Artemisia nilagirica, commonly known as South Asian
bitterness or Nilgiri mugwort, is a adaptable herb belonging to the Asteraceae
household. This fragrant constant undershrub, typically growing 1-3 meters
tall, is broadly recognized for its medicinal properties and cultural
significance over diverse regions.
Introduction
Artemisia nilagirica possesses a lengthy account of use in
customary medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda. Its therapeutic applications
scope from treating breathing ailments and neurological disorders to performing
as an anthelmintic and antiseptic. Beyond its medicinal worth, the herb holds
cultural significance, being used in pious ceremonies and as a defensive charm
in some communities.
Names in Different Countries/Regions
The common distribution and varied uses of Artemisia
nilagirica be in possession of guided to a crowd of local names. In
subcontinent, it is known by dint of diverse names such as Nagadamani (ancient
Indian language), Damnak (Hindi), Masipattiri (Tamil), Davanamu (Telugu), and
Machipatre (Kannada). different regional names contain Domona (Assamese),
Nagdana (Bengali), Ananta-pacca (Malayalam), Titepati (Nepali), and Naga Daana
(Odia). Internationally, it is referred to as "South Asian Mugwort"
in Chinese.
Where it is grown
Artemisia nilagirica thrives in diverse climatic conditions
and is mostly found in the Nilgiri hills of Southern subcontinent, from
location it derives atom of its botanical label. It is broadly shared over the
South Asian subcontinent, comprising Nepal, and parts of Southeast Asia. It is
frequently found in moderate to warm regions, growing in unlocked fields,
alongside roads, and in upset areas. Its adaptability allows it to flourish in
varied habitats.
bodily Structure
The bodily arrangement of Artemisia nilagirica is
characterized by dint of its arboreal stems, what are typically paniculately
branched and hidden with beautiful, pale hairs (incanus, pubescent, or
tomentose). The foliage are easy and alternate, with the upper ones
occasionally fixed. They scope from 1.5-8 cm lengthy and 1-4 cm broad, oval in
form, and frequently lacerated or pinnatifid with sharp, mucronate lobes. The
upper surface of the foliage is pubescent, whereas the reduce surface is
distinctly pale and matted.
The herb produces tiny, globose capitula (flower heads) that
are approximately 0.2-0.4 cm in width and pale yellow-pale in color. These
flower heads can be alone or clustered in paniculate racemes. The involucral
bracts, what contain the flower top, are organized in 2-3 series and are
elongated-oval with scarious (dry and membranous) margins. The fruits are tiny,
elongated-ellipsoid achenes, blackish in color, and notably shortage a pappus
(the changed calyx in Asteraceae that aids in kernel scattering). The whole
herb possesses a clear fragrant aroma.
healing Properties
Artemisia nilagirica is a powerhouse of medicinal properties
attributed to its diverse phytochemical constituents. It is considered a drug
in some customary contexts and is used as a cure for asthma and certain brain
diseases. The herb exhibits anthelmintic properties, effectively driving out
parasitic worms from the ashes. It is as well recognized as an pesticide and
antiseptic, making it helpful for topical applications. Furthermore, it
possesses calmer qualities, with the smoke of burning dry foliage customarily
used to induce doze. The herb possesses antispasmodic and stomachic properties,
aiding in digestive and muscle-connected issues. Importantly, whereas some
parts are used medicinally, the intake of foliage and flower tops is known to
be poisonous and can be abortifacient, highlighting the significance of correct
dosage and preparation.
Advantages
The advantages of Artemisia nilagirica in customary medicine
are numerous. Its broad spectrum of deed makes it a precious herb for a
diversity of ailments. Its natural origins offer an choice to artificial drugs
for certain conditions. The herb's availability in many regions makes it
reachable for local communities practicing customary recovery. Its use as an
bug repulsive and appearance purifier as well demonstrates its environmental
benefits. The ceremonial and gullible uses highlight its profound cultural
integration and perceived defensive qualities.
Uses
The uses of Artemisia nilagirica are varied and lengthen
beyond its medicinal applications:
healing Uses:
Headache: Tender shoots are eaten to abate headaches.
Anthelmintic: Leaves and flowers are used to eject parasitic
worms.
Insecticide/disinfectant: Applied topically for these
properties.
Sedative: Smoke from burning dry foliage is inhaled to
induce doze and for hallucinations in some customary practices.
Wound Healing: earth foliage are applied to cuts and wounds
to halt bleeding. Leaf lubricate can be used as a local painkiller.
hide Ailments: Leaf decoction is applied upon sores.
Fever and Earache: Leaf juice is used for high temperature
and otalgia.
Chest Pain and smeller Bleeding: Leaf juice is taken for
sharp chest ache and to halt nose bleeding.
Abdominal Pain: Leaf juice mixed with liquid is given for
tall high temperature and sharp abdominal ache.
Post-Cremation Bath: Leaf blend is used as a bath after
coming back from the cremation ground, apt for purification.
Tonic/Antispasmodic: Root decoction is used as a stimulant
and antispasmodic.
monthly Disorders: Used in customary medicine for menstrual
irregularities.
Asthma and Brain Diseases: Traditionally used as a cure for
these conditions.
Non-healing Uses:
Insect Repellent: Leaves are burnt to ride away insects.
Air Purification: Burning foliage are as well used for
purification of appearance.
Ceremonial/Religious: new foliage are used during pious
ceremonies (puja/pooja) and marriages. Dried flowers are used for adoring
master Shiva.
Superstitious Beliefs: The herb is placed in face of doors
or below pillows as a charm, believed to guard off ghosts or spirits.
Using way
The methods of using Artemisia nilagirica change relying
upon the intended goal and customary practices:
Ingestion: Tender shoots are eaten straight for headaches.
Leaf juice, occasionally mixed with liquid, is ingested for high temperature,
otalgia, and sharp abdominal ache. Root decoction is consumed as a stimulant.
It is pivotal to note that guide consumption of foliage and flower tops can be
poisonous and abortifacient, requiring specialist guidance.
Topical Application: earth foliage are applied straight to
cuts and wounds. Leaf lubricate is applied as a local painkiller. Leaf
decoctions are used as washes or compresses for sores.
breathing: Smoke from burning dry foliage is inhaled for
calmer effects and in some practices, for hallucinations.
Baths: Leaf infusions are used as a bath for purification.
Fumigation: Burning foliage are used to ride away insects
and cleanse the appearance.
Ceremonial Placement: new foliage are used decoratively in
pious rituals, whereas the entire herb or parts of it are placed in specific
locations based upon gullible beliefs.
Conclusion
Artemisia nilagirica stands as a will to the wealthy
biodiversity and customary acquaintance systems of the regions location it
grows. Its large scope of medicinal properties, from anthelmintic and
antiseptic to calmer and antispasmodic, underscores its significance in
indigenous healthcare practices. Beyond its therapeutic worth, its part in
cultural ceremonies and gullible beliefs highlights its profound integration
into the lives of diverse communities. However, it is crucial to recognize its
potential toxicity when consumed improperly, emphasizing the need for customary
knowledge to be combined with modern systematic understanding for secure and
efficient utilization. As investigation continues, the complete potential of
that notable herb may be further unveiled, offering fresh avenues for wellness
and good-being.
