Agnimantha (Clerodendrum phlomidis) – Remedy for Vata Disorders

Botanical Name: Clerodendrum phlomidis
Common Name: Agnimantha
Family: Lamiaceae (Verbenaceae)

Ayurvedic Properties

·         Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter), Katu (Pungent)

·         Guna (Qualities): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)

·         Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)

·         Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu

·         Dosha Action: Vata-Kapha Shamak, especially effective in Vata disorders

Parts Used

·         Root bark

·         Leaves

Therapeutic Uses

·         Vata Disorders: Highly beneficial in sciatica, arthritis, paralysis, stiffness, and neurological disorders

·         Digestive Disorders: Improves Agni (digestive fire), relieves indigestion, gas, and abdominal pain

·         Anti-inflammatory: Useful in swelling, pain, and inflammatory conditions

·         Respiratory Disorders: Helpful in cough, asthma, and bronchitis

·         Fever: Effective in chronic and Vata-Kapha fevers

·         Urinary Disorders: Reduces urinary retention and discomfort

Classical Importance

·         One of the Dashamoola drugs, widely used in Panchakarma therapies like Basti, Abhyanga, and Swedana for Vata imbalance

Dosage

·         Powder (Churna): 3–6 g

·         Decoction (Kwatha): 40–80 ml

·         Oil (Taila): For external application

Precautions

·         Excess use may aggravate Pitta

·         Internal use under Ayurvedic supervision is advised