Parpata (Parpata (Varatikta, Parpataka))
Parpata (Fumaria parviflora) is an annual herb traditionally used in Ayurveda for its Pitta and Kapha balancing properties. It is known for its potential benefits in managing fever, skin disorders, and liver conditions.
Botanical name: Fumaria parviflora. Also known as: Parpata, Parpataka, Pitapapra, Fine-leaved fumitory, Small-flowered fumitory, Indian fumitory, Pitta papada, Dhamgajra, Pittapapado, Pitpapra, Shahatra, Shahtara, Pittapapara, Vanshulpha, Bansulpha, Tura, Kattukanichcharai, Tatikapriya, Kallu Sabbasige, Parpatu, Chaturasigide, Huli haridike, Shahatra, Sahtaraj.
Properties
Hepatoprotective, Anti-inflammatory, Antidiabetic, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant
Dosage
Dry Powder (Churna): 2–5 g twice daily with warm water after meals. Liquid Extract/Tincture: 10–20 drops in water, 2–3 times per day (1:5 hydroalcoholic extract). Standardized Capsules: 250 mg each, 2 capsules twice daily before meals. Decoction (Kwath): Boil 10 g of aerial parts in 400 ml water until reduced to 100 ml, drink warm once daily. Paste: 1-3 gm. Parpatadi Kwath: 10–15 ml, twice daily after meals.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Tikta (Bitter)
- Virya: ["Shita (Cooling)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (Pungent)"]
Benefits
- Pittahara (reduces Pitta)
- Kaphahara (reduces Kapha)
- Raktashodhaka (blood purifier)
- Jwaraghna (antipyretic)
- Deepana (appetizer)
Traditional uses
- Jwara (fever)
- Raktavikara (blood disorders)
- Kushtha (skin diseases)
- Amlapitta (hyperacidity)
- Yakrit roga (liver disorders)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Dry Powder (Churna): The leaves are dried and powdered. Take 2-5 g twice daily with warm water.
- Liquid Extract/Tincture: Use a 1:5 hydroalcoholic extract. Take 10–20 drops in water, 2–3 times per day.
- Decoction (Kwath): Boil 10 g of aerial parts in 400 ml water until reduced to 100 ml. Strain and drink warm once daily. Traditionally, the leaves are dried in the shade to retain potent compounds.
- Infusion: A cooling drink can be prepared by boiling the plant for 10-15 minutes, then cooling and mixing with honey or sugar, mint leaves, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Paste: Fresh juice of parpata can be mixed with ghee and applied to the skin to treat erysipelas.
- Home Remedies: Decoction of crushed parpata can be used for fever. Parpata juice with honey can be used for intrinsic bleeding.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Low Body Temperature
- Allergies
- Kapha Deficiency
- Hypotension
Side effects
- Generally considered safe, but excessive use may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Some people may experience hypotension (low blood pressure) or GI upset.
- It may slightly increase Vata dosha.
Interactions
- May potentiate hypotensive drugs and diuretics. Monitor blood pressure and consult a healthcare provider if you are on such medications.
- Consult a healthcare provider before combining parpata extract with other medications, especially for digestive or liver health.
Clinical evidence
Clinical trials indicate potential benefits of Fumaria parviflora in managing eczema, type 2 diabetes mellitus, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and uremic pruritus. More extensive research is warranted to confirm these findings.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Pittahara (reduces Pitta)
- Kaphahara (reduces Kapha)
- Raktashodhaka (blood purifier)
- Jwaraghna (antipyretic)
- Deepana (appetizer)
Classical clinical indications
- Jwara (fever)
- Raktavikara (blood disorders)
- Kushtha (skin diseases)
- Amlapitta (hyperacidity)
- Yakrit roga (liver disorders)