Atibala
Atibala
Atibala or Indian mallow which means “Very Powerful” is also known as Indian mallow. It is a common roadside weed, which is grown in hotter parts of India as a weed. In traditional systems of medicine, various parts such as roots, leaves, flowers, bark, seeds, and stems are used. The plant possesses anti-inflammatory, antihyperlipidemic, diuretic, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, immunomodulatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-malarial, wound healing, and anti-diarrheal properties. These properties help to manage diseases like boils and ulcers, fever, urethritis, syphilis, cataract, diarrhea, leg pains, uterus displacement, snakebite, piles, gonorrhea, cough, hemorrhagic septicemia, leprosy, dry cough and bronchitis[2-4].
What are the synonyms of Atibala?
Abutilon indicum, Kankatika, Rsyaprokta, Jayavandha, Jayapateri, Badela, Indian Mallow, Kansaki, Khapat, Kanghi, Shrimudrigida, Mudragida, Turube, Uram, Katuvan, Urubam, Urabam, Vankuruntott, Oorpam, Tutti, Chakrabhendi, Petari, Mudra, Pedipidika, Kangi, Kangibooti, Tutti, Thuthi, Tutturubenda[1].
What is the source of Atibala?
Plant Based
Benefits of Atibala
1. Male Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual Dysfunction in men can be in the form of loss of libido (less or no inclination) towards a sexual act. It can also be due to low erection time or early discharge of semen soon after sexual activity. This is also referred to as ‘early discharge or premature ejaculation’. Taking Atibala powder helps in the proper functioning of male sexual performance. It helps manage Sexual dysfunction by increasing the quality and quantity of semen due to its Vrushya (aphrodisiac) property.
Tip to take Atibala to help manage the symptoms of Male Sexual Dysfunction-
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Atibala powder.
b. Mix with honey or lukewarm water.
c Swallow it once or twice a day after taking light meals to get rid of the symptoms of Male Sexual Dysfunction.
2.Osteoarthritis
Atibala is useful in managing the pain in Osteoarthritis. According to Ayurveda, Osteoarthritis occurs due to an aggravation of Vata dosha and is known as Sandhivata. It causes pain, swelling, and joint mobility. Atibala has Vata balancing property and gives relief from the symptoms of Osteoarthritis-like pain and swelling in the joints.
Tip to take Atibala to help manage the pain in Osteoarthritis-
a.Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Atibala powder.
b. Mix with honey or lukewarm water.
c. Swallow it once or twice a day after taking light meals to get rid of the symptoms of Osteoarthritis.
3. Malnutrition
Malnutrition can be correlated to Karshya disease in Ayurveda. It occurs due to the lack of nutrients and improper digestion. Regular use of Atibala helps to fight against Malnutrition due to its Balya (strength provider) property.
Tip to use Atibala to manage Malnutrition-
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Atibala powder.
b. Mix with honey or lukewarm water.
c. Swallow it once or twice a day after taking light meals to help manage Malnutrition.
4. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is described under the broad term of Mutrakcchra in Ayurveda. Mutra means ooze and krichra mean painful. Thus, dysuria and painful urination are called Mutrakcchra. In the case of UTI, Atibala helps to control THE burning sensation because of its Sita (cold) and Mutral (diuretic) effect. It increases urine flow and reduces the symptoms of UTI like burning sensation during urination.
Tip to use Atibala to manage the symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection-
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Atibala powder.
b. Mix with honey or lukewarm water.
c. Swallow it once or twice a day after taking light meals to get rid of the symptoms of UTI.
Sexual Dysfunction in men can be in the form of loss of libido (less or no inclination) towards a sexual act. It can also be due to low erection time or early discharge of semen soon after sexual activity. This is also referred to as ‘early discharge or premature ejaculation’. Taking Atibala powder helps in the proper functioning of male sexual performance. It helps manage Sexual dysfunction by increasing the quality and quantity of semen due to its Vrushya (aphrodisiac) property.
Tip to take Atibala to help manage the symptoms of Male Sexual Dysfunction-
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Atibala powder.
b. Mix with honey or lukewarm water.
c Swallow it once or twice a day after taking light meals to get rid of the symptoms of Male Sexual Dysfunction.
2.Osteoarthritis
Atibala is useful in managing the pain in Osteoarthritis. According to Ayurveda, Osteoarthritis occurs due to an aggravation of Vata dosha and is known as Sandhivata. It causes pain, swelling, and joint mobility. Atibala has Vata balancing property and gives relief from the symptoms of Osteoarthritis-like pain and swelling in the joints.
Tip to take Atibala to help manage the pain in Osteoarthritis-
a.Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Atibala powder.
b. Mix with honey or lukewarm water.
c. Swallow it once or twice a day after taking light meals to get rid of the symptoms of Osteoarthritis.
3. Malnutrition
Malnutrition can be correlated to Karshya disease in Ayurveda. It occurs due to the lack of nutrients and improper digestion. Regular use of Atibala helps to fight against Malnutrition due to its Balya (strength provider) property.
Tip to use Atibala to manage Malnutrition-
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Atibala powder.
b. Mix with honey or lukewarm water.
c. Swallow it once or twice a day after taking light meals to help manage Malnutrition.
4. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is described under the broad term of Mutrakcchra in Ayurveda. Mutra means ooze and krichra mean painful. Thus, dysuria and painful urination are called Mutrakcchra. In the case of UTI, Atibala helps to control THE burning sensation because of its Sita (cold) and Mutral (diuretic) effect. It increases urine flow and reduces the symptoms of UTI like burning sensation during urination.
Tip to use Atibala to manage the symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection-
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Atibala powder.
b. Mix with honey or lukewarm water.
c. Swallow it once or twice a day after taking light meals to get rid of the symptoms of UTI.
Precautions when using Atibala
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before taking Atibala during breastfeeding.
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable for diabetics to avoid or consult a physician before taking Atibala.
Patients with heart disease
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable for patients with heart disease to avoid or consult a physician before taking Atibala.
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before taking Atibala during pregnancy.
Recommended Dosage of Atibala
- Atibala Powder - 1/4-1/2 teaspoon once or twice a day.
How to use Atibala
Atibala Powder
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Atibala powder.
b. Mix with honey or lukewarm water.
c. Swallow it once or twice a day after taking light meals.
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Atibala powder.
b. Mix with honey or lukewarm water.
c. Swallow it once or twice a day after taking light meals.
Benefits of Atibala
1. Wound healing
Atibala promotes quick healing of wounds, decreases swelling and brings back the normal texture of the skin. A paste of Atibala powder and coconut oil helps in quick healing and reduces inflammation due to its Ropan (healing) and Sita (cold) properties.
Tip to use Atibala to promote Wound healing-
a. Take ½ to 1 teaspoon (or as per your requirement) of Atibala powder.
b. Add some coconut oil and mix to make a paste.
c. Apply this paste on the affected area once a day for faster Wound healing.
2. Wrinkles
Wrinkles arise due to aging, dry skin and lack of moisture. According to Ayurveda, it is due to an aggravated Vata. Atibala helps in controlling Wrinkles and increases the moisture content of the skin because of its Snigdha (oily) nature. Atibala, when used with honey, gives you glowing skin.
Tip to use Atibala to get rid of Wrinkles-
a. Take ½ to 1 teaspoon (or as per your requirement) of Atibala powder.
b. Mix some coconut oil to it and make a paste.
Apply it on the affected area once a day to get rid of Wrinkles.
Toothache
Atibala helps reduce Toothache when its decoction is used for gargling. According to Ayurveda, mouth acts as the seat of Kapha dosha and an imbalance in Kapha dosha might lead to several dental problems like a Toothache. Atibala helps to manage a toothache due to its Kapha balancing nature.
Tip to use Atibala to get relief from Toothache-
a. Take 1/2- 1 teaspoon of Atibala powder.
b. 2 cups of water to it and bring to a boil.
c. Wait 5-10 minutes or till it reduces to 1/2 cup to form Atibala decoction.
d. Gargle once or twice a day to get rid of Toothache.
Atibala promotes quick healing of wounds, decreases swelling and brings back the normal texture of the skin. A paste of Atibala powder and coconut oil helps in quick healing and reduces inflammation due to its Ropan (healing) and Sita (cold) properties.
Tip to use Atibala to promote Wound healing-
a. Take ½ to 1 teaspoon (or as per your requirement) of Atibala powder.
b. Add some coconut oil and mix to make a paste.
c. Apply this paste on the affected area once a day for faster Wound healing.
2. Wrinkles
Wrinkles arise due to aging, dry skin and lack of moisture. According to Ayurveda, it is due to an aggravated Vata. Atibala helps in controlling Wrinkles and increases the moisture content of the skin because of its Snigdha (oily) nature. Atibala, when used with honey, gives you glowing skin.
Tip to use Atibala to get rid of Wrinkles-
a. Take ½ to 1 teaspoon (or as per your requirement) of Atibala powder.
b. Mix some coconut oil to it and make a paste.
Apply it on the affected area once a day to get rid of Wrinkles.
Toothache
Atibala helps reduce Toothache when its decoction is used for gargling. According to Ayurveda, mouth acts as the seat of Kapha dosha and an imbalance in Kapha dosha might lead to several dental problems like a Toothache. Atibala helps to manage a toothache due to its Kapha balancing nature.
Tip to use Atibala to get relief from Toothache-
a. Take 1/2- 1 teaspoon of Atibala powder.
b. 2 cups of water to it and bring to a boil.
c. Wait 5-10 minutes or till it reduces to 1/2 cup to form Atibala decoction.
d. Gargle once or twice a day to get rid of Toothache.
Precautions when using Atibala
Allergy
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available for allergies caused by Atibala, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before using it.
Recommended Dosage of Atibala
- Atibala Powder - ½ to 1 teaspoon a day or as per your requirement.
How to use Atibala
1. Atibala Powder
a. Take ½ to 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement of Atibala powder
b. Mix with coconut oil and make a paste
c. Apply it on the affected area once a day to promote healing of the wound
2. Atibala Decoction
a. Take 1/2- 1 teaspoon of Atibala powder
b. Add 2 cups of water and boiled it
c. Wait 5-10 minutes or till it reduce 1/2 cup
d. Now Atibala decoction is ready
e. Gargle once or twice a day to get rid of the toothache
a. Take ½ to 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement of Atibala powder
b. Mix with coconut oil and make a paste
c. Apply it on the affected area once a day to promote healing of the wound
2. Atibala Decoction
a. Take 1/2- 1 teaspoon of Atibala powder
b. Add 2 cups of water and boiled it
c. Wait 5-10 minutes or till it reduce 1/2 cup
d. Now Atibala decoction is ready
e. Gargle once or twice a day to get rid of the toothache
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
The fibres obtained from Atibala are used for making ropes cordages, jute dyes, drugs, rugs, wrapping cloth, tissue papers, making coarse cloth, cigarette paper, rubber, tyres, fabrics, shoe polishes etc[12].
Modern Science View
Majorly most of the parts of Atibala plant are of great medicinal properties. The decoction of the leaves can be used in toothache, tender gums and internally for inflammation of the bladder. The juice from the leaves of the plant can also be used to treat ulcers[17]. Along with that, Atibala leaves might work as an immunomodulator and help increase the production of antibodies in the blood[7].
Ayurvedic View
Atibala leaves have medicinal properties that help to reduce inflammation and promote quick healing of ulcers due to their Sita (Cold) and Ropan (healing) nature. Atilbala also has Rasayana (rejuvenating) nature that helps to improve immunity.
Modern Science View
The various parts of the Atibala plant (leaves, roots, seeds and seed oil) are widely used for many medicinal purposes. The leaves are used as astringent, a decoction of the leaves can help with toothaches and tender gums. The roots of the plant are demulcent (inflammation relieving property) and diuretic (urine flow increasing property) which may help in chest infection and urethritis (inflammation of the tube carrying urine from the bladder to the outside of the body). The seeds are used as laxative and expectorant for the treatment of piles[17].
Ayurvedic View
According to the Ayurveda textbook, the whole plant of Atibala has medicinal properties. Leaves of Atibala can be used for controlling bleeding because of its Kashaya (astringent) property, whereas the roots can be used to reduce the symptoms of UTI. The seeds of this plant or its oil help in quick healing due to its Ropan (healing) nature.
Modern Science View
Atibala might help manage the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It works on the central nervous system and manages pain associated with arthritis. It also reduces inflammation in the joints[9].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atibala might be good for cough due to its expectorant properties. It helps in the secretion of sputum from the respiratory airways. This clears the congestion and helps ease breathing[5].
Modern Science View
Atibala might help manage type -2 diabetes due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It prevents the damage of pancreatic cells and enhances insulin secretion. This lowers blood sugar levels, thereby managing diabetes[6].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atibala might help in preventing diuresis due to its diuretic property. It increases urine production and excretion. This also causes an increase in urinary sodium loss[6].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atibala might be good for diarrhea due to its anti-diarrheal activity. It inhibits the contraction of intestinal muscles and gastrointestinal motility. This prevents abdominal discomfort, pain and loose or watery stools[6].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atibala leaves might work as an immunomodulator. It increases the production of antibodies in the blood and neutralizes pathogens. This helps improve the immune system[7].
Modern Science View
Atibala might help in managing sexual dysfunction due to its libido enhancing property. It increases the person’s overall sexual drive or desire for sexual activity, thereby acting as a potent stimulator of sexual behavior[8].
Modern Science View
Atibala might help in urolithiasis due to its antiurolithiatic property. It prevents the formation of stony concretions in the urinary tract or bladder[11].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atibala might help manage ulcers due to its anti-ulcer activity. It reduces the volume of gastric content and increases pH, thereby providing relief from acidity[13].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atibala might be good for managing convulsions. It contains a certain constituent that has anticonvulsant property which prevents the involuntary contraction of muscles[13].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atibala can be used against mosquitoes. It has larvicidal property due to which it prevents the growth of mosquito larvae and thus inhibits the further multiplication of mosquitoes[14].
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Atibala might be useful in managing vaginal infections[15].
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Atibala extract has been used traditionally in quenching thirst[15].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atibala can be taken orally. Studies state that taking Atibala even in higher doses orally might not cause any harm[3].
Ayurvedic View
Atibala powder can be used in the following ways:
You can take Atibala powder by mixing it with lukewarm water. The exact dose needs to be checked by an Ayurvedic practitioner. Generally, it is taken once or twice a day.
You can also apply it externally on the affected area to get quick relief in pain and inflammation.
You can take Atibala powder by mixing it with lukewarm water. The exact dose needs to be checked by an Ayurvedic practitioner. Generally, it is taken once or twice a day.
You can also apply it externally on the affected area to get quick relief in pain and inflammation.
Modern Science View
According to some studies, Atibala shows great potential in treating conditions like asthma and inflammation, etc[17,18]. It helps in decreasing the severity of some common symptoms of bronchial asthma, like cough, chest tightness, and wheezing[18].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atibala might help in wound healinG as it has good antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Certain constituents present in Atibala help in wound contraction and closure as well as the regeneration of skin cells. It also reduces the risk of infection at the site of the wound, thereby promoting wound healing[6].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atibala might help provide relief from toothaches due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in reducing pain and inflammation in the gums[10].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atibala seed paste might be good for piles due to its laxative property. It helps in the loosening of stool and promotes bowel movement. This helps in the easy excretion stools thereby managing piles[7].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atibala might be used for cataract as it contains certain constituents that have antioxidant properties. These antioxidants protects the eye lens against damage caused by the free radicals and prevents the development of cataract[16].
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Shekshavali T, Roshan S.A Review on Pharmacological Activities of Abutilon indicum (Atibala).Res. J. Pharmacology & Pharmacodynamics.2016;8(4):155-160.
- Mangla M, Bimal N, Gughria B. Review on pharmacological activities of traditional medicine: Abutilon indicum. International Journal of Pharmaceutical, Medical and Applied Sciences. 2012;1(2):29-43.
- Mohite MS, Shelar PA, Raje VN,et al. Review on Pharmacological Properties of Abutilon indicum.2012;2(4):156-160.
- Rajeshwari S, Sevarkodiyone SP. Medicinal properties of Abutilon indicum.Academic JOurnal of Medicinal Plants.2018;6(4):062-065.
- Raja RR, Kailasam KV. Abutilon indicum L (Malvaceae)- Medicinal potential Review.Pharmacognosy Journal.2015; 7(6):330-332.
- Saini A,Gahlawat DK,Chauhan C, et al.Ethnomedical uses and phytochemistry of Abutilon indicum (Linn.)sweet: an overview. Journal of pharmacognosy and phytochemistry.2015;3(5):66-72.
- Khadabadi SS,Bhajipale NS. Effect of Abutilon indicum extract on female Libido in rats.International Journal of PharmTech Research.2011;3(3):1652-1659.
- Prasanna SG,Lakshmi T. Anti-arthritic activity of Abutilon indicum Aerial parts.International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research.2017;44(1):92-93.
- Kaladhar DSVGK,Saranya S,Vadlapudi, et al.Evaluation of anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative activity of Abutilon indicum L. Plant ethanolic leaf extract on lung cancer cell line A549 for system network studies.2014;6(6):195-201.
- Gupta S,Shamsher SK. KIdney stones: Mechanism of formation, pathogenesis and possible treatments.Journal of Biomol Biochem.2018;2(1):1-5.
- Patel MK, Rajput AP. Therapeutic significance of abutilon indicum: An Overview.American Journal of PharmTech Research.2013;3(4):20-35.
- Sharma A, Sharma RA, Singh H.Phytochemical and pharmacological profile of Abutilon indicum L. Sweet: A Review.2013;20(1):120-127.
- Rahuman AA. Gopalakrishnan G. Venkatesan P. et.al .Isolation and identification of mosquito larvicidal compound from Abutilon indicum (Linn.) Sweet. Parasitology Research, 102, 2008, 981-988.
- Khadabadi SS. Bhajipale N.A Review on Some Important Medicinal Plants of Abutilon spp.RJPBCS.2010. 1(4). 718.
- Rosheni N, Nithya K, Brindha S, et al.EVALUATION OF ANTICATARACT POTENTIAL OF : AN IN Vitro STUDY.Indian J.Sci.Res. 2016.7(1) : 81-84.
- adnere Gautam P, Aslam P, Bharti K and Abhay Kumar Singhai AK. ABUTILONS INDICUM LINN: A PHYTOPHARMACOLOGICAL REVIEW. Int J RES PHARM Chem. IJRPC 2013, 3(1).
- Dumantraj AR, Kharat Ravindra S, Ghotankar Aparna M, Chincholikar Mukesh B. REVIEW OF ATIBALA (ABUTILON INDICUM) FOR ITS PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES. World J Pharm Res. 2015, 4 (8), 892-901.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.