Picrorhiza
Picrorhiza · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
, scientifically known as Picrorhiza kurroa, is a perennial herb native to the high-altitude Himalayas. Renowned in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, this potent plant is highly valued for its bitter principles. It serves as a powerful hepatoprotective agent, supporting liver health and acting as a natural detoxifier for the body.
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Native range
- Asia-Tropical
- Parts used
- Rhizome
- Common names
- Not available
- Scientific synonyms
- Not available
Names and Synonyms
Scientific Names
Accepted name
PicrorhizaSources: Wikidata
Taxonomical Classification
This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. Within the order Lamiales and family Plantaginacea, it is classified under the genus Picrorhiza.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Picrorhiza |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
This plant is primarily found within the diverse landscapes of the Indian Subcontinent. Specifically, its natural habitat extends across the rugged terrains of Pakistan. It is also widely distributed throughout the West Himalaya region. These high-altitude environments provide the specific ecological conditions necessary for its growth. Consequently, its geographical range is closely tied to these particular mountainous zones.
| Region | Area |
|---|---|
| Indian Subcontinent | Pakistan |
| Indian Subcontinent | West Himalaya |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Plant Parts
Picrorhiza has 1 reported plant parts identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases that are studied for medicinal purposes. The most consistently reported plant part include rhizome.
| Plant part | Supporting sources | Consensus |
|---|---|---|
| Rhizome | 1 supporting sources | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Rhizome
- Indian journal of experimental biology
Activities
Picrorhiza has 1 reported activities identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported activities include Hepatoprotective.
| Activity | Supporting sources | Consensus |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatoprotective | 1 supporting sources | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Hepatoprotective
- Ciba Foundation symposium
Preparations
Picrorhiza has 1 reported preparations identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported preparations include Rhizome of picrorhiza.
| Preparation | Supporting sources | Consensus |
|---|---|---|
| Rhizome of picrorhiza | 1 supporting sources | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Rhizome of picrorhiza
- Indian journal of experimental biology