Overview
Indian Squill is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for urinary disorders. Wild onion found throughout India. Contains cardiac glycosides similar to Digitalis. Used as cardiac stimulant and diuretic. The bulb is used. Important drug but requires careful dosing due to cardiac glycoside content.
How Indian Squill Helps with Urinary Disorders
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Indian Squill has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing urinary disorders:
- Potency (Virya): Ushna
- Taste (Rasa): Katu, Tikta
- Qualities (Guna): Laghu, Tikshna
Safety & Precautions
Most Ayurvedic herbs are gentle. Indian Squill is a clear exception, and you should treat it with the same respect as a prescription heart drug.
Why It Needs Caution
The bulb contains cardiac glycosides, including Scillaren-A, Scillaren-B and Scillarenin, which act on the heart in a way similar to Digitalis. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu describes it as an important drug that requires careful dosing for exactly this reason.
It also contains calcium oxalate. Its properties are heating, sharp and penetrating, which in Ayurvedic terms marks a strong medicine rather than a tonic.
Do Not Self-Prescribe
Our sources do not give a safe dose, so there is no safe amount we can suggest for home use. Use it only under the supervision of a qualified practitioner working with your doctor.
Heart Medications
Because its action resembles Digitalis, combining it with heart medicines is a real concern. Our sources do not list specific interactions, so do not combine it with any cardiac medicine unless your doctor has approved it.
Pregnancy, Nursing and Overdose
Classical sources give no specific guidance for pregnancy, nursing or overdose signs. Given its potency, avoid it in these situations unless a qualified practitioner and your doctor advise otherwise.
Other Herbs for Urinary Disorders
See all herbs for urinary disorders on the Urinary Disorders 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.