Nagkesar
Nagkesar (Mesua ferrea)
Treasures of Nature (Prakriti Ka Khazana) – Nagkesar
Nagkesar (Latin Name - Mesua ferrea), is a slow growing tree which grows up to 1500 meters which is known for its heaviness and hardness of its timber. It is also cultivated as an ornamental tree as it takes a graceful shape, lush green foliage, pink or red flush of leaves and beautiful white flowers with lovely fragrance. It is a native tree to wet and tropical parts of India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Burma, Indo-China, Thailand, Philippines and Sumatra. It usually grows wild in evergreen forests along river sides. The herb is pungent, bitter, astringent, dry, piercing, light to digest and has hot potency.
The timber of Nagkesar is used in railroad ties and structural timber due to it heaviness, hardness and deep dark red color. The leaves, flowers and seeds of Nagkesar is used in herbal medicines.
It is a famous herb used to treat fever, vomiting, urinary tract disorders, migraine headache etc. Many herbal jams constitute this herb.
Medicinal Uses of Nagkesar:
- It has anti-toxic properties which is used to treat urinary tract disorders, gout, excessive itching.
- It is used in relieving swelling, edema and inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- It improves digestion and appetite.
- Used to treat recurrent fever, vomiting, nausea and excessive thirst.
- Due to the flower fragrance, it is used to relieve bad breath and excessive sweating.
- It acts as an effective medicine to treat skin disease such as herpes.
- Treats migraine headache.
- The seed oil of Nagkesar relives the pain and inflammation of wound when applied externally.
- Used to treat gastritis, dyspepsia, abdominal colic pain, dizziness etc.
- Used to treat respiratory disorders and liver and spleen issues.
- It cures the respiratory and digestive disorders.
- It is known to have anti-convulsion properties which also can cure bleeding disorders.