7 Top Benefits Of Pathimugam Water (Sappan Wood)

Pathimugam water is a popular drink in Kerala. When visiting friends in Kerala, you’re often served this special pink water, made from the heartwood of the pathimugam tree. It’s not just pretty but also packed with health benefits, from treating ulcers and protecting skin to lowering blood sugar levels!

What is Pathimugam (Sappanwood)?

This flowering tree, known scientifically as Caesalpinia Sappan, belongs to the legume family Fabaceae and is native to Southeast Asia. Found throughout the region, its dried hardwood has been traditionally used to color food and drinks and as a home remedy for various ailments. The main active compound, Brazilin, gives the heartwood its natural red pigment. It’s called Sappan Wood in English, Chappangam in Malayalam, Patunga in Hindi, Sappanga in Kannada, Pathang in Marathi, and Pathimugam in Tamil.

Pathimugam Medicinal uses:

1. Antimicrobial Properties

Brazilin, the active compound in pathimugam, has strong antimicrobial properties and is effective against three types of bacteria that cause tooth decay, especially Streptococcus mutans, the most harmful one. Using pathimugam extract as a mouth rinse can significantly help prevent tooth decay. To make the rinse, simply boil pathimugam in water, strain it, and use it regularly to prevent dental problems.

2. Powerful Antioxidant

The heartwood extract of pathimugam is a powerful antioxidant and regular consumption can significantly reduce oxidative stress. It also helps combat skin aging caused by oxidative stress. Protosappanin A, a key compound in the extract, inhibits oxidative and nitrative stress, which are major factors in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Additionally, Saponin A in the extract protects the brain and helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

3. For Metabolic Diseases:

Pathimugam is effective in managing diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. Research has shown that pathimugam extract can significantly reduce high blood sugar levels. In a study, 30 menopausal women drank pathimugam water, and their blood sugar levels dropped noticeably. Additionally, its vasorelaxant properties help lower blood pressure.

3. Antiulcer Properties

Pathimugam water is known for its gastroprotective properties and has been traditionally used to treat ulcers. In a study, rats given pathimugam water extract at doses of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg showed significant antiulcer effects. If you have irritable bowel syndrome or ulcers, consider adding pathimugam water to your diet regularly.

4. Antiplatelet Properties

Brazilin, the main component of pathimugam, has been shown to have antiplatelet activity. It works by inhibiting phospholipase A2 and increasing intracellular free Ca2+ concentration. Among its derivatives, BRX-018 is the most effective antiplatelet agent.

5. Anticancer Properties

Pathimugam is effective against various cancer cell lines, including colorectal cancer. The component 3-DSC in pathimugam suppresses colon cancer cell growth and is also effective against human esophageal cancer cells. Brazilin induces cancer cell death and is effective against Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a nervous system cancer, as well as cervical, lung, breast, and liver cancers.

6. Skin Care:

Studies show that brazilin protects the skin from UV rays and prevents UV-induced aging. You can use pathimugam extract in face packs and serums to protect against UV damage. I have shared a few of my favorite recipes below. Its antibacterial properties also help treat acne.

7. Anti-inflammatory Properties

Several compounds in Pathimugam, including brazilin and saponin, have anti-inflammatory properties. It is excellent for treating wounds, quickly reducing inflammation and pain when used as a wound wash. Drinking Pathimugam water regularly can benefit those with arthritis and inflammation, and it also helps with allergic airway inflammation, such as asthma. Additionally, it treats neuroinflammation, which is a major cause of brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

3 Ways To Make Pathimugam Water:

a. Traditional Method:

1. Boil 5 liters of water in a pot.
2. Add a teaspoon of pathimugam.
3. Boil for 6 to 7 minutes, until the water turns pink.
4. Strain and enjoy a cup daily.

b. With Add-On Spices:

1. Pound 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds, a small piece of dry ginger, and one cardamom pod using a mortar and pestle. These ingredients aid digestion.
2. Boil 2.5 liters of water.
3. Add the pounded spices and 1/2 teaspoon of pathimugam heartwood.
4. Boil until the water changes color, then strain.

c. Refreshing Drink:

1. Boil pathimugam in water as described in the traditional method and strain.
2. In a cup, add a few mint leaves, honey, and a pinch of salt.
3. Top with the prepared pathimugam water. This refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days.

Pathimugam Water Side Effects:

Based on my personal experience, I haven’t seen anyone face side effects from drinking pathimugam water. However, a study did find that Brazilin found in pathimugam caused reproductive toxicity in mice. Therefore, it’s best for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers to avoid pathimugam water. Additionally, pathimugam water may interact with medications for hypertension and diabetes. If you’re on these medications, please consult your doctor before consuming pathimugam water on a regular basis.

Where To Buy Pathimugam?

Pathimugam is widely available in most departmental stores across India and can also be easily ordered online at a very affordable price. When purchasing pathimugam, make sure to buy it without any added ingredients. Although the shelf life mentioned on the packets is about a year, in my experience, it lasts much longer.

3 Top Ways To Use Pathimugam Water For Skin & Hair Care

a. Pathimugam Face Pack

1. Mix equal quantities of besan and multani mitti in a bowl.
2. Add pathimugam water and mix to form a smooth paste.
3. Apply as a face pack, wait for it to dry completely, and then wash it off.

This face pack is very effective for treating and preventing acne.

b. Pathimugam Face Scrub

1. Take equal quantities of ground oat flour and rice flour in a bowl.
2. Add a tablespoon of papaya pulp and pathimugam water.
3. Mix into a spreadable paste and use it as a face scrub once a week.

This scrub gently exfoliates the skin and helps prevent blackheads and whiteheads.

c. Pathimugam Hair Rinse

1. Mix equal quantities of pathimugam water and green tea.
2. Use this mixture as a hair rinse.
3. After rinsing, rinse again with water but avoid using shampoo.

This natural rinse will give your hair a nice shine.