INTRODUCTION:
Nishoth Safed, also known as White Turpeth or Ipomoea turpethum, is a well-known medicinal plant used in traditional systems like Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha. It belongs to the Convolvulaceae (morning glory) family and is primarily valued for its dried white root, which possesses significant therapeutic properties. Known for its cooling nature and bitter taste, Nishoth Safed is most commonly used as a natural laxative and detoxifying agent.
Sanskrit: त्रिवृत (Trivrit), निषोत (Nishotha)
Hindi: सफेद निशोथ (Safed Nishoth)
Urdu: تربد سفید(TURBAD)
English: White Turpeth Root, Indian Jalap
Latin (Botanical Name): Ipomoea turpethum, Operculina turpethum
Unani: سفید نشوث (Safed Nishoth)
Tamil: திருவடமுள் (Tiruvadamul), சீமை நெருஞ்சி (Seemai Nerunji)
Telugu: తెలగడ (Tellagada), తేగడ (Tegada)
Kannada: ನೆಲಸಿರಿ ಬೇರು (Nelasiri Beru)
Malayalam: trivrit, ശ്യാമ trivrit (Shyama trivrit)
Gujarati: નિશોથ (Nishoth)
Punjabi: ਨਿਸ਼ੋਥ (Nishoth)
Marathi: निशोत्तर (Nishottar)
Bengali: নিশোথ (Nishoth), ত্রিবৃত (Trivrit)
Arabic (Unani): نيشوث أبيض (Nishoth Abyad)
Persian: نیشوث سفید (Nishoth-e-Safed)
HEALTH BENEFITS:
Aids constipation:
Known for its strong purgative and laxative effects, Nishoth Safed helps increase bowel movements and clear stools. It is often used in the Virechana (purgation) treatment, a cleansing therapy in Ayurveda.
Eliminates intestinal worms:
Due to its anthelmintic properties, it is used in Ayurvedic medicine to help eliminate worm infestations from the intestines.
Supports detoxification:
By promoting proper elimination, this herb helps clear accumulated toxins (ama) from the body.
Relieves abdominal issues:
The root is used to treat problems such as abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence.
Reduces inflammation and swelling:
Nishoth Safed has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain, including those associated with edema and arthritis.
Soothes hemorrhoids:
The herb helps relieve hemorrhoid symptoms like itching, burning, and swelling by addressing underlying constipation.
Supports liver function:
By aiding detoxification, Nishoth Safed may help protect the liver from chemical damage and support its overall function.
Aids weight management:
Through its detoxifying and cleansing properties, the herb can help eliminate excess water and toxins from the body, which may aid in weight management.
Manages high cholesterol:
Some evidence suggests it may help regulate cholesterol and fat metabolism.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Strong Purgative Effect
In high doses, it can cause excessive purging, leading to diarrhea, dehydration, and abdominal cramps.
Weakness & Fatigue
Due to loss of fluids and electrolytes after purgation, users may feel fatigued, weak, or lightheaded.
Electrolyte Imbalance
Prolonged or unsupervised use may cause imbalances in sodium and potassium levels, especially in older adults.
Nausea & Vomiting
Some individuals may experience nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort, especially if taken on an empty stomach.
Menstrual Disturbances
Can cause menstrual irregularities or aggravate conditions in women if taken inappropriately.
HOW TO USE:
For Herbal Tea / Infusion
Boil water.
Add about 1 teaspoon of dried Nishoth Safed per cup of hot water.
Let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
Strain and drink. You can add honey or lemon for taste.
In Cooking (if applicable)
Use the dried herb as a seasoning by crushing or grinding it lightly.
Add it to soups, stews, or other dishes during cooking to infuse flavor.
For Medicinal Use (if traditional/herbal remedy)
Follow specific dosage instructions if you have any.
Usually, dried herbs can be made into a decoction (boil in water longer than tea) for stronger effects.
Always check if there are any warnings or contraindications.
PRECAUTION:
Start with a small amount to see how your body reacts. Avoid using if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication without doctor advice. Stop use if you feel any allergic reactions like itching or swelling. Always use clean, properly stored herbs.
