INTRODUCTION:
Malkangi (scientific name: Celastrus paniculatus) is a highly valued medicinal plant, commonly known as the “Elixir of Life” in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. It is also referred to as the Intellect Tree, Jyotishmati (Sanskrit), or Malkangni in Hindi.
Scientific Name: Celastrus paniculatus
Hindi | मलकांगनी (Malkangni) |
Sanskrit | ज्योतिष्मती (Jyotishmati) |
Tamil | வலிவீரை (Valiveerai) |
Urdu | مالکنگنی (Malkangni) |
Arabic | مالكانغني |
Persian (Farsi) | مالکنگنی |
Japanese | インテレクトツリー (Interekuto Tsurī) (Intellect Tree) |
French | Arbre de l’intellect (literal: Tree of Intellect) |
ENGLIH | INTELLECT TREE |
HEALTH BENIFITS:
1. Boosts Memory & Cognitive Function
- Known as a natural brain tonic.
- Improves memory, concentration, and mental clarity.
- Used in Ayurvedic preparations for students and elders.
2. Relieves Stress and Anxiety
- Acts as an adaptogen, helping the body cope with stress.
- Reduces mental fatigue, restlessness, and nervous exhaustion.
3. Neuroprotective Properties
- Protects the brain from degeneration and age-related memory loss.
- May have potential for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s support, though more studies are needed.
4. Anti-inflammatory and Pain Relief
- Malkangni oil is used externally for joint pain, arthritis, and muscle aches.
- Reduces swelling and soothes rheumatic discomfort.
5. Improves Learning Ability
- Helps in enhancing learning capacity and cognitive processing speed.
- Beneficial for children with ADHD or learning difficulties (as per traditional claims).
6. Supports Heart Health
- Mildly cardio-tonic—may help strengthen the heart.
- Improves circulation and oxygenation of brain tissues.
7. Improves Energy & Stamina
- Traditionally used to increase physical vitality, especially in people recovering from chronic illness or fatigue.
8. Skin and Hair Health
- Malkangni oil is used in Ayurvedic massages for improving skin tone.
- Believed to stimulate hair growth and reduce hair loss when applied topically.
9. Digestive & Liver Support
- Stimulates digestion and may help relieve constipation.
- Traditionally used to support liver function and detoxification.
SIDE EFFECT:
1. Gastrointestinal Irritation
- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramps may occur, especially with high doses.
2. Neurological Effects
- High doses can lead to excessive stimulation of the nervous system, causing restlessness or insomnia.
3. Liver Toxicity (Rare but Possible)
- Long-term or excessive use might affect liver function, though this is not common.
4. Skin Irritation (Topical Use)
- Applying Malkangni oil directly on the skin might cause rashes or burning in sensitive individuals.
HOW TO USE MALKANGINI:
1. Malkangni Oil (for Brain Health & Memory)
- How to use:
- Take 2–5 drops of Malkangni oil in warm milk or water, once daily.
2. Malkangni Powder (Churna)
- How to use:
- Mix 250–500 mg of powdered Malkangni seeds with honey or ghee
- Take once daily, preferably in the morning
3. Capsules / Tablets
- How to use:
- 1 capsule (usually 250–500 mg), once or twice a day after meals
Precautions:
In the case of pregnant and lactating women and with people on high medication it is advisable not to consume Malkangani. It may lead to miscarriage in pregnant women. Hence it is contraindicated if you are trying to conceive, at the time of pregnancy, lactation, and through the postpartum period.