Gandhaka Tailam: Benefits, Dose, Ingredients, Side Effects

Gandhaka Tailam is a herbo-mineral traditional Ayurvedic oil. It is extensively used in the treatment of skin diseases such as dermatitis, scabies etc. It is used both for internal consumption and external application. 

Uses

Uses of Gandhaka Tailam:
Relieves pruritis (itching) and scabies.
Good for internal and external use.

Application on feet

Oil application over feet

Precaution if you apply this oil over feet:
If you apply this oil on feet, make sure to wash off thoroughly with water or wipe off with cloth. The oil can make you slippery while walking.
After applying, make sure there are no oil spills on the floor. This can make the floor slippery.

Ingredients

Ingredients of Gandhaka Thailam:
Nimba tailam (Azadirachta indica)
Kerajyam (Coconut milk)
Gandhaka (Purified sulphur)

Direction for use

Direction for use of Gandhaka Tailam:
External application:
It is applied 2 – 4 times a day on affected skin area. After application, it is best to wait for half an hour before washing off.

For oral intake – 
5 – 30 drops once or twice  a day before meals. half a cup of lukewarm milk or lukewarm water can be taken along with the oil. The oil can even be mixed with lukewarm milk and consumed.
For children between 5 – 12 years – dose is 5-10 drops once or twice a day before food.

Shelf life, manufacturer, package

Shelf life: 3 years from the date of manufacture.
Manufacturer: Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal.
Presentation: Bottle of 200 ml.

Side effects

Side effects: 
Because it contains neem it may lower blood sugar levels. Hence, diabetic patients should take this medicine only under strict medical supervision.
Seek medical advice for its use during pregnancy.
It can be used in children above 5 years and in lactating mother in lower doses.
It is best avoided in children below 5 years of age.
Keep out of reach and sight of children.
Store in a cool dry place.

During pregnancy, lactation

If you were using this oil before pregnancy without any allergic reaction, you can continue using this oil even during pregnancy.
If you have not used this product before and wish to use it during pregnancy, better to consult a doctor because it can cause skin allergy in some rare cases.
It is generally considered as safe to use during lactation, however consult your doctor for the right advice.

Can this product be applied after steam therapy?
No. Oil is best applied before steam therapy. This is as per basic Ayurvedic principles. 

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