Bharangi, known scientifically as Clerodendrum serratum, is a revered herb in the realm of Ayurvedic medicine. With a rich history rooted in traditional healing practices, Bharangi is celebrated for its potent medicinal properties and diverse health benefits. This versatile herb has been a cornerstone in treating respiratory ailments, digestive issues, and inflammatory conditions. Whether used in its natural form or as part of various formulations, Bharangi continues to be a trusted ally in promoting overall wellness and vitality. 
How To Identify Bharangi?
Bharangi, also known as Glory Bower or Bag Flower, is a small, woody shrub easily identifiable by several distinct features. The plant has oval-shaped, serrated leaves that are rough in texture. Its stems are woody and branch out to support clusters of fragrant, tubular flowers that are typically white or pale blue. These flowers bloom prominently during the monsoon season. Additionally, the plant produces small, dark-coloured fruits that further aid in its identification. Bharangi's natural habitat includes moist, tropical regions, where it thrives in well-drained soil and partial sunlight. Its unique combination of serrated leaves, fragrant flowers, and woody stems makes it easily recognizable.
Bharangi Geographical Distribution
Bharangi is widely distributed across tropical and subtropical regions, predominantly in Asia. Its presence is notable in various countries, including India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, China, and Malaysia. In India, Bharangi is commonly found in the Western Ghats, the Himalayan foothills, and the northeastern states, thriving in moist, tropical forests and hilly regions. The plant prefers well-drained soil and partial sunlight, making these regions ideal for its growth. Its adaptability to different climates and terrains has contributed to its widespread distribution, ensuring its availability for traditional medicinal uses across these regions. The leaves, roots, and bark of Bharangi are used for their various therapeutic properties, which are attributed to the presence of saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds.
Bharangi Vernacular Names
Bharangi, scientifically known as Clerodendrum serratum, is recognized by various names across different regions and languages in India. Here are some of the vernacular names of Bharangi:
Hindi: Bharangi, Bharang
Sanskrit: Bharangi, Kasaghni, Surasa
Bengali: Ghentu, Bharangi
Marathi: Bharangi, Ghetuli
Tamil: Siruthekku
Telugu: Bharangi, Gantu Bharangi
Kannada: Bharangi
Malayalam: Bharangikka
Gujarati: Bharango
Ingredients in Bharangi Formulations
Bharangi can be used alone or combined with other herbs to enhance its effectiveness. Common ingredients in Bharangi formulations include:
Ingredients:
Bharangi Root: The primary ingredient, rich in therapeutic properties.
Other Herbs: Often combined with herbs like Tulsi, Ginger, and Turmeric for added benefits.
Natural Excipients: Used to prepare formulations such as powders, decoctions, and tablets.
Method of Preparation:
Bharangi can be used in various forms, including powders, decoctions, and tablets. Here are some of the common methods of preparation for Bharangi:
Bharangi Powder:
Dried Bharangi roots are ground into a fine powder.
How to Use: Mix 1-2 teaspoons of Bharangi powder with warm water or honey and consume.
Bharangi Decoction:
Bharangi roots are boiled in water to extract their medicinal properties.
How to Use: Boil a few pieces of Bharangi root in water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink the decoction.
Bharangi Tablets:
Prepared using Bharangi extract and other natural ingredients.
How to Use: Follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer or an Ayurvedic practitioner.
Medicinal Properties of Bharangi
Bharangi possesses a wide range of medicinal properties that make it effective in treating various health conditions. Some of its key properties include:
- Antipyretic: Reduces fever
- Expectorant: Helps to remove excess phlegm
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation
- Appetizer: Improves appetite
- Mucolytic: Breaks down and expels mucus from the lungs
- Analgesic: Relieves pain
- Antiseptic: Kills or inhibits the growth of microbes on the skin
- Antibacterial: Fights bacterial infections
Bharangi Ayurvedic Indications
The remedial treatment of Ayurveda affirms the usage of Bharangi as a potent Rasayani Dravya and exemplifies it in multiple ancient Ayurvedic texts of Raj Nighantu, Charaka Samhita, and Bhavprakash Nighantu for treating a variety of illnesses, including:
- Amahara (treats indigestion)
- Anaha (treats bloating)
- Deepana (enhances stomach fire)
- Pachana (helps in digestion)
- Rochana (stimulates appetite)
- Vibandha (treats constipation)
- Krimihara (treats intestinal works)
- Shoola (treats abdominal colic)
- Trutahara (relieves excessive thirst)
- Kustha (treats skin disorders)
- Varnya (improves complexion)
- Rasayani (rejuvenates the whole body)
- Balya (improves muscle strength)
- Kaphahara (prevents cough and cold)
- Svasahara (treats respiratory ailments)
- Shandhivatahara (treats gout)
- Vatahara (treats arthritis)
- Shiroroga (treats headache)
- Madatya (treats alcoholism)
Bharangi Health Benefits
Promotes Respiratory Health
Bharangi is highly valued for its effectiveness in treating respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and chronic cough. Its expectorant properties help in expelling mucus from the airways, while its anti-inflammatory effects reduce swelling and irritation in the respiratory tract. Regular use can lead to improved lung function and easier breathing.
Also Read: 5 Home Remedies To Soothe Sore Throat And Cough
Relieves Pain
The anti-inflammatory properties of Bharangi make it beneficial for managing conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory disorders. It helps reduce joint pain and swelling, improving mobility and comfort for individuals suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions.
Aids Digestion
Bharangi is known to stimulate digestive enzymes, enhancing overall digestive function. It helps remedy symptoms of indigestion, bloating, acidity, GERD and constipation. Its carminative properties aid in reducing gas and promoting smooth digestion, making it a valuable herb for maintaining digestive health.
Also Read: Digestive Health: 5 Amazing Herbs For Uplifting Gut Health And Function – Infographic
Heals Wounds
Bharangi exhibits potent antimicrobial properties, making it effective against various bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. It can be used to treat skin infections, wounds, and other microbial-related conditions, promoting faster healing and preventing the spread of infection.
Reduces Fever
As an antipyretic agent, Bharangi helps reduce fever by promoting perspiration and cooling the body. It is often used in traditional medicine to manage fevers associated with infections and other illnesses, providing relief and comfort to patients.
Augments Skin Health
Bharangi’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties are beneficial for treating various skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. It helps reduce inflammation, redness, and itching, promoting healthier and clearer skin. Its regular application can lead to significant improvement in chronic skin issues.
Boosts Immunity
Regular consumption of Bharangi can enhance the body’s immune response, making it more effective in fighting off infections and diseases. Its immune-boosting properties help in strengthening the body’s natural defence mechanisms, promoting overall health and resilience.
Also Read: Top 8 Ayurvedic Formulations That Can Bolster Your Immunity
Treats Headache
Bharangi has analgesic properties that make it useful for pain management. It is broadly used to help treat headaches, muscle pain, and joint pain. Its natural pain-relieving compounds provide a safer alternative to synthetic painkillers, reducing the risk of side effects.
Remedies Liver Problems
Bharangi is known to support liver function and detoxification processes. It helps in the elimination of toxins from the body, promoting better liver health and overall detoxification. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with liver disorders or those undergoing detoxification therapies.
Uplifts Heart Health
Bharangi has cardioprotective properties that contribute to heart health. It helps in reducing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels, and improving overall cardiovascular function. Regular use can promote better heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Also Read: Top 10 Superfoods For A Healthy Heart
What are the best ways to prepare Bharangi for different health conditions?
- Respiratory Conditions (Asthma, Cough, Allergic Rhinitis)
Preparation:
Decoction: Boil 5-10 grams of dried Bharangi root in water until reduced to half. Strain and consume.
Usage:
This decoction acts as a mucolytic, helping to break down mucus and ease breathing.
Additional Method:
Bharangi Paste: Mix a paste of Bharangi with ghee and curd. This can be consumed to alleviate cough, particularly dry cough.
- Fever and Hyperpyrexia
Preparation:
Bharangi Tea: Prepare a tea using dried Bharangi leaves. Steep 5 grams in hot water for 10 minutes.
Usage:
This tea can help reduce fever due to its antipyretic properties.
- Skin Conditions (Boils, Burns, Herpes)
Preparation:
Leaf Juice: Extract juice from fresh Bharangi leaves and mix with ghee.
Usage:
Apply this mixture topically to affected areas for relief from skin ailments and to promote healing.
- Joint Pain and Inflammation
Preparation:
Bharangi Paste: Grind fresh Bharangi roots with water to form a paste.
Usage:
Apply this paste to painful joints to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Wound Healing
Preparation:
Root Paste: Pound Bharangi roots with water to create a paste.
Usage:
Apply this paste directly to wounds to utilize its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties for faster healing.
- Digestive Issues and Worm Infestation
Preparation:
Decoction for Worms: Boil Bharangi leaves in water to create a decoction.
Usage:
Drink this decoction to help expel intestinal worms.
- Headaches
Preparation:
Root Paste: Make a paste from Bharangi roots and apply it to the forehead.
Usage:
This can provide relief from headaches due to its analgesic properties.
- Alcoholism (Madatya)
Preparation:
Bathing Solution: Boil Bharangi in water and use it for bathing.
Usage:
This method is believed to help detoxify the body from alcohol.
Ayurvedic Characteristics of Bharangi
In Ayurveda, every herb is characterized based on its taste (Rasa), qualities (Guna), potency (Virya), post-digestive effect (Vipaka), and specific action (Prabhava). Bharangi (Clerodendrum serratum) is no exception. Here are the Ayurvedic characteristics of Bharangi:
Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter), Katu (Pungent)
Bharangi has a predominant bitter and pungent taste. These tastes are known to pacify Kapha dosha and, to some extent, Vata dosha.
Guna (Qualities): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)
The light and dry qualities of Bharangi make it effective in balancing Kapha dosha, which is characterized by heaviness and oiliness.
Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)
Bharangi has a heating potency, which helps in stimulating the digestive fire (Agni), clearing mucus, and reducing Kapha-related conditions.
Vipaka (Post-Digestive Effect): Katu (Pungent)
The post-digestive effect of Bharangi is pungent, which continues to stimulate the digestive system and aids in the elimination of toxins (Ama).
Prabhava (Specific Action): Kapha-Vata Shamak (Pacifies Kapha and Vata)
Bharangi is specifically known for its ability to balance Kapha and Vata doshas. This makes it particularly useful in treating respiratory and digestive disorders, which are often associated with these doshas.
Also Read: Introduction To Ayurveda: Learn About Vata, Pitta And Kapha Doshas
Bharangi Therapeutic Actions in Ayurveda
- Kaphahara (Reduces Kapha): Bharangi's bitter and pungent taste, along with its hot potency, makes it effective in reducing Kapha dosha, which is associated with mucus, congestion, and heaviness.
- Vatahara (Reduces Vata): Its dry quality helps in reducing excess Vata, which is characterized by dryness, roughness, and irregularity.
- Shwasahara (Relieves Respiratory Disorders): Bharangi is renowned for its effectiveness in treating respiratory ailments like asthma, bronchitis, and chronic cough by clearing the airways and reducing inflammation.
- Deepana (Enhances Digestive Fire): Its heating potency and pungent taste help in stimulating the digestive fire, improving appetite, and aiding digestion.
- Vishaghna (Detoxifying): Bharangi helps in detoxifying the body by eliminating toxins, which is beneficial for liver health and overall detoxification.
- Jvaraghna (Antipyretic): It has antipyretic properties that help in reducing fever and combating infections.
Bharangi Dosage
The dosage of Bharangi varies depending on the form of the herb and the specific health condition being treated. It’s crucial to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized dosage recommendations.
- Bharangi Powder: 1-2 teaspoons twice daily
- Bharangi Decoction: 50-100 ml twice daily
- Bharangi Tablets: 1-2 tablets twice daily
Other uses of bharangi include:
- Decoction: Made from the leaves or roots
- Paste: Applied topically to the affected area
- Juice: Extracted from the leaves
Bharangi Side Effects
Bharangi is generally considered safe when used as directed by an Ayurvedic doctor or practitioner. However, some individuals may experience side effects, especially if taken in excessive amounts. Potential side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, indigestion, bitter belching and diarrhoea in rare cases.
- Allergic Reactions: Skin rashes or itching in individuals with plant allergies.
- Interaction with Medications: The formulation may interact with certain allopathic medications, affecting their efficacy.
Bharangi Precautions
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Without credible information regarding the usage of this herb during pregnancy and lactation, it is safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers to avoid using Bharangi without consulting with their treating doctors.
- Consultation: Always consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner before starting Bharangi, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
- Allergies: Conduct a patch test or start with a small dose to check for any allergic reactions.
Conclusion
Bharangi is a versatile medicinal herb with a wide range of health benefits. Its use in Ayurvedic medicine dates back thousands of years, and it continues to be an effective treatment for various ailments, particularly those related to the respiratory system, skin, and joints. While Bharangi is generally safe, it's essential to use it under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner and adhere to the recommended dosage to avoid any potential side effects.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
Soumita Basu:
Soumita Basu holds a Bachelor's Degree in Pharmacy and is keenly interested in Ayurveda, home remedies, yoga, fitness, diagnostics, and beauty. With nearly 6 years of experience, she produces evidence-based health content, including articles, videos, and infographics, to provide valuable insights to her audience.
References:
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DOI:10.5958/2250-0499.2023.00018.6
Authors: Aditi A Bagade, Vishva Deepak Tripathi, MS Charde, AD Rane and Satish Narkhede
2. Multiplication of Bharangi—Clerodendrum serratum (L.) Moon: An Ayurvedic Important Plant
April 2020Journal of Drug Research in Ayurvedic Sciences 4(3)
4(3)
DOI:10.5005/jdras-10059-0078
Authors: Arun Manohar Gurav, Archana Mhase, Rekha Nirawane, Rasika Kolhe, Goli Penchala Prasad, Anupam K Mangal and Narayanam Srikanth
