Ahiphena – Papaver somnifera

Introduction

Ahiphena, commonly known as Opium or Poppy seeds is one of the most potent herb used as an Analgesic and Sedative. The name Ahiphena means that the latex of this plant is very strong like venom of Cobra. The genus name Papaver indicates that it belongs to Papaveraceae family and the species name somnifera means it produces sleep. The latex and juice of this plant is used in different skin allergic conditions. 

Dr. Gupta’s IAFA have been studying on readily available herbs for the purpose of alleviating allergic condition. Our experts studied on Ahiphena and proven the plant’s therapeutic activities like Analgesic, Hypnotic, Antiallergic, Sedative, Narcotic, Respiratory depressant, Cough reflex depressant, Emetic etc. Ahiphena can be used in various diseases like emaciation, dandruff, diarrhoea, pain, cough, insomnia etc.  The main  alkaloids obtained from Opium are morphine and codeine. These are used as narcotic and analgesics. Some people shows IgE mediated Opium allergy which can lead to asthma. But the seeds of Opium is also useful in allergic reactions on skin and scalp.

Action of Ahiphena – Papaver somniferain Allergies

IAFA experts have successfully proven the antiallergic property of the plant Ahiphena. The plant contains c etc. These phytoconstituents aids the antiallergic and analgesic property of Ahiphena. Ahiphena seed paste with milk can be effectively applied on the skin and scalp to alleviate allergic conditions.

Vernacular Names

Sanskrit Name तिलभेद, खसतिल और खाखस
Hindi Name Kashkhas
English Name Opium, Poppy seeds
Malayalam Name Karuppu
Kannada Name Aphimu
Marathi Name Khaskhas

Botanical Name

Papaver somnifera

Family

Papaveraceae

Morphology of Ahiphena – Papaver somnifera

  • An annual quite glabrous herb.
  • Leaves oblong.
  • Flowers white, sometimes purple or scarlet.
  • Seeds white or black.

Ayurveda Reference of Ahiphena – Papaver somnifera

Ayurveda reference of Ahiphena - Papaver somnifera

Geographical Distribution of Ahiphena – Papaver somnifera

It is commonly found in Northern subtropical regions and Asia minor, Persia, China, Nepal and India. In India it is a specially cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab,  Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamilnadu, West Bengal, Bihar, Jammu and Kashmir and Assam.

Phytoconstituents of Ahiphena – Papaver somnifera

The plant contains phytoconstituents like morphine, codeine, thebaine, papaverine, noscapine, narcinine, meconin, pianin, neopine, porphyroxine, meconidine etc.

Parts Used of Ahiphena – Papaver somnifera

  • Latex
  • Seeds

Dosage of Ahiphena – Papaver somnifera

  • Powder (Churna) – 1-2 g
  • Seed (Bija) – 2-5 g
  • Latex (Aphim) – 30-125 mg

Medicinal Properties of Ahiphena – Papaver somnifera

  • Kasahara – relieves cough
  • Vedanasthapaka – analgesic 
  • Sophahara – relieves swelling 
  • Madaka – create excitement  
  • Nidrajanaka – induces sleep
  • Ruchya – relieves anorexia   
  • Agnivardhaka – improves digestion 
  • Vrsya – aphrodisiac 
  • Balya – promote strength 
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Home Remedies of Ahiphena – Papaver somnifera

Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine which focused on lifestyle modifications along with medicines in treating diseases. The treatment system adopted by Ayurveda is purely based on naturally available herbs. Ahiphena is one of the commonly growing plant and due to its high medicinal value it is used in treating many diseases like:-

  • In dandruff (Daruna) – A paste is prepared from Ahiphena seeds and milk and applied over scalp. 
  • In Diarrhoea (Atisara) – Ahiphena is mixed with bark of Strychnosnuxvomica and honey and taken.
  • In Skin diseases (Kushta) – Ahiphena seeds and milk is made into a paste and applied over skin.
  • In Insomnia (Anidra)  – Ahiphena latex is taken in mild doses to cure insomnia. 
  • In Pain (Sula) – Latex or fruit of Ahiphena is used to relieve pain.
  • In Cough (Kasa) – Latex of Ahiphena is taken to cure cough. 
  • In Debilitating diseases (Dourbalya) – Seeds of Ahiphena is taken with milk.
Ayurveda Classes and Courses Online

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine which uses herbs that are seen all around. Dr. Gupta’s IAFA have been conducting research studies to find out different phytoconstituents of herbs and their action in body. Such knowledge acquired by our experts are used in preparation of medicines and providing better treatment. IAFA is the provider of safe and effective treatment for a wide range of diseases, mainly allergic diseases all based on Ayurveda. 

Reach IAFA for safe herbal remedies for all your ailments!!!

Dr. Sahil Gupta completed his Bachelor of Ayurveda in Medicine and Surgery (B.A.M.S.) and Master’s Degree in Health Administration (MHA) India. He is Registered Ayurvedic Doctor & Vaidya in India having Registration No. 23780. He is the CEO and founder of IAFA. After completing BAMS, Dr. Sahil Gupta started practicing Ayruveda by giving prime importance to allergic disorders management. He became the first Ayurvedic doctor to cure Food Allergies through Ayurveda. Read More About Dr. Sahil Gupta.

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