Description
HEDYCHIUM SPICATUM
The Indian medicinal system (Ayurveda) described the species as having pungent, light, bitter, strong, heating properties. The species is also an ingredient of some traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), traditional Tibetan medicine and Unani medicine. The powder and decoction of the rhizome are used for a variety of conditions. The rhizome is also chewed by the inhabitants of Uttarakhand to clean their mouths and freshen their breath.
Therapeutic uses
- Rhizome of Hedychium is aromatic, acidic, bitter, pungent, carminative, stomachic, stimulant, expectorant, anti-asthmatic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory.
- It is useful in asthma, bronchitis, vomiting, dyspepsia, and inflammations.
- It has insect repellent properties, and is also used as a dye and perfume for making ‘abir’ powder used in ‘Holi’.
PARTS USED
Rhizomes and essential oil from shizomes.
