HERBAL GARDEN
Pithani
Classification
Synoyms
Pithani, Pitana, Gathila, Vanya Gokshura (regional), Chirchira
Habit
A small, spreading or erect herb or undershrub, growing up to 60–100 cm in height; annual or perennial depending on region.
Habitat
Commonly found throughout India in dry grasslands, roadsides, and cultivated fields. It grows well in tropical and subtropical climates, especially in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu.
Morphology
- Stem: Slender, branched, cylindrical, somewhat woody at the base, with fine hairs.
-
Leaves: Alternate, long, narrow, oblong or lanceolate; simple with short petiole and small stipules.
-
Flowers: Small, pink to purple, arranged in terminal or axillary spikes.
-
Fruits: Small pods (1–3 cm long), cylindrical, slightly curved, with constrictions between seeds.
-
Seeds: Oval, brown, and small.
- Root: Thin and fibrous.
Chemical Composition
Contains flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and glycosides.
Major reported constituents include:
β-sitosterol,
Kaempferol,
Quercetin derivatives,
Terpenoids,
Amino acids and carbohydrates
These compounds contribute to its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antimicrobial activities.
Guna-Karma
Rasa- Kashaya , Tikta
Guna- Laghu, Ruksha
Virya- Sheeta
Vipaka- Katu
Karma- Mutrala,
Shothahara, Raktashodhaka,
Jvaraghna,
Krimighna,
Vranashodhaka,
Tridoshahara
Doshakarma- Balances Pitta and Kapha doshas.
Medicinal uses
Useful in urinary disorders (Mutrakricchra) and burning micturition
Used in fever, skin diseases, and blood disorders
Effective in inflammatory conditions and rheumatic pain
Root decoction is used as a diuretic and febrifuge
Paste applied externally to heal ulcers, boils, and wounds
Traditionally used as cooling and detoxifying agent
Useful Part
Whole Plant, Root
Doses
Powder (Churna): 3–6 g
Decoction (Kwatha): 20–50 ml
Paste (Kalka): External application on wounds or inflammation
Important Formulation
Pithani Kwatha
Pithani Churna
Used in some Mutrala and Shothahara yoga (compound diuretic formulations)
Local decoctions for urinary and skin disorders
Shloka
पिथनी तिक्तका शीतला रक्तपित्तविनाशिनी।
मूत्रकृच्छ्रहराऽश्लेष्मा शोथज्वरनिवारिणी
Hindi Name
Pithani, Gathila, Chirchira, Jhunjhuni
English Name
Long-leaved Alysicarpus, Moneywort
Botanical Name
Alysicarpus longifolius (Rottl. ex Spreng.) W. & A.
Family
Fabaceae (Leguminosae)