Talmakhana

(Talmakhana)
Sanskrit: कोकिलाक्ष • Botanical: Hygrophila spinosa T. And.

Talmakhana (Hygrophila spinosa / Asteracantha longifolia) is a thorny aquatic herb growing in marshy and wet areas. The seeds, roots, and whole plant are used medicinally. It is described as sweet, bitter, heavy, unctuous, slimy, and cold in potency. It is one of the most valued herbs for male reproductive health - acting as a potent aphrodisiac (Vrishya) and strength-giver (Balya). It is useful in urinary disorders, kidney stones, impotence, general debility, and bleeding disorders. The seeds are particularly valued and contain digestive enzymes (Diastase, Lipase, Protease). The plant has spiny leaves and grows abundantly near water bodies. Dose: seeds 4-8 masha; roots 2-4 masha; decoction 2-4 tola. Verse refs: pages 416-417.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Sweet (Madhura), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Heavy (Guru), Unctuous (Snigdha), Slimy (Picchila)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Key Constituents
Seeds contain Diastase, Lipase, Protease enzymes (Asteracanthine, lupeol, stigmasterol, fatty acids)
Also Known As
English: Talmakhana, Marsh Barbel
Sanskrit: कोकिलाक्ष, काकनन्तिका, इक्षुगन्धा, ऋष्यप्रोक्ता
Hindi: तालमखाना, कोकिलाक्ष

What is Talmakhana (Hygrophila / तालमखाना)?

Talmakhana (Hygrophila spinosa / Asteracantha longifolia) is a thorny aquatic herb growing in marshy and wet areas. The seeds, roots, and whole plant are used medicinally. It is described as sweet, bitter, heavy, unctuous, slimy, and cold in potency. It is one of the most valued herbs for male reproductive health - acting as a potent aphrodisiac (Vrishya) and strength-giver (Balya). It is useful in urinary disorders, kidney stones, impotence, general debility, and bleeding disorders. The seeds are particularly valued and contain digestive enzymes (Diastase, Lipase, Protease). The plant has spiny leaves and grows abundantly near water bodies. Dose: seeds 4-8 masha; roots 2-4 masha; decoction 2-4 tola. Verse refs: pages 416-417.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
  • Balya (strength-giving)
  • Mutrala (diuretic)
  • Shothahara (reduces swelling)
  • Raktapittahara (treats bleeding disorders)
  • Vatahara (alleviates Vata)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Talmakhana by Condition

Explore how Talmakhana is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

⟶
Talmakhana for Fertility & Conception
⟶
Talmakhana for Inflammation
⟶
Talmakhana for Male Sexual Health

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.