What are changeri leaves, and how are they used in Ayurvedic medicine?

Question

I recently came across the term changeri leaves in an Ayurvedic recipe, and I’d like to learn more about them. What are changeri leaves, and what are their primary health benefits in traditional medicine?

From what I’ve read, changeri leaves are often used for improving digestion and treating stomach-related issues. Are they effective for conditions like acidity, indigestion, or diarrhea? How are they typically consumed – as a decoction, powder, or added to food?

I’m also curious about whether changeri leaves are used for other health purposes, such as detoxification or boosting immunity. Are there any specific combinations of herbs or foods that enhance their effects? Lastly, where can changeri leaves be found, and are they commonly available in Indian markets?

If anyone has experience using changeri leaves, I’d love to hear how you’ve used them and the benefits you’ve noticed.

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Changeri leaves (Oxalis corniculata), also known as Indian Sorrel, are widely used in Ayurveda for their digestive, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. They are primarily known for treating acidity, indigestion, diarrhea, and dysentery due to their mild laxative and stomach-soothing effects. Changeri leaves have a tangy, sour taste because they contain oxalic acid, which helps stimulate digestion and balance excess stomach acid.

These leaves can be consumed in various forms: as a fresh juice, decoction, dried powder, or added to food like soups and chutneys. They are also used in herbal formulations for detoxification and boosting immunity. In Ayurveda, they are often combined with herbs like jeera (cumin) and ajwain for better digestive support. Since changeri leaves have cooling properties, they are beneficial for Pitta-related digestive disorders but should be consumed in moderation due to their oxalic acid content.

Availability: Changeri leaves are commonly found in Indian markets, herbal stores, and even home gardens, as they grow easily in tropical climates. If you have used changeri leaves, sharing experiences on their effectiveness for digestion or other health benefits would be helpful for those interested in this Ayurvedic remedy.

What are changeri leaves, and how are they used in Ayurvedic medicine? - #11341

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