Vajradanti benefits and side effects

Barleria prionitis has various benefits for oral health. As the name Vajradanti (diamond-like teeth) suggests, a paste made from its flower is used to make the teeth stronger. (Read more: 5 Foods to make your teeth stronger)

A decoction of the root is often used as a mouthwash, in case of mouth ulcers.

In the case of cavities and/or bleeding gums, a bruised leaf or extracted leaf juice is applied to the affected area.

The twigs of the plant are also chewed for overall good oral health. (Read more: Oral hygiene tips)

A paste of the leaf can be made and applied on the skin topically in case of eczema, itching, chilblains and skin allergies. Even for boils and pimples, a paste of the leaf is known to provide relief.

For ringworm and other fungal infections, a suggested remedy is to dry the root, grind it into a fine powder and use a mix this dried root powder and lemon juice on the affected area. Even in comparatively less severe conditions like cracks on the feet, the leaf juice or paste can be applied.

More research needs to be done to verify these benefits and understand any contraindications. These natural remedies should not be used as a substitute for a doctor's advice and prescribed medicines.

Read more: Home remedies for dry hands and feet

In the case of water retention and swelling, Vajradanti flower extract is said to help by increasing urination and eliminating sodium from the body without interfering with potassium levels—which is likely to do wonders for oedema.

Vajradanti is said to be naturally anti-rheumatic. In cases of inflammation and swelling of joints, including in conditions like arthritis and gout, a decoction of the plant is prepared and administered orally by a trained Ayurvedic or Siddha doctor.

Animal studies have shown that Vajradanti extracts may protect the synovial membranes which cushion the joints against friction and wear and tear. Some researchers have suggested it could be useful for patients of rheumatoid arthritis as well. However, more research needs to be done to establish this firmly.

Please note that this remedy is not a substitute for a doctor's visit and recommendations.

Vajradanti is a diuretic. This means that it facilitates the production and excretion of more urine from the body. This increased frequency of urination improves the chances of expelling kidney stones naturally.

More research needs to be done to verify this benefit. Please see a doctor if you have the symptoms of kidney stones like severe or sudden pain in the side of the stomach or back pain—the pain could occur while urinating, fever, nausea and vomiting, frequent urination, blood in the urine and sweating.

The anticatarrhal action (the removal of excess mucus) of Vajradanti is why it is used for cough and allergic rhinitis.

Often, the juice of the leaf is given along with honey to promote the expulsion of phlegm and provide a soothing effect.

The powdered dried bark of Vajradanti is said to be effective in treating whooping cough. Apart from this, it may be beneficial for some people with asthma.

This remedy is not a substitute for prescribed medicines. If you are taking asthma medicines or medicines for any other condition, check with your doctor before trying any of these remedies as they could interfere with ongoing treatment.

Heating sesame oil with the whole plant or parts of the Baleria prionitis plant and applying it to the scalp and hair is said to prevent greying of hair. It can also be used to treat alopecia or hair loss.

Vajradanti is said to promote fertility and improve reproductive health in both males and females. While the juice of the leaf is used to treat spermatorrhea, water boiled with Vajradanti root was traditionally rubbed on the bellies of pregnant women as it was believed to facilitate proper development of the foetus. (Read more: Pregnancy care, tips)