[1]Hedychium spicatum or Gulbakawali is a scented herb found in the Himalayas, but now increasingly cultivated in other hilly regions of the country. Its intoxicating fragrance and beautiful flowers make it a garden favourite. Belonging to the ginger family, Hedychium has been used in a number of traditional medicines the world over, including Ayurveda and Unani.
Also known as Karchura in Sanskrit and Ginger Lily or Garland Flower in English, this herb has a number of medicinal properties, the most important being its ability to fight cholesterol in the arteries and keep the blood flowing to the heart, and other vital organs, including the brain. Gulbakawali thus prevents heart and brain stroke, as also paralysis. Ayurvedic and Unani doctors hail it as a natural vasodilator thanks to its medicinal property of dilating or opening up the blood vessels.
Gulbakawali is also prescribed for problems relating to the digestive system and fighting local inflammation. It controls nausea and vomiting and its antioxidant properties prevent the formation of cancerous cells while its antibacterial effect has been established against a number of bacterial species. Some herbal doctors prescribe the extract of Gulbakawali for eye infection and dandruff. In the case of dandruff Gulbakawali oil can be gently rubbed on the scalp.
Note: Those allergic to certain herbs should avoid them.
Disclaimer: Consult a professional before trying herbal
formulations at home.
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