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Herbal Manetenance Ingredients

Vilamichai Root

Vilamichai Root

Plectranthus vettiveroides

Composition

  • Aromatic Roots:The roots possess a strong, aromatic scent and are valued for their medicinal properties. 
  • Traditional Medicine:Used in Ayurvedic and Siddha systems of medicine for a variety of conditions, including elevated blood pressure, and other ailments. 
  • Endemic to South India:Primarily found in Tamil Nadu, and extinct in the wild in many areas. 
  • Cultivation:While extinct in the wild, it's cultivated in small areas of Tamil Nadu, including by farmers as part of religious customs. 
  • Other uses:The root extract is used as a deodorant, and the dried stem powder is used as a bathing powder. 
  • Bioactive fraction (PVF):A bioactive fraction isolated from the leaves, PVF, has shown promising anticancer activity against colon cancer cells. 
  • Morphological Characteristics:The plant has a unique microscopic structure, including spiral, reticulated, scalariform and pitted vessels, libriform and septate fibres, multicellular branched covering trichomes, glandular trichomes, and silica crystals. 

Origins

Vilamichai Ver, also known as Coleus Vettiveroides root, originates from India, particularly Kerala. It is widely cultivated in this region.The plant is also known as Plectranthus Vettiveroides.

  • Family: Labiatae or Lamiaceae. 
  • Origin: Primarily found and cultivated in Kerala, India. 
  • Traditional Use: Siddha medicine, where it's used for various ailments and as a fragrance and flavoring agent. 
  • Other Names: Known as Karuppu Vetiver (black vetiver) and has similarities to vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides). 
  • Ancient References: Mentioned in ancient Siddhar's poems, such as "Arputha Sinthamani," highlighting its benefits. 

Did you know?

Medicinal: Regular consumption of this aromatic root in water helps general well-being, and it acts as a blood purifier. It's also used to cure ulcers, stomach pain, bad breath, and painful urination.

Soil Conservation: In some areas it's used as a soil conservator and erosion controller, preventing soil from being eroded by wind and water. 

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HAIR BENEFITS

  • Improved Blood Circulation:Vilamichai ver is thought to improve blood circulation in the scalp, which can help deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth. 
  • Stimulates Hair Growth:The root may have properties that stimulate hair growth, potentially due to its ability to activate hair follicles and extend the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. 
  • Antimicrobial Properties:Vilamichai ver's antimicrobial properties can help prevent hair infections and create a healthier environment for hair growth. 
  • Hair Rejuvenation:Regular use of Vilamichai ver may help rejuvenate dull, lifeless hair, improving its texture and adding shine. 

SCALP / SKIN BENEFITS

It's used in traditional Ayurvedic practices for its cooling, detoxifying, and aromatic properties, which can help with various skin and scalp conditions.

Scalp Health:

  • Reduces dandruff and itching:Vilamichai root's anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties can help soothe a dry, irritated, and itchy scalp, which can contribute to a healthy environment for hair growth. 
  • Strengthens hair roots:It can help strengthen hair follicles and promote healthy scalp, potentially reducing hair loss and stimulating growth. 
  • May help with hair growth:By providing nourishment and addressing scalp issues, Vilamichai root can indirectly contribute to faster and healthier hair growth. 

Skin Health:

  • Cooling and soothing:Vilamichai root can provide a cooling effect, helping to reduce body heat and soothe skin irritations. 
  • Detoxifying properties:It helps cleanse the body and purify the skin, which can be beneficial for overall skin health. 
  • Anti-aging effects:The antioxidants in Vilamichai root may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and blemishes, contributing to a younger-looking complexion.