Kokilaksha

Kokilaksha is considered as a Rasayanic herb (rejuvenating agent). In Ayurveda, it is described as Ikshura, Ikshugandha, Culli and Kokilasha, which means “having eyes like the Indian Cuckoo”. All parts of this plant are used (leaves, seeds, root) for medicinal purposes and have a slightly bitter taste.
Kokilaksha is considered good for men and helps in managing erectile dysfunction by increasing the testosterone levels. It also improves sexual stamina due to its aphrodisiac property. Kokilaksha also helps to manage blood sugar by preventing the damage to insulin producing cells due to its antioxidant property.
According to Ayurveda, taking Kokilaksha powder along with water helps to manage symptoms of gout due to its Vata-Pitta balancing property. Kokilaksha powder also helps in managing urinary problems by increasing the urine production due to its Mutral (diuretic) property[1][2][5].

What are the synonyms of Kokilaksha?

Asteracantha longifolia, Kulekhara, Ekharo, Talmakhana, Nirmulli, Kolavulike, Kolavankae, Vayalculli, Nirchulli, Talimakhana, Koillekha, Koilrekha, Nirmulle, Nerugobbi, Golmidi Talmakhana, Culli

What is the source of Kokilaksha?

Plant Based

Benefits of Kokilaksha

1. Male Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction in men can be in the form of loss of libido i.e., having no inclination towards a sexual act. There can also be a low erection time or semen expelled soon after a sexual activity. This is also referred to as ‘early discharge or premature ejaculation. Taking Kokilaksha helps to correct male sexual dysfunction and also improve stamina. This is due to its Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) property.
Tips:
a. Take1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Kokilaksha powder.
b. Add honey or milk to it.
c. Have it after lunch and dinner.
d. Continue for atleast 1-2 months for better results.

2. Malnutrition
Malnutrition can be correlated to Karshya disease in Ayurveda. This is due to lack of nutrients and improper digestion. Regular use of Kokilaksha helps to manage malnutrition. This is due to its Balya (strength provider) property which gives strength to the body. Kokilaksha provides instant energy and fulfills the calorie requirement of the body.
Tips:
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Kokilaksha powder.
b. Add honey or milk to it.
c. Have it after lunch and dinner.
d. Continue for atleast 1-2 months for better results.

3. Gout
Kokilaksha helps to reduce the symptoms of Gout when it is taken regularly. Gout is a painful metabolic disease resulting in inflammation and deposition of uric acid in the joints. In Ayurveda, gout is known as Vatarakt. This is because the main dosha involved is Vata and it affects Rakta (blood). Kokilaksha gives relief from the symptoms of gout due to its Vata-Pitta balancing property.

Precautions when using Kokilaksha

Breastfeeding

AYURVEDIC VIEW

Avoid Kokilaksha or use only under medical supervision during breastfeeding.

Pregnancy

AYURVEDIC VIEW

Avoid Kokilaksha or use only under medical supervision during pregnancy.

Recommended Dosage of Kokilaksha

Kokilaksha Capsule - 1-2 capsule twice a day.
Kokilaksha Powder - 1/4- 1/2 teaspoon twice a day.

How to use Kokilaksha

1. Kokilaksha Powder
a. Take 1/4-½ teaspoon of Kokilaksha Powder.
b. Add honey or milk to it.
c. Have it after lunch and dinner.

2. Kokilaksha Kwath
a. Take 1/2- 1 teaspoon of Kokilaksha Powder.
b. Add 2 cups of water and boil it.
c. Wait for 5-10 minutes or till the volume reduces to ½ a cup.
d. This is Kokilaksha Kwath.
e. Take 2-3 teaspoon of this Kwath.
f. Add the same quantity of water to it.
g. Drink 1-2 times a day preferably after meals.

3. Kokilaksha Capsule
a. Take 1-2 capsules of Kokilaksha.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water 1-2 times a day.

Frequently asked questions

Q. Is Kokilaksha powder available in the market?

MODERN SCIENCE VIEW

Yes, Kokilaksha powder is available in the market under various brand names.

References

Chauhan NS, Dixit VK. Asteracantha longifolia (L.) Nees, Acanthaceae: Chemistry, traditional, medicinal uses and its pharmacological activities - A review.Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia.2010;20(5):812-817.
Muthulingam M.Antidiabetic efficacy of leaf extracts of Asteracantha longifolia ( Linn .) Nees . on alloxan induced diabetics in male albino wistar rats.Int J Pharm Biomed Res.2010;1(2):28-34.
Ahmed S, Rahman A, Mathur M et al.Anti-tumor promoting activity of Asteracantha longifolia against experimental hepatocarcinogenesis in rats.Food Chem Toxicol.2001;39(1):19-28.
Hewawasam RP, Jayatilaka KAPW, Pathirana C et al.Protective effect of Asteracantha longifolia extract in mouse liver injury induced by carbon tetrachloride and paracetamol.J Pharm Pharmacol.2003;55(10):1413-1418.
Chauhan NS, Sharma V, Dixit VK.Effect of Asteracantha longifolia seeds on the sexual behaviour of male rats.Natural Product Research.2008;25(15):1423-1431.
Chauhan NS, Saraf DK, Dixit VK.Effect of vajikaran rasayana herbs on pituitary-gonadal axis.Eur J Integr Med.2010;2:89-91.
Pawar RS, Jain AP, Kashaw S et al.Effect of Asteracantha longifolia on haematological parameters in rats.Indian J Pharmacol.2006;38:285-286.
Pawar RS, Jain AP, Lodhi S et al.Erythropoietic activity of Asteracantha longifolia (Nees.) in rats.J Ethnopharmacol.2010;129(2):280-282.
Dattatrya N et al. Kokilaksha: A Potential Ayurvedic Herb. IJRAP.2012;3(6):780-782
Nigam V et al. Pharmacognostic Study, Characterization Of Marker Compounds And Pharmacological Review Of Aerial Parts Of Hygrophila Auriculata (schumach.) Heine. WJPPS 2015; 4(12): 1127-1143.
Kumar B et al. Plant based folk treatments from North East India for jaundice. (An overview).Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies 2016; 4(5): 234-247.
Kshirsagar AD, Ingale KG, Vyawahare NS, Thorve VS. Hygrophila spinosa: A comprehensive review. Pharmacogn Rev. 2010l;4(8):167-71.

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.

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