In recent times, conventional herbs and forgotten greens have gained renewed consideration on the planet of diet. One such herb is kulekhara, often known as Hygrophila schulli. To realize a deeper understanding of the advantages of this herb, we consulted with specialists. “Lengthy utilized in indigenous techniques of medication throughout India and Bangladesh, kulekhara has earned a status for its potential function in treating iron-deficiency anemia, a situation that impacts hundreds of thousands of Indians, notably ladies and youngsters,” mentioned scientific dietitian Garima Goyal.
Kulekhara is a semi-aquatic plant that grows in marshy areas, particularly in japanese India. “In Bengali households, it’s usually consumed as a leafy decoction or juice, handed down via generations as a house treatment to spice up haemoglobin,” mentioned Goyal.
When consumed commonly, particularly as a decoction or boiled extract, it might probably assist hemoglobin manufacturing and lift pink blood cell rely, mentioned Dt. Gulnaaz Shaikh, chief dietitian, KIMS Hospitals, Thane. “Its pure iron is healthier absorbed when taken with vitamin C-rich meals like lemon or amla,” mentioned Shaikh.
Dietary worth
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Goyal mentioned that the leaves are a supply of iron, flavonoids, and different antioxidants that will assist blood well being. “Some animal research have demonstrated vital will increase in haemoglobin and pink blood cell (RBC) rely in rats handled with kulekhara extract, suggesting a potential hematinic impact (blood-building property),” Goyal mentioned.
A 2015 research revealed within the Worldwide Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Analysis discovered that aqueous extracts of Hygrophila schulli leaves confirmed promise in correcting anemia in animal fashions. The mechanism is believed to be two-fold:*Offering bioavailable iron in plant-based kind.*Enhancing iron absorption and bettering erythropoiesis (RBC formation).
Kulekhara plant (Amazon.in)
Whereas scientific validation in human trials stays restricted, anecdotal use and regional practices underscore kulekhara’s significance in rural diets, specialists counsel. “Many ladies recovering from postpartum blood loss or these with low haemoglobin ranges have historically been given Kulekhara decoctions as a part of restoration protocols,” mentioned Goyal.
Along with boosting hemoglobin, kulekhara helps total blood well being and immunity. In line with Shaikh, it helps scale back fatigue, improves oxygen movement within the physique, and promotes clearer pores and skin. “Some research counsel it might have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. Its iron, folate, and chlorophyll content material make it particularly efficient at reversing delicate to reasonable anemia when taken persistently,” mentioned Shaikh.
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At all times make sure the leaves are completely washed and are available from clear, chemical-free areas. “Boil a handful of recent leaves in water, let it scale back barely, pressure, and drink it on an empty abdomen. It will be important to not overconsume; as soon as a day is sufficient. Keep away from utilizing aluminum utensils for boiling since they might intrude with iron absorption,” mentioned Shaikh.
Seen enhancements in “power and blood parameters could begin inside 3 to 4 weeks of constant use”, Shaikh mentioned. “Nevertheless, it really works greatest as a part of a balanced iron-rich weight loss plan, which incorporates sources like jaggery, dates, lentils, and inexperienced greens,” added Shaikh.
What to notice?
Whereas kulekhara can function a complementary method, it’s “not an alternative to iron dietary supplements in clinically identified anemia”, Goyal asserted. “Its use ought to be guided by a professional healthcare supplier or scientific dietitian—particularly in susceptible populations like pregnant ladies, lactating moms, or these with continual deficiencies,” mentioned Goyal.
People on iron remedy or these with continual kidney illness ought to discuss to a health care provider earlier than utilizing it commonly, Shaikh added.Story continues beneath this advert
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on info from the general public area and/or the specialists we spoke to. At all times seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
