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What Are the Medical Uses of Rubia

Cordifolia?

Frequently used in ayurvedic medicine, the rubia

cordifolia may be used internally or externally to treat

a wide range of disorders including those pertaining to

female reproduction, the gastrointestinal tract and the

skin. Preparations that include derivatives of theflowering plant are also frequently used to treat gouty

arthritis, infections and urinary tract problems. Studies

indicate that the medicinal plants contain flavonoids,

salicylates, and sulfur. Tests reveal the plant roots also

contain tannin. Also known as the common madder orthe Indian madder, rubia cordifolia may be used alone,

but is frequently combined with other herbs as

treatments.

Taken internally in capsule form, rubiacordifolia reportedly eliminates abnormal vaginal

discharges and regulates menstruation cycles. The

antispasmodic properties of the plant seem closely

related to the ability of calcium channel blockers. This

action supposedly aids in relieving painful uterine

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cramping. Some believe the plant also possesses the

ability to eliminate the congestion and stagnation of

tissues throughout the body, which cleanses the uterus

and improves menstruation flow. The plants ability toinhibit platelet aggregation may be the contributing

factor to increased blood flow.

Proponents of rubia cordifolia commonly use the

preparation for diarrhea and dyspepsia. Theantispasmodic properties of the plant may calm

cramping and increased peristalsis commonly

associated with a number of gastric disorders. Some

believe the plant effectively treats gastrointestinal

parasites. Formulations also reportedly treat

urolithiasis, commonly known as kidney stones, and

decrease blood uric acid levels. Indian physicians may

additionally use the plant as adjunctive treatment for

hepatitis.

Sulfur and tannins within the plant provide some

antibacterial properties, particularly against strains of

staphylococcus. Individuals often use rubia cordifolia

for external and systemic infections. Containing

salicylates similar to aspirin, the plant generally

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contains some anti-inflammatory characteristics and is

frequently used for fevers. Taken internally or applied

externally, many believe these anti-inflammatory

properties aid in relieving symptoms associated withrheumatoid arthritis.

Ayruvedic practitioners commonly prescribe rubia

cordifolia as a skin treatment for acne, burns or

eczema, along with a host of other dermatologicalconditions. Containing antiseptic and astringent

properties, many use plant preparations to dry oozing,

eliminate infection and promote healing. Certain

concoctions containing the plant also supposedly

reduce skin wrinkling and remove freckles.

Rubia cordifolia grows in India, but may also be found

in Africa, Asia and Greece. The roots are generally the

favored part of the plant, though preparations may

contain the flowers, leaves or stems. The roots typically

contain a red pigment, frequently used for dyeing

textiles.

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