Hemidesmus indicus is a slender, laticiferous, twining, sometimes prostrate or semi-erect shrub. Roots are woody and very aromatic, emit a sweet smell, reminiscent of a combination of vanilla, cinnamon and almonds. The leaves and root are used in Ayurvedic medicine and cosmetology.
Hemidesmus indicus commonly known as Indian Sarsaparilla, Anantamool, Ananta, Anant Vel, Nannari, Sariva. Its meaning: endless root.
The alkaloid content present in it is Tylophorine and is anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and anti-anaphylactic in nature. The other compounds present in it are coumarin, essential oil, starch, tannic acid and triterpenoid saponins.
Uses:
Stomach Disorders: It’s beneficial for stomach disorders like dyspepsia and loss of appetite. The powder of the roots is given in doses of 1 to 6 gms with milk in these condition.
Inflammation: A paste of its roots is applied locally to treating swellings, rheumatic joints and boils.
Hair Tonic: The herb contains a hair-growing hormone. A decoction of the root, used as a hair wash promotes hair growth.
Skin Disorders: Make a face mask with anantmool root powder and milk and apply for a bright and clear complexion. It removes acne scars, pigmentation and helps fill in pits and marks on the face caused by children pox and injury.
The healing properties of Anantamool are used:
– as a natural tonic for the whole organism, it puts in order, normalizes the functions of its organs
– cleanse the body, especially blood
– antiseptic, treats skin diseases
– as a choleretic agent, removes toxins from the body
– stimulates metabolism, cures eating disorders
– as a strong diuretic (increases outflow by 3-4 times), treats diseases of the bladder
– relieve inflammation
– as a diaphoretic
– for sexually transmitted diseases, in particular syphilis
– with chronic rheumatism
In cosmetology, Anantamool is used due to antiseptic and antibacterial properties:
– Heals numerous skin diseases.
– Tightens enlarged pores, restores the structure of skin tissues.
– A good natural tonic for the skin due to its tonic, antioxidant properties.
Cautions: Sarsaparilla seems safe for most people when used as a medicine. It might cause stomach irritation, especially when used in larger amounts.
Exposure to sarsaparilla root dust can cause runny nose and the symptoms of asthma.
Sarsaparilla might make kidney disease worse. Avoid sarsaparilla if you have kidney problems.