Sorrel (Chukrika (Amli, Chukra, Dantashatha))
Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) is an herb known for its sour taste and use in various culinary and traditional medicinal applications. It is known for its digestive properties and antioxidant potential.
Botanical name: Rumex acetosa. Also known as: Common Sorrel, Garden Sorrel, Sheep's Sorrel, Field Sorrel, Red Sorrel, Sorrel Dock, Sour Dock.
Properties
Antioxidant activity, Anti-inflammatory action, COX-1 enzyme inhibition
Dosage
Fresh Leaf Juice: 30–60 mL daily, ideally on an empty stomach. Leaf Powder: 1–2 g, mixed with warm water or honey, once or twice daily. Maximum 6g daily. Root Powder/Extract: 2–3 g at bedtime for mild laxative effect, limit use to 7–10 consecutive days. Tincture (1:5 in 60% alcohol): 5–10 drops, diluted in water, 2–3 times per day. Fresh Leaf Infusion: 5–10 g of chopped leaves steeped in 200 ml hot water for 10 min; 1–2 cups daily. Topical Application: 5–10% leaf extract cream or poultice applied to skin 1–3 times daily. A moderate intake of 1–2 cups of sorrel tea or a handful of fresh leaves daily is generally considered safe.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Astringent, Sour
- Virya: ["Heating"]
- Vipaka: ["Sweet"]
Benefits
- Kindles digestive fire
- Astringent
Traditional uses
- Digestive support
- Loss of appetite
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Fresh: The leaves can be consumed fresh in salads or juices.
- Dried: The leaves and roots can be dried and powdered for later use.
- Juice: Fresh leaves can be juiced.
- Infusion/Tea: Steep dried leaves in hot water for 10 minutes. Use 2 tsp dried leaves per cup.
- Tincture: Extract the herb's active compounds using alcohol. A common ratio is 1:5 in 60% alcohol.
- Topical: Leaf paste or cream.
- Decoctions: The roots are sometimes used for decoctions.
Contraindications
- Kidney disorders or kidney stones
- Rheumatism, arthritis, and gout
- Hyperacidity or Heartburn
- Blood-thinning disorders
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Side effects
- Oxalate Overload
- Throat or Mouth Irritation
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: possibly unsafe in large amounts
- Electrolyte Imbalance and Dependency
- Kidney Issues
- Inhibition of calcium absorption
- Liver or Stomach Damage: possibly unsafe in large amounts
- Slow Blood Clotting
Interactions
- Diuretics
- Lithium
- Anticoagulants
- Medications moved by pumps in cells (Organic anion-transporting polypeptide substrates)
- Laxatives
Clinical evidence
Clinical trials have demonstrated potential benefits of Sorrel, particularly in managing mild hyperglycemia and improving gastric motility. Some studies also suggest its efficacy in combination products for sinusitis and bronchitis. However, more extensive research is needed to fully validate these findings.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Kindles digestive fire
- Astringent
Classical clinical indications
- Digestive support
- Loss of appetite