Arabic Name : Qamha, Qasab Farsee
Bengali Name : Chirata, Mahatita
English Name : Chiretta, Indian Balmony, Bitter Stick
French Name : Swertie de l’Inde
German Name : Chirettakraut, Kirayakraut
Gujarati Name : Kariyatu, Charyatah, Chirayita
Hindi Name : Kiryat Charayata
Kannada Name : Nalebevu, Chirata Kaddi, Chirayat
Latin name : Swertia chirata Buch.
Marathi Name : Kiraita, Kaduchiraita
Persian Name : Chiraita Talkh
Punjabi Name : Chiretta, Chiraita
Sanskrit Name : Bhunimba, Kirata, Kiratak
Urdu Name : Chiraita Talkh
Description : It is particularly useful as a mild febrifuge or tonic. It is prescribed in a variety of forms and combinations in chronic fevers and anaemia. It is also credited with alterative, anthelmintic, antibacterial, antidiarrhoeal, antiemetic, antifungal, antiinflammatory, antiperiodic, antispasmodic, appetiser, astringent, bitter, blood purifier, carminative, demulscent, diuretic, emmenagogue, hepatic, hepatoprotective, immunostimulant, laxative and stomachic properties. Unlike most other bitters, it does not constipate the bowels.
It also exhibits hypoglycemic activity. Research has shown Chiretta to protect the liver and promote secretion of bile. It also contains xanthones, which are reputedly effective against malaria and tuberculosis, and also amarogentin, a glycoside that may protect the liver against carbon tetrachloride poisoning. Also useful in vitiligo, skin diseases, scabies and fever. It also protects against bronchitis and asthma. It restores tone after illness. Also indicated for gastrointestinal disturbances after prolonged illness and for improving immunity in the body to fight diseases.
It is now considered as the potential subject to cure Diabetes. In the Annual Professional Conference of Diabetes UK, held in Glasglow in March 2009, researchers announced this finding. They are of the opinion that the bark of this plant will be helpful in the cure. Its extracts are found to stimulate insulin production and improve its action on glucose control.
Recommended Dosage : 3 to 5 g powder of whole plant.
Contraindication : This herb has no known warnings or contraindications.
