Chiretta

Swertia chirata

Traditionally attributed effects: bitter tonic, stomachic, expels worms, laxative, cleansing, antidiarrhoeal, antipyretic; for intermittent fever, skin diseases, intestinal worms, asthma, hiccups and vomiting, gout; scorpion stings.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Root powder 0.5–2 g; tea with clove and cinnamon 14–28 ml; tincture; root decoction with honey.

Use in traditions

Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Kirata tikta. Chirayta is one of the bitterest Ayurvedic herbs and is used for fever and loss of appetite. In Tibetan medicine (tig ta) it is a main remedy for liver complaints and fever. The plant grows in the Himalaya and is often adulterated.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Ayurvedic materia medica

Attributed effects

Bitter tonic, stomachic, expels worms, laxative, cleansing, antidiarrhoeal, antipyretic; for intermittent fever, skin diseases, intestinal worms, asthma, hiccups and vomiting, gout; scorpion stings.

Preparation and amount

Root powder 0.5–2 g; tea with clove and cinnamon 14–28 ml; tincture; root decoction with honey.

Ways to prepare herbs: Tea (infusion)Decoction Tincture Syrup, honey and oxymel Powder and kitchen

Sources

All herbs from Asia →