Chanaka (Chanaka (Harimantha, Sakalapriya))
Chanaka, known as chickpea or Bengal gram, is a legume widely used in Ayurveda. It is known for its cooling, drying, and astringent properties, and is traditionally used to balance Pitta and Kapha doshas.
Botanical name: Cicer arietinum. Also known as: Chanaka, Sakalapriya, Harimantha, Vajibhaksha, Chickpea, Bengal gram, Garbanzo bean, Egyptian pea, Chane, Chola, Rahila, Bont, Harbara, Chhole, Chola, Chanya, Chana, Kadle, Kadale, Kadala, Kadalai, Sanagulu, Sangalu, Garbanzo, Chana.
Properties
Glycemic control, Cardiovascular health, Satiety and weight management, Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory activity
Dosage
Specific dosages can vary based on the individual and the condition being treated; it's best to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized recommendations. A clinical trial reported that 50g of chickpea flour daily for six weeks resulted in a 12% drop in postprandial blood glucose among pre-diabetic patients. For *Chanakamla* (a sour tasting Ayurvedic medicine prepared from chickpea), the dose is generally 125 mg – 250 mg or 5 to 10 drops.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Sweet, Slightly Astringent
- Virya: ["Cooling"]
- Vipaka: ["Sweet"]
Benefits
- Pittahara
- Kaphahara
- Vatala
- Emaciating
Traditional uses
- Blood disorders
- Skin diseases
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Throat problems
- Liver/gall bladder issues
- Digestive disorders
- Stomach discomfort
Dosha effects
- vata: increasing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: decreasing
Preparation methods
- Seeds: The dried seeds (*chana dal*) are most commonly used. They can be consumed sprouted or fermented.
- Cooking: Chickpeas are typically cooked before consumption to mitigate flatulence and improve nutrient absorption. Soaking and cooking are important to reduce antinutrients.
- Powder: Powdered seeds are used for facial masks and dandruff treatment.
- External Application: Bengal gram powder is used as a body wash, especially for infants. It can be mixed with other herbs like sandalwood and *Manjistha*. A paste of chickpea flour, sandalwood powder, and water can be applied to oily skin.
- Chanakamla Preparation: In November-December, collect dew drops from chickpea plants using a white cloth. Dry the cloth, wash it to release the sour substance, allow it to settle, filter the water, and dry both the substance and the filtered water separately. Mix and store them for medicinal use.
- Decoction: Chickpeas can be decocted with barley and marshmallow roots.
Contraindications
- Individuals with chronic kidney disease, severe Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), or legume hypersensitivity should avoid high doses of chickpea extracts.
- High-protein diets, including excessive chickpea consumption, may stress compromised kidneys.
- It can increase Vata and Pitta dosha, potentially causing stomach upset or worsening gastritis in sensitive individuals.
- It may cause bloating and gas.
- It might trigger headaches in prone individuals.
Side effects
- May cause stomach discomfort, bloating, and gas. These effects can be reduced by cooking with spices like asafoetida or ginger. Soaking the chickpeas before consumption may also help.
- Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions such as hives, wheezing, or oral itching. Chickpeas might cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to latex or other legumes.
- Excessive raw consumption may impair mineral absorption. Soaking or cooking properly helps reduce phytic acid content.
- High-protein diets, including excessive chickpea intake, may stress compromised kidneys.
- High doses may cause gastrointestinal irritation. Avoid in diabetes and with calculus.
- May increase Vata and Pitta, potentially causing stomach upset or worsening gastritis in sensitive individuals. May also trigger headaches in some people.
Interactions
- Always inform your Ayurvedic practitioner about any existing prescriptions.
- It is advisable to seek your doctor's advice if you are taking *Chanakamla* along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicines.
Clinical evidence
Clinical trials and studies suggest that chickpeas may be beneficial for individuals with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, aiding in blood sugar, lipid, and insulin level management. Chickpea's high fiber content and low glycemic index contribute to its ability to regulate blood glucose levels. Chickpea fiber may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Chickpea supplementation in the diet may increase feelings of fullness, potentially reducing overall calorie intake.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Pittahara
- Kaphahara
- Vatala
- Emaciating
Classical clinical indications
- Blood disorders
- Skin diseases
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Throat problems
- Liver/gall bladder issues
- Digestive disorders
- Stomach discomfort