Brihati (Brihati (Mahati, Vartaki))
Brihati (Solanum indicum) is a potent Ayurvedic herb known for its anti-inflammatory, digestive, and respiratory benefits. It is used in various formulations to manage cough, indigestion, and joint pain.
Botanical name: Solanum indicum. Also known as: Brihati, Duhsparsha, Vahni, Kantaki Brihati, Bari Kateri, Badi Kateri, Vanabhanta, Indian Nightshade, Poison Berry, African Eggplant, Bush Tomato, Thoothuvalai, Anachundai, Papparamalli, Karimulli, Puttiriccuntai, Peddakandekari, Pedda Mulaka, Tella Mulaka, Cittimulaga, Tellamulaka, Kakamunci, Rambegun, Vyakud, Kirugullia, Heggulla, Gulla, Ramgula, Vanavrntaki, Dorali, Ubhi ringani, subhiringani, Cheru Vazhuthina, Puttiriccunta, Cerucunta, Ceruvalutina, Kandiarivadd, Kandyari, Kateli, Tilabhakuri, Katai Kalaam.
Properties
Expectorant, Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Bactericidal, Antioxidant
Dosage
General: It is crucial to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized dosage advice. Dosage depends on age, health condition, and overall health. Powder (Churna): 1-3 grams daily, mixed with honey or warm water. Some sources suggest 1-2 grams, once or twice a day after food. Some suggest 2-3 grams of powder, three times per day. For children, a general guideline is half the adult dose, around 0.5-1.5 g/day. Decoction (Kwath): 50-100 ml, taken twice daily. This can be prepared by simmering 5-10 g of dried fruit in 200-300 ml of water for 10-15 minutes. Some sources say to boil 1 tablespoon of powder mixed with a cup of water for 1 minute, filter, and consume 15-20 ml, once or twice a day. Some suggest 40-80ml. Juice (Swarasa): 10-20 ml of freshly extracted juice from the leaves or roots. Tablets/Capsules: 250-500 mg, as per physician's recommendation. Hydro-alcoholic Extract (Tincture/Syrup): 10-20 mL twice daily
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Pungent, bitter
- Virya: ["Heating"]
- Vipaka: ["Pungent"]
Benefits
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
- Kasahara (anti-cough)
Traditional uses
- Kasa (cough)
- Shwasa (asthma)
- Agnimandya (indigestion)
- Sandhi shoola (joint pain)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Powder (Churna): The dried herb is ground into a fine powder and can be consumed with warm water, honey, or ghee.
- Decoction (Kwath): Boil dried Brihati herb or powder in water and reduce to a suitable volume, then strain and drink.
- Juice (Swarasa): Fresh leaves or roots can be crushed to extract the juice.
- Poultice: Fresh leaves can be crushed and applied to wounds.
- Other Formulations: Brihati is an ingredient in several Ayurvedic formulations like Chyawanprash, Brihati Panchang, Kasahara Vati, Mahasudarshan Churna, Dashamoolarishta, and Brihatyadi kwath.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- High Pitta conditions
- Large quantities may cause toxicity
- Digestive irritation
- Allergic reactions
- Increases dryness in the body
- Hot potency (Ushna Virya)
- Interaction with modern medicines
Side effects
- General: Brihati is generally well-tolerated in recommended doses.
- Toxicity: Large quantities may be toxic.
- Digestive Issues: May cause irritation of the digestive system. High doses can lead to gastric irritation, nausea, and vomiting. Heartburn or abdominal discomfort may occur, especially in sensitive individuals or those with peptic ulcers.
- Pitta Dosha: Excessive use may aggravate Pitta dosha due to its Ushna (hot) potency.
- Allergic Reactions: Rare cases of allergic reactions have been reported; discontinue use if symptoms like itching or rashes occur. It is advised to test fresh fruit extract on the forearm before oral use if you have sensitive skin.
- Dizziness or Headache: Rarely reported in doses above 5 g/day powder, likely due to alkaloid load.
- Pregnancy and Lactation: Should be used with caution during pregnancy and lactation; consult a doctor before use. Safety data is limited; avoid unless under strict Ayurvedic supervision.
- Increases Dryness: It increases dryness in the body.
Interactions
- Diuretics and Anti-inflammatory Drugs: May interact with these medications; consult a healthcare provider if you are on medication.
- Western Medicines: Seek your doctor's advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic / modern) medicines. It is best to take Allopathic medicine first, wait for 30 minutes, and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.
- Anticholinergics and Antihistamines: May interact with these medications; consult a healthcare provider.
Clinical evidence
Clinical trials on Brihati show promise in managing dyspepsia and chronic bronchitis. Studies include a clinical trial showing improved appetite and reduced bloating in dyspepsia patients, and a double-blind RCT demonstrating symptom relief in chronic bronchitis patients compared to placebo.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
- Kasahara (anti-cough)
Classical clinical indications
- Kasa (cough)
- Shwasa (asthma)
- Agnimandya (indigestion)
- Sandhi shoola (joint pain)