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Swertia chirayita
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The plant contains "Chiratin," a bitter-tasting chemical used to treat stomach-aches, constipation, and excess urination; to eliminate parasites; and to prevent or treat malaria.
Chiraito falls under the IUCN threat category "vulnerable plant". Over-harvesting and improper and unscientific collection of S. chirayita has been taking place in Nepal for commercialization. It has contributed to rapid depletion of S. chirayita from natural habitats. [[Forest Rule 1995]] forbids both collection and trade of chiraito from May to September.
Practices for cultivation of Chiraito are recently initiated within community forest and marginal land of eastern hilly districts of Nepal.
Other Species Occurring in Nepal
Swertia angustifolia Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don
Swertia tetragona Edgew
Swertia racemosa (Griseb.) C.B. Clarke
Swertia ciliata (D.Don ex G. Don) B.L. Burtt
Swertia dilatata C.B. Clarke
Swertia multicaulis D.Don
Swertia alata (Royale ex D. Don) C.B. Clarke
Swertia nervosa (G.Don) C.B. Clarke
Local Name
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Chiraito
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English Name
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Felworts
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Family
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Gentianaceae
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Scientific Name
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Swertia chirayita
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Habit
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Herb
up to 1 m height
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Flowering Period
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Fruiting Period
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Habitat
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Broad Leaf Forest in Eastern Hills of Nepal
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Occurrence in
Nepal
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Estern Hills, Tropical and Sub tropical regions
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Use
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Used to treat stomach-aches, constipation, and excess urination; to eliminate parasites; and to prevent or treat malaria
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Swertia Chirataalso known as Swertia Chirayita is known by a variety of names such as Anaryatikta, Bhunimbaa, Chiratitka, Kiraatatikta in Sanskrit, Chiretta in Hindi. Swertia Chirata is a bitter tonic. It works as laxative and as an appetizer because it stimulates the release of bile. Swertia Chirata also corrects the disordered process of nutrition and restores the normal function of the system.
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