Priyangu

(Beauty Berry)
Sanskrit: प्रियंगु Botanical: Callicarpa macrophylla Vahl

Priyangu is the fruit and flowers of Callicarpa macrophylla, a shrub found throughout the sub-Himalayan region and peninsular India. The text notes that there is debate about the identity of Priyangu -- some consider it Callicarpa macrophylla (Beauty Berry) while others have identified it with different plants. The text describes the drug as bitter, astringent, and sweet with cooling potency. The fruits are small, round, clustered, and violet-purple when ripe. The drug is one of the important Raktapitta (bleeding disorder) remedies. It is used for burning sensation, thirst, fever, and as an absorbent in diarrhea. The flowers are fragrant and used in perfumery. It is considered Tridoshahara but primarily pacifies Pitta and Kapha. The commentary discusses various controversies about the true botanical identity of Priyangu. Dose: 3-6 grams.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya), Sweet (Madhura)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Also Known As
English: Beauty Berry, Priyangu
Sanskrit: प्रियंगु, फलिनी, कान्ता, महिलाह्वा, गौरी, लता, शुभा, कारम्भा
Hindi: प्रियंगु

What is Priyangu (Beauty Berry / प्रियंगु)?

Priyangu is the fruit and flowers of Callicarpa macrophylla, a shrub found throughout the sub-Himalayan region and peninsular India. The text notes that there is debate about the identity of Priyangu -- some consider it Callicarpa macrophylla (Beauty Berry) while others have identified it with different plants. The text describes the drug as bitter, astringent, and sweet with cooling potency. The fruits are small, round, clustered, and violet-purple when ripe. The drug is one of the important Raktapitta (bleeding disorder) remedies. It is used for burning sensation, thirst, fever, and as an absorbent in diarrhea. The flowers are fragrant and used in perfumery. It is considered Tridoshahara but primarily pacifies Pitta and Kapha. The commentary discusses various controversies about the true botanical identity of Priyangu. Dose: 3-6 grams.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Raktapittahara (controls bleeding disorders)
  • Dahaprashamana (relieves burning sensation)
  • Vishaghna (antitoxic)
  • Trishnanigrahana (quenches thirst)
  • Jvarahara (antipyretic)
  • Varnya (improves complexion)
  • Grahi (absorbent/anti-diarrheal)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Priyangu by Condition

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

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.