Chirata (Swertia Chirayita): Uses, Origins, & Health Benefits

Chirata: Heard of the phrase, bitter the taste, better the effect! Chirata is one such plant, originating from the Himalayan region, which is bitter but full of medicinal value. Scientifically, it is called Swertia Chirayita. The plant has built-in chemicals that might fight back against several bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Chirata is a Sanskrit term that means too much bitterness.

What is Chirata?

Growing up in an Indian household, Chirata cannot remain an unknown name. Several Indian households still practice soaking dry leaves and stems and having the sieved water on an empty stomach in the morning. Many children can narrate how they enjoyed Mishri and other sweeteners after having the bitter Chirata water. It is believed to work wonders to eliminate worms inside the stomach for ages. People also take it for overall wellbeing, which is believed to have detoxifying properties.

Where is Chirata Grown?

This medicinal Chirata plant is believed to originate in high-altitude areas of the Himalayan region. Basically, you can find their roots in Bhutan to Himalayas. Every part of the Chirata leaves is known to have several health benefits.

What are the Different Names of Chirata?

Chirata is known by several names. Scientifically, it is called Swerita Chirata. Chirata in Hindi is called Chirayata. Chirata in English is called bitter swellnesstick. The Chirata tree has several other names: Kirataka, Nelaveppu, Chirayat, Chirata Kaddi, Chiraita, Chirta, Kirata, Bhunimba, Kariyatu, Chireta, Kiratatiktaka, Kiraita, Nelavemu, Kariyatu, Chireita, Nilavembu, Kaiyatu, Nilamakanjiram, Chiretta, Nalebevu, Kirayathu, Kaduchiraita, Kariyatun, and Kaduchiraita.

History of Chirata

Chirata has its roots in the Unani, Siddha and Ayurveda systems of medicine. You can read its mention in Charaka Samhita as a bitter tonic and its other medicinal properties. It also has its presence in Sudarshana Churna. Chirata leaf also has several benefits and might help to control some diseases.

Chirata- How to use?

The process of using Chirata is very simple. For ages, several households have used the soaked dry leaves and stems in water and had that water in the morning. Powder of Chirata is used in several Ayurvedic medicines, and needs to be taken as per the instructions. Some Ayurvedic kadha also has it as an ingredient.

Health Benefits of Chirata

Chirata uses are endless and known to benefit from several health issues.

1. Might Help With Upset Stomach

Besides other Swertia benefits, assisting the upset stomach is one benefit that might be of great use. It has antitoxin properties that might work wonders for your stomach upset.

2. It Might Help To Get Clear Skin

Chirata might help to deal with skin problems, especially acne. You need to take the paste of Chirata powder. Mix some honey with it and apply it to the area where you have acne or redness. With its antibacterial property, it can help you to get rid of inflammation completely.

3. Might Help With Wound Healing

If you mix it with coconut oil, it gets full of Pitta and Ropan balancing properties and might help heal the wound easily.

4. Might Help With Weight Management

Chiraita might help to accelerate metabolism by burning calories. It helps to achieve a healthy weight management if backed by a healthy lifestyle.

5. Might Help With Overall Health

It might help control oxidative stress due to its antioxidant properties. Some people believe that it helps to make your inner self strong. Taking it twice might help you to get rid of any fever due to the special Jvarghana property it holds. This wellness products is designed to bring a better quality of life for you.

Never take anything without consulting your doctor, as the body responds differently to different herbs. Check with him first and then start it.

Precautions While Taking Chirata

Though it has no side effects, you should remember certain things before taking it.

1. Never Take Chirata In High Quantity: You should consume a small part of Chirata at a time. Taking too much might attract certain complications.

2. Pregnant and Breastfeeding Females: Pregnancy and breastfeeding are very sensitive moments, and one should not add anything new to their diet without consulting a doctor.

3. People Who Had Undergone Surgery, On Medication or Suffer From Chronic Diseases: Sometimes, consuming something without asking your doctor if you have undergone surgery, taking regular medicines or have a chronic disease may be inviting trouble. Avoiding it is always a better option.

Chirata: The Bitter Tonic But Sweetest Benefits

Health always has the upper hand, and there are several magical Ayurvedic herbs that can help with it regularly. Chirata is a magical medicine that can take care of your overall wellbeing. Remember to take the guidance of your health specialist before starting with it. Nothing should stop you from being healthy, and Chirata can be your right shortcut to get there. Be sure about the dose you take, and a healthy self will surely be awaited!