Overview
Nagadanti is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for inflammation. Nagadanti is a variety of Croton described as having similar but somewhat milder purgative properties compared to Jayapala. The plant grows mainly in hilly regions. Its small, round fruits and seeds are used medicinally. It is useful in Vata and Kapha disorders, abdominal diseases, and as a purgative. The text mentions it has purgative properties comparable to Danti but less drastic than Jayapala. Doses are slightly higher than those for Jayapala given its milder potency. Verse refs: page 402.
How Nagadanti Helps with Inflammation
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Nagadanti has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing inflammation:
- Potency (Virya): Ushna (hot)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
- Taste (Rasa): Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter)
- Qualities (Guna): Tikshna (sharp), Snigdha (unctuous)
Safety & Precautions
Nagadanti is a purgative from the Croton group, and its effects are strong even though the Bhavaprakash Nighantu calls it milder than Jayapala. Treat it with real caution.
- No self-medication: use only under a qualified practitioner who can judge the dose and your strength.
- Pregnancy and nursing: purgatives are not something to take while pregnant or breastfeeding without medical supervision; avoid it.
- Weak or depleted people: forceful purgation can drain someone who is already weak or dehydrated.
- Heat-prone constitutions: its hot, sharp nature can aggravate Pitta.
Our sources record no specific drug interactions. If you take any medication, especially for digestion or the bowels, tell your practitioner before any purgative therapy.
Other Herbs for Inflammation
See all herbs for inflammation on the Inflammation page.
▶ Classical Text References (2 sources)
Ghee obtained from buffalo’s milk and processed with nagadanti (Croton oblongifolius), trivrit (Operculina turpethum), danti, dravanti (Balliospermum montanum), snukpaya, madanaphala and one adhaka of cow's urine is an effective remedy in case of poison due to snake and insect bite and in gara visha.
— Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 23: Poison Treatment (Visha Chikitsa / विषचिकित्सा)
Source: Charaka Samhita, Chikitsa Sthana — Therapeutic Principles, Chapter 23: Poison Treatment (Visha Chikitsa / विषचिकित्सा)
Additionally, Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Mrigairvaruna, Nagadanti, and Nididhika (should be used).
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 30: Shakunipratishedha
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 30: Shakunipratishedha
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.