यो व्यापारिक दृष्टिकोणले खेती गर्नुपर्ने, सारा दुनियाँलाई चाहिने, आवश्यक वस्त्र उत्पादनको धागो उद्योग र छुटपुट उपचारमा उपयोगी बिरुवा कपास हो । यसको बीज-विनौला दूध बढाउने र कामोद्दीपक मानिन्छ । यसको खीर पकाएर खाँदा धातु दौर्बल्य र मस्तिष्क कमजोरीमा बहुत लाभ पुऱ्याउँछ । यसको पत्ता रक्तवृद्धि गर्ने र मूत्र निस्सारक र वातदोषनाशक हो । कपास जड सर्दीको कारणबाट बन्द भएको कष्टार्तव मासिक धर्म खोल्न र धातु पुष्टिका लागि अति उपयोगी मानिन्छ । २५ ग्राम ताजा जरा थिचेर १ लिटर पानीमा दिनको ५ पटक खानुपर्छ
Cotton (Gossypium herbaceum) is a globally significant
plant, cultivated primarily for its fiber, which is used in the textile
industry. Originating in tropical and subtropical regions, cotton has been a
cornerstone of agriculture and trade for centuries. In Nepal, cotton is known
as Kapas or सूत्रपुष्प,
and it holds economic and cultural importance. Besides its industrial uses,
cotton also features prominently in traditional medicine.
Introduction
Cotton is a perennial shrub or small tree belonging to the
Malvaceae family. Known for producing soft, fluffy fiber surrounding its seeds,
it has been a staple for fabric production. In addition to textiles, cotton
seeds and various plant parts are utilized in traditional remedies for a range
of ailments. The cultivation of cotton is not only vital for the clothing
industry but also supports livelihoods and rural economies in cotton-growing
regions.
Characteristics
- Botanical
Features:
- Cotton
plants grow to about 1–2 meters tall, with lobed leaves and yellow or
creamy flowers that have a purple center.
- The
fruit, called a boll, contains seeds enveloped in white fibers.
- Growth
Conditions:
- Cotton
thrives in warm climates with well-drained, fertile soil and adequate
sunlight.
- Parts
Used: Seeds, leaves, roots, and flowers are utilized for both
industrial and medicinal purposes.
Uses and Benefits
Industrial Uses:
- Textile
Production: Cotton is the primary raw material for creating fabric and
clothing, making it indispensable in the global textile industry.
- Seed
Oil: Cotton seeds are used to extract oil, which is suitable for
cooking and as an ingredient in industrial products.
Medicinal Benefits:
- Milk
Production: Cotton seeds are believed to promote lactation in nursing
mothers.
- Aphrodisiac
Properties: In traditional medicine, cotton seeds are considered to
have aphrodisiac effects.
- Blood
Building: The leaves are used as a natural remedy to improve
hemoglobin levels and address anemia.
- Diuretic
and Anti-inflammatory: Cotton leaves help in detoxifying the urinary
system and reducing inflammation caused by imbalances in bodily humors
(Vata dosha).
- Menstrual
Regulation: Cotton roots are known to alleviate menstrual disorders
such as dysmenorrhea and promote regular cycles.
- Postpartum
Care: Cotton is used to manage uterine bleeding and promote uterine
health after childbirth.
Advantages
- Multifunctional:
Cotton serves both industrial and medicinal purposes, making it a highly
versatile plant.
- Economically
Significant: The cultivation of cotton boosts rural economies and
provides employment in farming and textile industries.
- Sustainable
Source of Fiber: Cotton is biodegradable and renewable, making it
eco-friendly compared to synthetic fibers.
- Accessible
Remedy: Cotton-based treatments, such as using its roots and flowers,
are affordable and easily available in rural areas.
How to Use
- For
Menstrual Disorders:
- Crush
25 grams of fresh cotton root and boil it in 1 liter of water. Drink this
preparation 5 times a day to alleviate symptoms of irregular or painful
menstruation.
- To
Stop Uterine Bleeding:
- Place
soft cotton pads in the vaginal area to absorb bleeding. Supplement with
3 grams of Shilajit or, if unavailable, a mixture of alum and
cotton flower extract for faster recovery.
- For
Weakness and Vitality:
- Cook
cotton seeds in milk to prepare a kheer (pudding). This remedy
strengthens the nervous system and enhances vitality.
- As
a Diuretic:
- Use
cotton leaves to make a decoction to cleanse the urinary system.
Conclusion
Cotton (Gossypium herbaceum) is an invaluable plant
that combines industrial utility with significant medicinal benefits. From
producing textiles to serving as a remedy for various health issues, cotton is
a resourceful and sustainable crop. In the context of Nepal, promoting cotton
cultivation could boost economic development and provide affordable, natural
treatments for common health conditions. By integrating traditional knowledge
with scientific research, cotton can be leveraged for holistic benefits, enhancing
both health and industry.
