Bala is a popular herb in the Ayurvedic system of medicine, and it denotes “strength “in English. It is a robust herb used to uplift the strength of bones, muscles, joints and enhance overall stamina of the body. The plant is associated to the ancient Hindu Goddess of beauty, and grace Parvathi and famed as a beautifying herb. It goes by the scientific name Sida cordifolia, a perennial herb that grows to 30 metres height with oblong or heart-shaped leaves bearing small, solitary, axillary and white coloured florals. The roots and stems of Bala are very stout and strong. A native plant to India that grows along wastelands and roadsides. It is widely found throughout tropical and sub-tropical regions of India and Sri Lanka. Bala has a long history of traditional use across the globe. The entire plant is used extensively to prepare various formulations in the traditional ayurvedic medicine.
Bala / Sida Cordifolia

Uses of Bala

Bala is greatly valued for its shukrala traits, which enhances both the quality and quantity of sperm count. This classical herbal drug is mainly used as a Central Nervous system (CNS) depressant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive and hypoglycaemic agent. It works the best nerve tonic for treating numerous vata disorders, purifies blood, cures piles and boosts fetal growth and development. Furthermore, cooked leaves are valuable in curing bleeding piles. All parts of the plant are credited to possess distinct medicinal actions, mainly the root. It is valuable in losing weight as it helps in suppressing appetite and hypoglycaemic activity aids in controlling blood sugar spikes. As per the holistic system of Ayurveda, it is beneficial in pacifying all three doshas- vatta, pitta and kapha, but is most efficient is balancing vata dosha.

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Bala is known by other common names such as country mallow, hearty -leaf sida. In India, Bala has various names in vernacular languages. It is known as Badiyalaka, Bala, Baladaya in Snaskrit, Berela in Bengali, Barial, Kharinta in Hindi, Chittuharalu in Kannada, Katturam in Malayalam, Chittamuttie in Tamil, Chirubenda, Mailmanikkam in Telugu, And Chikana,Karaiti in Marathi.

Incredible Health Benefits

Combats Fatigue

This herb is effective in managing fatigue caused by a hectic lifestyle. As per Ayurveda, fatigue is referred to as klama and Kapha dosha is the main dosha that is imbalanced. Having this formulation helps to ease the symptoms of fatigue due to its Balya (strength providing nature) and Tridosha balancing action.

Take 1/2 teaspoon of Bala powder combined with milk or honey, consume it twice daily after meals to fight fatigue.

Augments Respiratory Health

The Natural cool potency or Sheet Virya of Bala herb supports to control pitta, vatta doshas and increases kapha. Bala is beneficial in offering nourishment and strength to the respiratory system. While antispasmodic action of this herb prevents asthma attacks and provides relief from dry coughs and bronchitis. The richness of phytochemicals ephedrine, vasicinone, vasicine and vasicinol acts as a bronchodilator, which clears the airways, thereby mitigating breathing difficulties and prevent wheezing. It also works as a nasal decongestant, removes obstructions in the respiratory passage and support optimising lung functions and health. Additionally, it aids in building a robust immune system owing to its rejuvenating traits.

Also Read: Respiratory Health: 5 Incredible Herbs To Boost Your Lung Power

Remedies Urinary Problems

Being a natural diuretic herb, Bala works effectively to increase urine output and treat several kidney disorders. It is mostly used in combination with other natural herbs to fight urinary tract infections and improve kidney functions. This potent herbal plant helps to strengthen the urinary system and cures urinary incontinence.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

This herbal medicine is credited to possess potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic traits, which holds incredible significance in easing symptoms of arthritis such as joint and muscle pain, overcome stiffens and enhancing mobility. Applying bala powder paste directly to the affected region aids to reduce inflammation and offer respite from arthritis, gout.

Healthy Skin

Packed with immense amounts of antioxidants and other vital nutrients Bala herb helps to repair, restore, and revamp skin and hair health. It has been famed since times immemorial as a beautifying herb. This classical herbal formulation can be taken both internally and applied externally to offer the skin with needed nourishment and heals the skin from inside out. Furthermore, regular intake of Bala enhances hair growth and strengthen the scalp, while oil can also be used as a natural hair conditioner.

Bala For Erectile Dysfunction

Bala powder has a promising effect on promoting men’s sexual health. It is beneficial in treating erectile dysfunction and acts on the central nervous system. It contains ephedrine that acts as a mood-altering and enhancing drug, which increases the duration of erection and control ejaculation during intercourse. Being a natural aphrodisiac, it improves libido and sexual well-being.

Also Read: Erectile Dysfunction: 5 Incredible Ayurvedic Herbs To Manage Male Impotency
Bala / Sida Cordifolia churna

Dosage

The recommended dosage is:

Bala Powder - 1/4- 1/2 teaspoon twice a day.

Bala Capsule - 1-2 capsules twice daily.

Bala Juice - 1-2 teaspoons once or twice a day.

Bala powder and capsule to be taken after having food and Bala powder should be mixed with milk or honey.

Bala juice is diluted with an equal amount of water and consumed before having food.

Side Effects

Bala contains ephedrine and overuse of this herb may exhibit the following side effects:

Insomnia

Anxiety

Nervousness

High blood pressure

Memory loss

Stroke

Disclaimer:

The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog.