Sahjan for Parasites and Worms

Sahjan is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for parasites and worms. Sahjan (Moringa pterygosperma/oleifera), the Drumstick Tree, is extensively described as both a food and medicine. The text states it grows in all regions of India and in all seasons. The drumstick-shaped pods are 10-25 inches long and widely consumed as a vegetable. The root bark, leaves, flowers, pods, and seeds all have medicinal value. Spirochin and Pterygospermin are identified as unique antibiotic compounds. The seed oil (Ben-oil) is non-drying and used in perfumery. The root tastes like horseradish. The tree has powerful anti-bacterial properties - its extracts are effective against both Gram-positive (Staphylococcal, Streptococcal) and Gram-negative organisms. The bark is used in scurvy, and the leaves as a vegetable provide excellent nutrition. The root bark has rubefacient properties and is used for fevers and inflammation. A related species Moringa concanensis is also mentioned.