Overview
Chaste Tree is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for inflammation. Nirgundi is described in the text in the context of Priyangu discussion. The text mentions that some varieties of Priyangu were confused with Sindhuvara/Nirgundi. Vitex agnus-castus has palmately compound leaves and is found throughout India. It is one of the most important anti-inflammatory drugs in Ayurveda. The leaves, roots, and seeds are used. It is heating in potency and used for joint pain, headache, inflammatory swellings, and worm infestations. The leaves are applied as poultice for swelling and pain.
How Chaste Tree Helps with Inflammation
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Chaste Tree has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing inflammation:
- Potency (Virya): Ushna (hot)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
- Taste (Rasa): Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter)
- Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Hot (Ushna)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Also Known As
- English: Chaste Tree, Five-leaved Chaste Tree
Sanskrit: निर्गुण्डी, सिन्धुवार
Hindi: निर्गुण्डी, संभालू
Other Herbs for Inflammation
See all herbs for inflammation on the Inflammation page.
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.