Helicteres

(East Indian Screw Tree)
Sanskrit: मरोड़फली Botanical: Helicteres isora Linn.

Helicteres isora or Marorphali is a small tree with characteristic spirally twisted fruits. The twisted pod shape is very distinctive. The fruits, bark, and root are used medicinally. It is described as astringent, bitter, light, dry, and cold in potency. It is primarily used as an anti-diarrheal (Grahi) and for intestinal worms. Also useful in colic and abdominal disorders. Verse ref: page 437.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Tannins, mucilage, diosgenin
Also Known As
English: East Indian Screw Tree
Sanskrit: मरोड़फली, आवर्तफली
Hindi: मरोड़फली

What is Helicteres (Marorphali / मरोड़फली)?

Helicteres isora or Marorphali is a small tree with characteristic spirally twisted fruits. The twisted pod shape is very distinctive. The fruits, bark, and root are used medicinally. It is described as astringent, bitter, light, dry, and cold in potency. It is primarily used as an anti-diarrheal (Grahi) and for intestinal worms. Also useful in colic and abdominal disorders. Verse ref: page 437.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Grahi (absorbent/anti-diarrheal)
  • Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Helicteres by Condition

Explore how Helicteres is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.