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Piyali bhoir
Kalmegh Tree

Kalmegh or Andrographis paniculata is a medicinal plant which is cultivated on a large scale, particularly in south-eastern Asia and southern Asia, and is employed in the treatment of ailments like infections and other maladies. Mainly the roots and leaves of Kalmegh are utilized for medicinal usage. It is herbaceous and is grown in India as well as Sri Lanka. This plant is referred to as ‘Maha-tita' in the north-eastern portions of India and is popular by various vernacular names. It is called ‘Kalmegh' or ‘Kala Megha' or dark clouds, and is a significant Ayurvedic herb. Some people also term this medicinal plant as ‘Bhui Neem‘, implying, ‘neem of the ground' mainly due to the fact that it has a strong bitter taste which is similar to that of the neem tree.

Kalmegh may be effective against liver toxicity by producing a cleaning solvent and inhibiting the production of free radicals that destroy cellular membranes that surround liver cells. Free radicals might cause liver cirrhosis. This can further result in coma and death. Studies have shown that kalmegh may be an effective solution for infective hepatitis treatment. In a study decoction obtained from the kalmegh plant demonstrates cleaning and purifying activity, especially of blood. Thus, it may be used to cure jaundice.  Kalmegh may be helpful for the treatment of fatty liver, and it can reduce the risk of gallstone formation. Thus, it might also aid in fat digestion. Moreover, for any conditions related to liver you must be diagnosed and treated by a doctor.

Studies show that kalmegh has the potential to increase the time taken for clot clotting. It, may therefore, reduce the risk of restenosis (closing of blood vessels) observed post angioplasty. Contraction of blood vessels caused by injuries to the inner lining of blood vessels or by high cholesterol in the diet may also be reduced significantly by using kalmegh.

Reduced blood supply and oxygen availability to heart muscles may cause the heart tissues to die. Kalmegh was found to stimulate the natural process in the body called fibrinolysis that dissolves blood clots in studies.  However, such effects need to be proved by further research. Moreover, it is essential to consult a doctor before using kalmegh for any apparent health benefits.

The species is distributed in tropical Asian countries, often in isolated patches. It can be found in a variety of habitats, such as plains, hillsides, coastlines, and disturbed and cultivated areas such as roadsides and farms. Native populations of A. paniculata are spread throughout south India and Sri Lanka which perhaps represent the center of origin and diversity of the species. The herb is an introduced species in northern parts of India, Java, Malaysia, Indonesia, the West Indies, and elsewhere in the Americas. The species also occurs in the Philippines, Hong Kong, Thailand, Brunei, Singapore, and other parts of Asia where it may or may not be native. The plant is cultivated in many areas, as well.



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