Mushroom
छत्रक
Chhatrak is the monsoon mushroom: sweet, cooling, heavy, unctuous. Born of damp earth, it nourishes depleted tissue but dulls Agni and aggravates Kapha if eaten daily.
What is Mushroom (Chhatrak / छत्रक)?
Chhatrak (Mushroom) grows on decaying organic matter especially during monsoon season. They appear overnight after rains. They are fleshy, umbrella-shaped fungi. Various species exist — some are edible and some are poisonous. They are heavy, nourishing and cooling. Mushrooms should be identified correctly before consumption as some varieties are toxic. The edible varieties are nutritious and tasty. They grow on cow dung, decaying wood and in damp soil. The gills (Gill) and spores are used for identification. Different species have different properties. Mushrooms are samsvedaja (born from moisture/sweat) category of vegetables. Verses: 68.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 9
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Brimhana (nourishing)
- Balya (strengthening)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 9
References in Sushruta Samhita
They may crop up isolated at the outset, and (by coalescing) may assume the shape of a mushroom or an umbrella, secreting a flow of slimy, foul-smelling blood.
— Sushruta Samhita, Nidana Sthana, Chapter 2: Arsas Nidanam - Haemorrhoids (Piles)
They may crop up isolated at the outset, and (by coalescing) may assume the shape of a mushroom or an umbrella, secreting a flow of slimy, foul-smelling blood.
— Sushruta Samhita, Arsas Nidanam - Haemorrhoids (Piles)
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Nidana Sthana, Chapter 2: Arsas Nidanam - Haemorrhoids (Piles); Arsas Nidanam - Haemorrhoids (Piles)
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.