Indravaruni — Colocynth

Ayurvedic herb Indravaruni (Citrullus colocynthis) — Colocynth. Pharmacological properties: Rasa Tikta, Virya Ushna, Vipaka Katu. Balances Pitta, Kapha.

This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional.

Citrullus colocynthis is a very strong purgative, used for severe constipation, ascites, and joint pain.

ⓘ Information
PropertyValueDescription
RasaTiktaTikta (Bitter) — detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic
GunaLaghu, TikshnaLaghu (Light) — easy to digest, promotes lightness; Tikshna (Sharp) — penetrating, stimulating
ViryaUshnaUshna (Hot) — heating, increases metabolism and Pitta
VipakaKatuKatu (Pungent) — post-digestive pungent, lightening
PrabhavaVirechana, KrimighnaVirechana — purgative, therapeutic cleansing; Krimighna — anti-parasitic, destroys worms

Sanskrit Synonyms

In the classical Ayurvedic texts, Indravaruni is known by the following Sanskrit names:

Gavakshi, Chitra, Mahendravaruni, Vishala

Parts Used

The medicinal parts of Indravaruni are: moola, phala.

Main Indications

Indravaruni is indicated in Ayurveda for the following conditions:

Kamala, Pliharoga, Udararoga, Krimi, Malabaddhata.

Dosha Effects

Indravaruni pacifies Pitta, Kapha.

It may aggravate Vata when used in excess or in sensitive individuals.

Usage

Indravaruni is used in classical Ayurvedic formulations. Consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for appropriate dosage and preparation based on your constitution (Prakriti) and current imbalance (Vikriti).

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API)

Source: Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India — Government of India, Ministry of AYUSH

Rasa (Taste)Tikta, Kauu
Guna (Quality)Laghu, Sara
Virya (Potency)Uṣḍa
Vipaka (Post-digestive effect)Kauu
Karma (Action)Pittahara, Kaphahara, Recana
Dose1-3 g of the drug in powder form.
Therapeutic Uses: K¡mal¡, Plih¡roga, śv¡sa, K¡sa, Kuṣuha, Gulma, Krmiroga,
Important Formulations: Abhay¡riṣua, Rodhr¡sava, Mrtasaṃjivani Sur¡,
Botanical Name: Citrullus colocynthis Schrad. (Cucurbitaceae)
Part Used: Rt.