Phitkari :
Ingredients generally found in our households. Other than being used for purifying water or as a colour stabilizing agent, there are a number of virtues that could be achieved using this product both externally as well as internally . Phitkari is known in English as ‘Potash alum’ and some of the Sanskrit synonyms are Sapliatika, Satirashtri. Tutwri and Kanksht. White and red are the two types usually available, of which the white type is more prevalent. The red coloured phitkari contains some amount of iron along with the normal composition,
Properties: Fitkari is sweet, sour and astringent in taste. Generally whitish in colour, transparent, contains a luster Soluble in most of the liquids.
Medicinal use of Fitkari :
Blood Loss:
It is one of the main uses of Phitkari. When there is a superficial cut in the skin, It is advisable to rub some phitkari on it to avoid loss of blood. Men have used this technique for ages while shaving their beard. It provides anti-infective protection to the skin.
Cures Nosebleeds:
In Summer it is common among childrens and phitkari is Best suitable remedy. As an easy remedy, dissolve some of the alum in a little cow’s milk and this is to be applied as nasal drops.
Heals Tooth Ailments:
Powdered alum can be rubbed onto the gums and teeth to stay clear of the problems of spongy and bleeding gums and toothache. Mix Phitkari in water and gargle it so you will feel relaxed. This is an efficient mouthwash and also combats throat ailments like tonsillitis.
Relieves Fever:
Equal quantities of powdered phitkari and mishri (or sugar) are to be taken 2 to 3 times in a dose of one fourth teaspoon approx to combat fever.
Useful for the Eyes:
Powdered phitkari Is to be mixed into gulab jala (rose water) and this preparation is to be carefully filtered through a muslin cloth. 2 to 3 drops of this liquid can be put into the eyes in case of eye maladies like occasional pain, redness and swelling of the eyes.
Benefit for Women:
In the problems of uterine prolapse, leucorrhoea, differential uterine bleeding and occasional sores and itching in the private parts. phitkari can be tried. It is advised that the patients’ wash regularly the affected area with phitkari mixed with water.
Internal Injury:
When there is a possibility of an internal wound, it is advisable as a first aid to take a glass of hot milk along with about half a teaspoon of powdered phitkari and an equal amount of turmeric powder added to it.
(As per ayurvedic texts, the recommended dosage of phitkari is 4 to 8 ratti)
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