Sharapunkha (Wild Indigo)
Sharapunkha
A bitter, heating herb classically prized for the spleen and liver (pleeha-yakrit) and pacifying kapha and vata. Used for hepatosplenomegaly, fevers, asthma and skin disorders.
reduces Vataincreases Pittareduces Kapha
Ayurvedic properties
- Rasa (taste): bitter, pungent, astringent
- Virya (energy): heating
- Vipaka (post-digestive): pungent
- Guna (qualities): light, dry
Traditionally used for
- enlarged spleen and liver
- fever
- asthma
- skin diseases
Contraindications & cautions
- pitta excess
- pregnancy
Possible interactions
- none well documented
Evidence notes
Traditional hepatosplenic herb; hepatoprotective activity reported in animal studies.
Regulatory notes
Whole plant used in classical liver formulations.
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.