Vacha (Acorus calamus)
Vacha is a traditional plant that has a number of health benefits.(HR/1)
Because this herb enhances intelligence and expression, it is known as “Vacha” in Sanskrit. Vacha is a revitalising herb in Ayurveda because of its influence on the neurological system. It has a bitter taste and is available in dried form. Due to its Vata balancing and Medhya characteristics, Ayurveda recommends taking Vacha with honey on a regular basis to assist treat speech issues. Due to its expectorant activity, it also aids in the control of cough by facilitating the clearance of sputum from the airways. Vacha’s antioxidant properties also aid to boost memory by preventing cell damage caused by free radicals.This also helps with behavioural changes, memory, and mental performance. It also aids in the removal of kidney stones by boosting urine production due to its diuretic properties. Due to its Tikhta (bitter) and Tikshna (sharpness) characteristics, a paste of Vacha powder and water can be applied to the skin to help give you a radiant complexion and manage numerous skin illnesses. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, Vacha essential oil may be effective in relieving pain and inflammation when used externally. Vacha powder combined with Triphala powder used topically lowers belly and thigh fat. If you have a weak digestive system, avoid eating too much Vacha because it can create acidity.
Vacha is also known as :- Acorus calamus, Sweet Flag, Glass Myrtle, Sadgrantha, Vayambur, Vaj, Sweet Sedge, Kalmus, Ugragrandha, Bhuta Nashini, Shataparva, GoraVacha
Vacha is obtained from :- Plant
Uses and benefits of Vacha:-
As per several scientific studies, uses and benefits of Vacha (Acorus calamus) are mentioned as per below(HR/2)
- Appetite stimulant : Although there aren’t enough scientific studies to back it up, Vacha may help with hunger.
Vacha’s Deepan (appetiser) property aids in appetite stimulation. It boosts digestive heat and speeds up the digestion process. - Stomach ulcers : Vacha can help reduce acidity and gastric acid output, making it a potential antiulcer agent. It can help protect and prevent damage to the stomach’s inner lining from the bacteria Helicobacter pylori.
Vacha improves digestion, which helps to lower the incidence of stomach ulcers. Its Deepan (appetiser) and Pachan (digestive) qualities account for this. Pachak Agni is boosted by Vacha (digestive fire). This aids in easy digestion as well as the control of excessive gastric juice output. - Flatulence (gas formation) : Vacha may help with digestive issues like flatulence (gas production) and bloating, yet there aren’t enough scientific research to back it up.
Because of its Vata balancing nature and Deepan (appetiser) and Pachan (digestive) qualities, Vacha aids in the reduction of gas collection in the stomach. It boosts Pachak Agni (digestive fire), which aids in easy digestion and prevents excessive gas buildup in the stomach. - Diarrhea : Vacha may be beneficial in the treatment of diarrhoea. Vacha includes alkaloids, saponins, and tannins, which have spasmolytic properties and relax the stomach’s smooth muscles. Vacha can thus be used to treat gastrointestinal issues like colic discomfort and diarrhoea. Vacha’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties stop bacteria from growing and lessen inflammation, offering comfort.
Vacha combines the qualities of Deepan (appetiser) and Pachan (digestive), making it effective for indigestion, gastritis, and diarrhoea. Tip: After eating light food, take 1 pinch of Vacha churna with regular water twice a day. - Skin disorders : Vacha’s Tikta (bitter) and Tikshna (sharpness) characteristics give it a healthy glow and help it fight bacterial and fungal skin problems. Vacha is also a good Ropan (healing) herb that aids wound healing.
- Arthritis : When administered externally to the affected area, Vacha’s anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce discomfort and swelling.
Vacha’s ability to balance the Vata dosha in the body aids in reducing the pain and swelling associated with arthritis. - Flatulence (gas formation) : Vacha may help with digestive issues such as flatulence (gas production) and bloating.
Due to its Vata balancing properties, Vacha may aid in the reduction of gas collection in the belly. 1. Soak the Vacha root in water and apply it to the child’s stomach. 2. Alternatively, crush Vacha in castor or coconut oil and apply it to the child’s stomach to minimise edoema caused by gas collection.
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Precautions to be taken while using Vacha:-
As per several scientific studies, below precautions should to be taken while taking Vacha (Acorus calamus)(HR/3)
- Vacha can act on the central nervous system and can cause too much sleepiness when combined with other medications used during or after the surgery. Therefore, it is advisable to stop taking Vacha at least 2 weeks before the scheduled surgery.
- Vacha should be taken in a recommended dose and for a recommended duration under a doctors supervision.
- Avoid the application of Vacha if you have excessive Pitta in the body.
Special precautions to be taken while taking Vacha:-
As per several scientific studies, below special precautions should to be taken while taking Vacha (Acorus calamus)(HR/4)
- Allergy : Vacha or its contents should only be used under the supervision of a doctor if you are allergic or hypersensitive to them.
Vacha should be tested on a tiny area first to see whether it causes any allergic responses. If you are allergic to Vacha or any of its contents, use it only under the guidance of a doctor. Vacha root paste combined with honey or milk can be applied on hypersensitive skin. - Breastfeeding : If you’re breastfeeding, stay away from Vacha.
- Minor Medicine Interaction : Antacids are used to reduce stomach acid, whilst Vacha has the potential to raise stomach acid. As a result, Vacha may reduce the effectiveness of antacids. Vacha should therefore be avoided when using antacids.
- Moderate Medicine Interaction : Antidepressants’ adverse effects may be exacerbated by Vacha. Vacha has the potential to make you sleepy or drowsy. As a result, it should not be combined with other sedatives.
- Other Interaction : 1. Vacha should be used with caution in cancer patients or those who are taking anti-cancer drugs. 2. Calcium channel blockers may increase the risk of constipation in people who use Vacha.
- Patients with heart disease : Vacha has the potential to reduce blood pressure. As a result, it’s generally a good idea to keep track of your blood pressure when taking Vacha and other anti-hypertensive medications.
- Pregnancy : Vacha should be avoided during pregnancy.
How to take Vacha:-
As per several scientific studies, Vacha (Acorus calamus) can be taken into the methods mentioned as per below(HR/5)
- Vacha Churna : Take one to two pinch of Vacha churna. Mix it with honey. Take it twice a day before or after taking food.
- Vacha Capsule : Take one to two Vacha capsule. Swallow it with water twice a day.
- Vacha Powder : Take one teaspoon of Vacha powder. Add some water to develop a paste. Apply it on the affected areas. Use this remedy to control skin infections.
- Vacha Powder with Triphala Powder : Take one teaspoon of Vacha Powder. Mix it with Triphala. Massage on your stomach and upper legs to lower fat.
- Vacha Essential Oil : Mix two declines of Vacha crucial oil to Sesame oil. Massage it gently on the affected area. Use this solution twice a day location to handle pain.
How much Vacha should be taken:-
As per several scientific studies, Vacha (Acorus calamus) should be taken into the amounts mentioned as per below(HR/6)
- Vacha Churna : One to two pinches twice a day.
- Vacha Capsule : One to two capsule twice day.
- Vacha Powder : Half to one teaspoon or your as per your requirement.
- Vacha Oil : Two to three drops or your as per your requirement.
Side effects of Vacha:-
As per several scientific studies, below side effects need to be taken into consideration while taking Vacha (Acorus calamus)(HR/7)
- Upset stomach
- Shaking
- Seizures
- Kidney damage
Questions asked frequently Related to the Vacha:-
Question. What is Vacha flower essence?
Answer. Vacha floral essence is not the same as Vacha flower essence. These solutions, also known as Vacha flower cures, are created with brandy and water and dilutions of various flowers. These are available over-the-counter and have been shown to increase mood.
Question. What are the different types of Vacha flowers?
Answer. Vacha flowers come in a variety of types, each with its own set of health advantages and essence. Gorse, Chicory, Aspen, Mustard, Holly, Willow, Gentian, Clematis, Hornbeam, Larch, Olive, Elm, Pine, Mimulus, Agrimony, Cerato, Heather, and Beech are some of the more frequent Vacha flower varieties.
Question. Where to buy Vacha flower remedies?
Answer. Commercially available vacha flower medicines are available. These goods are available at Ayurvedic stores and online.
Question. Does Vacha help to manage stammering?
Answer. Vacha may aid in the treatment of speech difficulties. This is owing to its Medhaya and Vata balancing qualities. Vacha gives the body the strength it needs to control all types of nerve problems. Take 1-2 pinches of Vacha (Acorus calamus) per day with 1 teaspoon honey.
Question. Is Vacha flower good for anxiety?
Answer. Vacha’s Medhaya (memory-enhancing) property may help manage anxiety, depression, and stress. 1. Take 1-2 pinches of Vacha churna with honey twice a day, 2 hours after eating. 2. Stick with it for at least a month to see the best benefits.
Question. Can Vacha (Calamus) be added to foods?
Answer. It is not recommended to add any variation of Vacha to meals (whether powdered or liquid) without first seeing a doctor. Because certain species of Vacha have been known to contain cancer-causing compounds, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has forbidden their usage. As a result, not all Vacha species can be ingested internally.
Question. Does Vacha help in the management of Cough?
Answer. Because of its expectorant properties, Vacha can help with cough management. It aids in the removal of mucus from the airways, offering cough alleviation.
Yes, Vacha aids in the management of cough, which is caused by the build-up of mucus in the respiratory system. This occurs as a result of an intensified Kapha dosha. Vacha, with its Ushna (hot) character and Kapha balancing abilities, aids in the management of cough symptoms. It eliminates mucus from the body by loosening it. Tips 1. Take 1-2 pinches of Vacha churna and mix well. 2. Combine it with honey in a bowl. 3. Take it twice a day, either before or after meals.
Question. How does Vacha help improve memory?
Answer. Vacha’s neuroprotective properties aid memory improvement. The antioxidants in Vacha combat free radicals that can harm brain (neuronal) cells. It improves behavioural changes, memory, and mental function by protecting cells and preventing inflammation.
Yes, Vacha can aid with memory problems, which are usually caused by a Vata dosha imbalance. It has Medya (brain tonic) and Vata balancing characteristics, which help to keep brain functioning in check and improve memory.
Question. Can Vacha remove urinary stones?
Answer. Because of its diuretic properties, Vacha may aid in the removal of urinary stones. It promotes urine output and flushes the stones out. It also encourages crystal breakdown and avoids the production of new stones (mainly renal stones).
Yes, Vacha aids in the removal of urinary stones, which are caused by the accumulation of toxins in the body as a result of a Vata-Kapa dosha imbalance. Vacha possesses Mutral (diuretic) and Vata – Kapha balancing qualities, which aid to control this illness. It boosts urine output and aids in the removal of toxins and stones from the body.
Question. What are the benefits of Vacha for abdominal gas?
Answer. Vacha’s carminative properties aid in the relief of stomach gas. It relieves flatulence by preventing the development of gas in the gastrointestinal system and facilitating gas ejection.
Abdominal gas is usually induced by a Vata-Pitta dosha imbalance, which causes weak or poor digestion. Because of its Ushna (hot) character and Vata-balancing properties, Vacha aids in the management of this ailment. It aids digestion and controls gas in the abdomen.
Question. Is Vacha helpful in managing asthma?
Answer. Yes, Vacha can help with asthma since it opens the lungs’ airways. This is accomplished by relaxing the muscles and emptying the lungs of mucus. It promotes easy breathing and alleviates asthma symptoms.
Yes, Vacha aids in the management of asthma, which is caused by a Vata-Kapa dosha imbalance. Mucus forms and accumulates in the respiratory system as a result of this. Vacha loosens mucus and eliminates it from the body, offering relief, due to its Ushna (hot) character and Vata – Kapha balancing abilities.
Question. Can Vacha be used in ulcers?
Answer. Because specific elements in Vacha have anti-secretory properties, it is used to treat ulcers. These components aid in the reduction of stomach acid volume. Vacha also has an antioxidant activity that protects stomach cells by fighting free radicals and preventing cell damage (gastroprotective property).
Question. What are the use of Vacha in Coryza?
Answer. Vacha’s anti-inflammatory qualities may aid with Coryza (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose). It clears the nasal and sinus airways by reducing inflammation in the nasal membranes.
Question. Is Vacha (Sweet flag) used to make speech clear?
Answer. Although there is insufficient scientific data to support the effect of Vacha in speech ability, it may aid in improving speech and voice quality.
Question. Can Vacha be used for herpes?
Answer. Vacha is an anti-herpes substance that can be used to treat herpes. It contains a chemical known as beta-asarone, which has a substantial inhibitory effect on the virus, according to research. It stops the herpes type 1 and type 2 virus from replicating, stopping the infection from spreading.
Question. Can I use Vacha (Sweet flag) powder on the skin?
Answer. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, Vacha powder can be applied on the skin. It suppresses the mediators that cause inflammation, allowing inflammation to be managed.
SUMMARY
Because this herb enhances intelligence and expression, it is known as “Vacha” in Sanskrit. Vacha is a revitalising herb in Ayurveda because of its influence on the neurological system.