Vekhand (Acorus Calamus) Benefits: Speech, Digestion & Baby Care

Also known as Sweet flag, Vekhand is an herb widely used in Ayurveda for its powerful benefits. The botanical name of the herb is Acorus Calamus. It is a perennial wetland plant with aromatic rhizomes and it is widely used for its traditional medical uses. This tall, semi-aquatic plant has sword-like leaves and fragrant rhizomes. The plant thrives in marshy areas and it is mostly found near water bodies.

Speech development and cognitive function in kids is very important and it is crucial for the overall development of a child. It impacts one’s social skills, communication and future well-being. Speech is the primary way children communicate their feelings and ideas and clearing speech allows children to interact effectively with peers and family. Cognitive abilities such as attention and problem-solving are essential for learning and academic success.

More and more people are turning to Vekhand powder because of its natural origin and multi-purpose healing benefits. Following are the top reasons as to why people are using Vekhand powder-

1. Cognitive and speech support

Also known as Vacha Churna, Vekhand powder is one of the most revered herbs in Ayurveda and it is used for enhancing brain function, speech clarity and memory. It acts as a brain tonic and improves memory and focus. It also supports the nervous system and speech mechanisms. The drug is traditionally used for speech delay and unclear articulation. It also helps reduce mental fog and restlessness. The drug also enhances cognitive function and retention. One should take a pinch of Vekhand powder and mix it with a drop of ghee or honey. Vekhand is pungent and heating and one should not take an overdose. We all are no strangers to the fact that raw vekhand can be toxic and hence one should always use purified powder from trusted ayurvedic sources. It is important to avoid taking the powder during pregnancy. One should not take the powder for long-term use without supervision.

2. Natural remedy for cold and cough

Vekhand powder is used for treating cold, cough and congestion in children and infants. Its Kapha-nashak properties clear excess mucus from the lungs and sinuses. Its heating potency warms the body and helps break down congestion. It also helps fight cold-causing pathogens and reduce the throat inflammation. How to apply Vekhand?

• Rub a vekhand stick on a sandalwood stone with a few drops of water.

• Apply a tine layer on the chest, neck or back of the baby.

• It helps clear mild nasal congestion. It also helps improve one’s sleep.

Internal use

• Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of the drug once daily.

• Try mixing the drug with warm water, honey or tulsi.

• The best time to take the drug is before going to bed.

3. Improves digestion and reduces bloating

Also known as Vacha Churna, Vekhand powder is a time-tested ayurvedic remedy for reducing bloating, improving digestion and relieving gas. Vekhand has strong, bitter and pungent heating properties. This makes it highly effective for balancing Kapha and vata doshas. The powder stimulates the appetite by kindling the digestive fire. It also helps break down undigested food and clears toxins. It also acts as a vata balancer that eases abdominal gas and irregular bowel movements. It is very useful in digestive infections and intestinal worms. What are the effective combinations for digestion?

Following are the effective combinations for digestion-

• Vekhand+Ajwain- It provides a strong relief for bloating and gas.

• Vekhand+Saunth- It warms the stomach and boosts appetite.

• Vekhand+Hing- It is great for colicky pain and flatulence.

It can be applied as a paste on the stomach or chest for colic and gas. It can only be used for internal use when a tiny amount of vekhand powder is mixed with honey to relieve gas.

4. Holistic mental health support

Vacha churna or Vekhand is a revered herb for nervous system regeneration and it is gaining popularity as a natural nootropic. It also works as a mental health enhancer. The drug offers support for fatigue and cognitive fog without any kinds of synthetic side effects. It enhances memory and balances vata dosha. The drug is responsible for calming a restless, anxious mind. It also plays a key role in reducing mental fatigue. The drug acts as a neuro-protective by supporting long-term brain and nerve health. When combined with calming herbs like Brahmi and Shankhapushpi, it improves one's sleep quality. The drug helps stabilize the nervous system during stress. Following are the powerful herbal combinations for the mind-

• Vekhand+Brahmi powder- It sharpens the intellect and reduces anxiety.

• Vekhand+Shankhapushpi- It supports memory and emotional stability.

• Vekhand+Ashwagandha- It is used for stress resilience and nervous exhaustion.

• Vekhand+Jatamasni- It promotes calm and better sleep.

5. Safe and traditional choice for babies

Vekhand has been used for centuries in traditional households. It is a natural remedy for infants and toddlers. The unique properties of vekhand powder make it a safe and effective choice for baby issues such as gas, congestion and delayed speech. However, it should be used correctly and in small supervised doses. Following are the Vekhand powder uses-

• Relieves gas and bloating.

Many babies struggle with digestive discomfort especially in the early months. Vekhand also helps soothe the stomach and ease bloating in babies.

• It clears congestion and prevents cold.

The drug acts as a natural decongestant by reducing Kapha. It is also used externally for preventing the symptoms of cold and cough.

• Supports speech development.

The drug is believed to aid in clarity of speech and cognitive simulation. It should be used sparingly with honey in toddlers with delayed speech.

• Mild antifungal properties.

The drug helps in preventing infections when used externally. It also keeps the baby’s skin and chest area protected from all kinds of microbial buildup during colds.

• Natural and chemical free.

The drug is free from any kind of artificial ingredients and preservatives. It is also ideal for parents looking for plant-based remedies.

The drug is natural, time-tested and free from any kind of chemicals. The mild antimicrobial effect of the drug increases one’s immunity.

Source/Research Links 

1. Therapeutic Potential of Acorus calamus in Neurological Disorders – NCBI

2. Acorus calamus: An overview of chemical composition and biological activities – ScienceDirect

3. Use of Acorus calamus in traditional Indian medicine – PubMed
   

4. The role of herbal remedies in speech development – Journal of Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine