Gorocana

(Purified Ox-Gall)
Sanskrit: गोरोचना • Botanical: Extractum fellis bovini (Purified Ox-Gall)

Gorocana is a biliary concretion found in the gall bladder of cattle. It is golden-yellow in color and has been highly valued in Ayurveda since ancient times. The text describes it as a cooling substance that is bitter in taste. It is considered auspicious and is used in many religious and ceremonial purposes as well. Medicinally, it is used as an antidote to poisons, in fevers, and for improving complexion. It is an ingredient in many classical formulations for pediatric disorders. The genuine article is very rare and expensive. It alleviates Pitta and Kapha doshas.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Also Known As
English: Purified Ox-Gall, Bezoar, Ox-bile concretion
Sanskrit: गोरोचना, गोरोचन
Hindi: गोरोचन

What is Gorocana (Ox Bile Pigment / गोरोचना)?

Gorocana is a biliary concretion found in the gall bladder of cattle. It is golden-yellow in color and has been highly valued in Ayurveda since ancient times. The text describes it as a cooling substance that is bitter in taste. It is considered auspicious and is used in many religious and ceremonial purposes as well. Medicinally, it is used as an antidote to poisons, in fevers, and for improving complexion. It is an ingredient in many classical formulations for pediatric disorders. The genuine article is very rare and expensive. It alleviates Pitta and Kapha doshas.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vishahara (antitoxic)
  • Jvarahara (antipyretic)
  • Mangalaprada (auspicious)
  • Varnya (improves complexion)
  • Chakshushya (beneficial for eyes)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

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.