Shunthi
Zingiber officinale Roscoe.
| Section/Chapter | Herb database/Shunthi |
|---|---|
| Botanical name(s) | Zingiber officinale Roscoe |
| Family | Zingiberaceae |
| Availability | Available |
| Contributors | Dravyaguna Team |
| Year of publication | 2026 |
| Publisher | Charak Samhita Research, Training and Skill Development Centre |
| DOI | Awaited |
English name
Ginger
Botanical Identity
Shunthi, the dried rhizome of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Family: Zingiberaceae), stands as a cornerstone phytopharmaceutical in traditional systems of medicine—particularly Ayurveda—while simultaneously maintaining a robust profile in modern evidence-based pharmacology. Locally referred to as Sonth or dry ginger, its processing from fresh ginger (Ardraka) chemically transforms its active volatile and non-volatile profiles, resulting in a distinct therapeutic matrix that exhibits high bioavailability and pronounced efficacy across multiple physiological systems.
- Botanical Name: Zingiber officinale Roscoe
- Family: Zingiberaceae
- Part Used: Dried Rhizome
- Vernacular Names: Shunthi (Sanskrit), Sonth (Hindi), Dry Ginger (English), Shukku (Tamil)
Ayurvedic Pharmacodynamics (Dravyaguna Profile)
In classical Ayurvedic pharmacology, the dehydration of ginger alters its fundamental properties. Unlike fresh ginger, which carries a sharp, drying post-digestive profile, Shunthi undergoes a metabolic transformation that yields a sweet post-digestive effect (Madhura Vipaka), rendering it far more tolerable for long-term therapeutic application without aggravating Pitta dosha excessively.
Therapeutic Use
Agnimandya, Bronchial asthma (swasa), Abdominal distension (adhmana), Rheumatoid arthritis (amavata), Anaemia (pandu), Abdominal disorders (udararoga)
Varieties
Bhavaprakash Nighantu[1]
- Raktabha
- Shweta
Synonyms in Charak Samhita
Shunthi, Nagara, Shrungavera, Vishwa-bheshajam, Mahaushadha, Ardraka, Vishwa.
Synonyms in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu[2]
Shunthi, Vishva, Vishv, Nagar, Vishvabheshaja, Ushana, Katubhadra, Shringavera, Mahoshadha,
Ayurvedic pharmacological properties
| Sr.no. | Pharmacological criteria | Properties | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Taste (rasa) | Pungent (katu) | Stimulates gustatory receptors, secretes salivary and gastric enzymes. |
| 2 | Potency (veerya) | Hot (ushna) | Enhances metabolic rate (Agni) and clears systemic micro-channels (Srotas) |
| 3 | Post digestion effect (vipaka) | Aardrak (Ginger) - Pungent (katu)
Shunthi (Dry Ginger) - Sweet (madhura) |
Imparts nourishing, tissue-protective, and rejuvenative (Rasayana) long-term effects. |
| 4 | Qualities (guna) | Aardrak (Ginger) - Heavy (guru), dryness (ruksha), Sharp (tikshna)
Shunthi (Dry Ginger)- Easy to digest (laghu), unctuous (snigdha) |
Ginger counteracts the coldness of Kapha, Dry ginger acts on dryness of Vata dosha |
| 5 | Actions (karma) | Pacify Vata and Kapha | Useful in indigestion, swellings, stiffness |
| 6 | Prabhava (Special Action) | Amavataghni / Grahi | Specifically targets rheumatoid conditions; acts as a bowel-binding bio-absorbent. |
Reference in Charak Samhita and its actions
| Sr.no. | Reference in Charak Samhita | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 2/5 | Shirovirechana (Errhine therapy) |
| 2 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 2/18 | Deepaniya and Shulaghni yavagu(gruel for enhancing digestion and colic pain) |
| 3 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 2/21 | Raktatisara yavagu(gruel used in diarrhea with blood) |
| 4 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 2/22 | Amatisara yavagu(gruel for diarrhea with indigestion) |
| 5 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 2/24 | Pipasaghni yavagu(gruel for excess thirst) |
| 6 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(6) | Deepaniya (appetizer) mahakashaya |
| 7 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(11) | Truptighna(anti-satiety) mahakashaya |
| 8 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(12) | Arshoghna(anti-haemorrhoidal) mahakashaya |
| 9 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(18) | Stanyashodhana(galactodepurent) mahakashaya |
| 10 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(29) | Trishna nigrahana(thirst alleviating) mahakashay |
| 11 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(42) | Sheetaprashamana(pacifying cold sensation) mahakashaya |
| 12 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 4/9(45) | Shoolaprashamana(pacifying pain) mahakashaya |
| 13 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana24/49 | Sanyas Chikitsa- to regain consciousness |
| 14 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 25/38 | Hitatam ahardravya(wholesome food articles) -ginger among all rhizomes and roots. |
| 15 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 27/4 | All substances with pungent taste, except long pepper and ginger, are vata stimulants and aphrodisiacs. |
| 16 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 27/166 | One of the drug from Harita Varga (green herbs) |
| 17 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 27/166 | One of the drug from Harita Varga (green herbs) |
| 18 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 27/256 | One of the drug from Krutanna Varga (cooked food preparations) |
| 19 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 27/296 | One of the drug from Krutanna Varga (cooked food preparations) |
| 20 | Cha.Sa.Sutra Sthana 26/51 | Rasapvada (exception in pungent (katu) rasa. |
| 21 | Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 6/17 | Abhyantar Krimi Chikitsa (treatment of internal worms). |
| 22 | Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 6/18 | Abhyantar Krimi Chikitsa (treatment of internal worms). |
| 23 | Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 8/135 | Vaman dravyani (As a drug for therapeutic emesis) |
| 24 | Cha.Sa.Vimana Sthana 8/142 | Katuskandha (group of pungent drugs) |
| 25 | Cha.Sa.Sharira Sthana 8/56 | Kshira vishodhan dravya (ingredient of galactodepurant gana) |
| 26 | Cha.Sa.Sharira Sthana 8/34 | Garbhasya pratimasik karma |
| 27 | Cha.Sa.Sharira Sthana 8/41 | Prajata stree paricharya |
| 28 | Cha.Sa.Sharira Sthana 8/48 | Nadi kalpana |
| 29 | Cha.Sa.Kalpa Sthana 1/22 | Vamanartha (for therapeutic emesis) |
| 30 | Cha.Sa.Kalpa Sthana 7/16 | Preparation of Trivrut |
| 31 | Cha.Sa.Kalpa Sthana 7/29 | Preparation of Trivrit Avaleha |
| 32 | Cha.Sa.Kalpa Sthana 7/54 | Varshakalin Trivrrita Yoga |
| 33 | Cha.Sa.Kalpa Sthana 12/23 | Churna Yoga |
| 34 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 1/1/25 | Body purification before rasayana treatment |
| 35 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/145 | When patient is suffering with thirst (pipasa) in fever (Jwara) as an ingredient of Shadangapaniya.
Used as shrutasheetajala as it is Pipasajwarshantaye. Used as shrutasheetajala as it is Pipasajwarshantaye. |
| 36 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/179 | Used as lajapeya with Pippali where agnimandya but kshudha is present. |
| 37 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/180 | Who has desire to eat sour given with Dadima. |
| 38 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/183 | Used as peya with amla in Jwaraatisara. |
| 39 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/186 | Used as peya where jwara(fever) is associated with Constipation(vibandha) & Kostha shoola. |
| 40 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/188 | Used as peya with Ghrita and Sarkara where jwara is associated with Anindra(insomia), Trushna(thirst) & asweda. |
| 41 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/198 | Used as kwath or sheeta kashaya for trushna, deepana, doshapachana, jwar,aruchi and mukhavairasya. |
| 42 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/202 | Used in Trutiyaka jwara. |
| 43 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/210 | Used in Sannipata jwara. |
| 44 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/211 | As an ingredient of shatyadi varga used in kasa, svasa, tandra,parshvashoola, hrdgraha and sannipata jwara. |
| 45 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/223 | As an ingredient of Vasadi Ghrita. |
| 46 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/236 | Used as ksheerpaka in varch-mutra vibandha and sopha. |
| 47 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/237 | Used as ksheerapaka in pipasa ans jwara. |
| 48 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/250 | As an ingredient of Jivantyadi anuvasana basti. |
| 49 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 3/267 | As an ingredient of Agurvadi taila. |
| 50 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/65 | Ingredient in Trayushanaadi ghrit |
| 51 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/69 | Ingredient of Hingusauvarchaladya ghrit |
| 52 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/71 | Ingredient of Hapushadya ghrit |
| 53 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/74 | Ingredient of Pippalyadya ghrit |
| 54 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/79 | Ingredient of Hingvadi churna |
| 55 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/91 | Ingredient of Nagaradi Yoga |
| 56 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/142 | Ingredient of Dashamuli Ghrit |
| 57 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/144 | Ingredient in Bhallatakadya Ghrit for Kaphaj Gulma |
| 58 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/147 | Ingredient in Kshir Shatpal Ghrit |
| 59 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/156 | Ingredient of Danti- Haritaki |
| 60 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 5/164 | Pathya Diet in Gulma |
| 61 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/61 | Ingredient in Kushthaghna Yog |
| 62 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/62 | Ingredient in Patoladi Kwath |
| 63 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthanaa 7/65 | Ingredient in Mustadi Churna |
| 64 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/77 | Ingredient in Kanakabindurisht |
| 65 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/85 | Bahyaprayogarth lepa in mandal Kushth |
| 66 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/109 | Ingredient in Tiktekshvadi Taila for Abhyang in Vata-Kaphaj Kushth |
| 67 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 7/113 | Ingredient in Kanakakshiri Tail |
| 68 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 9/34 | Ingredient in Hingvadi Ghrit |
| 69 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 9/49 | Ingredient in Lasunadya Ghrit |
| 70 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 9/53 | Ingredient in Apara lasunadya Ghrit |
| 71 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 9/54 | Ingredient in Apara lasunadya Ghrit |
| 72 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 9/65 | Used as Nashya and Anjan prayogarth |
| 73 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 9/70 | Ingredient in Siddharthakadi Agad |
| 74 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 10/20 | Ingredient in Mahapanchagavya Ghrit |
| 75 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 10/43 | As a Nasya dravya |
| 76 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 10/46 | Ingredient in Kayasthadi varti |
| 77 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 10/48 | Ingredient in Mustadi varti |
| 78 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 11/35 | Ingredient in Amrutprash Ghrit |
| 79 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 11/67 | Ingredient in Chaturtha Sarpigud |
| 80 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 11/85 | Ingredient in Saindhavadi Churna |
| 81 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 11/89 | Ingredient in Shadav |
| 82 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthanaa 11/92 | As a Vardhaman Rasayan Prayog |
| 83 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/21 | In treatment of Kaphaj Svayathu |
| 84 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/22 | In treatment of Kaphaj Svayathu |
| 85 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/23 | In treatment of Vataj Svayathu |
| 86 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/23 | In treatment of Vataj Svayathu |
| 87 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/24 | In treatment of Vataj Svayathu |
| 88 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/25 | In treatment of Vataj Svayathu |
| 89 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/25 | In treatment of Vataj Svayathu |
| 90 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/27 | For bhinna varch in treatment of Vataj Svayathu |
| 91 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/27 | For vibaddha varch in treatment of Vataj Svayathu |
| 92 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/29 | Ingredient in Gandiradhyarisht |
| 93 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/41 | Ingredient in Krishnadi Churna |
| 94 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/42 | Ingredient in Krishnadi Churna |
| 95 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/42 | Ingredient in Krishnadi Churna |
| 96 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/43 | Ingredient in Kshar Gudika |
| 97 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/47 | Ingredient in Gudadrak prayog |
| 98 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/47 | Ingredient in Gudadrak prayog |
| 99 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/50 | Ingredient in Kansaharitaki Avaleh |
| 100 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/55 | Ingredient in Chitrakadi Ghrit |
| 101 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/62 | As a Pathya Diet In treatment of Shvayathu |
| 102 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/70 | As a Snan dravya in Kaphaj Shvayathu |
| 103 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 12/73 | As an Unmardan dravya in Kaphaj Shvayathu |
| 104 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/79, 13/80 | In treatment of plihodara |
| 105 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/84 | In formulation of rohitaka ghrit |
| 106 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/102 | In treatment of sannipatodara |
| 107 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/103 | In treatment of kaphodara(takraprayoga) |
| 108 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/104 | In treatment of pleehodara(takraprayoga) |
| 109 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/105 | In treatment of dakodara (takraprayoga) |
| 110 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/110 | In treatment of udararoga (for parisheka) |
| 111 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/112 | In formulation of panchkola ghrit |
| 112 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/115 | As an ingredient of nagaradi ghrit |
| 113 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/122 | After virechana (balvruddhi arthe) mixed with dugdha. |
| 114 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/126 | As an ingredient of narayan churna |
| 115 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/137 | As an ingredient of nilinadya churna |
| 116 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/142 | Used in sunthi sadhita jala after virechana by snuhisadhit ghrit |
| 117 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/148 | Kalka used in udara roga with ksheer |
| 118 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/163 | As an ingredient of kshara vatika |
| 119 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 13/153 | Aadraka swarasa with godugdha |
| 120 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/62 | As an ingredient of traushnadi churna |
| 121 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/68 | Sunthi churna with sidhu used in arsha roga |
| 122 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/70 | Sunthi and bilva churna are given with yavani and chitraka kashaya |
| 123 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/71 | Palncakola churna is given with takra |
| 124 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/89 | Used in peya, khada yusha, ghrit, siddhant jala |
| 125 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/92 | Used in yavagu |
| 126 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/97 | It removes constipation with matsyandika or amlaphala rasa or guda |
| 127 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/99 | Used for Anuloman |
| 128 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/103 | Use with phanita and goghrit |
| 129 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/104 | As an ingredient of pippalyadi ghrit |
| 130 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/107 | As an ingredient of cavyadighrit |
| 131 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/110 | As an ingredient of nagaradya ghrit |
| 132 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/129 | Used as anupan in arsha |
| 133 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/153 | As an ingredient of dvitiya phalarista |
| 134 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/186 | Mixed with kutajtwak kwath it stops bleeding from arsha |
| 135 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/195 | Used in rakta arsha shoola |
| 136 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/231 | As an ingredient of hriberadi ghrit |
| 137 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 14/234 | As an ingredient of sunishanak changeri ghrit |
| 138 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/76 | Panchakola sadhit peya and Anna is given in Amaja grahani roga |
| 139 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/82 | As an ingredient of dashmuladya ghrit |
| 140 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/87 | As an ingredient of traushnaadi ghrit |
| 141 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/88 | As an ingredient of pancamuladhya ghrit evum churna |
| 142 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/96 | As an ingredient of citrakadhya gutika |
| 143 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/98 | Kalka and churna is used for aam pachana(with usnodaka) |
| 144 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/99 |
Churna of this drug with combination of vaca,musta, etc. is given in aam and shoola yukta mala |
| 145 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/103 |
Used in condition of shoola in kaphapittaja grahani |
| 146 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/105 |
Used in kaphapittaja grahani |
| 147 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/106 |
Agnivruddhiartha and for alleviating koshtha gata vayu in grahaniroga |
| 148 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/112 |
Used as an yavagu |
| 149 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/129 |
ingredient of yavagu |
| 150 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/132 |
As an ingredient of Nagaradya churna |
| 151 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/137 |
This drug is used in treatment of pittajagrahani as an ingredient of Bhunimbadya churna |
| 152 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/142 |
As an ingredient of Kiratadya churna (Pittaja Grahani chiktsa) |
| 153 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/168 |
Used as peya padartha in Kaphaja grahani |
| 154 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/171 |
Used in treatment of Kaphaja grahani |
| 155 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/177 |
As an ingredient of Pipallimuladya Kshara |
| 156 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/189 |
As an ingredient of Bhallataka Kshara |
| 157 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 15/89 |
As an ingredient of pancamuladya ghrita evum churna |
| 158 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/44 | As an ingredient of Dadimadi Ghrit |
| 159 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/66 | Used in Swarnakshiradi yoga |
| 160 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/72 | As in ingredient of mandur bhasma prayoga |
| 161 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/87 | As in ingredient of Shilajatu Vataka |
| 162 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/100 | As in ingredient of Dhatryavleha |
| 163 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/129 | Used as Pathya in Shakhashrit Kamla |
| 164 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/44 | As an ingredient of Dadimadi Ghrit |
| 165 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/66 | Used in Swarnakshiradi yoga |
| 166 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/72 | As in ingredient of mandur bhasma prayoga |
| 167 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/87 | As in ingredient of Shilajatu Vataka |
| 168 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/100 | As in ingredient of Dhatryavleha |
| 169 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 16/129 | Used as Pathya in Shakhashrit Kamla |
| 170 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/97 | Used in yusha preparation for hikka svasa |
| 171 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/100 | Used in yusha preparation for hikka svasa |
| 172 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/102 | Used in yavagu preparation for hikka svasa |
| 173 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/104 | Used as annapana for hikka svasa |
| 174 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/109 | As an ingredient of sauvarchaladi churna |
| 175 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/110 | Kalka is used in hikka svasa |
| 176 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/111 | Used in preparation of Utkarika. |
| 177 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/123 | As an ingredient of shatyadi churna. |
| 178 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/130 | Churna mixed with guda is used for prashana and nasya |
| 179 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 17/136 | Used as lehya. |
| 180 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/112 | Use as an ingredient of kataphaladi kwath. |
| 181 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/114 | Use as an ingredient of pathadi kalka. |
| 182 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/36 | As a ghrita dravya |
| 183 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/47 | As a yoga dravya |
| 184 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/49 |
As a yoga dravya |
| 185 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/63 |
As a yoga dravya |
| 186 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/74 |
As an ingredient of dhumapan yoga. |
| 187 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/77 | As an ingredient of peya yoga. |
| 188 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/99 | Use in treatment of pittaj kasa. |
| 189 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/106 | As an ingredient of sarkaradi yoga. |
| 190 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/115 | As an ingredient of nagaradi yoga. |
| 191 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/118 | As an ingredient of yoga which use in vataanubandhi kapha. |
| 192 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/122 | Use in vataj and kaphaj kasa. |
| 193 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/146 | As an ingredient of manahsiladi dhoom. |
| 194 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/159 | As an ingredient of dwipanchamuladi ghrita. |
| 195 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/161 | As an ingredient of guduchyadi ghrita. |
| 196 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/163 | As an ingredient of kasamaryadi ghrita. |
| 197 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/87 | As a yoga dravya in treatmen of pittaj kasa |
| 198 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 18/120 | As a yoga dravya. |
| 199 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/20 |
As a pramthya dravya |
| 200 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/26 | As a Ingridient of dipaniya and sangrahi gana |
| 201 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/37 | As a prakshep dravya |
| 202 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/40 | As a yoga dravya in treatment of purisha kshaya. |
| 203 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/43 | As an ingredient of changeri ghrita |
| 204 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/53 | As a yoga dravya in pittaj atisara. |
| 205 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/54 | As a yoga dravya in pittaj atisara. |
| 206 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/107 | As a yoga dravya in ajajyadi churna. |
| 207 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/108 | As a yoga dravya in rasanjanadi churna. |
| 208 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/109 | As a yoga dravya. |
| 209 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/110 | As a yoga dravya. |
| 210 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/111 | As a yoga dravya |
| 211 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/54 | As a yoga dravya in treatment of pittaj atisara |
| 212 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/22 | As a amapachak dravya |
| 213 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/80 | As a ingredient of darvyadi ghrita . |
| 214 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/104 | As a kwath dravya |
| 215 |
Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 19/114 |
As a yoga dravya |
| 216 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 21/58 | For kashaya pana. |
| 217 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/189 | Used in the treatment of Kapha pradhana visha, as a pratisarana prayoga. |
| 218 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/205 | Used in the treatment of Mushika visha. |
| 219 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 23/209 | Used in the treatment of vrushchika visha. |
| 220 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/13 | Used to make Udavarta varti. |
| 221 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/22 | As an ingredient of 2nd Dviruttarahingvadi churna. |
| 222 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/55 | As an ingredient of Vyoshadi churn used in Kaphaja mutrakruchhra. |
| 223 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/60 | As an ingredient of Pashanbhedadi churna. |
| 224 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/83 | As an ingredient of Haritakyadi Ghrita. |
| 225 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/84 | Used in Vataja Hrudroga. |
| 226 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/85 | As an ingredient of Pushkarmuladi yoga. |
| 227 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/87 | As an ingredient of Trushanadi Ghrita. |
| 228 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/94 | As an ingredient of Kasherukadi Ghrita. |
| 229 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/97 | As an ingredient of Katphaladi kashaya used in kaphaja hrudroga. |
| 230 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/97 | Used in kaphaja hrudroga. |
| 231 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/98 | As an ingredient of Udumbaravleha. |
| 232 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/144 | Used as shruta paya in kaphaja pratishyaya. |
| 233 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/150 | Used in Kaphaja Pratishyaya. |
| 234 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/152 | Used in Kaphaja Pratishyaya for pradhamana. |
| 235 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/156 | Pathya anna in kaphaja pratishyaya. |
| 236 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/186 | Used in Kaphaja Siroroga for Avapeeda nasya. |
| 237 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/192 | As an ingredient of Kshara gutika. |
| 238 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/194 | As an ingredient of Kalak churna. |
| 239 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/198 | As an ingredient of Mrudvikadi churna. |
| 240 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/217 | Used in Kavala in Arochaka. |
| 241 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/222 | Used in Hingvadi taila in Karnapoorana. |
| 242 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/223 | Used in Devadarvyadi taila in Karnashoola. |
| 243 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/226 | As an ingredient of Kshara taila. |
| 244 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/232 | Used in Vataja netra roga. |
| 245 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/239 | Used in Kaphaja netra roga for Aaschotana karma. |
| 246 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/242 | As an ingredient of Saindhavadi varti. |
| 247 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/252 | As an ingredient of Sukhavati varti. |
| 248 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 26/287 | Used in Kaphaja swarbheda. |
| 249 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 27/45 | As an ingredient of Saindhavadi Taila |
| 250 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 27/47 | As an ingredient of Ashtakatvar Taila |
| 251 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 27/52 | As an ingredient of Tarkaryadi Parisechana |
| 252 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 28/122 | As an ingredient of Chitrakadi ghrita. |
| 253 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 28/137 | As an ingredient of Mulaka taila. |
| 254 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 28/168 | As an ingredient of Mulakadhya taila. |
| 255 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 28/172 | As an ingredient of Mulaka taila. |
| 256 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 28/147 | As an ingredient of Shvdamstra taila. |
| 257 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 30/89 | Used in the treatment of Vataja Asrigdara. |
| 258 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 30/261 | As a paniya yoga, in the treatment of Stanya dosha. |
| 259 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 30/266 | Used in the treatment of Phena sanghat. |
| 260 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 30/266 | Used in the treatment of Phena sanghat, As an ingredient of Anjanadi lepa. |
| 261 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 30/277 | Used in the treatment of Pichhila stanya. |
| 262 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 30/280 | Used in the treatment of Gaurava stanya dosha, as an ingredient of Pippalyadi kwatha. |
| 263 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 30/92 | As an ingredient of Pushyanuga churna. |
| 264 | Cha.Sa.Chikitsa Sthana 30/267 | Used in the treatment of Phena sanghat, As an ingredient of Kiratatiktadi kwatha. |
Dose[3]
- Churna – 1 – 2 gm
Important formulations[4]
- Saubhagya Shunthi
- Saubhagya Vati
- Trikatu Churna
- Vaishvanara Churna
Current availability
Available
- In India –
Kerala, Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Karnataka, Odisha, West bengal
- Out of India –
China, Nigeria, Indonesia, Thailand, Jamaica, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Nepal, Vietnam, Philippines
Current researches
Phytochemical Architecture
The processing of fresh ginger into Shunthi significantly shifts its chemical composition. The primary thermogenic and bioactive markers are phenolic compounds and volatile oils[5]:
- Gingerols ([6]-, [8]-, and [10]-gingerol): The primary pungent fluid components dominant in fresh ginger.
- Shogaols ([6]-, [8]-, and [10]-shogaol): Formed via the thermal dehydration of gingerols during the drying process. [6]-shogaol exhibits up to twice the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potency of its precursor, making Shunthi pharmacologically distinct from fresh ginger.[6]
- Zingerone & Paradols: Secondary degradation products that contribute significantly to free-radical scavenging.
- Volatile Oils (Sesquiterpenes): Comprising α-zingiberene, β-sesquiphellandrene, and ar-curcumene, responsible for its distinct aromatic properties.
Modern Pharmacological Validation & Therapeutic Efficacy
A. Gastrointestinal Efficacy (Deepana, Pachana, & Anulomana)
Shunthi acts as a potent prokinetic and antiemetic agent via central and peripheral mechanisms.
- Antiemetic & Nausea Regulation: Clinical meta-analyses validate that oral doses ranging from 500 mg to 1,500 mg daily significantly reduce pregnancy-associated nausea and vomiting (NVP) as well as chemotherapy-induced emesis. The mechanism is mediated via the competitive antagonism of peripheral 5-HT3 receptors and cholinergic M3 receptors in the gastrointestinal tract.[7]
- Gastroprotective and Prokinetic Action: Shunthi accelerates gastric emptying and stimulates gastric acid, bile, and pancreatic enzyme secretion, effectively resolving functional dyspepsia, abdominal bloating, and colicky pain.
B. Anti-Inflammatory & Analgesic Efficacy (Amavataghni)
In conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis (Amavata) and Osteoarthritis, Shunthi acts as a natural dual-inhibitor of inflammatory cascades.
- Biochemical Mechanism: The active fractions ([6]-shogaol and [6]-gingerol) suppress the activation of Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-κB). This leads to down-regulation of COX-2 (Cyclooxygenase-2) and LOX (Lipoxygenase) pathways, preventing the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins (PGE2) and leukotrienes.[8]
Unlike conventional Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), Shunthi exerts these anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive actions without compromising the gastric mucosa, due to its concurrent cytoprotective mucin-stimulating properties.
C. Cardio-Metabolic and Vascular Regulation (Hrudya)
Recent clinical and animal trials demonstrate that Shunthi exerts a multi-target protective effect on the cardiovascular and metabolic systems[9]:
- Calcium Channel Blockade: Shunthi extracts display calcium (Ca2+) channel-blocking activity, shifting Ca2+ dose-response curves to relax vascular smooth muscles. This results in vasodilation and a systemic reduction in blood pressure.
- PPARα Agonism: It activates Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor alpha (PPARα), enhancing fatty acid oxidation in myocytes, thereby attenuating myocardial hypertrophy and reducing risks of atherosclerosis.
- Glycemic Control: Meta-analyses show that daily supplementation significantly lowers HbA1c and fasting blood glucose in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients by improving insulin sensitivity and up-regulating GLUT4 transporters.[9]
[6]-Shogaol / [6]-Gingerol (Active Constituents)
│
┌────────────────┴────────────────┐
▼ ▼
Inhibition of NF-κB Ca²⁺ Channel Blockade
│ │
▼ ▼
↓ COX-2 & LOX Pathways Vasodilation of
(↓ CRP, ↓ TNF-α, ↓ PGE₂) Vascular Smooth Muscle
│ │
▼ ▼
Clinical: Alleviation of Clinical: Reduction of
Arthritis & Joint Pain Systemic Blood Pressure
Clinical Safety, Dosage, and Contraindications
Shunthi enjoys a wide therapeutic index and is designated as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by global regulatory bodies. However, its high thermal potency warrants structured clinical application.
- Standard Therapeutic Dosage:
- Churna (Crude Powder): 1 - 3 g per day in divided doses.[10]
- Extract: 250 - 500 mg two to three times daily.
- Adverse Effects: Excessive consumption on an empty stomach may occasionally cause mild heartburn, eructation, or gastric irritation in highly sensitive Pitta-dominant individuals.
- Drug Interactions: Due to its mild anti-platelet and calcium-channel-blocking properties, cautious monitoring is recommended when co-administered with high-dose synthetic anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) or prescription antihypertensives.
- Contraindications: Acute peptic ulceration, active GI bleeding, and inflammatory dermatological conditions characterized by extreme Pitta vitiation.
References
- ↑ Prof. K.C.Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint.2015, Chaukhambha vishvabharti, Haritakyadi Varga, p.13.
- ↑ Prof. K.C.Chunekar, Bhavprakasha Nighantu, Reprint.2015, Chaukhambha vishvabharti, Haritakyadi Varga, verse no. 44, p.13.
- ↑ Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I:65.
- ↑ Anonymous. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Department of Ayush, Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Govt. of India, New Delhi, Part I. 1986; Volume I:65.
- ↑ Unuofin, J. O., et al. (2021). Phytochemical structures and therapeutic potentials of Zingiber officinale compounds. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 273, 113997.
- ↑ Schepici, G., et al. (2021). The anti-inflammatory potential of ginger and its constituents in neurodegenerative and arthritic diseases. Molecules, 26(18), 5642.
- ↑ Ernst, E., & Pittler, M. H. (2000). Efficacy of ginger for nausea and vomiting: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials. British Journal of Anaesthesia, 84(3), 367-371.
- ↑ Jalali, M., et al. (2020). The effects of ginger supplementation on biomarkers of oxidative stress: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clinical Nutrition, 39(12), 3598-3606.
- ↑ 9.0 9.1 Wang, J., et al. (2017). Beneficial effects of ginger on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolic Syndrome: A systems-level overview. Phytomedicine, 34, 184-198.
- ↑ Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API). Zingiber officinale Rosc. - Rhizome Monograph. Part-I, Volume I, Government of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.