Heeng Oil (Asafoetida)

Heeng-bannerAsafoetida is seen as an archaic remedy for flatulence, colic and other digestive disorders but the truth is that this ‘Food of Gods’ is still boasting its potent of treating various disorders from toothache to impotency for more than 5,000 years, where it’s use has been documented in Ashtanga Hridaya, which is one of the ancient text of the world’s oldest healing science known as Ayurveda.

Highly carped for its pungent aroma, Asafoetida has never failed in adding that extra spice to numerous traditional dishes in various countries including India, Europe, North Africa and the United States.

Known as Rāmaha, Badhika and Sahasravedhi in Sanskrit, Heeng and its essential oil has been prescribed in the Ayurvedic medicine for treating flatulence, whooping cough, painful menstruation, premature ejaculation, impotency, diabetes, asthma, intestinal worms and toothache.

Purchase Heeng Oil (Asafoetida) – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical importance of Heeng (Asafoetida):

Asafoetida is native to Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan. Botanically known as Ferula assa-foetida, it is a member of the Apiaceae plant family and the commercial part used is the oleo-gum resin extracted from the thickened roots and rhizomes. It is also known by other famous names like hing, narthex, heeng, food of Gods, devil’s dung, haltheeth, giant fennel, ting and stinking gum.

Ayurveda quotes “Asafoetida is a grounding herb that can therefore balance an overactive, over emotional, turbulent system“. It was one among the common herbs prescribed for the treatment of hysteria. It was used in 1918 to combat the Spanish influenza pandemic. It was also used as a topical remedy for relieving abdominal injuries.

Heeng is a popular spice all over the world and is used as a digestive aid, flavoring agent and as a condiment in food varieties and in pickles. It is used in daily food preparations in India especially by the followers of Vaishnavism, Jainism and by the merchant caste. Asafoetida was the most prevalent folk remedy for treating flatulence, colic and cold in children and as a contraceptive medicine.

The Arabian pharmacists and scientists like Avicenna, Fakhr al-Din al-Razi and Ibn al-Baitar have talked about the positive effects of Asafoetida on digestive system and the respiratory system. It is used in magic spells in the African-American Hoodoo tradition for its power to protect as well as to curse.

Asafoetida is also used in the Jamaican culture for protecting babies from evil spirits. The Jewish literatures like Mishneh Torah and Mishnah have also talked about this spice.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Heeng oil:

The remedial properties of Heeng essential oil are nervine, carminative, aphrodisiac, vermifuge, abortifacient, antispasmodic, stimulant, anti-flatulent, antimicrobial, analgesic, antiseptic, anti-epileptic, fertility enhancer, contraceptive, anthelmintic, expectorant, bronchodilator and emmenagogue. The major chemical constituents are phellandrenes, α-pinene, hendecyl-sulphonyl acetic acid, ferulic acid and ethers of sesquiterpenes with coumarines like farnesi feroles.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Heeng (Asafoetida) oil:

Asafoetida is a promising Ayurvedic remedy for treating digestive and respiratory disorders for thousands of years. Known as the oldest of all the healing systems on earth, Ayurveda is the mother of all medicinal practices in the world having its roots deeply vested with India, the world’s oldest historical tradition.

Ayurveda is considered as the only healing methodology that considers human body as a temple where the real soul dwells in. It also states that Mother Nature is made up of five vital elements namely fire, water, earth, air and ether. Being a part of Nature, human beings are also made up of these five fundamental elements that pair together and form the biological energies called as doshas.

Just like an individual’s fingerprints, each one of us on earth has a unique individual constitution that comprises of these three doshas namely vata, pitta and kapha. Vata is a representation of air and space and is responsible for respiration, nervous functions, circulation, excretion and creativity.

Pitta stands for fire and water and is accountable for digestion, absorption, metabolism and thinking capacity. Kapha represents water and earth and is in charge for structure, movement of fluids, sustenance and love.

Every individual has a dominance of any one of these doshas and it determines their characteristics, temperament and behavioral attributes. Balance between these doshas indicates health and imbalance causes illnesses. Ayurvedic remedies are prescribed in a such a manner to set right these doshic imbalances.

Heeng and its essential oil in Ayurveda is said to increase Pitta energy and balance vata and kapha dosha with its pungent taste and enormous healing properties. In the Ayurvedic text Ashtanga Hridaya Su Chapter l it is mentioned that “Asafoetida mitigates vata and kapha, relieves flatulence and colic pain. It is pungent taste and at the end of digestion. It aggravates pitta, enhances appetite, taste and digestion. It is easy to digest”.

The major Ayurvedic health benefits of Heeng oil are:

Heeng-broucher

1. Benefits to the digestive system:

Just by hearing the word ‘Asafoetida’ anyone in India would just say that it is the best natural remedy for treating flatulence, colic and indigestion in children as well as elderly people. With its anti-flatulent, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Heeng essential oil aids in relieving from abdominal gas, stomach pain, intestinal gas and bloating.

It cleanses the intestinal flora and augments the digestive fire. By this way it eliminates all kinds of stagnation in the gastrointestinal tract, relieves cramping and drives out intestinal gas. The strong herbaceous aroma of this oil assists in soothing the lining of the stomach and intestines, reducing distention, treating spasms and increasing the appetite.

Gently massaging your tummy and abdomen with 2 drops of Asafoetida oil blended with 1 ml of sesame oil will be of great help in treating all types of stomachic and intestinal problems in a comforting manner.

You can also add 1 drop of Heeng oil to warm bathing water or to diffuser in the dining hall to stimulate the process of metabolism and for enhancing the stamina, as this oil is known to nurture the earth element that is responsible for strength and vigor.

Asafoetida is used as a traditional medicine for treating constipation and flatulence in 60% people of Jammu and Kashmir, India and this wonder herbal medicine lessens the development of indigenous microflora in the gut, thus helping in reducing flatulence. It has also been used in western medicinal system as a topical remedy for treating abdominal injuries since the 18th century.

2. Benefits to the respiratory system:

Heeng and its essential oil is an ancient folk remedy for treating cold especially in children. This is mainly due to its antimicrobial and expectorant properties along with its ability to reduce kapha dosha, which is responsible for excess phlegm and mucous deposits causing cold and other respiratory problems.

Add 2 drops of Heeng oil to steam inhalation or to vapor rub and massage it on your chest, neck and back for expelling mucous and phlegm deposits in the bronchial, nasal and respiratory passages. Asafoetida has antimicrobial values that arrest the growth of infectious organisms that worsen cold and cough and pave way for chronic respiratory conditions.

It has been proven effective in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, chest congestion, whooping cough and other respiratory problems. There are numerous home remedies with Asafoetida for treating respiratory disorders and various other health conditions.

One popular home remedy with Heeng is mixing half teaspoon of asafoetida powder with fresh betel leaf juice and white onion juice along with honey every day for treating whooping cough, bronchitis and asthma.

A 2009 study on ‘Influenza A (H(1)N(1)) Antiviral and Cytotoxic Agents from Ferula assa-foetida’ have proved the effectiveness of Asafoetida in combating the harmful effects of H1N1 virus with its antiviral and cytotoxic elements. This study concluded that Asafoetida exhibited greater potency against influenza A virus and against HepG2, Hep3B, and MCF-7 cancer cell lines, correspondingly.

3. Benefits to the reproductive system:

Asafoetida addresses male and female reproductive problems in a natural way. It is known to cure impotency, premature ejaculation and spermatorrhoea in men by increasing the libido and it also acts as an effective aphrodisiac.

Mix 2 drops of Heeng oil with 1 ml of olive oil and gently massage on your lower abdomen or add 1 drop of this oil to your bathing tub before going to bed. Regular use of this therapy can show effective results as the therapeutic molecules present in this oil penetrate deeply into the system through the skin and stimulate the male reproductive system.

Heeng as a powerful herb and a strong essential oil has emmenagogue properties and has been in use as a natural contraceptive. It will be of great assistance in treating dysmennorhea or painful menstruation, excessive bleeding, irregular or delayed periods, leucorrhea, nausea, fatigue, anxiety and other symptoms associated with menses.

The best way to use Heeng oil for menstrual discomforts is by massaging your lower abdomen with 2 drops of this oil mixed with 1 ml sesame oil or add it in a hot compress for improved results.

As a contraceptive or abortifacient, Heeng oil can be used in treating unplanned abortion, sterility in women and premature labor. It is also effective in improving the quality and quantity of breast milk in nursing women. Using Asafoetida in post-pregnancy period is recommended for relieving colic, indigestion and other digestive difficulties in both the mother and the baby.

4. Benefits to oral health:

Human mouth has the highest possibilities of being affected by millions of micro-organisms that not only cause hazards to oral health but also to the entire body. Heeng essential oil has potent antimicrobial and antiseptic properties that aids in treating toothache, bleeding gums, bad breath or halitosis and harmful cavities.

Add 1 drop of Heeng oil in a cup of warm water and use it as a gargle for getting rid of various oral problems. You can also add 1 drop of this oil to a piece of cotton and dab it on your aching tooth for immediate relief.

5. Benefits to the entire system:

Asafoetida and its essential oil are beneficial to the entire system in a number of ways. It has been proven effective in stimulating the pancreatic cells to secrete more insulin as improved insulin levels are known to bring down the blood sugar levels to normal.

According to certain studies, the antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties of Asafoetida curbs the growth of malignant cells causing cancerous tumors. Since the ancient times, this condiment has been used as a powerful antidote for opium as it is identified to counter the effect of the ingested drug.

Asafoetida is defined as ‘Tamasic’ in Ayurveda for its properties of resistance, dullness, inertia and darkness on the mind and it can balance the over emotional, hyperactive and chaotic system.

This condiment is also used as a pesticide and insecticide for protecting crops from pests and for repelling mosquitoes and certain other insects.

Disclaimer:

This article is only for informational purpose and is not directed to diagnose or replace any prescribed medicines or professional medical advice. Never take essential oils internally and always dilute essential oils before using it topically. This is because organic and pure essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and can cause allergic reactions if used in an undiluted manner.

Remember to consult your Ayurvedic practitioner before choosing the most suitable essential oil for your unique constitution and health condition. Avoid using Heeng oil if you are a pregnant woman as it has strong abortifacient properties.

Thought for the day:

Deep in their roots, all flowers keep the light. -Theodore Roethke

Suggested Reading:

  1. Ayurveda & Aromatherapy: The Earth Essential Guide to Ancient Wisdom and Modern Healing by Dr. Light Miller, Dr. Bryan Miller
  2. Ayurvedic Healing Cuisine by Harish Johari
  3. Herbs: An Inside Look Into The World of Alfalfa, Basil, Asafoetida, Burdock, Catnip and More by Vanesa Payne
  4. The Yoga of Herbs: An Ayurvedic Guide to Herbal Medicine by David Frawley, Vasant Lad
  5. Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide by Burton Goldberg Group

Reference Links:

  1. Asafoetida by Wikipedia
  2. Asafoetida (Hing) Benefits by Speedy Remedies.com
  3. Asafoetida by The Spices Board India
  4. Asafoetida – A Grounding Herb by American Botanical Council
  5. Influenza A (H(1)N(1)) Antiviral and Cytotoxic Agents from Ferula assa-foetida by Lee, CL; Chia-Lin Lee, Lien-Chai Chiang, Li-Hung Cheng, Chih-Chuang Liaw, Mohamed H. Abd El-Razek, Fang-Rong Chang, Yang-Chang Wu, College of Pharmacy, China published in PubMed

Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin-bannerThere’s no Halloween without Pumpkin and there are no Pumpkin seeds without enormous healing values. These seeds are highly nutritious and the oil extracted Pumpkin seeds are often celebrated for its amazing remedial benefits to prostate problems like benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH, diabetes, arthritis and kidney disorders.

Widely known as Pepitas, Pumpkin seeds and its oil are used and recommended in Ayurvedic healing for treating urinary problems, low bone density, arthritis, bed-wetting, joint pain, vascular diseases, controlling cholesterol levels (LDL) and for supporting the functions of the kidneys and prostate.

Purchase Pumpkin Seed Oil – Retail – CLICK HERE

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Pumpkin Seed Oil:

Palmitic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, myristic acid, stearic acid, palmitoleic acid, linolenic acid and behenic acid are the major chemical components of Pumpkin seed oil. It also contains carotenoids like β-carotene and lutein and tocopherols including ϒ- gamma, β- beta and delta tocopherols.

Pumpkin seeds are also a rich source of zinc, proteins, magnesium, tryptopan (serotonin), thiamine and manganese.

The remedial values of Pumpkin seed oil are antioxidant, anti-arthritic, anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory, alterative, antimicrobial, detoxifying, anti-hypertensive, emollient, nutritive, anti-inflammatory, sedative, moisturizing and tranquilizing.

Historical uses and importance of Pumpkin Seed and its oil:

Pumpkins are one among the most popular staple food and are said to have been originated in America. The term ‘Pumpkin’ is extracted from the Greek word Pepon and the meaning is ‘large melon’. Pumpkin seeds are also known as Pepitas and the Mexican Spanish term ‘pepita de calabaza’ simply stands for ‘little seed of squash’.

These petite but powerful seeds are said to have been discovered in the Mexican caves in 7,000 BC. The tribal populace of Native America, including the Aztec cultures (1300 to 1500 AD) has used Pumpkin and its seeds for food and medicinal purposes.

The greatest news is that Pumpkins have been planted in about 100,000 acres across U.S and Illinois is the leading producer of Pumpkins. China is the largest producer of Pumpkins in the world followed by U.S, India, Mexico, Ukraine and Russia.

The United States pharmacopoeia listed Pumpkin seeds as an effective medicine for treating parasites and these seeds have been used in the traditional and alternative medicinal practices for treating gastric disorders, urinary illnesses, prostate problems, tapeworms and intestinal parasites.

Pumpkin has been an excellent food for Pilgrims, especially for its high nutritious profile and its potent to stay fresh. This pilgrim verse written in circa 1633 utters all that is vital about Pumpkins.

“For pottage and puddings and custards and pies
 Our pumpkins and parsnips are common supplies,
 We have pumpkins at morning and pumpkins at noon,
 If it were not for pumpkins we should be undoon.”

Even today Pumpkins and its seeds are used as a wholesome food by the pilgrims and have been employed as an essential part of everyday cooking across the world, including the Asian, European and Mediterranean countries.

Pumpkin seeds are loved and recommended as a healthy snack across the globe for numerous reasons and you can bank upon them during your next munch.

Ayurvedic health benefits of Pumpkin Seed oil:

Pumpkin seed oil is said to have a positive effect on all the three doshas or the fundamental energies of life.

Botanically called as Cucurbita pepo, Pumpkin like all other members of the Cucumber family, Cucurbitaceae, it is trusted as an excellent detoxifying agent in Ayurvedic healing. Thus Pumpkin and its nutrient seeds and oil are prescribed for discarding ama or toxic deposits in the system.

Ayurvedic texts prescribe its use in cleansing the bladder and other adjoining organs of the body.

The most awe-inspiring fact is that Pumpkin seeds are extremely rich in an amino acid called as tryptopan that assists in eliminating the toxins in the mind, thus assisting the treatment of stress, anxiety, trauma, anger and is also proven to enhance your cognitive abilities and tranquilize the nervous system.

Ayurveda beckons Pumpkin and its seeds as livotonic, means a tonic for the liver that helps in strengthening the liver, regulates its normal functioning and support in the treatment of hepatitis, degeneration and inflamed liver conditions.

None of us can deny that every day is a new day and a new birth in your life and it’s appropriate to call it as a newer opportunity and a souvenir indeed.

The fruit of pessimism can suppress you while the seeds of optimism can impress your living. In a much similar way, disease is not a matter of agony and is instead a blessing to be happy about.

Ayurveda regards disease or sickness as an opportunity to discern the imbalance in your system. Treating the root cause of an illness can save your head now and prevent such conditions in the future as well.

Nature is the best medicine and everything present in nature is made up of five fundamental elements of Nature like earth (muscles and bone), fire (digestive fire and body temperature), water (blood and other vital fluids), air (all that we breathe) and space (spirit and soul).

Being a part of nature, any illness is an indication of being of out of balance with nature. Using natural medications can certainly assist in permanent remedy of a disease and support in leading a balanced and hearty living.

Ayurveda prescribes natural medications like herbal remedies, Ayurvedic essential oils (life force of plants), yoga (sister science of Ayurveda), meditation (tonic to the soul), Pranayama (conscious breathing technique), Abhyanga (Ayurvedic massaging), Panchakarma (detoxification practices), Dinacharya (Ayurvedic routine) and more.

Here’s the heart of this article and you’re right. Pumpkin seed oil can assist in the treatment of the following health conditions:

Pumpkin-Seed-Oil1. Supports in the treatment of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) and certain other prostate problems:

Pumpkin seeds are the most favorite snack of men in Bulgaria, Ukraine and Turkey. These seeds are loaded with high zinc content and are responsible for supporting prostate health and aids in decreasing the size of prostrate.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH is a medical condition in men, which is characterized with enlarged or inflamed prostates. Even though it is non-cancerous in nature, BPH requires prompt medical attention. This in general enlarges in middle-aged and elderly men along with age.

Recent studies witness that the presence of cucurbitacins, a chemical component in Pumpkin seeds assist in thwarting testosterone (male hormone) into dihydrotestosterone (an associated element) that is said to encourage the production of prostrate cells.

The celebrated book ‘An A-Z Guide to Healing Foods’ by Elise Marie Collins describes that Pumpkin seed oil have been proved as an alternative remedy for treating benign prostate enlargement and its varied symptoms. Marie also suggests that the use of Pumpkin seed oil along with other natural medications like Saw Palmetto for effective treatment of prostate conditions.

What is all in Pumpkin seeds that can help in the treatment of BPH? The presence of zinc, lignans and phytosterols in these tiny little seeds has been effective in reducing the risk associated with BPH.

Various research analysis reports on the phytosterol components in Pumpkin seeds, including sitostanol, beta-sitosterol, avenasterol, campestanol, stigmasterol and campesterol are responsible for its efficacy in the diagnosis of BPH.

Ayurveda calls Pumpkin seed as Basti Shoda, which means a remedy for cleansing the bladder and the adjacent parts of the body.

Pumpkin seeds and its oil were also prescribed in Ayurvedic medicine for increasing sperm count and for treating impotence and premature ejaculation, for which it is known as ‘Virya Vardhak’, which enhances intense power and vitality.

2. Combats against cancer, diabetes and high cholesterol levels:

Pumpkin seeds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help in preventing the growth and spread of cancerous cells and support the recovery of patients during their treatment tenure and healthy cardiovascular system.

The presence of phytosterol compounds in Pumpkin seeds has been associated with controlling the level of cholesterol in the system. Phytosterols work by restraining the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine and enhance the level of HDL cholesterol.

A 2011 study on ‘The effect of pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L) seeds and L-arginine supplementation on serum lipid concentrations in atherogenic rats’ published in the African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines, states that about 37 days of regular supplementation of Pumpkin seeds on rats that are on atherogenic diet-induced atherosclerosis showed a 78 % fall in LDL (bad) cholesterol and 47% reduction in total levels of cholesterol and a promising increase in defensive HDL cholesterol (imperative for healthy heart functions).

A 2013 study on ‘Effects of phytoestrogen extracts isolated from pumpkin seeds on estradiol production and ER/PR expression in breast cancer and trophoblast tumor cells’ by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Rostock, Germany states “Phytoestrogens have a controversial effect on hormone-dependent tumors” and it concludes by reporting that the presence of lignans in Pumpkin seed are effective in the treatment and prevention of breast cancer.

Numerous researches suggest that the presence of omega-3 fatty acids like α-linolenic acid in Pumpkin seed oil might aid in reducing inflammation and the occurrences of chronic health problems like high blood pressure, cancer and heart diseases, quotes the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Pumpkin seeds are alkalizing in nature to the body’s natural pH levels, where most of the snack foods might cause acidity, pain and even cancer. Pumpkin seed oil is also effective in reducing the oxidative stress responsible for cancer, diabetes and other metabolic disorders.

A research study led by Tao Xia in the East China Normal University have concluded that certain compounds in Pumpkin extracts are known to encourage regeneration of damaged pancreatic cells, thus enhancing the levels of insulin in blood.

3. Assists in diagnosing osteoporosis, bone disorders and low immunity:

The most promising attribute that makes Pumpkin seed oil as an armament against osteoporosis is its high zinc, phosphorous and magnesium content, where insufficient consumption of zinc, magnesium and certain other minerals are often associated with weak bones and increased rate of osteoporosis.

Zinc plays a vital role in cellular growth, immune power, sensory functions and sleep patterns. Deficiency of zinc is characterized by acne, frequent cold and cough, depression, fatigue, poor cognitive abilities and more.

Low levels of blood of the trace mineral and osteoporosis diagnosed at the spinal and hip area were reported due to the deficient levels of zinc in the diet, states a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition with 400 men in the sample group.

4. Alleviates stress, depression and sleeping difficulties:

Pumpkin seed oil contains numerous amino acids like tryptophan, which gets transformed to niacin and serotonin (neuro-transmitter in the brain for stirring your mood). These compounds have been proved universally for its ability to assuage stress levels, social anxiety turmoil, and depression along with fostering a tranquilizing sleep.

Sleep is nature’s medicine for repairing, healing and renovating the physical, emotional and spiritual throbbing and damages. Stress, depression, anxiety and fatigue often curtail natural sleep patterns that agonize your nights and ruin your days throughout.

By promoting a peaceful sleep at night, Pumpkin seed oil pacifies the mind, body and the soul. Stress, anxiety and depression are often the factors behind excessive loss of hair. With its potent to alleviate stress, depression and fatigue, Pumpkin seed oil can control stress related hair loss conditions like Alopecia Areata, Trichotillomania, and Telogen Effluvium.

Pumpkin seed oil promotes hair growth by augmenting the follicular strength, and natural sheen says Marnie Nussbaum, celebrated Cosmetic dermatologist. She also states that Pumpkin Seed oil curtails 5-alpha reductase enzyme. This enzyme has been proven to delay and impede the growth of hair.

Pumpkin seeds are packed with rich nutrients including vitamins A and B, zinc, protein, iron and omega-6 fatty acids that are extremely beneficial for the growth of healthy hair, nourishment of dry and scaly scalp conditions.

5. Helps mitigate kidney disorders and inflammatory conditions:

Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of antioxidants and essential fatty acids that are proved in treating inflammatory problems by reducing inflammation, particularly in joints without any negative effects (According to a study published in the Journal of Pharmacology Research). It is mainly for this reason; Pumpkin seed oil is recommended for treating arthritis.

Frequent urination and the excess pressure to urinate recurrently are among the few symptoms of an overactive bladder. Pumpkin seeds are an excellent remedy for supporting the overall health of the excretory system and treats overactive bladder and other urinary problems effectively (With reference to the Journal of Traditional and Complementary medicine – 2014 study).

BPH (Benign prostatic hyperplasia) might also pave way for stones or calculi in the bladder and frequent infections in the urinary tract.

The presence of B vitamins, minerals, amino acids and proteins in Pumpkin seeds are also proved to maintain regular functions of the kidneys, bladder and urinary tracts by restraining surplus levels of DHEA (dihydro epi-androstenedione).

Best ways to use Pumpkin Seed oil:

The best possible ways to use Pumpkin seed oil for enhancing your health condition is to use it in an enriching massage blend with your favorite essential oils like Peppermint oil, Mace oil, Lavender oil, Patchouli oil, Ashwagandha oil, Orange oil and more, as the great news is………….. Pumpkin seed oil blends well with all the oils.

Other health benefits:

Ayurveda suggests the use of Pumpkin seeds and its oil for balancing excess vata and pitta doshas, especially during the fall season and discarding toxic remains in the system. Pumpkin seeds in general are known to strengthen the functions of the lungs and intestines.

The potent to relieve excess sogginess in the body, makes Pumpkin seeds a friendly all time snack for supporting human health in general. It is also used in eliminating parasites and tapeworms.

Disclaimer:

This article is meant only for the purpose of information and is not indented for the treatment of any health conditions or as a replacement for any prescribed medicines or the advice of a medical expert. We, at Essential Depot are not healthcare professionals and this information is shared only with the view of cascading the traditional wisdom of Ayurvedic healing.

Essential oils are prescribed only for topical use. This is due to the fact that 100 percent pure and organic oils are highly concentrated liquids and may cause allergic reactions when used internally.

Always speak with your Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare expert before choosing the appropriate essential oils for your unique individual constitution and state of health. Extra care should be taken in using essential oils if it is for children, elderly populace, nursing and pregnant women.

Thought for the day:

I love the scents of winter! For me, it’s all about the feeling you get when you smell pumpkin spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, gingerbread and spruce.

– Taylor Swift

Suggested Reading:

  1. Dr. Katz’s Guide to Prostate Health: From Conventional to Holistic Therapies by Aaron E. Katz
  2. Pumpkin, a Super Food for All 12 Months of the Year by DeeDee Stovel
  3. Pumpkin Seed Flour and its Micro-nutrient levels: Production of Pumpkin Seed Flour and Evaluation of its Potential to Enhance Vitamin A and Iron Levels of Maize Flour by Twinamasiko Andrew
  4. How Does A Pumpkin Grow?: Discover the secrets about how pumpkins grow! Be inspired to plant a seed and watch the beauty unfold in your own backyard. (Country Garden Book 2) by Renae Smith
  5. Pumpkin Seeds :Healthy and Easy Homemade for Your Best Friend by Heviz’s

Reference Links:

  1. Pumpkin seed oil by Wikipedia
  2. What’s new and beneficial about Pumpkin seeds? by The World’s Healthiest Foods
  3. Effects of phytoestrogen extracts isolated from pumpkin seeds on estradiol production and ER/PR expression in breast cancer and trophoblast tumor cells’ by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Rostock, Germany, published in Nutrition and Cancer Journal and PubMed
  4. The True Potency of the Pumpkin Seed by Life Extension Magazine
  5. Amazing health benefits of Pumpkin Seeds by Dr. Mercola

Neem Seed Oil

Neem is the ultimate pride of India and a divine gift of nature for its colossal remedial benefits including its power in treating tuberculosis, malaria, dandruff, fever, leprosy, acne, joint pain, plaque, intestinal worms, gastrointestinal disorders, chicken pox, diabetes and jaundice.

Neem-bannerAyurveda calls Neem as Sarva roga nivarani, means cure for all diseases and Arishtha, meaning one that alleviates all illnesses. Even today, Neem is a trusted solution for treating various health conditions in Indian villages for which it is called as ‘Village Dispensary.’

Neem and its varied extracts are prescribed in Ayurvedic medication for treating skin ulcers, diabetes, urinary infections, hair loss, psoriasis, constipation and digestive difficulties, scabies, asthma, whooping cough, wounds, pain, chicken pox and certain other infectious diseases.

Purchase Neem Seed Oil – Retail – 4 oz – CLICK HERE

Purchase Neem Seed Oil – Wholesale – CLICK HERE

Historical uses and importance of Neem and its varied extracts:

‘The liberated tree of India’ is the direct meaning of its scientific name Azadirachta indica, where the word ‘Azad’ means freedom, ‘dirakht’ means tree, ‘i-Hind’, means of Indian origin.

Neem is the first medicinal plant indicated in Siddha medicine, one among the oldest healing systems on earth. The 4,500 years old Indus valley civilization including the discovery of the cities of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro talks about the medicinal uses of Neem tree.

Being an evergreen tree, Neem is often found in the front yard of most of the Indian homes for its phenomenal healing powers. WHO or the World Health Organization mentions that about 80 per cent of the developing countries’ populace bank upon natural or traditional medicines for treating various health conditions.

Among all those natural medications, Neem has found enormous medicinal attributes and therapeutic properties. Neem was called as the ‘Tree of the 21st Century’ by the United Nations Environment Programme.

The Siddha medications for treating blood pressure, diabetes, excess cholesterol, urinary tract infections, leprosy and gastro intestinal problems had Neem formulations in it.

In 1992, the National Academy of Science of the United Nations called Neem tree as “A tree for solving global problems.” The 350 years old Palm leaf manuscript preserved in the Centre for Traditional Medicine and Research emphasize on the remedial uses of Neem tree.

Every day many Indian families start their day with the use of Neem, where the Neem twigs are used as a natural toothbrush for combating oral problems.

The tea prepared with Neem leaves decoction, consumed in empty stomach in the morning is said to be a trusted remedy for flushing out toxic remains in the system, killing microbes in the body and increasing the immune power.

All the parts of the Neem tree including its leaves, bark, twigs, gum, fruits, flowers, seeds and the cold pressed Neem oil have enormous medicinal values for mankind.

The Neem leaves paste has been used in various folklore medicinal practices for treating pimples, chicken pox boils, viral infections, bed sores, psoriasis, eczema and wounds. Neem leaf decoction was also used for treating dandruff, hair fall and head lice.

Chemical constituents and therapeutic properties of Neem seed oil:

The primary chemical constituents of Neem oil are triterpenoid compounds like Azadirachtin and Nimbin along with triglycerides, sterols including stigmasterol, campesterol and beta-sitosterol. This oil also contains fatty acids, namely Omega-6, Omega-9, stearic acid and palmitic acid.

These components contribute to its remedial values like antimicrobial, antiviral, antiseptic, antifungal, antihistamine, febrifuge, antipyretic, hepatoprotective, analgesic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, immune stimulant, antioxidant, emmenagogue, circulatory, vermifuge, anthelmintic, astringent, cicatrisant, spermicidal and nervine.

Ayurvedic uses of Neem seed oil:

Being a part of nature is the greatest acknowledgement one can ever receive. If you wander in search of solace through natural beauty either in the form of a lawn or a mountain, then it is just a symbol of your ignorance.

Beauty, especially the eternal beauty lies within you and your soul has everything that is in nature. Wanna try what I say??? Come lets experience the heaven in us..

Just sit in the most silent or tranquil zone in your home. Take a deep breath, relax and close your eyes. Want to be amid Niagara Falls now? PICTURIZE is all I have to say. Start hearing the roaring voice of the falls, feel touch of the drizzling water on your face and think that you are there and experience the joy of being there..

You’re done. Not more than 10 minutes, your brain would have certainly secreted the positive and the happy hormones and instill lot of optimism and superfluous inspiration that is more than enough to keep you charged for the rest of the day.

This is the power of thinking that nature has deeply vested within you. Your soul is the greatest encyclopedia of Nature and that this why your thoughts travel millions of kilometers in a jiffy.

Wondering what all these philosophical thoughts have to do with the Ayurvedic health benefits of Neem seed oil?

Here’s the catch. All I wanted to say is that Ayurveda is within you and there’s no need to wander in search of this miraculous science outside.

The word ‘Ayur + Veda’ just means the ‘the knowledge (Veda) of life (Ayur). Every remedial practice in this heavenly healing methodology aims at invigorating your prana or the life force.

Plant essential oils are nothing but the prana, essential life force or the vital energy of plants. It is for this reason Ayurvedic essential oils are very special and close in uplifting the life force of mankind with the life force of plants.

The supreme essence of Ayurveda is that it treats every individual and it never treats just their illnesses alone. This derivation starts from the Ayurvedic school of thought that says that every person is a unique part of nature with a distinct individual constitution known as doshas.

Vata, pitta and kapha are the three vital energies and all these combined together is known as Prakriti of a person. Every individual has a predominance of any one of these doshas, which decides their physical attributes, emotional stability, spiritual influence and behavioral patterns.

A disciplined life with healthy lifestyle practices for the mind, body and spirit paves way for absolute balance between doshas. Sedentary lifestyle, irregular food habits, change in climatic conditions and misconduct leads to imbalance of doshas, nature’s alarm for the onset of diseases.

Ayurveda trusts and depends upon nature for its medications. Herbs, essential oils, Pranayama or balanced breathing, yoga, Panchakarma or the detoxification technique, Ayurvedic routine, prayers and meditation are prescribed in order to restore the balance between doshas and to recuperate and prevent illnesses in the future as well.

Neem is indeed a blessing to mankind. The oil extracted from Neem seed has cooling, energizing and rejuvenating properties for the body, spirit and mind.

Neem seed oil has the power to boost vata (responsible for circulatory, nervous and respiratory functions along with sociability and creativity), pacify pitta (metabolic functions, decision-making skills, leadership qualities and body temperature) and kapha (responsible for physique, sustenance, trust and love).

Here we go!!! The Ayurvedic health benefits of Neem Seed Oil.

Neem-Seed-info-broucher1. Neem is the ‘Hero’ of all the fever remedies out there:

Pitta dosha is responsible for body temperature. With its power to pacify pitta energy, Neem oil has the ability to reduce the body temperature very quickly than any other medications.

It is called as Jwarahara, potent fever reducer with its antimicrobial, antiviral and febrifuge properties, contributed by the presence of nimbin and nimbidin.

As a Shramahara, Neem oil alleviates fatigue and lack of energy associated with fever.

Numerous research studies have proved the effectiveness of Neem oil in fighting against sensitive strain and choroquin-resistant malarial parasites.

Neem oil is also efficient in the treatment of viral fever with its potent to wrestle against chikungemya, vaccinia and measles virus.

‘Nila vembu’ or ‘Neem of the ground’ was the redeemer of thousands of people affected by Dengue, Chickungunya and the chronic viral fever with severe headache and body pain.

The ideal method of using Neem oil for reducing fever is massaging your palms and foot soles with 4 drops of Neem oil blended with 15 drops of Evening primrose oil. Wondering why on foot soles? Because foot soles are the home for all the nerve-endings in your system.

Essential oils penetrate deeply through the skin and pass on to the bloodstream quickly. By this way, it passes on the therapeutic values of Neem oil and helps in bringing down your body temperature considerably, granting you speedy relief.

2. Neem is nature’s lucky charm for your skin:

Neem can gift your skin with all the best things to make it glow and look younger. Neem has antimicrobial, antiseptic, cicatrisant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and circulatory properties that helps in combating microbes causing acne and other skin infections.

The cicatrisant values of Neem oil aid in healing wounds quickly and its antiseptic values arrest the growth of microbes and protect the wounds from turning septic.

The antimicrobial properties of Neem oil have been proved powerful against bacteria like Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus faecalis.

Neem is called as Kushtahara for its ability to treat various skin conditions; Vranahara for cleansing and healing wounds firstly; Twachya for protecting and retaining the natural beauty of the skin.

Blend 2 drops of Neem oil with 10 drops of Linseed/Flaxseed oil and 1 drop of Lavender oil and apply it on pimples, blackheads, wounds, burns, cuts, sores, boils, eczema, psoriasis, ringworm, athletes’ foot, ringworm, wrinkles, inflammatory conditions and nail fungus, for revealing its magical healing powers.

Here’s your secret ingredient to clear acne marks and own supple, clear and soft skin. Mix 1 drop of Neem oil, 1 drop of Turmeric oil and 1 drop of Tea tree oil in your mild skin cleanser.

Gently massage your facial skin with this enriching blend daily or once in two days. Wash it with cold water, wipe off and apply rose water on your skin. This will certainly help you notice visible difference in alleviating marks and blemishes on your skin.

What next? Glowing, spotless and wrinkle-free skin is all yours!!! 🙂

3. Neem is your hair’s best comrade:

Long, lustrous and strong hair is the prized possession of every woman. Men often settle with dandruff-free, voluminous and healthy stuff on the scalp.

Thousands of hair-care products hit the market every week and leave us in bafflement in choosing the right remedy for our hair problems.

Natural remedies are often the safe hub to settle for and if you are looking to stick with natural solutions for your hair, then Neem is the best choice.

Neem is nature’s powerhouse of essential nutrients for moisturizing and nourishing your hair and scalp from within.

Linoleic, stearic and palmitic acid are few among those fatty acids that contribute to your bouncy locks.

Neem seed oil has antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-dandruff and anti-parasitic properties that assist in killing microbial infections that cause split ends, itchy and infectious scalp conditions and keep away from dandruff and head lice.

Peek-a-boo! Nourishing Neem blend is here! Mix 4 drops of Neem oil with 3 ounce of Olive oil, 2 drops of Ylang Ylang oil and 2 drops of Rosemary oil.

Gently massage your scalp with this medicated oil and wrap a warm towel on your head and allow it to rest for about 30 minutes. This helps in penetrating the therapeutic values of these Ayurvedic oils deep into your scalp and hair follicles, just to nourish your hair from the roots.

Wash your hair with a mild shampoo with 1 drop of Neem oil and 2 drops of Lime oil for that glossy, thick, bouncy hair that is free from lice, dandruff and frizz.

4. Neem is the worst enemy for pests and insects:

Few first things that strike our mind, the moment we thick of Neem is its extremely bitter taste and pungent aroma.

This is indeed good for us and utterly atrocious for the pests and insects that are extremely harmful.

Being a natural insect repellent, 2 drops of Neem seed oil can be added to your burner or vaporizer to keep your family safe from mosquitoes, bed bugs and other insects.

You can also add 3 to 4 drops of Neem oil in your hand sprayer and protect the lovely plants in your garden from pests.

Are your cute little cat and bossy dog scratching all over? Then mix 1 drop of Neem oil in its shampoo and that’s it, fleas, ticks, mites and other insects are all gone with the Neem remedy.

5. Neem is the tranquilizer for your intestine and the killer of its worms:

Neem is called as Kriminut in Ayurveda for its ability to alleviate worms and infections in the stomach and intestines.

The antimicrobial attribute of Neem oil is attributed to the presence of Nimbin constituent.

Along with its anti-inflammatory and cooling properties (Sheeta), Neem and its other extracts help in tranquilizing the intestinal linings and stomach, combat intestinal worms, parasites and heal wounds and treat ulcerates.

Neem is called as Laghu for its support in digestion and better absorption of nutrients in the food. It is a Grahi herb as it absorbs excess moisture in the intestines, thus treating wounds and ulcer by cleansing the moisture in them and soothing irritation.

Massaging your abdomen with 2 drops of Neem seed oil mixed with 2 drops of Peppermint oil and 1 ounce of sesame oil might help in pacifying your intestines, reducing irritation and eradicating detrimental microbes and infections.

6. Neem is your redeemer from all oral infections:

Neem has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that assist in fighting against oral pathogens in treating oral problems.

A 2011 study on ‘Evaluation of Antibacterial and Anticandidal Efficacy of Aqueous and Alcoholic Extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica) by the Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Center’, proved the inhibitory effects of Neem on Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans that are the basis for infectious diseases in the oral cavity.

Half drop of Neem oil blended with 1 cup of warm water as a gargle might be effective in getting rid of bacteria, fungi and other pathogens causing plaque, gingivitis, cavities and other oral problems.

Other health benefits:

Neem and its remedial oil is potent in treating tuberculosis, diarrhea, pneumonia, bronchitis, discard pathogens, alleviate muscular pain, control the secretion of insulin hormone, thus supporting in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Disclaimer:

This unique portion of information is predestined only for the use of education and is not suggested to make a diagnosis, thwart or to cure any kind of illnesses. It is not intended to substitute any prescription medicines or the consultation of a certified physician. We, at Essential Depot are not doctors of medicine and this info is shared only for spreading the magical healing of Ayurveda, the pioneer of all medicinal sciences.

Essential oils are recommended for topical use only and keep in mind to attenuate the effects of essential oils by mixing it with suitable carrier oils and never ingest essential oils. This is due to the fact that 100 per cent pure and organic essential oils are extremely concentrated substances and might cause allergic reactions if used on the skin without diluting it.

Take special care in using essential oils, if you are pregnant or nursing and while using it on children. Have a word with your Ayurvedic specialist or medical expert prior to choosing the best oils for your unique individual constitution and health conditions. A patch test on your skin before experiencing the many benefits of essential oils is recommended.

Thought for the day:

I am planting a Neem tree because it is a “Medicine Cabinet In a Tree!”

-Pledge No 1223 – Singapore.

Suggested Reading:

  1. Neem:: A Tree for Solving Global Problems by Report of an Ad Hoc Panel of the Board of Science and Technology for International Development, National Research Council, Policy and Global Affairs, Office of International Affairs
  2. Neem: The Ultimate Herb by John Conrick
  3. Neem: Neem and Its Miraculous Healing Powers: Neem for Digestive Disorders, Stress Relief, Immunity, Skin Problems, Hair Problems, Diabetes, Asthma, Arthritis, … – All Your Questions Answered Book 3) by Sukhmani Grove
  4. Neem: India’s Miraculous Healing Plant by Ellen Norten
  5. Neem: The Tree of Life by Sara Abraham, Ryder Management Inc.

Reference Links:

  1. Neem Oil by Wikipedia
  2. Evaluation of Antibacterial and Anticandidal Efficacy of Aqueous and Alcoholic Extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica) by the Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Center, India, published in the International Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Pharmacy
  3. Neem (Azadirachta indica): Prehistory to contemporary medicinal uses to humankind by Venugopalan Santhosh Kumar and Visweswaran Navaratnam, published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine and PubMed.
  4. Therapeutic Potential of Neem (Azadirachta indica) by Amir Khan and Arvind Kumar Yadav, Dept. of Biotechnology & Biochemistry, Sardar Bhagwan Singh Post Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences & Research, India, published in Pharma Research Library