Goraksh (Asclepias calotropis)

Botanical Name: Asclepias calotropis

Family: Apocynaceae

Description: Goraksh, commonly known as Crown Flower or Giant Milkweed, is a large, erect, perennial shrub that can grow up to 4 meters in height. The plant has thick, oval-shaped leaves and large, beautiful, waxy flowers that are typically white or lavender. The stem and leaves exude a milky latex when cut or broken.

Occurrence: Goraksh is native to South Asia and is widely distributed across India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. It thrives in dry, arid, and semi-arid regions, often found in wastelands, roadsides, and agricultural fields.

Chemical Constituents:

• Calotropin
• Calotoxin
• Calactin
• Uscharin
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Cardiac glycosides
• Saponins
  
  

Guna (Properties):

• Rasa (Taste): Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent)
• Virya (Potency): Ushna (hot)
• Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu (pungent)

Uses:

1. Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and pain.
2. Analgesic: Provides relief from pain.
3. Antimicrobial: Possesses antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
4. Digestive Health: Enhances digestion and treats digestive disorders.
5. Respiratory Health: Treats respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and cough.
6. Skin Health: Treats skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
7. Anthelmintic: Expels parasitic worms and other internal parasites.
8. Wound Healing: Promotes healing of wounds and ulcers.
   
   

Mode of Action: The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of Goraksh are due to its active compounds like calotropin and calotoxin, which inhibit inflammatory mediators and reduce pain. Its antimicrobial properties help in fighting infections, while its digestive benefits are due to its ability to stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gastrointestinal motility. The respiratory benefits include relieving congestion and treating asthma and bronchitis due to its expectorant properties. The skin benefits are due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which help treat various skin disorders. The anthelmintic properties expel parasitic worms, and its wound healing properties promote tissue regeneration and repair.

Home Remedies:

1. For Joint Pain and Inflammation: Apply a paste of Goraksh leaves mixed with warm water on the affected area to reduce pain and inflammation.
2. For Wound Healing: Apply the latex of Goraksh on wounds and ulcers to promote healing.
3. For Respiratory Health: Take a decoction of Goraksh leaves to relieve cough and respiratory congestion.
4. For Digestive Health: Take Goraksh leaf powder with warm water to enhance digestion and relieve digestive disorders.
5. For Skin Health: Apply a paste of Goraksh leaves mixed with coconut oil on the affected area to treat skin disorders.
   
   

Dosage:

• Powder: 1-3 grams, twice a day with warm water.
• Decoction: 50-100 ml, once or twice a day.
• Paste: Apply externally as needed.
• Latex: Use externally in small quantities on the affected area.
  
  

Note: Goraksh should be used under the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner, especially in individuals with known allergies or those taking medications for inflammatory, respiratory, digestive, or skin conditions. The latex of Goraksh can be toxic if ingested, so it should be used with caution.

Goraksh is a versatile and valuable herb in Ayurveda, known for its wide range of therapeutic benefits, particularly in managing inflammatory conditions, respiratory disorders, digestive health, and promoting overall well-being. Its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and wound healing properties further enhance its value in maintaining overall health and well-being.