Apamarga (Prickly Chaff Flower)
Apamarga
A sharp, penetrating kapha-vata herb famed for shirovirechana (nasal cleansing) and as a kshara source. Used for piles, respiratory congestion, worms and difficult skin lesions.
reduces Vataincreases Pittareduces Kapha
Ayurvedic properties
- Rasa (taste): pungent, bitter
- Virya (energy): heating
- Vipaka (post-digestive): pungent
- Guna (qualities): light, dry, sharp
Traditionally used for
- nasal and sinus congestion
- piles
- worm infestation
- chronic skin lesions
Contraindications & cautions
- pregnancy
- pitta ulceration
- bleeding disorders
Possible interactions
- may potentiate emmenagogue effects
Evidence notes
Classical shirovirechana and kshara drug; modern evidence limited to preliminary diuretic and spermicidal animal studies.
Regulatory notes
Used in classical formulations; seeds and ash are pharmacopoeial.
Classical sources
- Bhavaprakasha — Nighantu — Guduchyadi varga
Educational information about Ayurveda — not a medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult a qualified professional before starting any herb, supplement, or therapy.