Nature
Curcuma Zedoaria is a turmeric-like herb commonly used in Unani medicine. It is rarely mentioned in old Ayurvedic books. Its plant generally resembles the turmeric plant, although there are some differences in its leaves and roots.
Leaves
Its leaves are dark green and approximately 1.5 to 2 feet long. They are slightly narrower near the stem, wider in the middle, and become pointed toward the tip. The leaves have a reddish tint.
Seeds
The seeds are long, white, and thin, with a sheath around them.
Root
The root is generally used for medicinal purposes. It comes from a long-stemmed plant with knots. Some roots are brown and resemble thin plum seeds at both ends. They have a distinctive smell.
The plant is also cultivated and sown as a crop. It is grown throughout almost all of India, particularly in the eastern regions of the Himalayas and the northern regions. Its root is boiled for use. It is also found in Brahma and other regions.
Flowers
The flowers grow along with the leaves. They occur in yellow clusters, and triangular white seeds emerge from within them. However, not all plants produce flowers.
In Maharashtra, there is a variety of Kachur that flowers during the month of Sawan. Its flowers are yellow or red, fragrant, attractive, and grow in clusters. It is known there as Salandh or Shad Hoda.
Another variety is thick like a turnip. It is boiled and cut into pieces and is known as Kapor Kachri.
Chemical Constituents
It contains a type of essential oil that is yellowish-white, sticky, and has a camphor-like odor and taste. It also contains a bitter, soft resin, organic acids, gum, starch, sugar, crude fiber, ash, albumin, and other constituents.
Temperament
Hot and dry, third degree.
Functions and Uses
- Pleasant to the mouth
- Soothing
- Cough suppressant
- Promotes menstruation
Due to its traditional use in promoting menstruation, its decoction and poultice are used for various menstrual disorders.
It is also traditionally used for pain and colds. Kachur is used in influenza. A decoction prepared with Kachur and cinnamon is considered useful.
Special Benefits
- Karsriyah
- Tonic for the liver
Harmful Effects
It may cause headaches in people with a hot temperament.
Corrective
Violet flower
Dosage
1–3 grams
Ingredients and Preparations
Curcuma Zedoaria is used in various traditional preparations, including:
- Pinch of Fulvum
- Liver juice
- Proven oil
- Jojoba oil
- Guggul
- Chob-Chini ointment prepared according to a special recipe
- Anti-inflammatory ointment
- Other traditional preparations
