Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Pungent (Katu)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha), Sharp (Tikshna)
- Potency (Virya)
- Hot (Ushna)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Strychnine, brucine (major alkaloids), loganin, vomicine
- Also Known As
- English: Nux Vomica, Strychnine, Poison Nut
Sanskrit: कुपिलु, विषतिन्दुक, काकपिलु
Hindi: कुचला
What is Strychnine (Kupilu / Kuchala / कुचला)?
Kupilu/Kuchala (Nux Vomica) is the seed of Strychnos nux-vomica, containing the highly toxic alkaloids strychnine and brucine. After proper Shodhana (purification by boiling in cow's urine or milk and removing the seed coat), it is used in Vata disorders, paralysis, facial palsy, joint disorders, and digestive weakness. The purification process detoxifies the alkaloids significantly. It is a powerful nerve stimulant in small doses. Excessive dose causes tetanic convulsions and death. Dose: 1-2 Ratti after Shodhana. Verses: 166-170.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 7
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Vatahara (pacifies Vata)
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Shulahara (anti-colic)
- Amapachana (digests Ama/toxins)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 7
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.