Chirata (Swertia)
An intensely bitter Himalayan herb used in Ayurveda for digestion and fever. Its compounds are active in animal models, but no human trial supports any supplement use.
Evidence last reviewed: August 2026
What the science says
- Bitter glycosides active in preclinical models Limited evidence
Reviews of the genus Swertia document hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic effects of amarogentin and swertiamarin, almost entirely in rodent and cell studies.
- No clinical evidence Limited evidence
A 2025 review of swertiamarin, chirata's principal iridoid, summarises extensive pharmacokinetic and mechanistic work in animals and notes the absence of human clinical data.
Dosage & safety
Studied doseTraditional use is 1–3 g/day of the dried herb as an infusion, or an extract per label. No dose has been validated in humans.
SafetyExtremely bitter and can provoke nausea. Blood-glucose lowering in animal work means caution alongside diabetes medication. Avoid in pregnancy and in peptic ulcer disease. Adulteration with other Swertia species is a documented quality problem.
Scientific references
Where to buy
Referral link — this site may earn a commission on purchases.
Related in Gut health
- Probiotics Moderate evidence
- Psyllium Husk (fiber) Strong evidence
- L-Glutamine Limited evidence
- Oregano Oil Limited evidence
- Ginger Moderate evidence
- Inulin (Prebiotic Fiber) Moderate evidence