Gokshura
Introduction
In Western countries, gokshura is more commonly known as Tribulus terrestris. It is a small leafy plant which is a member of the caltrop family. This plant only grows in dry climates whereby only a few plants can survive. It can be found in Africa, Australia, Southern Asia and Southern Europe. The plant yields fruits which are covered with spines. In traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, the fruits and roots were used to treat a vast variety of conditions, most notably sexual dysfunction. Some companies even market it as a natural testosterone booster. Gokshura is available in various forms such as capsules, powder or tablets.
Health Benefits
Helps Body Building
The vital nutrients and minerals in gokshura are responsible to pump up body naturally and improve body composition as well as muscle strength. A large population of gym-goers actually opt for steroid injections which would bring about many adverse effects in the long run. Therefore, it is important to switch to a natural source like gokshura.
Boosts Libido
Gokshura is an excellent aphrodisiac that boosts libido in both men and women. It also promotes ovulation and sperm production. Hence, those with fertility issues but wish to start a family should consumer gokshura.
Helps Urination
Gokshura regulates urine production and prevents kidney stones formation. Regular consumption of gokshura can relieve bladder problems.
Helps Treat PCOS
Consumption of gokshura is beneficial for women suffering from Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOS) because it eliminates excess water and decreases the size of the cyst. PCOS is very common in young teens and adults. It can cause irregular periods, acne, hair loss, weight gain and mood swings. The worst part about PCOS is the difficulty in conceiving and possible complications during pregnancy.
Punarnava
Introduction
Punarnava is also known as Boerhavia Diffusa. It is a flowering plant which belongs to the family Nyctaginaceae. The word ‘punarnava’ literally means rejuvenating or renewing the body, bringing back one’s youth. This herbal medicine is considered one of the foremost herbs for the kidneys and liver.
Health Benefits
Reduces Urinary Tract Infection
Punarnava acts as diuretic. Additionally, it confers antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties which are beneficial in treating urinary tract infections (UTIs), including UTIs in pregnancy. This herb also aids in getting rid of excess body fluids and prevents formation of kidney stones.
Boosts Liver Health
Punarnava is widely used to rejuvenate and restore health, stamina and vitality of the liver. This herb can fight liver disorders like hepatitis, jaundice and iron deficiency anemia.
Promotes Healthy Weight Management
Punarnava helps the body to break down and digest fat It is used as an ingredient in almost all the herbal slimming formulations. The herb stimulates the removal of excess fluids and waste products from the body by promoting urination without electrolytes or potassium loss. Thus, it helps in weight loss. It also works as a mild laxative.
Provides Joint Comfort and Mobility
Punarnava has been traditionally used to provide comfort to the joints and muscles. Also, punarnava herb provides relief from joint pains and inflammation related with arthritis. All you have to do is just use the paste made of fresh herb by grinding and applying directly on the affected area.
Supports the Lungs
Dried leaves of punarnava can be used in the treatment of bronchial asthma. It can be made into an excellent expectorant when combined with ginger juice and black pepper.
Boosts Heart Health
Punarnava is said to be an excellent and nourishing herb for heart health due in part to its clearing action in the circulatory system. However, Punarnava is not a powerful remedy to treat congestive heart failure, but it is given as an adjuvant for supporting Tapyadi Loha, Terminalia Arjuna Bark Powder and other beneficial remedies used to treat congestive heart failure. It reduces the workload on the heart by reducing edema.
Prepared by: Chew Ee Wei, a HTM Pharmacist.
For further inquiry/ one-to-one consultation with our pharmacist, feel free to whatsapp📱
Pharmacist service is available from Monday to Friday (9am-6pm).