Overview
Karunj is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for inflammation. Vitex trifolia, the Three-leaved Chaste Tree, is described as a related species to the Five-leaved Nirgundi (V. negundo). It has similar but slightly milder properties. It is used for Vata disorders and inflammatory conditions. The text also references Alectra parasitica as another plant in the Nirgundi group.
How Karunj Helps with Inflammation
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Karunj 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)
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
- Casticin, Flavonoids, Essential oils
- Also Known As
- English: Three-leaved Chaste Tree
Sanskrit: सम्भालू, तपस्विनी
Hindi: निर्गुण्डी (छोटी)
Other Herbs for Inflammation
See all herbs for inflammation on the Inflammation 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.