Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Pungent (Katu)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Hot (Ushna)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Colocynthidin (Extractum Colocynthidis Compositum), Bitter principle
- Also Known As
- English: Colocynth, Bitter Apple, Wild Gourd
Sanskrit: इन्द्रवारुणी, विशाला, गवाक्षी, चित्रफला
Hindi: इन्द्रायण, इन्दायन
What is Colocynth (Indrayan / इन्द्रायण)?
Indrayan or Colocynth (Citrullus colocynthis) is a wild climbing gourd with extremely bitter fruits. The fruit pulp is the primary medicinal part. It is one of the most potent purgatives in Ayurvedic practice. The text describes it as bitter (Tikta), hot in potency (Ushna), and strongly purgative. It is useful in constipation, liver disorders, abdominal distension, worm infestations, and Kapha-Vata diseases. The Extractum Colocynthidis Compositum is mentioned as a useful preparation. A diluted tannic acid solution is recommended for managing overdose symptoms. The text covers this herb extensively across pages 404-405, including varieties and medicinal preparations.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Virechana (purgative)
- Bhedana (drastic purgative)
- Deepana (kindles digestive fire)
- Krimighna (anthelmintic)
- Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha)
- Shothahara (reduces swelling)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3
How to Use Colocynth by Condition
Explore how Colocynth is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
▶ Classical Text References (1 sources)
References in Sharangadhara Samhita
By daily oiling with the seed oil of Indravaruni (Citrullus colocynthis, bitter apple/colocynth), the hair becomes black like a bee (Bhringi) -- i.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
Colocynth seed oil is traditionally reputed to restore natural hair color.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
The counter-irritant properties of colocynth and oleander promote local vasodilation and secretory response.
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
Source: Sharangadhara Samhita, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11: Lepa Vidhi (Topical Paste Application)
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.