Shalmali (Salmalia malabarica), also called Silk cotton tree, Indian Kapok tree, Semal, Buruga, Sittan, Unnamurika or Sanmali is an Ayurvedic herb that is loaded with health benefits. It is known as the king of the forest because of its massive size and beautiful flowers. Shalmali is native to India and Burma. It is considered a sacred tree in India. In India, it is found in hotter regions up to altitudes of 1500mts. It is also found in tropical Southern Asia, Australia, and Africa. The fascinating health benefits of Shalmali have made it one of the prominent herbs in the Ayurvedic system.
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Shalmali in Ayurveda:
Almost all parts of the tree including flower, gum, stem bark, petiole, peduncle, and thorns are used in Ayurveda due to its therapeutic properties. According to Ayurveda, Shalmali balances Pitta and Vata doshas. It has an astringent taste and cold potency. The main chemical constituents of Shalmali include beta-sitosterol, glucosides, lupeol, hydroxycadalene, hentriacontane, and various acids. It also has aphrodisiac, astringent, stimulant, tonic, anti-diarrhoeal, anti-dysentery, anti-microbial, and antipyretic properties. Here are some of the fascinating health benefits of Shalmali.
Health benefits of Shalmali or Silk Cotton:
Treatment of dysentery
The chemical compounds present in the root of Shalmali are used for treating dysentery, diarrhoea, piles, and hemorrhoids. It is also effective for treating pulmonary tuberculosis and other chronic diseases.
Beneficial for curing wounds
The gum and bark of Shalmali are loaded with antibacterial, antipyretic, and wound-healing properties. It can be applied to the affected area for quick healing of wounds. It also arrests bleeding.
Shalmali as an aphrodisiac
Shalmali is a potent aphrodisiac. It is very beneficial for the male reproductive system. Consuming this herb improves both the quantity and quality of semen. It also helps cure nocturnal emission.
Excellent for treating skin disorders
Shalmali is loaded with purifying and healing properties. The paste obtained from the flowers of this plant is beneficial for treating various skin disorders like acne and pimples. The paste of seeds is also used to restore the colour of the skin.
Shalmali as a diuretic
Shalmali is an excellent diuretic. The flowers of this plant are given to patients suffering from low urine output. It is also used to cure splenomegaly and conjunctivitis.
Shalmali is a well-recognized and highly effective Ayurvedic herb that is used in the treatment of numerous diseases. From curing skin problems to providing relief from dysentery, Shalmali is a miraculous Ayurvedic herb that does it all. Thus, these are some of the fascinating health benefits of Shalmali or silk cotton.
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