Chiraita – चिरायता

Chirata is a popular ayurvedic herb that is chiefly found growing in the sub-temperate regions of the Himalayas ranging from India to Bhutan. Known for its characteristic bitter taste, it goes by the scientific name Swertia chirata. It usually has a height of 3-4 feet and has greenish-yellow flowers with a purplish tinge.

Chirata is used for fever, constipation, upset stomach, loss of appetite, intestinal worms, skin diseases, and cancer. Some people use it as “a bitter tonic.”