Psoralea corylifolia is also known by its common name, babachi, and its Hindi names, bawchi or bemchi. Although it is classified in some areas as a weed, it is primarily used as a medicinal herb in other areas, such as India. Generally, it is used to treat leucoderma, a fungal disease that causes patches of white pigmentation to appear on the skin. It is also recommended for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular issues, and a wide range of other problems affecting the skin.
The plant grows well in areas of Asia, such as India and China. It is rather vine-like and can reach heights of about 3 feet (.91 m). Psoralea corylifolia is characterized by a black fruit, a single seed, and a blue or purple colored flower.
Generally, all parts of Psoralea corylifolia are used for various purposes in homeopathic medicine. For example, the root is recommended to treat and prevent tooth decay. The leaves are often used to treat diarrhea. The fruit of Psoralea corylifolia is a diuretic, and it is often recommended to help stop vomiting. It is also used to treat bronchitis.
One of the most potent parts of the Psoralea corylifolia is the seeds. The seeds are used as a laxative and are often recommended for people with cardiovascular issues as well. In addition, the seeds are thought to be an aphrodisiac and a stimulant. The oil from the seeds is believed to cure skin diseases and improve a person’s complexion.
For centuries, Psoralea corylifolia has been recommended by holistic medicine practitioners to treat leprosy. Typically, a powder is created from the seed and formed into capsules to be consumed orally. In addition, the powder can be made into an ointment or a paste and applied to the affected skin area topically. Beyond treating leprosy, it has also been reported to remove the white pigmentation found on the skin of people affected with leucoderma.
A small percentage of people may be allergic to the oils found in Psoralea corylifolia. If an allergic reaction were to occur, the skin may blister and become overly sensitive to sunlight. In overdose situations, there have been reports of jaundice and inflammation of the liver. As with any remedy, it is best to consult an experienced practitioner prior to using it. In addition, dosage instructions should be followed and any side effects should be reported immediately.