Śigru

Description

Sigru (Moringa oleifera) is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree, native to the Indian subcontinent. It grows 5–10 meters tall with soft wood, long tripinnate leaves, and slender pods (drumsticks) commonly used in South Indian cuisine. Almost every part of the plant is useful—leaves, flowers, fruits, roots, bark, and seeds. It is highly nutritious (rich in proteins, vitamins, iron, and calcium) and has been called a “superfood.” Ayurveda recognizes it as a potent Kaphahara and Vātahara, especially beneficial in digestive, inflammatory, and metabolic disorders.

Useful Parts

Leaves, flowers, fruits (drumsticks), roots, bark, seeds

Benefits

1. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals:Moringa leaves are packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin A, calcium, iron, potassium, and protein, which are crucial for growth and overall health. 2. Fights Malnutrition:Its dense nutrient profile makes it an effective dietary supplement for children and adults suffering from malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies. 3. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory:Moringa contains antioxidants that protect cells from damage and compounds that can reduce inflammation in the body. 4. Blood Sugar Control:Some research suggests it may help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, though more studies are needed. 5. Cholesterol Reduction:Studies have shown a potential for modest reductions in cholesterol levels with moringa intake.

Pharmacological Action

Digestive, carminative, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, anti-anemic, antioxidant, blood purifier, immunomodulator, galactagogue, aphrodisiac.

Rasapancakam

Rasa: Katu, Tikta

Guna: Laghu, Tikshna, Ruksha

Virya: Usna

Vipaka: Katu

Dosha Karma: Vatakapha shamaka