Kamarkas or Palash Gond: The ultimate traditional remedy for body pain

Kamarkas, or simply Palash Gond, is a natural gum resin extracted from the bark of the Palash tree, a plant found natively in South Asia. The word Kamarkas means tightening the waist in Hindi, referring to the fact that women traditionally used the herb to ease their recovery after giving birth. This herbal remedy has been a cornerstone in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine, valued for its healing properties and use to relieve body pain and strengthen the muscles.

The nutritional contents of Kamarkas
Kamarkas is rich in natural compounds such as tannins, which are anti-inflammatory and astringent in nature. Flavonoids, which are antioxidant agents, help reduce free radicals. Kamarkas is also rich in glycosides, which aid in tissue repair and overall recovery. Additionally, it is said to be loaded with calcium and iron, which help strengthen bones and support muscle recovery.

We spoke to Mumbai-based Celebrity Ayurvedic Nutritionist Shweta Shah and she said, "As the ancient Ayurvedic verse says, 'Rasayanani Balyani, Varnyani Jivaniya Cha', Kamarkas is a rejuvenating substance which helps to strengthen the body, enhance vigour, and prolong life." According to her, during the winter season, when our body needs extra warmth and nourishment, Kamarkas becomes even more valuable. Shweta explained, "It aligns beautifully with Ayurveda's seasonal wisdom, helping balance the body and protect it from the dryness and cold that come with the season. Its rejuvenating properties help enhance strength, vitality, and immunity." Its mild laxative property aids digestion, preventing sluggishness and bloating while supporting reproductive health by nourishing tissues.


Benefits of Kamarkas for body pain

Anti-inflammatory properties
Kamarkas is rich in bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation, the major source of body pains. Through inflammatory pathway blocking, it relieves pain resulting from conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, and muscle soreness.

Recovery after childbirth
It is traditionally used in laddu preparation for mothers after delivery to strengthen the pelvic muscles, help alleviate back pain, and facilitate recovery faster through tissue repair.

ALSO READ: How to make Gond Panjiri

Muscle building
Its muscle-building properties make Kamarkas useful for those experiencing general body weakness or pain as a result of muscle strain or fatigue.


Increased blood flow
Kamarkas increases blood circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the affected areas where healing can be accelerated.

Relief in menstrual cramps
Women need Kamarkas to ease their abdominal and lower back pain during their menstrual periods because it relaxes the muscles and reduces the inflammation in the pelvic region.

Bone and joint support
The calcium content of Kamarkas helps strengthen bones, and its anti-inflammatory compounds in it help control conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis.


How to use kamarkas for body pain

Kamarkas is often added to dietary preparations to get its best possible benefit. Some traditional ways of using it are as follows:

Kamarkas Laddu: Ready with kamarkas, ghee, nuts and jaggery, these laddus are perfect for post-delivery ladies or people suffering from weakness.

ALSO READ: How to make Gond ke Laddoo

Kamarkas Tea: Boiling of kamarkas in water with a pinch of jaggery is said to create a soothing drink that reduces pain and inflammation.

Milk Infusion: Shweta advises, "Add 1 tsp of Kamarkas powder to a glass of warm milk with a pinch of turmeric and jaggery for a soothing bedtime drink."

Soups and Stews: She also said, "You can add a small amount of Kamarkas powder to winter soups or stews for its warming and strengthening properties."




Latest scientific evidence
While this shrub has been used traditionally for centuries, its benefits are only now being acknowledged by modern research. Studies of the Butea monosperma ascertain its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, as well as its antioxidant potential. These studies propose pain relief, increased mobility, and strengthening the musculoskeletal system.
Precautions and side effects

Moderation is the key: Excessive consumption can cause digestive inconvenience or allergic reactions in vulnerable individuals.

Pregnant Women: Needs to be prescribed by a medical professional before consumption.
Quality Control: Only purchase Kamarkas from trusted vendors as it must be pure and active.

Kamarkas is a natural remedy that can certainly be more effective for relieving body aches, strengthening muscles, and promoting overall recovery. Its versatility and rich nutritional profile justify its inclusion in traditional diets for women or those looking for natural remedies for musculoskeletal problems. It may either be consumed as a laddu or infused in milk; in both cases, it forms a robust alliance with physical health and pain relief.

(Thumb imag courtesy: Silkrute)