Overview
Colocynth is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for inflammation. Colocynth is Ayurveda's heaviest purgative: Tikta and Ushna fruit pulp that breaks stubborn Vibandha, drains Kapha-Vata, and clears worms, ascites, and liver stagnation.
How Colocynth Helps with Inflammation
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Colocynth has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing inflammation:
- Potency (Virya): Ushna (hot)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
- Taste (Rasa): Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent)
- Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
Other Herbs for Inflammation
See all herbs for inflammation on the Inflammation page.
▶ Classical Text References (1 sources)
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.