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Bay Berry Herb - Benefits And Healing Power

Botanical Name: Myrica nagi

Indian Name: Kaiphala

Description and Composition

Bay Berry is an aromatic tree growing up to 10 metres high. The leaves of the tree are 7.5 cm's long, pale to rust colored and alternate. The tree has hairy stalks with minute flowers growing solitary or on a common drooping stalk. It has wrinkled seeds. The herb contains tannins, triterpenes (including myricadiol), flavonoid glycosides, resin and gum.

Benefits and Healing Power of Bay Berry Herb

The bark of the tree is aromatic, stimulant, tonic and re solvent. It is useful in arresting secretion or bleeding and in expelling wind from the stomach. It is also an antiseptic. Myricitrin in bay berry is bactericidal and encourages the flow of bile. Another constituent of the herb, myricadiol is reported to cause retention of salt and excretion of potassium.

• Fevers and Colds :- Bay berry is a valuable remedy in fevers and colds. A hot decoction of the herb can be taken in the treatment of fevers, catarrh of the mucous membranes, affections of the chest and typhoid. The powdered bark can be used as a snuff for congested nasal passages, which are relieved by sneezing. The decoction also makes a good gargle for throat infections.
• Intestinal Disorders :- Bay berry is also used to treat inflammation and infection of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Women's Diseases :- The herb taken internally can be used to treat post-panum hemorrhage. It can also be used as a douche for excessive menstrual bleeding and leucorrhoea, or white discharge.
• Respiratory Disorders :- Bay berry is highly beneficial in treating respiratory disorders like asthma and chronic bronchitis. Its bark may be taken either in a decoction or powdered form, as b the case of fevers and colds.
• Teeth Disorders :- A paste of the bark made with vinegar can be used for strengthening gums and relieving toothache.
• Wounds and Ulcers :- A compress of the herb can be used for dressing wounds and ulcers. The powder of its bark can be dusted over putrid sores.
• Other Diseases :- Bay berry is useful in several other diseases like diarrhea, dysentery and chronic gonorrhea. A decoction of the herb can be taken with cinnamon in chronic cough and piles.