GUNJA

Introduction:

It’s a climber, twins around trees. Leaves are small green similar to Tamarind leaves in 8 to 10 pairs. Three varieties having seeds white, black or Red with black spot, weighing 1 Rati. Root, Leaves and purified seeds are used in ayurvedic preparations. Seeds contain toxic substances and should not be used without purification and expert guidance. Seeds are almost of uniform weight of one Rati, hence in past were used to weigh precious metals and gemstones.

Uses:

1. Prepare a paste of leaves, roots and seeds, apply over scalp and keep it for few minutes to remove dandruff. Repeat for few days. Also, it helps in baldness and hair growth.
2. Prepare a paste of leaves and apply on affected part for relief in inflammation.
3. Chew fresh leaves of gunja to clear throat. Used in place of liquorice and as mouth freshener after meal. Root and leaf extracts are useful to relieve cough and hoarseness.
4. Purified seeds paste may be applied externally to treat eczema, vitiligo and other skin diseases, paste is also useful in relieving joint pain, swelling and similar conditions.
5. Chew or apply paste of leaves on affected parts to cure mouth ulcers.
6. Prepare decoction of crushed leaves and drink to get relief in dysuria.

Caution: 

1. Raw seeds are poisonous and should not be used without expert guidance. Seeds are to be purified before use.
2. Not safe for children, pregnant and lactating mothers.