Indian Balmony

Fifty species of mostly annuals and perennials belong to this genus, which occurs in montane regions of N America, Eurasia, and Africa. About half a dozen species, mainly of Indian annuals, were listed in 19th-century gardening manuals, but few are seen today outside botanical gardens. Chirata or chiretta is the common name for bitter, gentian-like plants sold in Indian bazaars. Swertia chirata reached Great Britain in 1829 as was listed in the Edinburgh Pharmacopoeia in 1839. It has an interesting chemistry, containing alkaloids and iridoids similar to those of Gentiana lutea (See, Yellow Gentian), and xanthones that are reputedly effective agains malaria and tuberculosis. The iridoid amarogentin appears to protect the liver against carbon tetrachloride poisoning. Bitter compounds are also found in other species; S. japonica is cultivated in China as a source of bitterness agents. Green chiretta, a fever remedy, is obtained from the unrelated Andrographis paniculata (See, Kariyat).

Robust, erect annual with pointed, conspicuously veined, broadly lanceolate leaves, to 10cm (4in) long. Pale green, purple-striped, 4-lobed flowers, about 1cm (½in) across, are produced in leafy panicles in autumn, followed by 2-valved capsules.


Common Name:
Indian Balmony
Other Names:
Chiretta, Brown Chirata
Botanical Name:
Swertia chirata syn. Ophelia chirata
Genus:
Swertia
Family:
Gentianaceae
Native Location:
Himalayas (Kashmir, Bhutan, and Khasi Hills)
Cultivation:
Moist, well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.
Propagation:
By seed sown in autumn or spring.
Harvest:
Plants are cut toward the end of flowering and dried for use in infusions, liquid extracts, and powder.
Height:
1.5m (5ft)
Width:
60cm (2ft)
Hardiness:
Z4-9
Parts Used:
Whole plant
Properties:
An extremely bitter, tonic herb that lowers fever and improves digestion.
Medicinal Uses:
Internally for liver and gall bladder complaints, dyspepsia, constipation, malaria, hiccups, and convalescent debility.
Bibliography:
The Encyclopedia or Herbs by Deni Bown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pg. 377