Herbal Products

Nutritional Composition :
Psyllium husk, is renowned for its high fiber content and various health benefits. Its nutritional composition includes a unique combination of macronutrients, vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds that contribute to its wide range of health benefits. Psyllium husk is a byproduct of milling the seeds and makes up approximately 10% to 25% of the weight of the dried seed. The husk contains over 60% water-soluble hemicellulose and arabinoxylans. Psyllium husk is a highly nutritious food, containing approximately 84.98% carbohydrates, 6.83% proteins, and 4.07% ash.

• Functional Benefits of Psyllium Husk : Psyllium husk offers significant functional benefits when incorporated into food products, particularly in terms of visc osity, water absorption capacity, and water solubility index (Waheed Khan et al., 2021). Psyllium husk is renowned for its exceptional ability to increase the viscosity of food products. When hydrated, psyllium husk forms a gel-like substance due to its high soluble fiber content, primarily composed of noxylans (Noguerol, Igual, et al., 2022). This gelling property is beneficial in various food applications, such as thickening agents in soups, sauces, and dressings, and gluten-free baking to improve texture and structure. The increased viscosity can also contribute to a prolonged feeling of fullness, which is advantageous for weight management and appetite control.
• Digestive Health Benefits : Perhaps one of the most prominent advantages of psyllium husk in health is related to the improvement of gut health. Psyllium husk contains a great amount of dietary fiber with high soluble fiber content, which is beneficial in promoting regular defecation and relieving constipation. When mixed with water, psyllium forms a gel-like substance that helps soften stools for easier passage. This is especially helpful in people with chronic constipation or irritable bowel syndrome. On the other end of the spectrum, psyllium husk is also useful in the treatment of diarrhea. The gel-like fiber can absorb excess water in the intestines, which will make the runny stools a bit firmer (McRorie et al., 2021). Another role of psyllium is its prebiotic action that allows the good gut bacteria to thrive well (Belorio & Gómez, 2021). This can improve the whole gut health and enhance nutrient absorption while minimizing the issues related to the trointestinal system.
• Cardiovasculaer Health : There are very significant benefits of psyllium husk associated with cardiovascular health (Chen et al., 2022). The soluble fiber content of psyllium husk reduces the levels of cholesterol by binding to bile acids in the intestine, which are then finally cleared from the body through excretion (Khan et al., 2021). It is a process that makes the liver use more cholesterol to form bile acids and, hence, lowers the level of LDL cholesterol in the blood flow.
• Blood Sugar Control : Psyllium husk may have an important role in blood sugar management, particularly among those with diabetes. In psyllium, soluble fiber delays the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, slowing the resulting rise in blood sugar after meals. As such, it prevents large jumps in sugar levels and improves glycemic control. Intake of psyllium husk was associated with reduced levels of fasting blood sugar and improved insulin sensitivity.
• Weight Management : Psyllium husk has been known to be a great agent in body weight management. A high fiber content makes a person feel fuller, thereby reducing the intake of total calories. The nature of psyllium to expand in the stomach and form a gel mass aids in reducing hunger and overeating processes (Sar et al., 2024). This makes it a valuable addition to a weight loss or weight maintenance regime. Psyllium may have a satiating effect on appetite, probably helping subjects reduce their energy intake by causing earlier meal termination.

Application:                           

• Nutraceuticals & Pharmaceuticals : Psyllium husk is applied in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries for its soluble fiber content, acting as a bulk-forming laxative, a digestive aid, and a natural supplement to help manage cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight. It also functions as a natural binder in tablets and capsules and as a gelling agent                        Health Suppliments : Psyllium husk is a natural dietary fiber supplement derived from the outer coating of Plantago ovata seeds. It is widely used for its health-promoting properties, most notably for digestive, cardiovascular, and metabolic health. Its primary mechanism involves absorbing water to form a gel-like substance in the digestive tract, which is responsible for many of its therapeutic effects.                            
• Bakery Products    : Psyllium husk is extensively used in baking, particularly in gluten-free products. Its ability to mimic the texture and binding properties of gluten makes it an ideal substitute for wheat flour in gluten-free bread, muffins, and cookies. Psyllium husk helps retain moisture, enhances the crumb structure, and improves the overall texture and shelf life of baked goods.                       
• Breakfast Cereals : The addition of psyllium husk to breakfast cereals is another common application. It increases the fiber content, contributing to the nutritional value of the cereals. The gel-forming ability of psyllium husk helps to create a satisfying texture and can also aid in prolonging the feeling of fullness, which is beneficial for weight management.                           
• Meal replacements and nutritional bars : Psyllium husk is a popular ingredient in meal replacement shakes and nutritional bars. It adds bulk and fiber, which are essential for satiety and digestive health. The high water-binding capacity of psyllium husk allows these products to expand and create a feeling of fullness, making them effective for appetite control and weight management.                       
• Dairy and non-dairy alternatives : In dairy and non-dairy products, psyllium husk acts as a thickening and stabilizing agent. It is used in yogurt, ice cream, and plant-based milk alternatives to improve texture and consistency. Psyllium husk helps to prevent the separation of ingredients, ensuring a smooth and homogenous product. Its emulsifying properties also enhance the mouth-feel of these products, making them more appealing to consumers.                           
• Meat and meat alternatives : In meat processing, psyllium husk can be used as a binder and extender in products such as sausages and meat patties. It helps to retain moisture, improve texture, and reduce cooking losses. In plant-based meat alternatives, psyllium husk contributes to the fibrous texture and juiciness, making these products more palatable and similar to their meat counter parts.

Indian Senna also known as Sonamukhi (Botanical name – Cassia angustifolia) is an annual leguminous herb cultivated extensively in the southern parts of the country for its pods and leaves which are used in Ayurveda as well as in modern system of medicines. Senna leaves is generally used for its laxative properties. In scientific study of Senna, anthraquinones, glycosides, sennosides, numerous minor sennosides have been identified, and all appear to contribute to the laxative effect. These compounds work as a laxative by smoothing & relaxing the tissues, as digested food moves through the intestines. It helps to eliminate Vitiated & putrefied Pitta through motion and gives relief in fever caused by excessive Pitta. Senna supports reduction of ascitis (fluid accumulation in stomach layers) with other medicines. Senna aids in removal of toxins from skin layer and removing it from intestines. It helps to remove extra phlegm from lungs and reduce intensity of cough.

• Sennosides A and B: These are the principal active ingredients and are dimeric glycosides, meaning they are composed of two anthraquinone molecules attached to sugar units. They account for up to 80% of senna's biological activity.
• Sennosides C and D: These are hetero-dianthrone glycosides and are present in smaller amounts.  

The leaves and pods of Senna are known to contain sennosides, with reported levels ranging from 2.5% to 3.6%. Specifically, Sennoside B content in pods is around 2.7%, while in leaves it is approximately 1.83%

Uses of Senna Leaves / Senna Pods                                       

• Natural Laxative: Used to relieve constipation by promoting bowel movements.                                       
• Herbal Tea: Senna leaves are commonly brewed into a detoxifying tea.   
• Skin Care: Used in skincare for its antibacterial properties to help treat acne.                                       
• Digestive Health: Helps in cleansing the digestive system and improving gut health.                                       
• Traditional Remedy: Known in traditional medicine for its use in detoxifying and weight management.                                       

Benefits of Senna Leaves / Senna Pods                           

• Relieves Constipation: Acts as a gentle, natural laxative.                           
• Detoxifies: Helps in cleansing the digestive system.                           
• Promotes Weight Loss: Aids in detoxification and weight management.
• Supports Skin Health: Helps reduce acne and skin inflammation.                 

Common names include Indian ginseng and winter cherry. Withania somnifera (Ashawagandha) is very revered herb of the Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine as a Rasayana (tonic). It is used for various kinds of disease processes and specially as a nervine tonic. Considering these facts many scientific studies were carried out and its adaptogenic / anti-stress activities were studied in detail. In experimental models it increases the stamina of rats during swimming endurance test and prevented adrenal gland changes of ascorbic acid and cortisol content produce by swimming stress. Pretreatment with Withania somnifera (WS) showed significance protection against stress induced gastric ulcers. WS have anti-tumor effect on Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cell carcinoma. It was also found effective against urethane induced lung-adenoma in mice. In some cases of uterine fibroids, dermatosarcoma, long term treatment with WS controlled the condition. It has a Cognition Promoting Effect and was useful in children with memory deficit and in old age people loss of memory. It was also found useful in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's, Huntington's and Alzeimer's diseases. It has GABA mimetic effect and was shown to promote formation of dendrites. It has anxiolytic effect and improves energy levels and mitochondrial health. It is an anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic agent and was found useful in clinical cases of Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis. Large scale studies are needed to prove its clinical efficacy in stress related disorders, neuronal disorders and cancers.

Chemical Compositions
The biologically active chemical constituents of Withania somnifera (WS) include alkaloids (isopelletierine, anaferine, cuseohygrine, anahygrine, etc.), steroidal lactones (withanolides, withaferins) and saponins. Sitoindosides and acylsterylglucosides in Ashwagandha are anti-stress agents. Active principles of Ashwagandha, for instance the sitoindosides VII-X and Withaferin-A, have been shown to have significant anti-stress activity against acute models of experimental stress. Many of its constituents support immunomodulatory actions. The aerial parts of Withania somnifera yielded 5-dehydroxy withanolide-R and withasomniferin.

Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera), the “miracle tree”, thrives globally in almost all tropical and subtropical regions, but it is believed to be native to Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. They are an exceptionally good source of provitamin A, vitamins B and C, minerals (particularly Iron) and sulphur containing amino acids methionine and cysteine. It is commonly said that moringa leaves contain more Vitamin A than carrots, more calcium than milk, more iron than spinach, more Vitamin C than oranges, and more potassium than bananas,” and that the protein quality of Moringa leaves rivals that of milk and eggs. However, the leaves and stem of M. oleifera are known to have large amounts of their calcium bound in calcium oxalate crystals. Dried leaves have an oleic acid content of about 70%, which makes them suitable for making moisturizers.

Moringa’s peppery leaves are often eaten as a vegetable. They’re also dried and ground into a powder used in soups and curries. They have iron, potassium, and calcium. The leaves also have nine essential amino acids, and vitamins A, B, and C. They’re full of protein and can be used as a substitute for meat, fish, and eggs. Moringa leaves have been used to help treat malaria, arthritis, skin diseases, and diabetes.

Applications:

• Nutritional Support: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, they help fight free radicals, strengthen bones, and combat anemia.
• Blood Sugar Control: Insulin-like proteins and plant chemicals in moringa may help lower blood sugar levels and improve how the body processes sugar, aiding diabetic patients.
• Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant: Extracts may reduce inflammation and the effects of stress and inflammation in the brain, potentially helping with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
• Wound Healing: Traditional uses include applying leaves to promote wound healing.
• Cosmetics: Moringa oil, extracted from seeds, is used in moisturizers and conditioners due to its moisturizing and antioxidant properties.
• Water Purification: The seeds of the moringa plant contain proteins with coagulation properties and are used in some areas to purify water.
• Biodiesel: Moringa oil's chemical composition makes it a potential feedstock for producing environmentally friendly lubricants and biodiesel.

Neem leaves offer benefits for skin and hair health, acting as a remedy for issues like acne and dandruff due to their antibacterial and antifungal properties. They can also aid in blood sugar management, boost immunity, and support the body's natural detoxification processes by purifying the blood and enhancing liver function.
Skin and Hair Care: Neem's anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties make it effective against conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff.

• Oral health: Promotes oral health by preventing bad breath and gum disease, and it may help with digestive health and reduce inflammation.  
• Immunity Boosting: Neem can support the immune system by enhancing white blood cell activity and fighting off infections.
• Detoxification: It helps purify the blood, remove toxins, and supports liver function, contributing to overall health.
• Blood Sugar Control: Neem contains compounds that may help regulate blood glucose levels in diabetic individuals by improving glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
• Oral Health: Chewing neem leaves or using neem-based products can help prevent tartar, gum disease, and bad breath.
• Digestive Health: Neem can aid in good digestion and may help treat digestive disorders like ulcers, constipation, and bloating.
• Anti-inflammatory Properties: The leaves possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage general inflammation and swelling.
• Antioxidant Effects: Neem contains antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals in the body, protecting against oxidative stress.

Amla offers benefits for immunity, digestion, skin, hair, and heart health due to its high Vitamin C and antioxidant content, along with anti-inflammatory properties. It supports the immune system by boosting white blood cells, aids digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes and providing fiber, and promotes healthy skin and hair by aiding collagen production and nourishing follicles. Amla may also help regulate blood sugar, improve heart function by lowering bad cholesterol, and reduce inflammation throughout the body.

• High Vitamin C Content: Amla is rich in Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and helps the body fight off infections and viruses.
• Fiber Content: Amla is high in fiber, which supports regular bowel movements and can prevent constipation.
• Stimulates Digestive Enzymes: It helps stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, improving food breakdown and nutrient absorption.
• Collagen Production: Vitamin C in amla promotes collagen production, which is essential for skin elasticity and strength.
• Hair Nourishment: Amla nourishes hair follicles, helps prevent dandruff and dryness, and promotes healthy hair growth.
• Lowers Bad Cholesterol: Amla can help reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) levels while improving HDL (good cholesterol), supporting overall heart function.

Triphala offers various health benefits, including improving digestion and relieving constipation, acting as a powerful antioxidant, and reducing inflammation. It also supports the immune system, aids in detoxification and liver health, helps manage weight, and may have benefits for heart health and blood sugar regulation.
Aids Digestion: Triphala stimulates the "digestive fire" to improve digestion and nutrient absorption.

• Relieves Constipation: It functions as a gentle and effective natural laxative, promoting bowel regularity.
• Supports Liver Function: It helps the liver process and eliminate toxins, contributing to overall detoxification.
• Boosts Immunity: Triphala contains vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system's defense against infections.
• Rich in Antioxidants: It acts as a potent antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals and reducing oxidative stress.
• Weight Management: Triphala may help boost metabolism, aiding in healthy weight loss when combined with a balanced diet and exercise.
• Cardioprotective: It is associated with protecting the heart, potentially lowering cholesterol and normalizing blood pressure.
• Blood Sugar Control: Triphala may help regulate and lower blood sugar levels.
• Skin Health: When applied topically or taken internally, its antimicrobial properties can help address various skin issues.
• Eye and Oral Health: It is used to support eye health and has been shown to prevent tooth decay and cavities.

Triphala offers various health benefits, including improving digestion and relieving constipation, acting as a powerful antioxidant, and reducing inflammation. It also supports the immune system, aids in detoxification and liver health, helps manage weight, and may have benefits for heart health and blood sugar regulation.
Aids Digestion: Triphala stimulates the "digestive fire" to improve digestion and nutrient absorption.

• Relieves Constipation: It functions as a gentle and effective natural laxative, promoting bowel regularity.
• Supports Liver Function: It helps the liver process and eliminate toxins, contributing to overall detoxification.
• Boosts Immunity: Triphala contains vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system's defense against infections.
• Rich in Antioxidants: It acts as a potent antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals and reducing oxidative stress.
• Weight Management: Triphala may help boost metabolism, aiding in healthy weight loss when combined with a balanced diet and exercise.
• Cardioprotective: It is associated with protecting the heart, potentially lowering cholesterol and normalizing blood pressure.
• Blood Sugar Control: Triphala may help regulate and lower blood sugar levels.
• Skin Health: When applied topically or taken internally, its antimicrobial properties can help address various skin issues.
• Eye and Oral Health: It is used to support eye health and has been shown to prevent tooth decay and cavities.