Sarpunkha for Liver Disorders

According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Sarpunkha has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing liver disorders:

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

Important: Sarpunkha contains rotenone, along with related compounds such as deguelin and tephrosin. Rotenone is the reason the plant is also used as an insecticide. Treat Sarpunkha as a potent medicine, not an everyday supplement, and use it only under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.

The classical doses differ sharply between plant parts. The seed dose is only 1 to 2 rattis, a very small amount, so take care never to use seeds at root or leaf amounts.

Because it is hot in potency and drying, it is the opposite of a gentle, cooling herb. Classical sources in our records do not list specific contraindications, drug interactions, or overdose signs. That absence is not proof of safety, so discuss any use with a practitioner, especially if you take prescription medicines.

Classical sources we hold do not address pregnancy or nursing. Avoid it during these times unless a qualified practitioner specifically advises otherwise.