Ajamoda

Apium graveolens L. is called ‘ajmoda’  in  Hindi -Ajamoda  in  English Celery,   grows  wild  in  the foothills of North Western Himalayas and outlying hills  of Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Leaves are used as a vegetable. 

Entire plant is endowed with many medicinal  properties. Ajamoda Arka or Ajwain water is grandma's recipe for the treatment of abdominal colic caused by indigestion and flatulence. (mainly digestive/GUT health)

Ayurvedic Actions

Benefits

Digestive Health

Ajwain is  one of the key ingredients used in Indian cooking due to its amazing gut healing properties.

 It holds a prominent place in treating various digestive conditions like acidity, indigestion and flatulence. The active enzymes in ajwain Iaids in promoting digestion by improving the secretion of gastric juices.

 Its effective for gas and bloating, gut health.

Maintain the normal gastric juice production. Prevention of complications and improving overall digestive health and peristalsis so that recurrence of Gas and bloating can be prevented.

It shows beneficial effects on respiratory system.

It dilates the lungs pathway by preventing spasm. It is drying in nature.

It helps to get rid of the excess mucus by acting as an expectorant, and by heating action.

Urinary system 

Ajamoda seeds is a specific herb for treating kidney and bladder discomfort from cold; frequent, pale urine with lower backache and nocturia.

Relieves Arthritis

This kitchen ingredient has potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which is extremely beneficial in reducing joint and muscle pain, thereby reducing the chances of chronic autoimmune inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis which stems from the vitiation of Vata Doshas.

Dosage and side effects (only after consultation with an ayurvedic doctor).

Dosage- Fruit powder - 1- 3g.

or 3-15ml per day of a 1:3 @ 60% tincture.

1. It should be taken cautiously in the high pitta, hyperacidity as it increases Pitta/bile.
2. As a medicine it should not be used in pregnancy. As a spice it can be added to dishes.
3. The diuretic action of Ajamoda works by irritating the kidneys, and therefore should be used with caution in cases of renal disorder.
4. Celery may lower blood pressure. So it is generally advised to monitor blood pressure regularly while taking Celery along with anti-hypertensive drugs.

References:

1. https://www.phytojournal.com/archives/2013/vol2issue1/PartB/37.pdf
2. Sharma, PV: Dravyaguna Vijnana, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, Varanasi, 1969; 2-3, 928.