Shringataka (Water Chestnut, Water Fruit, Triangular Fruit, Shringika, Gokantaka, Gokshuraka, Vanashringata)

About

Shringataka, commonly known as water chestnut, is an aquatic herb used in Ayurveda for various therapeutic purposes. It is known for its cooling, sweet, and astringent properties.

Properties

Antioxidant activity, Anti-glycation activity, Hypoglycemic effects, Antiulcer activity

Dosage

The general dosage of Shringataka powder is 5-10 grams.

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Madhura (Sweet), Kashaya (Astringent)
• Virya: ["Sheeta (Cooling)"]
• Vipaka: ["Madhura (Sweet)"]

Benefits

• Vrishya (Aphrodisiac)
• Balya (Strengthening)
• Stambhana (Astringent)
• Pittahara (Pitta pacifying)
• Kapha vardhana (Kapha increasing)

Traditional uses

• Raktapitta (Bleeding disorders)
• Mutrakricchra (Dysuria)
• Prameha (Polyuria)
• Shopha (Edema)
• Atisara (Diarrhea)
• Pravahika (Dysentery)
• Daurbalya (Weakness)
• Kshata (Ulcers)

Dosha effects

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

Preparation methods

• Raw or Cooked: The fruit and seeds can be eaten raw or cooked.
• Powder: The powder of the dried fruit or kernel can be used.
• Flour: The flour of the dried fruit can be used in preparations.
• Gruel: A gruel preparation from the fruit pulp can be made.
• Halwa: Halwa can be prepared using 30-50gm of Shringataka flour.
• Paste: For eczema, dried Singhara can be mixed with lemon juice to make a paste.

Contraindications

• May cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or gas, if over-consumed.
• Allergic reactions may occur in individuals sensitive to plants in the Lythraceae family.
• May cause a potential diuretic-induced electrolyte imbalance, especially when combined with pharmaceutical diuretics like furosemide.
• It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider.

Side effects

• No adverse effects have been reported after using Shringataka for medicinal use.

Interactions

• Homeopathic medicine: Shringataka does not react with homeopathic medicine.
• Supplements: Generally, Shringataka goes well with most dietary supplements like multivitamin tablets and Omega 3 fatty acids. However, consult your doctor if you are taking more than one product per day.
• Western medicines: It is best to seek your doctor's advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicines. If both Ayurvedic and allopathic medicines are advised together, then it is best to take Allopathic medicine first, wait for 30 minutes, and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.
• Drug-Herb Interactions: Be aware of potential drug-herb interactions and consult a healthcare professional.
• Physicians should be aware of potential drug interactions when using herbal drugs in combination.
• Avoid self-medication to reduce the chances of adverse effects from drug interactions.

Active compounds

• Carbohydrates
• Vitamins (B-complex, C, A)
• Minerals
• Phosphorylase
• Ellagic Acid
• Saponins
• Alkaloids
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Glycosides
• Steroids
• Phenolic compounds
• Cysteine
• Arginine
• Proline
• Glutamine
• Asparagine
• Cycloeucalenol
• Ursolic Acid
• 2β,3α,23-trihydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid

Clinical evidence

Clinical trials suggest potential benefits in managing postprandial glucose, improving ART outcomes, and alleviating COVID-19 symptoms. Evidence strength is still emerging, necessitating further comprehensive research.

Ayurvedic karmas

• Vrishya (Aphrodisiac)
• Balya (Strengthening)
• Stambhana (Astringent)
• Pittahara (Pitta pacifying)
• Kapha vardhana (Kapha increasing)

Classical clinical indications

• Raktapitta (Bleeding disorders)
• Mutrakricchra (Dysuria)
• Prameha (Polyuria)
• Shopha (Edema)
• Atisara (Diarrhea)
• Pravahika (Dysentery)
• Daurbalya (Weakness)
• Kshata (Ulcers)

Frequently asked questions