Ankol (Alangium Salvifolium)

Ankol (Alangium Salvifolium)

India has a large supply of ankol. It is a plant with considerable medicinal potential and is frequently used to treat problems of the gut and those that are related to it. The plant is also well-known for its use in the all-natural treatment of the viral infection known as rabies, which develops following a bite from a rabid dog.

It is effective in managing common gastrointestinal issues like bloating, belching, and flatulence because of its good carminative and laxative characteristics.

The Latin name of Ankol is Alangium salvifolium, and it is a member of the Alangiaceae family.

Synonyms of Ankol

  • English name – Sage leaved Alangium.
  • Hindi name – Dhera, Ankol.
  • Sanskrit name – Ankot, Deerghakeela, Ankola, Hundika, Rudamallika, Kotara, Gudhapatra, Madana, Rechi, Gandhapushpa, Bhusita, Irikilla, Guptasneha,Nikochaka, Peetasara, Tamraphala, etc.
  • Marathi Name – Ankol.
  • Gujarati name – Ankol.
  • Tamil name – Elangi, Alandi.
  • Kannada Name – Ankola.
  • Bengali name – Aankod, Badh Aankod.

Occurrence

Ankol is a tree that serves several purposes and all of its components are therapeutic in some way. The body can benefit much from its roots, bark, seeds, oil, and fruits.

The ankol tree is widespread in India's arid interior, particularly near the northern plains. In some regions of China, Sri Lanka, and Africa it also grows.



Properties

Particular

Hindi / Sanskrit

English

Rasa (Taste)

Tikta, Katu, Kashaya 

Bitter, Pungent, Astringent

Guna (Characteristics)

Teekshna, Laghu, Snigadh 

Strong, Light, Smooth

Virya (Potency)

Ushna 

Hot

Vipaka (Post-Digestive Taste)

Katu 

Pungent

Special Activity

Ankol is well renowned for its efficiency in the prevention and control of rabies through natural means. When performing the laborious Panchkarma procedures known as Vamana and Virechana karma, it is also employed to cause vomiting and purgation.

Given its characteristics, it aids in balancing Pitta and Kapha's bodily energy.

Common Properties of the Herb

The Ankola plant's various sections each have their own unique therapeutic potential.

  • The fruit can be consumed to reduce gut heat and internal burning sensation because it has cooling characteristics. It also strengthens the immune system and general strength and endurance.
  • Ankola fruit can be used to treat issues like gastritis, sore throats, laryngitis, etc. that typically result from pitta vitiation.
  • Intestinal colics caused by associated conditions are treated with seeds and oil. Ankola aids in relieving edema and psychological disorders while assisting in the improvement of edema and psychological disorders due to the Kapha balancing characteristics.
  • The seeds and oil of the Ankola tree are highly beneficial in the treatment of bites from snakes, rats, and other rodents in addition to dogs.
  • When applied externally to the skin, the oil from the Ankola tree is very effective at enhancing skin tone and texture. Additionally, it is effective in treating internal and external bleeding issues as well as disorders of the mouth.
  • Ankola is effective in treating diabetes, epilepsy, and other painful bodily problems because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
  • The bark of the Ankola root is effective against the flu, the common cold, and fever.
  • Ankol root bark powder is administered to the patient two to three times a day with milk in the event of a dog bite. Rat, snake, and spider bites respond well to it as well.
  • The plant is useful for liver cleansing and can cure irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, and other conditions.
  • Ankol oil is an excellent renewing and aphrodisiac remedy. If you experience issues like Premature Ejaculation, you can apply it on your navel. In cases of impotence and issues with the male reproductive system, its fruits are also beneficial and provide superior outcomes.
  • It can also be used to treat headaches.

Caution

Ankol plant components are quite purgative and can make you throw up if you consume too much of them. Therefore, if symptoms like intense burning, stomach discomfort, vertigo, sleeplessness, etc. appear, caution should be exercised.

In order to mitigate any negative effects, Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) should be administered with milk.

Any type of Ankol should be avoided during pregnancy or breast-feeding.

Dosage

The maximum dosage for the plant should not exceed 2g.

  • Ankol oil – 2 to 15 drops.
  • Root bark powder – 125 – 2000mg.
  • Leaves – less than 2g.
  • Fruits – less than 2 g.
  • Seeds – less than 2 g.