Scientific Name
Swertia ciliata (D. Don ex G. Don) B. L. Burtt
Synonyms
Swertia purpurascens Wall.
Family
Gentianaceae
Local Name
Chirayata
Habit Habitat
An annual erect herb, up to 20-100cm tall, found in temperate and
sub-alpine zones.
sub-alpine zones.
Taxonomic Features
Stem branched, quadrangular. Leaves simple, linear-lanceolate, acute, 2-6cm long, 1.5-2.5cm broad. Inflorescence paniculate, many flowered. Flower actinomorphic. Calyx lobes, ovate-acute. Corolla pale blue. Petals-5, reflexed, with a purplish ring at the base. Fruit a capsule, 6-15mm. Seed rounded, finely warted.
Flowering Fruiting
July-November
Harvesting Time
August-November
Medicinal Value
Locally it is used as antibiotic, blood purifier, bitter tonic and intestinal worm killer.
Parts Used
Whole plant
Future Prospective
Collection, Drying, Packing, Herbal Pharmacy.
Plant Images
Swertia ciliata (D. Don ex G. Don) B. L. Burtt