Himalaya - Shigru

Shigru (Moringa oleifera) is a medium sized tree with tomentose young parts and long pendulous fruits. All parts of the tree are considered medicinal and used in the treatment of ascites, rheumatism, venomous bites, and as cardiac and circulatory stimulants. The seeds are considered antipyretic, acrid and bitter. The seed oil is applied in rheumatism and gout.

Indications: Seeds of Drumstick contain an antimicrobial constituent. The seed extract showed significant antibacterial activity against skin infections (pyodermia), in experimental animals. The seeds are used as antibacterial, anticholeric and anti-viral; they contain the active principles pterigospermin, spirachin and banzyl isothiocyanate.

An infusion of the kernels acts as a febrifuge. A paste of the crushed seeds is spread on warts. The seeds are also used in many parts of India as diuretic for the treatment of edema, and as a febrifuge. Biological activity studies have confirmed the anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and diuretic activities of the seeds.