Satyori — Chitrak (Chitraka) Herb Quick Card
Herb Quick Card
Chitrak
Chitraka · Plumbago zeylanica
Traditional Uses
The Charaka Samhita places chitrak among the most important deepaniya (appetite-stimulating) and pachaniya (digestive) herbs, and includes it in the renowned Chitrakadivatika formulation for the treatment of arsha (hemorrhoids) and gulma (abdominal masses). Charaka describes chitrak as one of the primary herbs for the treatment of grahani dosha (malabsorption syndrome/IBS), a condition where the digestive fire is so weakened that food passes through without proper transformation. The herb is recommended for agnimandya (loss of appetite), ajirna (indigestion), and udara roga (abdominal disorders), and Charaka notes that it kindles agni as surely as fire kindles fuel.
Preparations
Chitrakadi Vati: the most widely used preparation, classical tablets combining chitrak with Pippali, Shunthi, Maricha, and digestive salts. Chitrakaharitaki: a lehya (confection) of chitrak and Haritaki for respiratory and digestive conditions. Chitrak Churna: root bark powder, 250-500 mg with warm water or honey.
Dosage
Root bark powder: 250 mg to 1 gram per day maximum, in divided doses. Chitrakadi Vati: 1-2 tablets (approximately 250-500 mg each) before meals with warm water.
Dosha Guidance
For Vata types, chitrak is valuable in moderate doses for its ability to kindle digestive fire, which is typically variable and weak in Vata constitutions. The warming, penetrating quality of chitrak helps counter Vata's cold, irregular digestion and reduces gas, bloating, and intestinal spasms. Vata individuals should always use chitrak in combination with other herbs (as in Chitrakadi Vati) rather than as a single herb, and combine with ghee or warming milk to prevent excessive drying.
Synergistic Combinations
The classical Chitrakadi Vati formula combines chitrak with Pippali, Shunthi (dry ginger), Maricha (black pepper), Yavakshara, Saindhava Lavana, and other herbs to create a balanced digestive formula where the intensity of chitrak is modulated by the supporting ingredients. In Chitrakaharitaki, paired with Haritaki which adds a mild laxative and Vata-pacifying effect.
Contraindications
Chitrak is contraindicated in pregnancy (classified as garbhapatakar -- abortifacient in traditional texts), as it has strong uterine-stimulating properties. Strictly avoid in Pitta-aggravated conditions including active gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, hyperacidity, esophagitis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Do not use in cases of raktapitta (bleeding disorders), menorrhagia, or any condition involving internal bleeding.
Tissues & Channels
Dhatus: Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Meda (fat), Shukra (reproductive)
Srotas: Annavaha (digestive), Medovaha (fat metabolism), Raktavaha (circulatory)
Where to Buy
Source chitrak root or root bark from reputable Ayurvedic suppliers who can verify the botanical identity as Plumbago zeylanica (white chitrak). The dried root should be light brown to reddish-brown with a distinctive sharp, slightly acrid taste.
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Herbal Profile
Chitrak is one of 50 herbs — but which ones are right for your body? Your Herbal Profile reveals your top 10 herbs, herbs to avoid, best preparations, seasonal calendar, and a daily protocol matched to your dosha.