Vekhand powder, also known as sweet flag powder or Acorus calamus powder, is an ayurvedic herb derived from the rhizomes of the Acorus calamus plant. The rhizome is dried and powdered to make vekhand powder, which has been used for centuries in Ayurveda for its many medicinal properties.
This bitter-tasting powder has a strong aroma and is used as a brain tonic in Ayurveda to boost memory, intelligence, and concentration. It is also used for gastrointestinal issues, coughs, colds, and many other health conditions.
Medicinal Uses and Benefits of Vekhand Powder
The various medicinal properties of vekhand powder make it useful in treating many health conditions. Here are some of the top benefits and uses of this herb:
1. Improves Brain Function
Vekhand powder acts as a medhya or brain tonic in Ayurveda. It has been used since ancient times to boost intelligence, memory, concentration and speech.
It helps stimulate the brain and nervous system, making it sharper and more active. Vekhand powder is often given to children in small doses to aid in their brain development and make them more intelligent.
2. Treats Digestive Issues
The carminative and digestive properties of vekhand powder help provide relief from various GI issues like flatulence, bloating, constipation, stomach cramps, loss of appetite and gastric ulcers.
It improves digestion and absorption. The anti-inflammatory action also helps soothe the stomach lining and treat ulcers.
3. Relieves Cough and Cold
Vekhand powder works as an expectorant and helps loosen phlegm or mucus deposits in the lungs and airways.
It provides relief from wet cough, chest congestion, sore throat and breathing difficulties caused by excess mucus. It also has antimicrobial action to fight infections.
4. Anti-inflammatory Benefits
The essential oils in vekhand powder exhibit anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties.
When applied topically, vekhand paste or oil helps reduce swelling, joint pain, skin eruptions and pain due to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
5. Antimicrobial Properties
Vekhand powder demonstrates antimicrobial activities against certain bacteria, fungi and other microbes due to compounds like beta-asarone.
It acts as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial and can be used both internally and topically to fight infections and treat wounds or skin diseases.
6. Improves Skin Health
Topical application of vekhand powder is found to improve skin health. Its antioxidant properties help delay aging and treat skin eruptions.
It also reduces oiliness, works as an exfoliant, improves skin texture and helps get rid of blackheads, acne and pimples.
7. Kidney Stone Relief
Vekhand powder acts as a diuretic and increases urine output. This helps flush out toxins from the kidneys and may aid in preventing kidney stones.
It is also used to treat painful urination caused by urinary tract infections and inflammation.
8. Reduces Fat
When applied along with herbs like triphala, vekhand powder is found to help reduce fat deposits around the thigh and belly region.
It mobilizes stubborn fat deposits, making it useful for weight management.
Dosage and How to Use Vekhand Powder
Vekhand powder can be consumed or applied topically for therapeutic benefits:
- Oral use - Take 1-2 pinches (around 250mg to 500mg) of vekhand powder. Mix in honey or warm water and consume twice daily after meals.
- Topical use - Make a paste by mixing vekhand powder with water. Apply on affected skin areas, joints or for pain relief. Leave for 20-30 minutes before washing off.
- For improving concentration - Mix a pinch (around 125mg) powder with ghee or honey. Massage on scalp and forehead. Leave for 30 mins before washing hair.
Note: Pregnant women, children below 5 years and people with gastritis or ulcers should use vekhand powder only under medical supervision due to safety concerns.
Side Effects and Precautions
When used in moderation, vekhand powder does not cause any major side effects in most people. However, some precautions need to be taken:
- Excess doses can cause headache, nausea, diarrhea or increased body heat in some people.
- Topical use can rarely cause contact dermatitis. Discontinue use if rashes develop.
- Avoid use if you have gastritis, ulcers or hyperacidity. Vekhand powder aggravates these conditions.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult an ayurvedic doctor before using vekhand powder.
- Do not give children below 5 years due to safety concerns related to liver toxicity.
- Do not take for more than 4-6 weeks continuously. Take a break before resuming use.
- Avoid use alongside medications for diabetes, hypertension, antidepressants, etc. due to herb-drug interactions. Consult your doctor first.
How to Select Quality Vekhand Powder?
When buying vekhand powder, ensure you get a high-quality organic product. Here are some tips for selection:
- Always buy from a reputed ayurvedic brand.
- Check that no artificial additives, flavors or preservatives are added.
- The powder color can range from light brown to dark brown. Avoid very dull looking powder.
- Choose powder made from mature, at least 2-3 year old rhizomes. Older rhizomes contain more active compounds.
- Buy whole vekhand rhizomes and powder them at home for freshness. Otherwise, choose vacuum-packed powder.
- Check for an Ayurvedic license number and manufacturing date on the pack.
- Store in an air-tight container away from heat, moisture and sunlight.
Different Ways to Use Vekhand Powder
Here are some different ways vekhand powder can be used to get maximum benefits:
1. Vekhand Milk
Boil 1 cup milk with 1 pinch vekhand powder and 1 tsp ghee. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes while stirring. Drink warm to improve memory, concentration and calm the mind.
2. Vekhand Tea
Brew 2 cups water with 1⁄2 tsp vekhand powder, a small piece of crushed ginger and honey as per taste. Strain and drink this tea 2-3 times a day to treat cold, cough and asthma.
3. Vekhand Bath Powder
Mix 2 tbsp vekhand powder with 1 cup besan/chickpea flour and use as a bath powder. It helps treat skin infections, acne, eczema and psoriasis.
4. Vekhand Steam
Boil water with 1 tsp vekhand powder. Remove from heat. Inhale the steam by covering your head with a towel. Provides relief from sinusitis and chest congestion.
5. Vekhand Hair Oil
To improve hair growth and reduce dandruff - Mix 4 tbsp coconut oil with 1 tbsp vekhand powder. Heat for few mins and let it cool. Massage on scalp and leave overnight. Wash off next morning.
6. Vekhand Incense Sticks
To repel mosquitoes - Grind vekhand, neem powder and pudina leaves together. Add little honey-jaggery paste and make incense stick dough. Roll into long sticks and dry them. Burn them to keep mosquitoes away.
FAQs
Does vekhand powder increase body heat?
Vekhand powder, when taken in moderation generally does not increase body heat or cause overheating. However, excess doses can increase internal heat and cause side effects like headache and nausea in some people. Those with Pitta body types should exercise more caution while using this herb.
Can we take vekhand powder daily?
Daily usage of vekhand powder is not recommended. It should be taken for 4-6 weeks and then take a break for 1-2 weeks before resuming. Alternatively, consume 3-4 times a week if taking for brain health or cold symptoms. Daily long term use may cause dependence and side effects. Consult an ayurvedic doctor for appropriate dosage and duration based on your health condition.
Is vekhand powder safe during pregnancy?
Vekhand powder is generally not recommended during pregnancy as it can stimulate menstruation and the uterus. Pregnant women are advised to exercise caution and consume only under medical supervision.
Can vekhand powder reduce weight?
Vekhand does not directly help with weight loss. However, improving digestion and relieving congestion can aid in better nutrient absorption and metabolism which may support weight management. When used along with fat burning herbs like triphala, it can help mobilize and reduce stubborn fat deposits around the belly and thighs.
Does vekhand interact with allopathic medicine?
Yes, vekhand powder can potentially interact with certain allopathic medicines. It is contraindicated for people taking antidepressants, hypertension medications, sedatives, diabetes medicines, etc. Always inform your doctor about all supplements you take to avoid problematic herb-drug interactions. Monitor for any adverse effects.
Is it safe to apply vekhand paste on face?
Vekhand powder is generally safe and beneficial for skin and face when used topically. It improves skin texture, reduces oiliness, blackheads, acne and pimples. However, conduct a patch test first since some people may develop contact dermatitis. Discontinue use if you experience any skin irritation or rashes.
What is vekhand powder called in Tamil?
Vekhand powder is called 'vasambu podi' in Tamil. The Acorus calamus plant itself is termed as 'vasambu' in Tamil.
Does vekhand powder cause abortion?
There is no scientific evidence that proves vekhand powder causes abortion or miscarriage. However, as a precaution pregnant women are advised not to take it without medical guidance as it can stimulate contractions.
Conclusion
Vekhand or Acorus calamus powder is an ancient ayurvedic brain tonic that contains active compounds like beta-asarone. In moderation, it provides an array of benefits - enhancing memory, concentration, intelligence, skin health, digestion, immunity and more.
With antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects, this versatile herb treats many health conditions. However, long term intake and excess doses may cause side effects. Carefully follow dosage guidelines and purchase high quality organic vekhand powder for maximum results.