Nalpamaram, a blend of four plant species from the Moraceae family—Ficus religiosa (Asvattha), Ficus benghalensis (Nyagrodha), Ficus racemosa (Udumbara), and Ficus microcarpa (Plaksh)—is also known as Ashwattha or peepal in Hindi and "sacred fig" in English.
Native to the Indian subcontinent and Indochina, the Ficus tree holds sacred significance in Indian culture, with associations to enlightenment in Buddhism and as a vital oxygen provider. Revered as the mythical "Tree of Life" or "World Tree," the peepal tree is deeply ingrained in the Indian subcontinent's traditions. The Latin term "Ficus" refers to the fig fruit, while "Religiosa" signifies its religious importance in Buddhism and Hinduism, hence its name "Sacred fig." Often found near holy places and temples, it is revered for its spiritual connotations.
INSIGHTS FROM AYURVEDA
This Ayurvedic staple finds extensive use in traditional medicine for treating various ailments, particularly skin issues like pigmentation, wrinkles, and dark circles. Characterized by a brown texture and a distinctive aroma, it belongs to the Moraceae family or "kashay skandh" in Ayurveda.
In Ayurvedic pharmacology, Nalpamaram is classified as:
- Guna-Guru
- Ras-Kashay
- Madhur
- Vipak-Katu
- Virya-Shit
- Dosha Karma-Kaphapitta Shamak properties.
Therapeutically, different parts of the plant are utilized.
- Bark aids in conditions like diarrhoea, dysentery, and haemorrhoids.
- Leaves and tender shoots promote wound healing and address skin diseases.
- Fruits and seeds act as laxatives.
- The llatex is used for haemorrhages and inflammations.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
Ficus includes phenols, tannins, steroids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and vitamin K in the stem bark, β-sitosteryl-D-glucoside in the root bark, and various nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and minerals in leaves, fruits, and seeds. Additionally, its crude latex contains religiosin, a serine protease.
BENEFITS OF NALPAMARAM
1. Balancing Pitta Doshas
Disturbance of Pitta doshas can lead to various skin diseases like eczema and acne, as well as poor complexion.
2. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties
Nalpamaram is endowed with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potent remedy for a wide array of skin issues.
3. Blood Purification
Its blood-purifying characteristics aid in eliminating toxins from the blood, assisting in the treatment of various skin infections.
4. Protection Against UV Damage
Nalpamaram safeguards the skin from oxidative radical damage caused by harmful UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of aging signs like spots, fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, and dark circles.
5. Treatment of Allergic Conditions
It plays a pivotal role in addressing allergic conditions such as psoriasis, scabies, acne, pimples, zits, and eczema. Its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties make it suitable for sensitive or irritated skin.
6. Moisturization and Sebum Reduction
Nalpamaram helps reduce transepidermal water loss and sebum production, locking in moisture and providing supple skin. It also enhances skin hydration by preventing water loss from the skin's uppermost layers.
7. Improving Complexion and Skin Tone
It brightens the complexion, and reduces pigmentation, dark spots, and blemishes, restoring a youthful and radiant glow.
8. Natural UV Protection
Nalpamaram provides natural protection against harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of skin damage and premature aging.
9. Soothing Skin Inflammation and Irritation
It soothes skin inflammation and irritation, promoting overall skin health and well-being.
10. Hydration and Nourishment
Nalpamaram hydrates and nourishes the skin from within, effectively cleansing it and reducing stretch marks and blemishes.
11. Radiant Skin
It softens the skin and gives it a radiant glow, enhancing its overall appearance and vitality.
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