Herb × Condition

Chirata for Acne

Sanskrit: किरातक्त | Swertia chirata Buch.-Ham.

How Chirata helps with Acne according to Ayurveda. Classical references, dosage, preparation methods, and what modern research says.

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Overview

Chirata is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for acne. Found in Himalayas at 1200-2400m. Whole plant used. Widely used as bitter tonic and febrifuge. Often adulterated. Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh) is the most common substitute.

How Chirata Helps with Acne

According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Chirata has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing acne:

  • Potency (Virya): Ushna (hot)
  • Taste (Rasa): Tikta (bitter) — extremely bitter
  • Qualities (Guna): Laghu, Ruksha

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Tikta (bitter) — extremely bitter
Quality (Guna)
Laghu, Ruksha
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Key Constituents
C₁₃H₂₀O₁₀ (Chiratin (C₅₂H₅₆O₂₃), Ophelic acid)
Also Known As
Sanskrit: किरातक्त, भूनिम्ब, कैरात, अनार्यतिक्ता
Hindi: चिरायता, किरायता

Safety & Precautions

Contraindications: Pregnancy; high vata

Safety: No drug–herb interactions are known.

Other Herbs for Acne

⟶
Aloe Vera Aloe barbadensis Mill. (Syn. A. vera Tourn. ex Linn.)
⟶
Amla Emblica officinalis
⟶
Coriander Coriandrumsativum Linn.
⟶
Cumin Cuminum cyminum
⟶
Daruharidra Berberis aristata/chitria
⟶
Fennel Foeniculum vulgare
⟶
Guduchi Tinospora cordifolia– Caulis
⟶
Kutki Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth.

See all herbs for acne on the Acne 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.