CHITRAK

Introduction:

It is a wild plant growing throughout India. Plant goes three to four feet in height. There are two varieties, one with white flowers and other with red lowers. Leaves having some mass are found asymmetrical on the branch, used to prepare vegetables in rural parts. There are hairs and sticky glands on the stem. Fruits contain a single brownish seed. Due to its fire property, when leaves, branches or roots are touched, we get burning sensation and get blisters. Root and Bark is used in Ayurveda, orally as well as externally. Parts of plant are required to be purified before being used as herb.

Uses:

1. Purified root powder is best and powerful digestive/ carminative herb, used to treat indigestion, improves appetite.

2. Root paste is applied on dry piles to control inflammation. A pinch of chitrak powder in buttermilk taken internally controls hemorrhoids.

3. Regular use of root paste for few days is useful in treating leukoderma, and other skin diseases like dermatitis, scabies, eczema etc.

4. Purified Root powder is given as rasayana or anti-aging herb. Boosts immunity.

5. Powder added with jiggery is given to treat insomnia.

6. Over dose of this herb should be avoided. To be taken strictly under supervision of qualified Vaidya. Not to be taken during pregnancy.

Caution: Roots contain a poisonous substance hence purified root only is used as herb. For purification, root is immersed in lime water few hours and repeated the process for 3-4 times.

-Not to be used during pregnancy and menstrual cycles.

-No over dose to be taken.

-To be taken with consultation of Vaidya.