Food · Asia
Horse gram
Dolichos biflorus
Traditionally attributed effects: astringent, diuretic, tonic, fever-reducing, expels worms, promotes menstruation, dissolves stones; for haemorrhoids, bronchitis, heart complaints, kidney stones, enlarged spleen, hiccups, asthma, leucoderma, leucorrhoea, menstrual cramps.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Seed powder 2–4 g; decoction 14–28 ml; as soup or porridge.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Kulitha. Horse gram (kulattha) used to be fed to horses, but in southern India it is a common pulse. In Ayurveda the decoction is considered a remedy for kidney stones and a heavy body.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Astringent, diuretic, tonic, fever-reducing, expels worms, promotes menstruation, dissolves stones; for haemorrhoids, bronchitis, heart complaints, kidney stones, enlarged spleen, hiccups, asthma, leucoderma, leucorrhoea, menstrual cramps.
Preparation and amount
Seed powder 2–4 g; decoction 14–28 ml; as soup or porridge.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- DecoctionPowder and kitchen