Vidanga

Embelia ribes

Traditionally attributed effects: carminative, expels worms, stimulating, cleansing; against intestinal worms, ringworm and skin diseases, headache, sore throat and mouth ulcers, bark paste for pneumonia.

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

Powder 6–12 g (adults), 2–3 g (children) in the morning on an empty stomach, followed by castor oil; decoction 14–28 ml; paste on the skin or head; leaves with ginger as a gargle.

Use in traditions

Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Vidanga. In Ayurveda the pepper-like little fruits are the most important vermifuge and are part of many digestive prescriptions. They are often adulterated with related species.

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

Carminative, expels worms, stimulating, cleansing; against intestinal worms, ringworm and skin diseases, headache, sore throat and mouth ulcers, bark paste for pneumonia.

Preparation and amount

Powder 6–12 g (adults), 2–3 g (children) in the morning on an empty stomach, followed by castor oil; decoction 14–28 ml; paste on the skin or head; leaves with ginger as a gargle.

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction Compress, poultice and paste Powder and kitchen

Sources

All herbs from Asia →