Medicinal Use of Shorno Lata (Cuscuta reflexa) as a Home Remedy
Shorno Lata, scientifically known as Cuscuta reflexa,
is a parasitic plant commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of
Asia, especially in Bangladesh, India, and Nepal. Known by various local names
such as “Swarnalata” in Sanskrit, “Amarbel” in Hindi, and “Shorno Lota” in
Bengali, this yellowish-green vine wraps around host plants and draws nutrients
from them. Despite being a parasitic plant, Shorno Lata holds a valued place in
traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda, Unani, and folk remedies. It
has been used for centuries due to its powerful healing properties.
Below is a detailed overview of the medicinal uses of
Shorno Lata as a home remedy:
1. Hair Loss and Dandruff Treatment
One of the most popular traditional uses of Shorno Lata
is for treating hair problems. The whole plant can be boiled in coconut or
mustard oil and used as a natural hair tonic. This oil helps reduce:
- Hair
fall
- Dandruff
- Itchy
scalp
How to use:
Boil a handful of fresh Shorno Lata in 200 ml of coconut oil until the plant
turns brownish. Cool and strain the oil. Massage into the scalp three times a
week.
2. Liver Disorders and Jaundice
Shorno Lata is known for its hepatoprotective
(liver-protecting) properties. It is used in Ayurveda to cleanse the liver and
treat conditions like:
- Hepatitis
- Jaundice
- Fatty
liver
How to use:
Extract juice from fresh Shorno Lata and consume 1-2 tablespoons daily on an
empty stomach for 7–10 days under guidance.
3. Skin Diseases and Wounds
Shorno Lata has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory
properties. It is effective against:
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Rashes
- Minor
wounds and burns
How to use:
Make a paste from the crushed plant and apply directly to the affected skin.
For wounds, the juice can also be applied to prevent infection and promote
healing.
4. Diabetes Management
Folk medicine practitioners use Shorno Lata as a mild
blood sugar regulator. It helps improve insulin sensitivity and supports
pancreatic health.
How to use:
Dry the plant, powder it, and consume ½ teaspoon with warm water twice a day
before meals.
Note: Use cautiously and monitor
blood sugar levels closely.
5. Fever and Infections
Traditionally, Shorno Lata is used to reduce fever and
combat viral and bacterial infections due to its immunomodulatory effects.
How to use:
Boil a handful of the vine in 2 cups of water until it reduces to 1 cup. Drink
the decoction twice a day during fever or viral infections.
6. Strengthening Sexual Health
In Unani medicine, Shorno Lata is considered a rejuvenator
(Rasayana) that improves male fertility and treats premature ejaculation
and spermatorrhea.
How to use:
Mix powdered dried Shorno Lata with honey and consume 1 teaspoon daily at
bedtime.
7. Digestive Issues
It is known to assist in relieving constipation,
bloating, and other digestive troubles.
How to use:
Mix a small amount of plant extract with lukewarm water and drink it once daily, preferably before meals.
8. Eye Disorders
Some traditional applications involve using diluted
Shorno Lata juice as eye drops to treat eye infections and improve vision.
Caution: Always consult a
trained practitioner before using in the eyes, as improper use can be harmful.
Precautions and Warnings:
- Always
use fresh or properly dried plants for remedies.
- Avoid
using Shorno Lata during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical
advice.
- Dosages
should be monitored, as excessive use can cause side effects.
- Ensure
the plant is correctly identified, as it may resemble other non-medicinal
vines.
Conclusion
Shorno Lata (Cuscuta reflexa) is a powerful yet
underappreciated natural remedy used in home and traditional medicine. From
hair care to liver health and skin treatment to sexual wellness, it offers a
wide range of benefits. However, as with all medicinal plants, it must be used
with proper knowledge and caution to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Consulting a qualified herbalist or Ayurvedic practitioner before regular use
is always recommended.
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