Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Drumstick Leaves known as Shigru or Sobhanjana in Ayurveda consist of the dried leaves of Moringa oleifera. Possessing Pungent taste with Hot potency and Light Sharp qualities they effectively pacify Vata and Kapha doshas while aggravating Pitta. They are highly valued in Panchakarma therapies specifically Patra Pinda Sweda where processed leaves are applied externally to relieve pain stiffness and neuromuscular disorders like paralysis and sciatica. Internally they act as a cardiac tonic digestive stimulant and remedy for respiratory conditions like cough and asthma. They also possess anthelmintic properties and help reduce inflammation. While nutritious and used in salads they should be consumed cautiously by those with high body heat. Common formulations include Sarasvatarishta.
Drumstick Leaves, derived from the tree Moringa oleifera, are a potent herbal remedy in Ayurveda known as Shigru or Sobhanjana. While the fruit and seeds are common culinary items, the leaves are highly valued in traditional medicine for their heating potency and ability to alleviate disorders related to Wind (Vata) and Phlegm (Kapha). They are frequently used in "Group of Salads" as a dietary item and are a primary ingredient in Patra Pinda Sweda (medicinal leaf bolus steam) therapies for pain relief and neuromuscular conditions.
The Drumstick tree is a versatile plant found throughout India. In Ayurveda, the leaves are classified under the "Group of Salads" (vegetables). They are considered Hridya (cordial/beneficial for the heart) and pleasing to the senses. The leaves are extensively used in external Panchakarma therapies, specifically Patra Pinda Sweda, where fresh leaves are chopped, fried with medicated oil, tied in boluses, and applied to the body to treat degenerative conditions and pain,.
According to Charaka Samhita and other texts regarding the "Group of Salads" (which includes Shigru leaves):
Drumstick leaves are indicated in Ayurveda for the following conditions:
Drumstick leaves are generally safe when consumed as a vegetable. However, due to their potential to aggravate Pitta, they should be consumed in moderation by individuals with heat-related constitutions.
** **Q. Can it be taken daily?
Yes, as a vegetable in small quantities. However, those with high body heat (Pitta) should consume it cautiously.
Q. When should it be taken?
It can be taken as a part of a meal (salad/cooked vegetable). For medicinal purposes (like juice), it is often taken on an empty stomach or as directed by a physician.
Q. Can it be taken with milk/water?
Yes. In formulations like Sarasvatarishta (which contains Sigru), it is often taken with water. Medicated oils and ghees containing Shigru are also common.
Written By
Sathyaprek
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Drumstick Leaves known as Shigru or Sobhanjana in Ayurveda consist of the dried leaves of Moringa oleifera. Possessing Pungent taste with Hot potency and Light Sharp qualities they effectively pacify Vata and Kapha doshas while aggravating Pitta. They are highly valued in Panchakarma therapies specifically Patra Pinda Sweda where processed leaves are applied externally to relieve pain stiffness and neuromuscular disorders like paralysis and sciatica. Internally they act as a cardiac tonic digestive stimulant and remedy for respiratory conditions like cough and asthma. They also possess anthelmintic properties and help reduce inflammation. While nutritious and used in salads they should be consumed cautiously by those with high body heat. Common formulations include Sarasvatarishta.
Drumstick Leaves, derived from the tree Moringa oleifera, are a potent herbal remedy in Ayurveda known as Shigru or Sobhanjana. While the fruit and seeds are common culinary items, the leaves are highly valued in traditional medicine for their heating potency and ability to alleviate disorders related to Wind (Vata) and Phlegm (Kapha). They are frequently used in "Group of Salads" as a dietary item and are a primary ingredient in Patra Pinda Sweda (medicinal leaf bolus steam) therapies for pain relief and neuromuscular conditions.
The Drumstick tree is a versatile plant found throughout India. In Ayurveda, the leaves are classified under the "Group of Salads" (vegetables). They are considered Hridya (cordial/beneficial for the heart) and pleasing to the senses. The leaves are extensively used in external Panchakarma therapies, specifically Patra Pinda Sweda, where fresh leaves are chopped, fried with medicated oil, tied in boluses, and applied to the body to treat degenerative conditions and pain,.
According to Charaka Samhita and other texts regarding the "Group of Salads" (which includes Shigru leaves):
Drumstick leaves are indicated in Ayurveda for the following conditions:
Drumstick leaves are generally safe when consumed as a vegetable. However, due to their potential to aggravate Pitta, they should be consumed in moderation by individuals with heat-related constitutions.
** **Q. Can it be taken daily?
Yes, as a vegetable in small quantities. However, those with high body heat (Pitta) should consume it cautiously.
Q. When should it be taken?
It can be taken as a part of a meal (salad/cooked vegetable). For medicinal purposes (like juice), it is often taken on an empty stomach or as directed by a physician.
Q. Can it be taken with milk/water?
Yes. In formulations like Sarasvatarishta (which contains Sigru), it is often taken with water. Medicated oils and ghees containing Shigru are also common.
Written By
Sathyaprek
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
Read Our Editorial Policy
Want to know more?
Have issue with the content?
Report Problem