Overview
Chirata is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for heartburn & acid reflux. 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 Heartburn & Acid Reflux
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Chirata has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing heartburn & acid reflux:
- 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 Heartburn & Acid Reflux
See all herbs for heartburn & acid reflux on the Heartburn & Acid Reflux 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.