Amritaphala (Rajiphala, Panduphala, Rajeya)

About

Amritaphala, known scientifically as *Trichosanthes dioica*, is a vining herb prized in Ayurveda for its light properties, aphrodisiac qualities, and ability to balance all three doshas. It is also traditionally used as a tonic and febrifuge and to support liver and spleen health.

Properties

Ribosome-inactivating protein activity, Anti-inflammatory action, Antioxidant activity

Dosage

Fresh Fruit/Vegetable: 100–200 g cooked daily. Juice: 15–30 ml freshly extracted, taken 20 minutes before meals. Dried Powder: 5–10 g mixed with water or honey, once or twice daily. Decoction: Boil 20 g chopped fruit in 500 ml water until reduced to 200 ml; drink 50 ml twice daily. Extracts (standardized 5:1): 250–500 mg in capsule form, once or twice daily. Children: Use half the adult dosage under guidance; fresh cooked gourds are safest for kids.

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Madhura (sweet)
• Virya: ["Shita (cooling)"]
• Vipaka: ["Madhura (sweet)"]

Benefits

• Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
• Balya (strengthening)
• Pushtida (nourishing)

Traditional uses

• Daha (burning sensation)
• Trishna (excessive thirst)
• Jwara (fever)
• Raktapitta (bleeding disorders)

Dosha effects

• vata: balancing
• kapha: balancing
• pitta: balancing

Preparation methods

• Fresh Vegetable: Cooked in curries, stir-fries, or sukto.
• Juice: Freshly extracted.
• Powder: Mixed with water or honey.
• Decoction: Boil chopped fruit in water.
• Topical Paste: Seed paste or fruit pulp applied to minor wounds, insect bites 1–2 times a day.
• Leaf Poultice: Crushed fresh leaves can be applied externally to minor wounds, rashes or swellings, secured with a clean cloth for 20–30 minutes.
• Petha: Can be prepared using osmotic dehydration with sugar as an osmotic agent.

Contraindications

• Consult an Ayurvedic doctor before use during pregnancy or lactation.
• Ayurvedic herbs can interact with other medications; take allopathic medicine first, wait 30 minutes, and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.
• Individuals with acute intestinal inflammation or Crohn's disease.
• Children under 12 years without medical consultation.
• May potentiate anticoagulants due to vitamin K content.
• Herbs with laxative effects may interact with diuretics, increasing the risk of dehydration.

Side effects

• Generally safe as a food.
• Mild gastrointestinal upset (bloating, loose stools) if taken excessively.
• High dosages may cause diarrhea or loose stools due to its mild laxative and diuretic effects.
• Hypoglycemia risk when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas—monitor blood sugar closely.
• Potential allergic reactions in sensitized individuals, manifesting as skin rash or itching.
• Allergic rash if applied topically in those with cucurbitaceae sensitivities.
• Headache or dizziness in sensitive individuals, possibly from rapid cooling of pitta.
• Excessive intake of powder can cause electrolyte imbalance and loose bowels.
• Pregnant women should avoid high doses due to potential uterine stimulant effects of trichosanthin.

Interactions

• No known major drug interactions, but always discuss with your healthcare provider if you're on multiple medications.
• May potentiate insulin or sulfonylureas—monitor blood glucose closely.
• This product may adversely interact with certain health and medical conditions, other prescription and over-the-counter drugs, foods, or other dietary supplements.
• It is important to fully inform your doctor about the herbal, vitamins, mineral or any other supplements you are taking before any kind of surgery or medical procedure.

Active compounds

• Trichosanthin
• Cucurbitacins B & D
• Quercetin
• Kaempferol

Clinical evidence

Clinical trials suggest that *Trichosanthes dioica* may have benefits in managing blood sugar levels, reducing heartburn, and aiding in weight management. Animal studies support a blood sugar-lowering effect. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.

Ayurvedic karmas

• Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
• Balya (strengthening)
• Pushtida (nourishing)

Classical clinical indications

• Daha (burning sensation)
• Trishna (excessive thirst)
• Jwara (fever)
• Raktapitta (bleeding disorders)

Frequently asked questions