Shallaki, scientifically known as Boswellia serrata, is a popular Ayurvedic herb noticed for its healing properties. Shallaki, a member of the Burseraceae family, produces oleo gum resin from its branches, which is widely used to cure a variety of bone-related illnesses. Shallaki, with its significant anti-inflammatory qualities, has emerged as an important treatment for chronic bone problems such as osteoarthritis and osteomyelitis. Shallaki trees exist in India's hilly regions of some states such as Gujarat, Bihar, Assam, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Madhya Pradesh. Let us now take a brief look at the uses and benefits, dosage, and side effects of Shallaki.
Uses and Benefits of Shallaki:
Liver Health:
- Rich in hepatoprotective enzymes, it lowers cholesterol and maintains liver function.
- Provides relief from chronic gut ailments, such as Ulcerative Colitis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
- Corrects digestive imbalances and treats constipation and rectal bleeding.
Relieves Arthritis:
- Reduces joint swelling and discomfort caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
- Balances Vata dosha, reducing toxic accumulation in joints.
- Topical application with coconut oil provides instant relief.
- Exhibits anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory activity, inhibiting paw oedema in animal models.
- Shows antimicrobial properties against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
- Improves physical symptoms and reduces asthma attacks, mobilizing intracellular calcium.
Joint Pain Management:
- Shallaki Tablet is effective in managing joint pain caused by arthritis and osteoarthritis.
- It reduces inflammation and provides relief, enhancing mobility and comfort.
Osteoarthritis Symptoms:
- Commonly used to alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease.
- Improves joint function, reduces stiffness, and eases associated pain.
Prevents Asthma Attacks:
- Alleviates chest congestion and improves breathing in asthma patients.
- Addresses Vata and Kapha imbalances causing airway obstruction.
- Tablets, capsules, or inhalation methods provide relief.
Improves Cardiac Function:
- Enhances heart health by promoting blood circulation and reducing inflammation.
- Boosts cardiovascular function and prevents clot formation.
Reduces Wrinkles:
- Hydrates and rejuvenates dry skin, reducing signs of aging.
- Topical application as a paste restores skin moisture and provides a natural glow.
Sports Injury Recovery:
- Helpful in managing joint pain and inflammation resulting from sports injuries.
- Aids in symptom management and promotes faster recovery.
Bone Health Support:
- Supports overall bone health by preventing excessive joint wear and tear.
Additional Benefits of Shallaki:
- Prevents fibrosis progression by reducing neutrophil and macrophage count.
- Exhibits anti-ulcer effects by increasing gastric mucosal resistance and inhibiting leukotriene synthesis.
- Acts as an anticoagulant, inhibiting platelet aggregation and lipid peroxidation.
How to Use Shallaki:
- Shallaki is available in tablets, powder, capsules, juice, and bark decoction forms.
- Mix Shallaki powder with lukewarm water and consume it twice daily or as directed.
- Limit intake of Shallaki capsules and tablets to not exceed 2 per day, or follow your practitioner's advice.
Shallaki Juice:
- Consume 3-5 teaspoons of Shallaki juice once a day.
- Mix with an equal amount of water.
- Best taken before meals.
Shallaki Powder:
- Take ¼ - ½ teaspoon of Shallaki powder.
- Swallow with lukewarm water 1-2 times daily.
Shallaki Capsules:
- Consume 1-2 capsules of Shallaki.
- Swallow with lukewarm water 1-2 times daily after meals.
Shallaki Tablet:
- Take 1-2 Shallaki tablets.
- Swallow with lukewarm water 1-2 times daily after meals.
Side Effects of Shallaki:
- Diarrhea Management: Increase intake of fiber-rich foods like bananas, rice, and toast (BRAT diet) to firm up stools.
- Nausea Relief: Sip on ginger tea or suck on ginger candies to soothe the stomach and alleviate nausea.
- Abdominal Discomfort Alleviation: Apply a warm compress or take a warm bath to relax abdominal muscles and reduce discomfort.
Precautions
- Pregnancy: Lack of scientific evidence on fetal safety; consult a doctor if pregnant or planning to conceive.
- Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor before using Shallaki Tablet while breastfeeding due to unknown passage into breast milk.
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may interfere with the medicine's effectiveness.
- Allergy: Avoid Shallaki Tablet if allergic to Boswellia serrata or similar herbs.
- Children: Safety and efficacy not established in children; consult pediatrician before use.
- Elderly people: Use as directed by the physician; inform the doctor of any underlying medical conditions.
- Liver: Consult a doctor if any history of liver disease.
- Kidney: Seek medical advice for kidney-related conditions before using the Shallaki Tablet.
- Using Machines & Driving: No known impact on machinery operation or driving; avoid if experiencing dizziness or drowsiness.
Conclusion
For best results, when taking Shallaki Tablet, follow your doctor's recommendations and the suggested dosage. Consult your doctor before introducing any new supplement. For optimal results, combine Shallaki tablets with a well-balanced diet and frequent exercise. Consistency in daily intake is key to experiencing the full benefits of this supplement.