Harad, or Terminalia chebula in its scientific name, is a plant of the family Combretaceae used in ayurvedic medicine. The herb is also named “King of Medicine” due to its amazing health advantages. As per various studies, it is found throughout the Gulf Region and other tropical regions, including Pakistan, India, and Myanmar. Harad looks like a tropical, big, evergreen with thick black and broken bark herb. The same seeds are used to make various types of tasty snacks. Moreover, the fruits of harad are usually of yellow or orange-brown color. Some people also refer to it as an important part of Triphala; a well-known ayurvedic medicine often used to treat gastrointestinal issues. Harad consists of various types of antioxidant-rich acids. Some of the major acids found in it are phenolic, benzoic, and cinnamic acids. Also, harad contains essential nutrients such as amino, fatty acids, and fructose.
Basic Properties
- It can be used for anti-inflammatory effect
- It has various anti-cancer effects
- Harad has various properties that can improve the condition of the heart
- It contains antioxidant effects.
- Harad is also naturally used for immune-suppressant effect
- It’ll help your brain function better
- Works in terms of diabetes-preventing (anti-diabetic) effects
- Gives effective liver protection in the long run.
- Potential anti-viral properties
Positive effects
The seeds of harad have been widely used in the Ayurvedic, Unani, and homeopathic medical traditions. Even in modern medical science, various medicines have been extracted from harad. Therefore, it becomes essential to understand the various positive effects of harad on the body.
Anti-oxidation of the body
The phenolic compounds found in harad provide the plant’s fruit, stems, and bark with potent antioxidant properties. Among the possible health advantages of harad extract are its effects on oxidizing enzymes and free radicals (which cause damage to proteins and DNA). The possibility of lowering inflammatory levels is encouraging. One can regularly consume harad and reduce the inflammatory effects on the body.
For Cancer
There has been various research conducted on the anti-cancer effects of Harad’s phenolic compounds. Experiments on many types of cancer cells in the lab have shown that harad fruit extract may stimulate the growth or expansion of cancer cells and induce their death. These cancers include breast cancer, bone cancer, and prostate cancer. More evidence is required to support the use of harad in malignancies. Irrespective of various research, it is always considered consulting a doctor before including a herb or medicine in daily life.
Diabetic Patients
Several clinical studies have found that harad fruit helps alleviate diabetic symptoms. Additionally, it may have been discovered in both long- and short-term animal trials that it lowers blood sugar levels in diabetic rats. More extensive human studies are needed to confirm the hypothesis that physical exertion may assist patients with diabetes in avoiding or better managing their condition. If you have diabetes, you must adhere to your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
Against infections and viral
It has been observed that the benefits of harad are also visible against viral infections. A broad range of microorganisms, including Escherichia and Clostridium perfringens, can be killed by harad. The bacteria Helicobacter causes most instances of stomach ulcers, gastritis (inflammation of the stomach), and stomach cancer; this treatment may help prevent these conditions. Harad seeds may also prevent the multiplication of pathogenic bacteria in the gut, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella, and Klebsiella. We cannot rule out the possibility that harad inhibits the growth of viruses. It has the potential to protect against and hasten the healing of infections in the upper respiratory system. A lab environment may inhibit viral growth by inhibiting critical enzymes. Herpes simplex virus treatment.
Improves heart
In an animal study, Harad extract was shown to reduce blood cholesterol or cholesterol levels. According to some data, this regimen may help manage atherosclerosis. Researchers found cardioprotective properties in the harad fruit pericarp. Animal studies also show that harad extract might help keep your heart healthy. If you have any concerns about your heart’s health, you should immediately consult a doctor. No one should use harad or herbal remedies for the prevention or care of heart problems.
Benefits for stomach
There are various benefits of Harad as a laxative that are widely established. If you’re experiencing constipation, you might try using a laxative. The use of harad may facilitate complete bowel movement. Forbidden fruit consumption may slow gastric emptying. However, increased secretion from the gastric glands seemed to counterbalance this effect and protect against the development of duodenal ulcers. However, gastrointestinal problems might be an indicator of a more serious condition. Therefore, you should see a doctor before using harad for gastrointestinal disorders.
Other benefits
- There are numerous benefits of Harad for skin that are known to mankind. Some of them include softer skin, anti-oil, and many more.
- If you have mouth sores or a sore throat, try gargling with a decoction of Harad fruit.
Kali Harad benefits
- Improves immunity
- For oral health, including teeth and gums
- Works effectively against digestive problems
Precautions with Harad
- Underweight individuals, fasting, depressed, have pitta (pitta is characterized by a hot & light body), or suffer from acute weakness should take harad with caution.
- Harad should be used with caution by pregnant women.
- Only after consulting with an Ayurvedic doctor may harad be used on the elderly, children, or nursing mothers.
Some people are allergic to Harad or different types of herbs. Therefore, you need to consult a doctor regarding the same before consuming Harad or any other herb. Though, there are no known side effects of harad to us.
Conclusion
Harad’s benefits exhibit various positive effects on a person’s health. Harad is one of the best herbs known to mankind, which can help to overcome various medical conditions in the long run. Moreover, the basic properties of the herb can also help you to lead a healthy life.
