Chirata : Health Benefits, Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

A very popular medicinal herb, Chirata is a bitter-tasting herb that grows in the regions of higher-altitudes. In fact, Chirata can be found growing in high-altitude regions of sub-temperate Himalayas. The advantages of Chirata are manifold. It can boost metabolism and burn calories. Chirata has high antioxidant activity that helps manage diabetes by enhancing insulin secretion and reducing oxidative stress. The bioactive components present in Chirata can help protect the kidney against damage. Ayurvedic studies suggest that the “Antipyretic” or “Jvarghana” property of Chirata is extremely beneficial. Consequently, taking chirata water twice a day can help combat fever.

If you have an acne problem, you should try applying a paste made of chirata on your skin. This paste, applied along with honey, can help reduce the affected area's redness and inflammation. A lot of people have incorporated Chirata in their daily lives because of its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Chirata is also very effective on wounds. The “healing” or “Ropan” property and the “Pitta Balancing” property of Chirata can be extremely helpful against wounds. If you have wounded or injured yourself, you can definitely try applying Chirata powder with coconut oil.  Diabetic patients taking anti-diabetic medicines are often asked to check their blood glucose levels while consuming Chirata. That is because Chirata reduces blood glucose levels.

Ranging from the Himalayas to Bhutan, Chirata can be found in regions of high altitude. For centuries, Chirata has served as a very important element of traditional medicines. Thanks to the huge health benefits that this herb has to offer, regular consumption of Chirata can provide you with protection against a wide array of health problems, injuries, and issues. You can avail of this herb's advantages in the form of tablets, paste, capsules, powder, and so on. There are a lot of Ayurvedic and scientific studies that point towards the amazing benefits of this herb. From diabetes to skin problems, the Chirata herb properties make it very useful against a huge range of ailments.

How did the word “Chirata” originate?

Chirata has been mentioned in ancient Vedic texts. The Charaka Samhita has mentioned about this plant and listed its medicinal benefits. The scientific name of Chirata is Swertia chirata. A lot also knows Chirata of different names such as Kirataka, Bhunimba, Kiratatiktaka, Kariyatu, Nalebevu, and Kaddi. While different names across different regions know it, this herb is used for similar reasons across all these different parts of the country. Chirata has a long history of being used in traditional medicines to derive better results.

Historical uses of Chirata

Swertia chirata has played a huge role in traditional Indian medicines for a long time. Chirata has also been mentioned in the Charaka Samhita from the Vedic time. Ayurvedic studies have listed several advantages of Chirata. This herb species have been used for a long time for healing injuries or wounds, boosting metabolism, and helping diabetic patients. In modern times, Chirata is used to treat a vast array of ailments such as piles, ulcers, diabetes, skin diseases, and so on.

Benefits of using Chirata in Ayurvedic treatments

Ayurvedic studies point towards the huge benefits of Chirata. The Ropan and Pitta balancing properties of Chirata can be very beneficial against wounds. Chirata also has Jvarghana property that can help combat fever. It is often recommended that diabetic patients incorporate Chirata into their regular diets as Chirata can boost insulin secretion.  As a result of its many benefits, Chirata has been made available in many shapes and forms. Nowadays, people can avail of this herb in the form of Chirata Powder, Chirata Tablets, Capsules, and so on. 

While Chirata is an extremely beneficial herb, you should speak with a doctor or a physician before consuming this herb. Therefore, it is recommended that people such as breastfeeding women, pregnant women, among others, always consult with their doctors or physicians before consuming this herb on a day-to-day basis.

Treating diseases/health problems using Chirata

Over the past decades, both scientific and Ayurvedic studies have acknowledged the many advantages of Chirata. As a result, this bitter-tasting herb has become increasingly popular as a medicinal herb. Read on to know about the different benefits of the Chirata herb.

• Malaria

• Constipation

• Worm infection

• Appetite stimulant

• Upset stomach

Forms of Chirata in Ayurveda with the recommended dosage

Chirata can be incorporated into our daily lives in the form of Chirata Powder, Chirata Capsule, and Tablet.

• Consumption of Chirata powder is recommended. The recommended dosage is 1-3gm of the same twice a day or whatever amount is recommended by the doctor.
• The recommended dosage of the Chirata tablet is one capsule a day or whatever is recommended by the doctor.
•  Taking 1 Chirata capsule twice a day can be very beneficial for your health. You can also consume the Chirata capsule in a dosage that is recommended by a physician.
• A paste made out of these herbs can be applied to the skin in order to get rid of acne and pimples.

Types of Ayurvedic care with Chirata

• Chirata Powder

Chirata can be consumed in the form of powder. Consuming this product daily can help you combat worm infections. Here’s how you can incorporate Chirata Powder into your daily diet.

Tips

1. Consume 1-6 gm of Chirata every day to get rid of worm infections. However, you can also change the amount of consumption as per your requirements.
2. Mix the required amount with lukewarm water and drink this concoction every day to keep your health problems at bay.

• Chirata  Decoction

Chirata is a bitter-tasting herb that can provide you with great relief against constipation. Here is what you can do to get rid of your digestive issues.

Tips

1. Fill a pan with a cup of water and some raw or dried Chirata and bring it to boil.
2. Reduce this concoction to 1/4^th of its original quantity. After the concoction is ready, filter it and consume 3-4 teaspoons of it twice a day.

• Chirata Tablet

A lot of doctors prescribe Chirata Tablet because of the many health benefits of this herb. Read on to know about how you can incorporate Chirata into your day-to-day lives in the form of Chirata tablets.

Tips

1. You can consume either one tablet or the amount that is prescribed by the doctor.
2. Consume this with a glass of water 1-2 times a day.

• Chirata Capsule

Chirata capsule is recommended by a lot of doctors or physicians for its blood purification ability. Here's how consuming chirata capsules daily can help you.

Tips

1. Consume 1 capsule a day or as recommended by a doctor.
2. Have this capsule with water 1-2 times a day as this capsule can do miracles for your health.

• Chirata leaves

Chirata leaves are well-equipped with a lot of healthy features. The antipyretic property, for example, can help your body combat high temperatures.

Tips

1. Make a paste out of a generous amount of Chirata leaves.
2. Consume these leaves with lukewarm water in order to prevent symptoms of fever.

• Chirata Paste for Acne and Pimples

Chirata can help with your acnes and pimples. The “kapha” and “pitta” properties of this herb can remove clogs and reduce inflammation.

Tips

1. Take some Chirata powder. This powder can be taken in a quantity of 1-6 gm or according to your own requirements.
2. Mix this powder along with honey or rose water to create a nice paste.
3. Apply this paste onto your face and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
4. Wash off the face thoroughly with water.
5. You can apply this paste on a regular basis. Thanks to this paste, you can easily get rid of acne and pimples, fine lines, wrinkles, and so on.

• Chirata Paste for Skin disease

Eczema is a skin disease that can result in rough skin, blisters, bleeding, itching, among other symptoms. The “Ropan” and “Sita” properties of Chirata can help you get rid of this disease.

Tips

1. Take 1-6 gm of Chirata Powder. You can customize the quantity according to your own requirements.
2. Mix the powder with coconut oil to create a paste.
3. Apply the paste onto your skin, and keep it on your face for 4-5 hours.
4. This paste can help you get rid of persistent skin problems.

Side effects of Chirata

• The bitter taste of Chirata may lead to nausea or vomiting. Chirata, therefore, should be consumed with the utmost care.  A lot of Ayurvedic studies have shown how the "Tikta" flavor of Chirata can result in a person feeling nauseous or dizzy.
• Scientific studies state that chirata may lead to a feeling of dizziness in people who are consuming this herb.
• Chirata can interfere with blood sugar levels. Consequently, it is often recommended that Chirata shouldn't be consumed around the time of important surgery.

Precautionary guide while taking Chirata?

• For people who will undergo surgery

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It is a well-known fact that Chirata can interfere with blood sugar levels. As a result of this property, it is often recommended that Chirata shouldn't be consumed around the time of surgery in order to prevent any complications.

• For breastfeeding individuals

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Due to the lack of scientific evidence, it is recommended that lactating individuals should consume Chirata only after consulting with a doctor.

• For diabetic patients

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Chirata can interfere with blood sugar levels. Hence, you should monitor your blood sugar levels if you are consuming Chirata along with anti-diabetic drugs.

• For heart patients

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Due to the lack of enough scientific evidence, patients who are prone to heart-related diseases must consult a doctor before consuming Chirata.

• For pregnant individuals

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You should definitely consult a doctor before consuming Chirata during your pregnancy. Consultation is recommended due to the lack of scientific evidence.

FAQs about Chirata

• How should Chirata Powder be stored?

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Chirata is a medicinal herb that is native to the high-altitude regions of the sub-temperate Himalayas. It is important to store Chirata in clean, dry, and sterile spaces in order to avail maximum benefits.

• Can Chirata Powder be consumed on a daily basis?

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Chirata has a lot of health benefits and can help you overcome a lot of ailments. Therefore, it is recommended that Chirata powder be consumed with lukewarm water on a daily basis to get rid of certain health problems. You should consult your doctor or physician before starting this routine.

• Can Chirata help against Diabetes?

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Chirata can be found in various forms, such as Powder, capsules, tablets, and Kwath. This powder, consumed in a quantity of 1-3g daily twice a day, can help you control your diabetes. Consultation with a doctor is recommended.

• Can chirata help against Diabetes?

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Chirata has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties are very effective against diabetes. Consuming Chirata on a regular basis can help prevent damage to your pancreatic cells. Chirata can also boost insulin secretion, which can work wonders against high blood sugar levels.

• Is Chirata good for your liver?

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The antioxidant property of Chirata can help your liver in a lot of different ways. Liver cells can suffer damage as a result of free radicals. Antioxidants, however, can prevent cell damage by eliminating these radicals from your body.Thanks to its anti-inflammatory property, Chirata can also help reduce liver inflammation.

• Can Chirata help against symptoms of fever?

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The antipyretic property of Chirata can help you battle symptoms of fever. This property can help reduce increased body temperature and help you in regaining your normal strength.

• Can Chirata aid in weight loss?

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Chirata possesses Methanol, which boosts metabolism and helps our body in getting rid of excess weight.

• Is Chirata beneficial for anemic patients?

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Chirata boosts the production of blood in our bodies. According to science experts, this property of Chirata can help manage anemia.

• Can Chirata prevent gastrointestinal disorders?

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The anti-inflammatory property of Chirata might be beneficial against gastrointestinal disorders. The lowered acid-production can provide you great relief and help get rid of recurring bouts of acidity.

• Can a patient with ulcers consume Chirata?

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According to scientific studies, Chirata can worsen gastric or duodenal ulcers. You should, therefore, consult a doctor or a physician before consuming this herb.

• Can Chirata result in vomiting?

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Chirata is a bitter-tasting herb, and its taste can induce nausea or vomiting in a lot of people.

• Can Chirata lead to Hypoglycemia?

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A lot of scientific studies have shown that Chirata can interfere with blood sugar levels. Chirata consumption, therefore, can lead to hypoglycemia or lowered blood sugar levels. If you are consuming Chirata along with your anti-diabetic drugs, you should keep a sharp eye on your blood sugar level as well.

• What are the benefits of Chirata leaves?

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The antipyretic property of chirata leaves is extremely beneficial against symptoms of fever. Besides managing fever in our bodies, Chirata leaves can also manage headaches and blood pressure.

Tips:

1. Take a generous amount of Chirata leaves and soak these leaves in water overnight.
2. Use some water to prepare a paste from these leaves.
3. Use this paste daily in order to avail of the benefits of Chirata leaves.

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In Ayurveda, "intermittent fever" is referred to as "Vishamajwara." When consumed with water, Chirata paste can help manage the symptoms of fever. Chirata possesses "antipyretic" or "jvaraghna" property and antimalarial property.

• How can Chirata help prevent skin diseases?

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Paste made out of Chirata can be extremely beneficial for your skin. Eczema is a disease that can harm your skin in a lot of different ways. The anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of Chirata can help your skin fight against Eczema and other skin-related issues. Chirata can also end to inflammation, pain, redness, and other problems associated with acne and pimples.

• Is Chirata beneficial for Contagiosa?

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A very infectious disease, Contagiosa, can result in redness and inflammation. The anti-inflammatory property of Chirata can help combat the symptoms of this disease.

• How can Chirata heal wounds?

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Chirata is well-equipped with antioxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory properties. If applied to the region of injury, constituents in Chirata can help in contraction and closure of wounds. Chirata also helps in the regeneration of new skin cells.

• How can Chirata protect you from microbial infections?

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The anti-microbial property of Chirata inhibits the growth of bacteria. As a result of this property, you can prevent a lot of intestinal and respiratory infections.