Akarkara: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & More!

Akarkara, also known as Anacyclus pyrethrum DC, is a revered herb in both Ayurvedic and Unani systems of medicine. This small, hairy perennial herb is native to India, the Mediterranean region, and Arabic countries. The roots of Akarkara possess therapeutic properties and are the main medicinal part of this plant. Let's explore the various health benefits and traditional uses of this remarkable herb from both Ayurvedic and Unani viewpoints.

 Health benefits: 

1. For Impotency & Erectile Dysfunction:

- Akarkara is an effective remedy for treating impotence and erectile dysfunction.

- It functions similarly to Sildenafil but without increasing blood pressure.

- To maximize benefits, it is recommended to combine Akarkara with Ashwagandha and Kaunch Beej powder.

2. For Pharyngitis & Sore Throat:

- Gargling with Akarkara root water provides relief from pharyngitis and sore throat.

- It also helps with toothache and gum diseases. 

3. For Toothache:

- A gentle massage of Akarkara root powder with Camphor helps alleviate toothache.

- Combining it with black pepper, Ajwain Khurasani, and Vaividang further enhances its efficacy. 

4. For Common Cold:

- Akarkara root powder, along with black pepper and long pepper, helps in managing common cold symptoms.

- Its antiviral properties ease flu symptoms and nasal congestion.

 5. Speech Improvement in Children:

- A tongue massage with a mixture of Akarkara root powder and honey improves speech in children.

- Adding Vacha (Acorus Calamus) to the mixture enhances its effects.

6. Management of Epilepsy and Seizures:

- Akarkara is used as an adjuvant in the management of epilepsy and seizures.

- Studies suggest that its root extract has a protective action, potentially preventing seizures.

7. Libido Enhancement:

- Akarkara possesses aphrodisiac properties and increases libido and sexual urges in males.

- It also improves sperm count.

8. Arthritis Management:

- Rich in antioxidants, Akarkara helps improve blood circulation, thus managing pain and inflammation in arthritis.

9. Chronic Paralysis, Numbness, and Toothache:

- Unani scholar Galen recommends Akarkara for various conditions, including chronic paralysis, numbness, and toothache.

10. Diuretic Properties:

- Akarkara's diuretic property increases the frequency and quantity of urination, aiding detoxification.

11. Nervine Disorders:

- Akarkara oil, when applied externally, can help with paralysis and nervine disorders like sciatica.

 Dosage and Precautions:

- Akarkara is available in various forms, such as capsules and powder.

- Dosage should be determined based on individual conditions and age, preferably after consulting Ayurvedic/Unani Consultants.

- High doses may cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, irritation, and headaches. 

Morphology:

- Akarkara (Anacyclus pyrethrum DC) is a small, hairy perennial herb that grows up to 3 to 4 feet in height.

- The plant produces mats of grey-green leaves and single daisy-like white flowers.

- The roots are the main medicinal part of the herb, measuring 5 to 10 cm in length and dark grayish-brown in color.

- The roots are tough, cylindrical, and taper slightly at both ends, with a few hairy rootlets.

- The external surface of the root is rough and brown, with bark up to 3 mm thick. 

Medicinal Composition: 

- Akarkara contains several active compounds, including pyrethrin, pyrethric acid, pellitorine, and inulin. These compounds contribute to its medicinal properties.

Source: 

- Akarkara is native to India, the Mediterranean region, and Arabic countries.

- In India, it is found in rainy seasons in the eastern districts of Uttar Pradesh and the Himalayan region.

Properties and Form of the Herb:

- Akarkara has a pungent taste and imparts a warm and burning sensation on the tongue and throat when chewed.

- The herb is mainly used in powdered form, and its roots are commonly employed for medicinal purposes.

Medicinal Properties:

- Aphrodisiac: Akarkara is known for its aphrodisiac properties, enhancing libido and sexual performance in men.

- Nervine Tonic: It acts as a nervine tonic, promoting healthy nerve functions in the body.

- Analgesic: Akarkara possesses analgesic properties and helps reduce pain.

- Expectorant: It aids in expelling phlegm and mucus from the respiratory system.

- Antiviral: The herb has antiviral properties, helping alleviate symptoms of the common cold and flu.

- Diuretic: Akarkara increases the frequency and quantity of urination, assisting in detoxification.

 Doses:

- Akarkara Capsule: 1-2 capsules once or twice a day.

- Akarkara Powder: 2-4 pinches once or twice a day.

Disclaimer: The dosages mentioned are general guidelines and should be taken only after consulting with a qualified Ayurvedic or Unani practitioner, considering individual health conditions and age.

Precautions:

- Akarkara is considered POSSIBLY SAFE in moderate doses for individuals without specific health conditions like burning sensation, gastritis, ulcer, acidity, and inflammatory bowel disease.

- However, it is UNSAFE during pregnancy, as it may induce uterine contractions and stimulate menstrual flow or uterine bleeding.

- Akarkara can also reduce milk flow, making it UNSAFE during breastfeeding.

- In larger doses, it may cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, irritation, and headaches. Long-term use should be avoided as it may reduce its aphrodisiac effects.

Conclusion:

Akarkara, also known as Spanish chamomile, holds a prominent place in both Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. Its versatility and numerous health benefits make it an essential herbal remedy. From addressing impotence and erectile dysfunction to managing toothache and arthritis, Akarkara offers a wide range of healing properties. However, caution must be exercised regarding dosages, and consulting a healthcare professional is recommended before using this herb for medicinal purposes.