Land Snail

(Land Snail)
Sanskrit: नखी • Botanical: Helix aspera; Achatina fulica

Nakha-Nakhi refers to the operculum or shell parts of land snails. The text describes it as a fragrant substance used in dhupa (fumigation) preparations. It has sweet and salty taste with cooling potency. It is beneficial for eyes and hair. The operculum of snails, when burned, produces a characteristic smell and is used in incense and fumigation formulas in Ayurvedic practice. The substance is described as Snigdha (unctuous) and Sheeta (cold), pacifying Pitta and Vata. It is found in various regions of India. The text notes it has varied properties depending on the variety of snail.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Salty (Lavana), Sweet (Madhura)
Quality (Guna)
Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Also Known As
English: Land Snail
Sanskrit: नखी, नखा, शम्बूक
Hindi: नख, नखी

What is Land Snail (Nakha-Nakhi / नख-नखी)?

Nakha-Nakhi refers to the operculum or shell parts of land snails. The text describes it as a fragrant substance used in dhupa (fumigation) preparations. It has sweet and salty taste with cooling potency. It is beneficial for eyes and hair. The operculum of snails, when burned, produces a characteristic smell and is used in incense and fumigation formulas in Ayurvedic practice. The substance is described as Snigdha (unctuous) and Sheeta (cold), pacifying Pitta and Vata. It is found in various regions of India. The text notes it has varied properties depending on the variety of snail.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Chakshushya (beneficial for eyes)
  • Keshya (promotes hair growth)
  • Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
  • Balya (strengthening)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Land Snail by Condition

Explore how Land Snail is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Land Snail for Male Sexual Health

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.