Introduction:

Anantamool or Indian Sarsaparilla (Hemidesmus indicus) is a semi-erect creeper found in almost all parts of Bharat. Anantamool means ‘Eternal Root’, as its name, this miraculous herb has everlasting roots and very long survivor in almost all weather conditions. It is a climber plant which requires shrubs and trees to creep and climb for proper growth. It is called Sariva, Ananta and Gopkanya in Sanskrit, Anantamool and Sugandhi Pala in Hindi and Indian Sarsaparilla in English. Anantamool is a slender, twining, sometimes lie upon or just above the ground or semi-erect bearing the habit of trailing or climbing stems, lianas or creepers. Its roots are woody and aromatic, stems are numerous, slender, cylindrical and thickened at nodes. The leaves are opposite, short-petiole, very variable, elliptic-oblong to linear-lanceolate. The flowers are greenish outside, purplish inside, crowded in sub-sessile axillary determinate simple inflorescences. According to Ayurveda, Anantamool possesses Ropan (healing) and Raktashodhak (blood purifier) properties and hence it became an important ingredient in various Ayurvedic skin medicines.

History:

Anantamool has its history from Vedic period as “Infinite Root”, mentioned in Charak Sanhita. Sage Charak; a physician in Vedic era had identified its properties and potential as a ‘Rejuvenative herb’ that confers potent detoxifying effects. Several Ayurvedic scriptures and journals mention this herb for various indications which includes: Pandu (treats skin disorders), Varnya (improves complexion), Raktashodhak (blood purifier), Yakrit Vikara (prevents liver infections), Kamala (cures jaundice), Shwasha (relieves breathing difficulties), Anulomana (regulates respiration), Kantya (relieves sore throat), Kasahara ( relieves cough), Amahara (treats indigestion), Dahahara (relieves burning sensation), Deepana (enhances hunger), Pachana (improves digestion), Rochana (stimulates appetite), Shonitasthapana (prevents bleeding), Hridya (keeps heart health), Vran Ropan (heals wounds), Mehahara (treats urinary tracts disorders), Prameha (manages diabetes), Balya (keeps strong), Triptighna (relieves pseudo sensation), Krimihara (relieves intestinal worms) etc.

Uses:

Rejuvenating Herb Anantamool is intrinsically blessed with healing and blood purifying qualities which makes it highly powerful Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries by several Ayurvedic physicians and traditional Vaidyas. It is not only used in folk medicines but also forms a vital ingredient in many Ayurvedic and Yunani preparations. It is widely used externally as well as internally for the treatment and management of a host of skin problems like psoriasis, eczema, ringworm, thrush, and bacterial skin infections. Paste of the roots of Anantamool can be applied externally on infected skin and the decoction of roots can be used internally to purify blood and enhance the health of the skin to manage various skin problems. Anantamool helps to manage blood sugar level and prevent damage to the liver by protecting the insulin producing cells as well as liver cells against the damage caused by free radicals due to its antioxidant property. It is found that the regular intake of the decoction of its roots and powder of dried roots can be helpful in improvement of metabolic capacity to improve digestion as well as weight management. Not only the roots but also the stems and leaves of Anantamool are blessed with many Bio-chemical compounds which make this herb an important component for many preparations formulated by Ayurvedic, Yunani and traditional folk medical systems.

Bio-chemical Compounds:

Miraculous herb Anantamool shows a wide array of bio-active constituents contained in different parts of the plant. The roots contain fatty acids, tannins, Saponins, sterol, -sitosterol and stigma sterol, stem part contains glycosides whereas leaves contain hemidesminin. Enriched with these bio-active and phyto-chemical compounds, Anantamool portrays potent digestive, anti-inflammatory, bronco-dilatory, pain relieving, hepatoprotective, detoxifying, antimicrobial, chemo-preventive, anti-cancerous, immune-modulator, antioxidant, diuretic, anti-diarrheal and anti-leprosy properties.

Health Benefits:

Anantamool or Indian Sarsaparilla belongs to milkweed family and has a significant role in Ayurvedic medical stream and among traditional native healers. It is an important medicinal supplement for nephritic complaints i.e. kidney problems, syphilis, sore mouth in children and various skin disorders. It is easily available as powder and syrup in almost all Ayurvedic medical stores, but the most convenient way to consume the roots of this magical plant by adding them into any beverage, drink and sorbet. This helps dilute the pungent bitter taste of Anantamool. Some of the health benefits of Anantamool are as follows:

*Skin Disorders: Anantamool is one of the best herbal treatments for fungal infections of skin, stops itching and reduces separation. It is used in treating Eczema, Erysipelas, Psoriasis, and Urticaria from heat and aggravated Pitta. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities help curing and healing various skin conditions. It helps remove toxins from the blood and provide safeguard the skin from oxidative deterioration through UVA and UVB rays.

*Digestive Issues: Anantamool is one of the good catalysts for metabolic reactions inside our body and also improves digestion. Many Ayurvedic practitioners suggest it for weight management and other fitness issues caused by digestive problems. The phytochemicals present in Anantamool rectify digestive system by reducing gas formation, avoids bloating and constipation. It protects from many serious digestive issues like ulcers, gastritis and appendicitis.

*Liver Anomalies: Powered with dominant hepatoprotective and hepatostimulative properties, Anantamool proves to be a magical antidote for most of liver anomalies, especially for jaundice in which the liver gets most affected. The herb not only furnishes support to the liver functioning but also helps the liver enzymes to tune to the normal level. It eliminates toxins in the digestive system and purifies liver.

*Respiratory Issues: Blessed with powerful anti-inflammatory, antibiotic and anti-asthmatic properties, Anantamool is considered to be a well known traditional remedy for all sorts of respiratory troubles. Decoction and syrup of this herb is very effective treatment for common cold, sore throat, cough and flu. It is one of the best treatments for asthmatic problems and helps easy breathing by alleviating mucus from chest and nasal cavities.

*Heart Problems: Researches conducted by Aayush department shows how Anantamool acts as calcium channel blocker to rectify irregular cardiac rhythm. It prevents fat accumulation in arteries and veins, minimizing the risk of heart blocks, attacks, clots and even cardiac arrests. This herb is also beneficial for people having high blood pressure as well.

Precautions:

Though the herb Anantamool has no side effects been reported yet but some allergic complications may be possible, so it is suggested to take advice from Vaidyas or registered Ayurvedic practitioners especially for treatment of children, pregnant women and breast feeding mothers.

Conclusion:

Anantamool is an outstanding blood purifier, a very good antibiotic and one of the best natural rejuvenating herbs. It is awarded with immense regenerative properties containing many essential bio-active ingredients and the quarry of therapeutic properties, beneficial in various health issues. It is extensively used for attending a variety of skin conditions, ridding liver problems, treating respiratory issues, controlling cough and cold, sore throat, deterring viral infections, improving digestion and regulating kidney functions etc.

FAQs:

1. Where does Anantamool grow?

Anantamool plant is native to Bharat and grows in almost all weather conditions. It is found in all parts of Bharat.

2. Is Anantamool safe to use?

Yes, it is quite safe but overdose may cause some complication.

3. Can Anantamool be used to detoxify body?

Yes, Anantamool is a good detoxifying agent and blood purifier.

4. Where can I get herbal preparations of Anantamool?

Anantamool powder, syrup and other preparations are available in Ayurvedic medical stores, health and food stores and also in online markets.

5. Can Anantamool be used for hair care?

Yes, some hair care products of this herb are also being used for years and good feedback are being received.