Khatmi - खात्मी - Marshmallow plant - Althaea Officinalis

Khatmi, also known as Althaea officinalis, is a plant that is commonly used in traditional medicine. It belongs to the Malvaceae family and is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. The root and leaves of the plant are used in traditional medicine for their mucilaginous and anti-inflammatory properties. Khatmi is commonly used to treat respiratory tract infections, sore throat, digestive issues, and skin irritations. It is also believed to have diuretic and antioxidant properties. In Ayurveda, Khatmi is known as Khatmi and is believed to have a cooling effect on the body and a sweet taste (madhura rasa).

vernacular names of Khatmi are:

1. Khubkala (Hindi)
2. Kulfa (Urdu)
3. Gholihaat (Bengali)
4. Shaakhbaloot (Persian)
5. Kukraundha (Sanskrit)
6. Kukurbicha (Assamese)
7. Bokful (Manipuri)
8. Shimag (Kashmiri)
9. Bokful (Manipuri)
10. Manathakkali Keerai (Tamil)

Some of the Ayurvedic benefits of Khatmi are:

1. Soothes respiratory tract: Khatmi is believed to have mucilaginous properties that help in soothing the respiratory tract. It is commonly used in Ayurveda to treat cough, cold, sore throat, and other respiratory issues.
2. Anti-inflammatory properties: Khatmi is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that make it useful in treating skin irritations, burns, and wounds.
3. Digestive aid: Khatmi is known to have a soothing effect on the digestive system and is used to treat various digestive issues like constipation, gastritis, and ulcers.
4. Diuretic properties: Khatmi is believed to have diuretic properties that help in promoting urine production and flushing out toxins from the body.
5. Antioxidant properties: Khatmi is also believed to have antioxidant properties that help in protecting the body against oxidative stress and cellular damage.

6. Relieves fever: Khatmi is believed to have cooling properties that help in reducing fever and inflammation.
7. Calms the mind: Khatmi is used in Ayurveda as a nervine tonic that can help to calm the mind and reduce anxiety and stress.
8. Promotes healthy skin: The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Khatmi make it useful in promoting healthy skin. It is commonly used in Ayurveda to treat skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
9. Boosts immunity: Khatmi is believed to have immune-boosting properties that help in strengthening the body's defense mechanism against infections and diseases.
10. Provides relief from menstrual cramps: Khatmi is believed to have antispasmodic properties that make it useful in providing relief from menstrual cramps.

Precautions/Warnings: Marshmallow seeds are generally safe for most people when consumed in normal food amounts. However, as with any herbal supplement, people with underlying health conditions, pregnant or nursing women, and children should consult a healthcare provider before using marshmallow seed medicinally.

It is important to note that Khatmi should not be used in excess, as it may cause some side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Additionally, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using Khatmi without consulting with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.