Vijaysar

Vijaysar, also known as Pterocarpus Marsupium is a deciduous tree originally indigenous to Nepal and Sri Lanka. In India, it is found in the western ghats of Karnataka and Kerala and hilly regions, particularly in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. 

In Ayurvedic practices, this plant holds extensive importance because of its nutritional value and ability to cure various ailments. 

It is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, proteins, tannins, etc., making it a versatile plant and ingredient for preparing herbal remedies. 

Source of Vijaysar 

Vijaysar, a versatile herb, is indigenous to tropical regions of Srilanka, Nepal, and India. In India, it is grown in Kerala, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. 

Vijaysar grows well in tropical and subtropical climates. The primary source of this medicinal herb is in the deciduous forests, but it thrives well in temperatures ranging between 20-30 degrees and loamy soil. The heartwood of the plant is mainly used because of its nutritional value. 

Vijaysar is known by different names in different parts of the country.

• The botanical name is “Pterocarpus Marsupium.”
• In English it is commonly known as “Indian Kino or Malabar Kino” and “Sugar Destroyer.”
• The Sanskrit names of Vijaysar are “ Asana, Beejaka, Tisha,” “Karshya,” and “Shouri.”
• In Tamil and Malayalam, it is known as “Yegi” and “Venga”, respectively.
• In Marathi, it is known as “Bibala.”
• In Hindi, it is commonly referred to as “Bija”, “Beejaka,” and “Asana.”

Vijaysar is a versatile herb known for its various health benefits and medicinal value. It is packed with bioactive compounds like alkaloids, proteins, Phenolic C, Tannins, Kino Tannic Acid, etc., making it an excellent source for preparing herbal Ayurvedic medicines and remedies.

Let’s look at some of Vijaysar's health benefits.

1. Helps regulate blood sugar levels

Vijaysar helps regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity, thanks to compounds like pterosupin and pterostilbene that influence glucose metabolism.

2. Promotes dental health

According to Ayurvedic practices, the anti-microbial properties of the vijaysar herb promote overall dental hygiene and help to treat dental problems like bleeding gums, bad breath, ulcers etc.

3. Improves digestive function 

Vijaysar is effective in improving digestive function because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in enhancing gastrointestinal problems, acidity, and bloating. It boosts metabolism and improves the digestive function.

4. Helps to maintain healthy hair

In Ayurvedic practices, Vijaysar has been helpful in maintaining healthy hair by improving blood circulation and preventing problems like dandruff, hair fall, and folliculitis. You can use a hair mask and apply it to keep your scalp healthy and clean.

5. Improves liver function 

Vijaysar is packed with antioxidants and hepatoprotective compounds essential for maintaining a healthy liver. It removes toxins from the body, removes bad cholesterol, and purifies the blood. It is an excellent liver tonic and also helps to treat fatty liver symptoms.

6. Useful in Obesity

Vijaysar is a potent herb known for its weight loss benefits. Its active compounds, such as flavonoids, pterostilbene, and epicatechin, exhibit lipid-lowering, anti-diabetic, and appetite-regulating properties. Vijaysar supports weight management by regulating fat accumulation, improving metabolism, and maintaining blood sugar balance.

Vijaysar is commonly used for the following purposes :

1. Used to make tumblers

Vijaysar tumbler is made using the heartwood of the plant. Vijaysar wood glass is used to store water. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, manage weight, and balance health.

2. Used to make furniture and tools

Vijaysar wood is solid and durable and used to make furniture, various agricultural tools, etc. The wood's durability and quality help keep the furniture fresh for long periods. That’s why people prefer vijaysar wood.

3. Used as a face pack

Vijaysar is known for its anti-microbial properties, which is why it is a main ingredient in skin care remedies. Vijaysar powder prepares face packs that may help control acne and aging and help rejuvenate the skin.

4. Helps in weight management

Vijaysar has anti-inflammatory properties that help boost metabolism and improve digestive functions. Hence, it helps in overall weight management.

Vijaysar is safe to consume. However, you must take precautions while consuming it.

• Vijaysar naturally helps maintain blood sugar levels, so taking medicines to lower your blood sugar levels might significantly enhance the effectiveness and drop your sugar levels to a great extent, which is fatal.
• Some people might get allergic to the herb, resulting in redness, itching, or inflammation. So, if you use it on your skin directly, conduct a patch test.
• Vijaysar tumbler has a shelf life of 2-3 months; using it after that period might negatively affect you.
• Pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers should consult their gynecologist before consuming Vijaysar in any form.
• Vijaysar should not be consumed if you’re suffering from constipation because of its astringent properties.

Let’s explore ways to incorporate this powerful herb into your daily life.

1. Vijaysar Glass or Tumbler

You can benefit from the nutrients of Vijaysar through the Vijaysar glass or tumbler.

Steps to use:

• Take a glass or tumbler made from the heartwood of the Vijaysar plant.
• Fill water in the tumbler and let it sit overnight to absorb nutrients.
• Consume the water the next day. You can use this wooden tumbler for 2-3 months until its effectiveness is reduced.

2. Vijaysar Powder

Vijaysar powder is the most effective and easy way to consume Vijaysar plant. It is easily obtained and can be stored for a longer duration.

Steps to use:

• Take the heartwood of the Vijaysar plant and dry it.
• After that, grind the wood or bark to obtain the powder.
• Store the powder in an airtight container.
• You can add the powder to lukewarm water and consume it to manage blood sugar levels and weight.

3. Vijaysar Paste

Another easy yet effective way to use vijaysar is in the form of a paste.

Steps to use:

• Add 2-3 spoons of vijaysar powder in 3-4 drops of rose or normal water.
• Apply the paste on your hair and skin to maintain a healthy scalp and glowing skin.
• Leave it for 15-20 minutes and wash with water.

4. Vijaysar capsules

If you are taste-sensitive and do not enjoy the taste of vijaysar, you can consume it as tablets.

Steps to use:

• Take 1-2 tablets of vijaysar with lukewarm water in the morning or evening.
• It helps improve digestion, blood sugar levels, and weight maintenance.

• Vijaysar is a powerful herb known for its medicinal properties and health benefits.
• It is packed with protein, alkaloids, Phenolic Compounds, Tannins, Kino Tannic Acid, etc. 
• It helps reduce weight, regulate blood sugar levels, improve liver and digestive functions, maintain dental hygiene, and improve metabolism.
• It can be used as capsules, powder, paste, and tumblers, or wood glass.
• It should be consumed in moderation as it might interact with diabetes medications and worsen constipation.

Conclusion

Vijaysar has been traditionally used to manage various health conditions, including liver diseases and digestive support. Its active phytoconstituents, such as pterostilbene, flavonoids, and tannins, play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels, promoting fat metabolism, enhancing liver detoxification, and improving gastrointestinal function. Additionally, its antimicrobial and circulatory-boosting properties support oral hygiene and hair health. It is available as powder, paste, and capsules, making it adaptable for various uses. However, its hypoglycaemic and astringent effects require cautious use, particularly for individuals on diabetic medication or with digestive sensitivity.