Herb × Condition

Ironweed for Parasites and Worms

Sanskrit: वीरतरु | Dichrostachys cinerea W. & A.

How Ironweed helps with Parasites and Worms according to Ayurveda. Classical references, dosage, preparation methods, and what modern research says.

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Overview

Ironweed is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for parasites and worms. Veerataru (Dichrostachys cinerea) is described as a thorny shrub or small tree. It is found across the Indian subcontinent. The bark and root are used medicinally. It has astringent and binding properties useful in diarrhea and dysentery. The characteristic bicolored flowers (yellow and pink) distinguish this plant.

How Ironweed Helps with Parasites and Worms

According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Ironweed has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing parasites and worms:

  • Potency (Virya): Sheeta (cold)
  • Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
  • Taste (Rasa): Kashaya (astringent), Tikta (bitter)
  • Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)

Other Herbs for Parasites and Worms

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Agarwood Aquilaria agallocha Roxb.
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Arani Premna integrifolia Linn.
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Ailanthus Ailanthus excelsa Roxb.
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Ajwain Trachyspermum ammi syn. Trachyapermum copticum, Carum copticum/roxburghianum/ajowan, Ptychotis ajowan
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Alum Potash Alum
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Apamarga Achyranthes aspera Linn.
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Asclepias Asclepias curassavica Linn.
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Ativisha Aconitum heterophyllum Wall.

See all herbs for parasites and worms on the Parasites and Worms 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.