Leucoderma or white patches is a skin condition whose occurrence is shrouded in mystery. Despite the advancement in medical sciences, it’s not still clear what exactly triggers leucoderma. Research has been going on the world over to understand the medical mechanism that triggers this skin problem, and find a permanent cure through medication.
Ancient Indian medical texts have described the problem of leucoderma in detail and have suggested that Semecarpus anacardium is a natural remedy. Though the skin problem does not go completely, this herb helps in keeping it in check. Semecarpus anacardium is known as bhilavan in Hindi and Urdu and as ‘Marking Nut’ in English.
A number of health benefits have been attributed to this herb by Ayurvedic and Unani doctors. The herb is also used by tribals and those following forest medicine.
Health benefits include the control of white patches on the skin, piles, cough, nervous problems, infertility in men, healing of wounds, relief from joint pains, baldness and the enlargement of spleen.
As is the case with many herbs, Seme-carpus should be used with caution, particularly when it is consumed internally.
And on a note of caution: it may create health issues in young children, pregnant as well as lactating women and the elderly.
Note: Those allergic to certain herbs should avoid them.
Disclaimer: Consult a
professional before trying herbal formulations at home.
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Home remedies
Those suffering from piles may take Semecarpus tonic readily available in herbal stores. Alter-natively, one can prepare an extract from the Seme-carpus fruit at home. Take the fruit, wash it properly and boil it in a little quantity of water. A tablespoon of this decoction can be taken. In the case of juice obtained from the Semecarpus fruit, a few drops are sufficient.
The oil obtained from the Semecarpus fruit can be mixed with coconut oil and applied on white patches, wounds, and those parts of the skin that are affected by acne, ringworm and eczema. The oil can be applied on the scalp for the treatment of alopecia or baldness.
The oil of Semecarpus can be applied on swollen and painful joints for relief from
arthritis.
The juice obtained from Semecarpus can be applied on cracked heels for relief from pain.
A little quantity of Semecarpus tonic can be used internally every day for the treatment of paralysis.