Sadabahar Flower [सदाबहार]
Sadabahar or Catharanthus roseus is one of the best-known medicinal plants in India. Indians commonly call it सदाबहार. Popularly called सदाबहार (Sadabahar), सदापुष्पी (Sadapushpi), सदाफुली (Sadaphuli), बारा मासी (Baramasi) in Indian households, this evergreen shrub is more than just a decorative garden plant.
Apocynaceae, a plant that is native to Madagascar and widely cultivated throughout India, has medicinal, decorative, and spiritual benefits. Sadabahar stands between 1.2 and 2.5 meters high and has attractive, white, lavender, pink, or green flowers. These blooms are present throughout the whole year.
सदाबहार rich medicinal potential is what sets it apart. Over 70 alkaloids are found in this plant, such as vincristine and Vinblastine. These two compounds have been widely acknowledged for their cancer-fighting properties. In Ayurveda, the leaves, flowers, and stems of this plant are used to treat Diabetes as well as skin disease, bleeding disorders, and many other conditions.
Sadabahar
- Latin name: Catharanthus roseus
- Common Names: Periwinkle, Rosy periwinkle, Madagascar periwinkle, Cape periwinkle, old maid
- Indian Names: Sadabahar, Sadapushpi, Sadaphuli, Baramasi
- Sanskrit Name: नित्यकल्याणि (Nityakalyani)
Medicinal Properties of Sadabahar
Ayurveda refers to सदाबहार (as a Rasayana or rejuvenating herb). The plant’s whole structure is full of phytochemicals and bioactive components that confer it with multiple therapeutic benefits:
- Anticancer – Contains Vinblastine & vincristine, powerful anti-tumor agents.
- Antidiabetic – Regulates blood sugar levels.
- Anti-hypertensive – Lowers high blood pressure.
- Relieves – swelling and reduces infections.
- Combats – fungal and bacterial infections.
- Blood cleanser — Improves blood circulation and detoxifies the blood.
Sadabahar Uses & Effectiveness
1. Diabetes (Madhumeh)
Sadabahar can be used to cure Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus using Ayurveda.
- How to Use: On an empty stomach, chew three or four leaves and follow with a glass of water. It can help regulate blood sugar.
- Flower remedy – Soak 3 pink roses in half a glass of warm, lukewarm water for about 5 minutes. Removing the petals, drink the warm water first thing in the morning. After 8-10 days, recheck the sugar levels.
In Hindi:
- मधुमेह रोगियों को सुबह खाली पेट सदाबहार के ३-४ कोमल पत्ते चबाकर उनका रस चूसना चाहिए।
- ऊपर से दो घूंट पानी पीना लाभकारी होता है।
- यह प्रयोग ३ महीने तक करने पर मधुमेह नियंत्रण में आ जाता है।
2. Cancer Patients
Sadabahar Alkaloids such as Vincristine and Vinblastine are used today in modern medicine to treat Hodgkin’s disease, Leukemia, or other cancers.
- Ayurvedic application: Decoctions from leaves and stems may be used in tumor management under expert supervision.
- Be aware: never use raw extracts of periwinkles to treat cancer. Always consult your physician.
3. Nosebleeds and Bleeding Conditions
सदाबहार has hemostatic properties, meaning it can stop bleeding.
- To stop nosebleeds, spray the fresh leaf inside your nostrils.
- Also helps with swollen gums, sore throats, and mouth ulcers.
4. Brain Health & Circulation
Sadabahar boosts the blood circulation of the brain. The traditional use of this herb has included:
- Enhance mental clarity.
- How to prevent premature aging of brain cells.
- Improve productivity through concentration.
5. Respiratory Diseases
It has been proven that the plant is effective in treating coughs, sore throats and lung congestion. Some people use a decoction of mild leaves to help treat this condition.
6. For Skin & Wound Healing
सदाबहार leaves, when used on the outside, can:
- Recover minor wounds from cuts and insect bites.
- Pain relief stings of bees
- This antimicrobial treatment is effective for mild skin conditions.
7. For Piles (बवासीर)
In case of Piles, crush the Leaves and Flowers of Sadabahar and apply on the affected area. Doing this every night before sleeping gives quick relief.
In Hindi:
- बवासीर होने पर सदाबहार के पत्ते और फूलों को कुचलकर प्रभावित स्थान पर लगाएँ।
- इसे रोज रात को सोने से पहले करने से तेज़ आराम मिलता है।
Sadabahar Side Effects & Safety Concerns
सदाबहार offers many health benefits, but it should be used only with caution. Self-medication at high doses can be dangerous.
- Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Unsafe. Avoid completely.
- Constipation may aggravate the condition because of the drying effect.
- People already hypotensive should avoid using it because it will lower their blood pressure.
- Stop using it 2 weeks prior to surgery, as this may alter blood pressure levels.
- The high doses of extracts from periwinkles can cause nausea and vomiting. They may also make you dizzy or even have a stroke.
If you plan to use this product for an extended period of time, always consult with a qualified Ayurvedic physician or other healthcare provider.
Sadabahar (Home Remedies – How to use them)
Diabetes:
- Chew 3-4 leaves daily.
- Pink flowers infuse the water.
Piles:
- Make a paste from leaves and flowers, then apply it to the affected skin area.
Bee Stings:
- Apply fresh leaf juice to the sting.
Nosebleeds:
- Add 1-2 drops of freshly squeezed leaf juice inside the nostrils.
Sore Throat:
- To gargle, use a mild Sadabahar-leaf decoction.
Spiritual & Cultural Significance
Sadabahar can be regarded as a sacred plant.
- सदाबहार (positive energy) is a popular plant in India that’s grown by households to promote.
- The ever-blooming flowers symbolize eternal prosperity (नित्यकल्याणि).
- Flowers can be part of pujas in certain traditions to demonstrate devotion towards the deities.
Conclusion
सदाबहार(Catharanthus rosaeus), also called Madagascar Periwinkle or Madagascar Periwinkle has an immense amount of medicinal, religious, and cultural value. This evergreen plant is use to treat diabetes, cancer, and high blood sugar.
Sadabahar’s powerful alkaloids, though effective in treating mild health conditions, can become toxic when mishandled. You should only use the raw plant remedy with guidance. Do not substitute prescribed medication.
Sadabahar serves as a bridge for modern medicine and traditional Ayurvedic healers by respecting Sadabahar and using her power.
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