Bala is an ancient and popular Ayurvedic medicinal plant ,widely used in Ayurvedic formulations to improve strength of muscles, bones , joints and relieving joint pains and swelling. Bala means strength. Botanical name is Sida cordifolia and belongs to Malvaceae family. It is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of India and Sri Lanka. It is commonly known as country mallow. Bala is an erect, hairy shrub and it’s root, bark , leaves , flowers ,seeds are used in various formulations in the form of kashaya ,arishta ,choorna , vatika, taila etc. Few examples are Balajeerarakadi kashaya, Balarista, Bala taila , ksheera bala taila .

According to Ayurveda Bala has

• Rasa (taste) : madhura( sweet)
• Guna(propertie) : guru ,snigdha, pichila
• Virya (potency) : Sheeta
• Vipaka( taste after digestion): madhura

Bala balances all the tridoshas especially vata dosha.

Properties and uses :

Bala can be used as analgesic,  anti inflammatory,  hypotensive and hypoglycaemic agent. It is best rasayana (rejuvenative) for various vata disorders. It also has shukrala properties. It is a blood purifier and is effective in treatment of arthritis, rheumatism and piles.

 It’s anti inflammatory property reduces inflammation of joints, wounds, eyes . Oils prepared out of Bala is very effective in treatment of joint stiffness, arthritic pains ,facial palsy , spondylitis, paralysis etc

Bala absorbs water and nutrients and controls motility of large intestine. It is used in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.

It is used as cardiac tonic and relieves bleeding disorders, gout .It is a natural aphrodisiac and gives nourishment and promote fetal growth. Bala is used to treat male and female infertility, erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculations. It is a good uterine tonic.

It relieves emaciation, general debility and weakness. It improves immunity and skin texture.

Bala has diuretic properties and is used in treatment of cystitis. It fastens the healing of wounds and ulcers . It is effectively used for the treatment of bronchitis, asthma , sinus infections ,fever etc.