Desmodium gangeticum (Shalparni)

   

 Shalparni is bitter as well as sweet in taste. 

Shalaparni (Desmodium gangeticum DC.) is mentioned in Ayurveda belongs to Fabaceae family and is one of the most frequently used herb in Ayurveda. 

 Root system of Shalaparni consists of poorly developed tap root. T.S. of mature root shows cork, 3-7 layers of thin-walled, tangentially elongated cells, having a few prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate; cork cambium single layered. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of carbohydrate, protein, saponin, alkaloid, glycosoid and reducing sugar. 

Moisture content in root of Shalaparni was found to be 6.17%. Total Ash value was 5.16% and Acid insoluble value was 0.8%. Extractive value was 2.00% and 6.04% of alcoholic and aqueous extract respectively.

The root of this plant is one of the constituents of the famous Ayurvedic preparation called Dasmoola (Dasmoolarista is a tonic ) 

Shalparnia helps to manage fever due to its antipyretic property. 

It is also useful for respiratory problems like bronchitis as it helps to relax the respiratory passages and decreases inflammation due to its bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory properties. This allows free flow of air to respiratory passages and eases breathing.

According to Ayurveda, Shalparni is beneficial for male sexual health as it helps to manage problems like premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction due to its Vrishya (aphrodisiac) property.

Taking Shalparni powder along with water regularly helps in improving male sexual health.

Shalparni helps to manage piles by reducing inflammation at the anal site due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.

 Taking Shalparni powder along with water manages piles due to its Pitta balancing and Shothhar (anti-inflammatory) properties.

Shalparni is also beneficial in wound healing as it prevents infections and reduces inflammation due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Applying Shalparni leaf paste on the scalp reduces dandruff as well as hairfall due to its antifungal properties. 

As per Ayurveda, applying Shalparni leaf powder along with rose water on the forehead is a remedy for managing headache.

Chimpanzees in Nigeria have also been known to swallow leaves of the plant Desmodium gangeticum (called ‘shalaparni’ in India) to get rid of parasites that bother the animal’s skin

Shalaparni, through its active compound Gangetin, demonstrated potential as a dual-acting therapeutic agent for RA and depression by targeting shared inflammatory pathways. .