Slimy (shlakshna)

Slimy (shlakshna), one of the 20 Ayurvedic gunas, refers to the smooth or slippery quality of a substance. It promotes wound healing, stability, and cohesion of tissues, increases kapha, and pacifies vata.

Found in foods like ghee and avocado, it facilitates smooth bodily functions, softens hard tissues, aids digestion, and eases excretion. Herbal examples include bala (Sida cordifolia) and psyllium (Plantago ovata).

It contrasts with the rough (khara) guna and is essential in repairing fractures, enhancing life force, and maintaining internal and external smoothness for overall health. It creates a coating in tissues and channels, increasing stickiness, holding things together with soothing and healing qualities.