Banslochan, also known as Tabasheer, is a siliceous extract obtained from the inner chambers of mature bamboo stems. While this precious natural compound has long been acknowledged in Ayurveda, it also holds a significant position in the two other major Indian traditional healing systems—Siddha and Unani medicine.
Both Siddha and Unani systems have preserved a wealth of herbal and mineral remedies, many of which draw upon natural, cooling, and strengthening ingredients. In both these systems, Banslochan is valued for its cooling potency, rejuvenating nature, and effectiveness in treating respiratory, reproductive, and neurological conditions.
In this article from Dirghaanshi, we will explore the role of Banslochan in Siddha and Unani medicine traditions, examining its traditional uses, therapeutic significance, formulations, and contributions to holistic well-being.
Long Description
Understanding Banslochan (Tabasheer)
Banslochan is collected from inside bamboo species such as Bambusa arundinacea. It appears as a translucent, crystalline powder and contains:
Silica
Calcium carbonate
Magnesium
Potassium and trace minerals
It is known for its:
Sheeta Virya (cooling potency)
Rasayana guna (rejuvenative properties)
Balya karma (strength-giving action)
Sattvic quality (pure and calming nature)
These qualities make it extremely valuable in both Siddha and Unani systems of medicine.
Banslochan in Siddha Medicine
The Siddha system, one of the oldest healing traditions rooted in Tamil culture, places strong emphasis on balancing the three humors (Vatha, Pitha, and Kapha) and preserving the body’s vital energy.
- Cooling and Pitta Balancing
Banslochan is traditionally used in Siddha formulations to:
Alleviate excessive Pitha (heat) in the body
Cool the nerves and blood system
Treat ulcers, inflammation, and burning sensations
Its cooling properties make it ideal for individuals with excessive internal heat or those suffering from chronic skin diseases.
- Strengthening and Rejuvenation
In Siddha texts, Banslochan is considered “Ooral Marunthu”—a substance that fortifies internal strength. It is often used:
In tonics for elderly individuals
In herbal laddus and decoctions for post-illness recovery
With herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Ashtavargam
It helps restore mental clarity, reproductive health, and muscle tone.
- Respiratory and Neurological Applications
Banslochan is used in Siddha medicines for:
Asthma and bronchitis
Irritating cough and hoarseness
Tremors and nervous debility
It is often combined with herbs like adathoda, vasambu, and dry ginger in classical preparations.
Banslochan in Unani Medicine
The Unani system, influenced by Greco-Arabic medicine, operates on the principles of humoral balance—blood (dam), phlegm (balgham), yellow bile (safra), and black bile (sauda). Banslochan, known as Tabasheer in Unani texts, is a mufarreh (exhilarant) and muqawwi (strengthener) with wide-ranging applications.
- As a Muqawwi (Tonic)
Tabasheer is included in Unani tonics to:
Strengthen vital organs like the heart and brain
Support muscle growth and reproductive strength
Combat debility, fatigue, and sexual weakness
It is used in popular majuns (herbal jams) and sharbats (syrups).
- For Fevers and Inflammation
Unani physicians recommend Tabasheer for:
High-grade fevers (humma haar)
Burning sensations and urinary heat
Jaundice, gastritis, and body heat excess
It is valued for its ability to balance Safra (yellow bile) and restore coolness to the system.
- For Respiratory and Nervous System Disorders
Banslochan is considered beneficial for:
Persistent cough and lung irritation
Epileptic tendencies
Mental unrest and anxiety
It is commonly found in compound Unani formulations alongside saffron, sandalwood, and rose extracts.
Traditional Formulations Featuring Banslochan
System Traditional Preparation Use Case
Siddha Thathu Paagai Choornam Vitality and tissue nourishment
Siddha Banslochan Laddu (with dry fruits) Postpartum and elderly recovery
Unani Sharbat-e-Tabasheer Cooling syrup for fevers and liver health
Unani Majun-e-Falazal Reproductive and muscular strength
Unani Khamira Gawzaban Ambari Heart tonic, mental clarity
Banslochan’s Energetic and Subtle Role
In both Siddha and Unani perspectives, healing is not limited to just physical symptoms. Banslochan is also believed to:
Balance the nervous system
Bring peace to emotional disturbances
Promote calmness and clarity in thoughts
Support spiritual grounding and inner stability
Thus, its value lies not just in minerals and chemistry, but also in energetic impact on body-mind balance.
Folk and Spiritual Significance
Beyond clinical applications, Banslochan is also:
Used in ritual cleansing of spaces and objects
Mixed with sandalwood paste in spiritual tilaks
Offered during Unani and Siddha healing rituals to invoke balance
In both systems, its presence is symbolic of harmony, inner cooling, and sattvic purity.
Modern Applications and Home Use
Today, many people use Banslochan in simplified forms for daily wellness:
Cooling summer drinks with rose water and Tabasheer
Stress-relief milk tonics at night
Postpartum laddus made at home for recovery
Detox teas with Banslochan, tulsi, and ginger
These modern uses reflect the same wisdom of Siddha and Unani practices, adjusted for contemporary wellness routines.
Precautions
While Banslochan is generally safe, it should be used mindfully:
Avoid overdose: Use only ½ to 1 tsp per day
Ensure it is pure, unbleached, and naturally sourced
Do not use in severe respiratory congestion without guidance
Consult traditional healers for specific illnesses or combinations
Conclusion
Banslochan, as revered in Siddha and Unani medicine traditions, continues to be a cornerstone of traditional healing systems that view health holistically. Whether it’s cooling internal heat, strengthening nerves, enhancing reproductive wellness, or calming the mind, this natural crystal offers versatile and profound benefits.
At Dirghaanshi, we honor such ancient medicinal treasures and promote their integration into modern wellness lifestyles. By understanding Banslochan through the lens of both Siddha and Unani medicine, we bridge the gap between tradition and relevance—restoring age-old remedies to today’s world.
