Black Pepper is obtained from the same plant as white pepper. The color of the seeds depend up on the level of ripeness at the time of harvesting. The piperine content of the plant gives it a pungent taste. This herb belongs to the Piperaceae family.
Traditionally, in Ayurveda black pepper is used in combination of other herbs and medicines, as a bioavailability enhancer, to increase the absorption of the active components into the cells of the right organs. Black Pepper is a potent anti-oxidant and a powerful cleanser that helps the body in getting rid of toxins and impurities. It also promotes healing and stimulates healthy organ function.
Common forms of Black Pepper
Fine powder, Coarsely ground powder, Whole black pepper seeds.
Common side-effects: High doses can cause burning aftertaste and heartburn. Not so common side-effects: Not known. Pregnant women: Avoid therapeutic doses as it can induce abortion. Children: Safe when taken by mouth in amounts commonly found in foods. However, lower doses are advisable. Warnings:
Large doses of black pepper powder by mouth may get into lungs causing accidental death.
Aloe vera is a common indoor succulent. It has fleshly green leaves that are filled with gelatinous sap. The sap is bitter in taste and is usually combined with other ingredients in Ayurvedic formulations that require ingestion. It is a soothing herb and is applied externally as skin treatment to prevent acne and treat sunburns. It adds bulk to the diet and helps in healthy bowel movement.
Aloe vera is a “queen” medicinal plant that is used in a variety of treatments especially to promote healthy digestion, skin and hair.
Gel: 15 mL daily for up to 42 days Capsule: 600 mg daily for up to 8 weeks
Aloe Vera Side-effects and Warnings
Common side-effects: excessive intake can cause muscle weakness, diarrhea and cramping. Not so common side-effects: Not Known Pregnant and nursing mothers: Avoid, as Aloe Vera was found to cause miscarriage in some cases Children: Not Known
Bhumyamalaki or Phyllanthus amarus is used in many Ayurvedic formulations especially for treatment of Liver disease. This herb is an incredible anti-oxidant and works as a miracle in maintaining healthy liver function. It is one of the major ingredients of Chyawanprash. It is bitter in taste and is often prescribed in combination with other herbs in the form of powder or decoction, along with milk. It has a soothing effect on the body and is found to work wonders in treating severe liver disorders like Jaundice. Bhumyamalaki is mainly found in the Bundelkhand region of India.
Common forms of Bhumyamalaki
Powder, Leaf Juice
Bhumyamalaki is commonly used for:
Treating jaundice
Treating eye irritation/painful eyes.
Curing Edema/Swelling caused by water retention
Stopping blood haemorrhage
Treating chronic dysentry
Curing typhoid
Bhumyamalaki Dosage
Leaf Juice: 10 to 20 ml in a day Powder: 3-6 grams in single or divided doses depending up on the severity of symptoms or as prescribed by the doctor.
Bhumyamalaki Side-effects and Warnings
Common side-effects: Large doses can cause diarrhea and stomach upsets Not so common side-effects: Not known Pregnant and Nursing Mothers: Not enough evidence. Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Children: Not enough evidence. But should be avoided. Warnings:
Avoid taking Bhumyamalaki if suffering from Wilson’s disease, as it may increase the levels of uric acid and can cause liver damage.