Vanshlochan is a herbal silica concretion obtained from nodes of the female bamboo trees. It is a white translucent, hard, and irregular fragments and bamboo exudate display potent therapeutic qualities, each part of the plant confer different medicinal values. It goes with the scientific name Bambusa arundinacea and it is a widely grown plant across Asian countries including India, the Philippines, China etc., where the temperature and humidity are ideal.

Bamboo is a group of woody evergreen plants, though it is grass, the larger bamboo is like a tree, that grows to a height of 40 meters and stems are joined with nodes. The stems are hollow and packed with silica. Vanshlochan formulation is a storehouse of vital nutrients and holds an earthy flavour.
Vanshlochan

Common Names

Vanshlochan is popularly known by different names in different regions of the world. It is known as Tabasheer, Bamboo silica, Bamboo Manna, Eye of Bamboo, Spiny Bamboo in English, Tabsheer, Bans in Hindi, Behar in Bengali, Vanskapur in Gujarati, Andebidiru, Biduru in Kannada, Mulla, Mungil in Malayalam, Mullavendru in Telugu and Mukku, mungil in Tamil.

Vanshlochan Uses

Vanshlochan has earned an immense medicinal value in the holistic system of Ayurveda owing to its strengthening and adaptogenic qualities. It is used in several ayurvedic medicines as a stimulant, coolant, sweet tonic, aphrodisiac, expectorant and diuretic.  It has a restorative effect on body tissues and is known to trigger the immune response and is effective in curing cold and running nose.

This classical medicine is valuable in treating bones, skin, dental, hair, nails disorders to mention a few. Aside from this, it also confers strength and elasticity to collagen and connective tissues and averts the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Also Read: Tagara: 5 Splendid Health Benefits Of This Ayurvedic Root

Chemical Composition

Vanslochan is an abundant source of natural Bamboo silica that comprises more silicon dioxide than other plant sources. The chemical components include:

Silica (SiO2)         70 to 90%

Glucosides

Lime – Calcium Oxide (CaO) Traces

Potash – Potassium chloride          Traces

Iron Oxide  Traces

Aluminium Traces

Water

Healing Medicinal Properties Of Vanshlochan are:

Adaptogenic

Antacid

Anti-arthritic

Antibacterial

Anticancer

Anti-gout

Anti-hypertensive

Anti-inflammatory

Anti-mutagenic

Anti-ulcer

Antioxidant

Antipyretic

Aphrodisiac

Astringent

Bronchodilator

Demulcent

Expectorant

Mild Diuretic

Mild Antipyretic

Health Benefits of Vanshlochan

Fortifies Bones

Silica is a key element in Vanshlochan, which is an important mineral needed for bone growth and development, as the bones need silica for the proper deployment of calcium. Natural strengthening properties of vanshlochan lowers the risk of osteoporosis and speed up the healing of fractures. Additionally, it acts as a remineralizing agent, thereby managing chronic inflammation, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, painful joints, and low bone density.

Remedies Peptic Ulcer

This timeless medicine is credited to possess anti-ulcer and antioxidant properties, which is well-known to treat ulcers and other digestive woes. When taken along with Praval Pishti, Mukta Pishti and Yashad Bhasma offer better results in healing stomach ulcers, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease.

Promotes Hair Growth

Vanshlochan is an effective ayurvedic supplement that stimulates the growth of voluminous and lustrous hair. The abundance of natural silica content averts thinning of hair and hair loss. It nourishes the hair follicles, enhance blood flow and strengthens hair follicles from deep within. Furthermore, the plant extract is beneficial in treating scalp and hair infections like folliculitis and dandruff.

Augments Health

Vast reserves of nutrients present in Vanshlochan is crucial for optimising overall health. It acts as atonic and sustenance physical and mental well-being. While natural detoxifying properties flushes the toxins out of the system and keep diseases at bay. Besides these, it also acts as a good aphrodisiac that improves energy levels and libido in men.

Also Read: Vasaka: Health Benefits, Usage, Dosage And Side Effects Of Malabar Nut

Respiratory Health

The potent anti-inflammatory effect of this formulation effectively treats respiratory disorders and improve lung functions. Natural expectorant action aids to increase bronchial secretion and support the expulsion of mucus via air passages through the lungs. Thus, beneficial in treating common cold, asthma, and chest disorders.

Therapeutic Dosage

The therapeutic dosage of Vanshlochan may vary from person to person depending upon the age, body type, and condition of the patient. It is always recommended to consult an ayurvedic doctor or practitioner who would assess the patient’s symptoms, medical conditions and prescribe an effective dose for a specific period.

The recommended dosage of Vanshlochan:

Infants:      10 mg per Kg body weight

Children: 125 to 500 mg

Adults:   250 to 500 mg

Pregnancy: 125 to 250 mg

* Twice a day with appropriate adjuvant

Side Effects

Vanshlochan is possibly safe and well-tolerated by most people when taken in recommended dosage. As per ayurveda, a very high dosage may have adverse effects on the lungs and prostate glands.