• Name: Chiretta
• Scientific Name: Swertia chirayita

Description:

Found in abundance in the foothills of the Himalayas, Chiretta is a medicinal plant extensively indexed in Indian, British and American pharmacopeia. The herb is used in Ayurvedic medicine as an appetite stimulant and to aid digestion. It is also used to expel stomach worms and stop vomiting. The herb is an effective remedy for diabetes.

The plant serves as a bitter tonic, possessing two main bitter constituents: ophelic acid and chiratin, which stimulate gastric juices and bile secretion. Ophelic acid and chiratin have a positive impact on liver function and help normalize blood sugar (Source: http://www.chinese-herbs.org/chiretta).

Uses:

• The herb stimulates the immune system and helps the body fight infections.
• Chiretta is helpful in treating gastrointestinal ailments, like food poisoning, diarrhea and gastroenteritis.
• The bitter constituents of the herb work together to lower blood sugar.