Kurunthotti, or Sida, is an annual herb or shrub with distinctive yellow flowers and leaves. Known as Bala in Sanskrit, it holds significance in Ayurveda and traditional medicines.
Naturalized worldwide, it is considered an invasive weed in Africa, Australia, the Southern United States, the Hawaiian Islands, New Guinea, and French Polynesia.
Habitat
Native to India, it thrives along roadsides and wastelands, also found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Phytochemistry
Major seed components include alkaloids, mainly ephedrine, along with fatty acid, mucin, potassium nitrate, and resin. ephedrine, hypaphorine, vasicinone, vascicine, vasicinol, choline, betaine, and phytosterol are also present.
Nutritional Prowess
Used for bronchial asthma, colds, flu, chills, headache, nasal congestion, joint pain, cough, wheezing, and edema.
Kurunthotti powder, derived from the roots, is used in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and rejuvenating properties.
Beneficial for urinary problems like stones, infection, haematuria, and polyuria.
Stimulant alkaloids aid in shedding extra fat, contributing to weight loss.
Sida cordifolia enhances healthy skin, offering beauty benefits with Ashoka and Shatavari.
Relieves chest congestion, helpful for bronchitis and asthma.
Dermatological Perks
Packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients, Kurunthotti restores and repairs skin health.
Historically valued for its beautifying effects, it can be used externally and internally for skin nourishment.
Combined with raktha chandana, njavara rice, and cow’s milk, it brightens and purifies the skin, boasting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Follicular Fortification
Regular use enhances hair growth, maintains a healthy scalp, and serves as a natural hair conditioner.
Traditionally used for herbal shampoos (thaali) to treat hair problems, promote healthy hair growth, and maintain color.
