Prishnaparni

(Prishnaparni)
Sanskrit: पृश्नपर्णी • Botanical: Uraria picta Desv.

Prishnaparni (Uraria picta), also known as Pithvan, is a member of the Laghu Panchamula (five smaller root drugs of Dashamula). It is an erect herb found in the forests of India. The leaves are spotted/variegated (hence the name Prishna = spotted, Parni = leaved). The root is used medicinally. A second species, Uraria lagopoides DC., is also mentioned as a substitute. The plant is valued for its anti-pyretic and anti-diarrheal properties and is an essential ingredient in Dashamula combinations.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Sweet (Madhura), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Also Known As
English: Prishnaparni
Sanskrit: पृश्नपर्णी, पृथक्पर्णी, चित्रपर्णी, क्रोष्टुविन्ना, सिंहपुच्छी, गुहा
Hindi: पिठवन, पृश्नपर्णी, डाबरा

What is Prishnaparni (पृश्नपर्णी)?

Prishnaparni (Uraria picta), also known as Pithvan, is a member of the Laghu Panchamula (five smaller root drugs of Dashamula). It is an erect herb found in the forests of India. The leaves are spotted/variegated (hence the name Prishna = spotted, Parni = leaved). The root is used medicinally. A second species, Uraria lagopoides DC., is also mentioned as a substitute. The plant is valued for its anti-pyretic and anti-diarrheal properties and is an essential ingredient in Dashamula combinations.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vatahara (alleviates Vata)
  • Jwaraghna (antipyretic)
  • Tridoshahara (pacifies all three doshas)
  • Balya (strength-promoting)
  • Grahi (absorbent)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Classical Therapeutic Uses

  • Jwara (fever)
  • Atisara (diarrhea)
  • Raktapitta (bleeding disorders)
  • Trishna (excessive thirst)
  • Daha (burning sensation)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Prishnaparni by Condition

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

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Prishnaparni for Bleeding Disorders
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Prishnaparni for Digestive Health
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Prishnaparni for Immunity & Disease Prevention
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Prishnaparni for Skin Disorders

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.