Last verified: April 2026

Trivrit

त्रिवृत — Trivrit — "three twists — named for the spirally twisted stem"

Trivrit is the primary classical Rechana (purgative) herb — the most consistently documented purgative in Charaka Samhita for Virechana (therapeutic purgation). While castor oil (Eranda) is the Vata-appropriate purgative, Trivrit is the primary Pitta-appropriate purgative — its hot potency and penetrating quality specifically reach the Pitta channels in the small intestine and liver. Charaka Samhita's Virechana chapter refers to Trivrit as the model Virechana drug against which other purgatives are measured.

Important noticeThis page documents what classical texts record. Not medical advice. Consult a qualified practitioner. Full disclaimer

Charaka Samhita, Siddhisthana 2.17

Trivrit prashasta virechane — Trivrit is the foremost purgative for Virechana. It reaches the Pitta channels in the small intestine and removes accumulated Pitta-Ama completely. The dose is adjusted by Koshtha (bowel reactivity): Mridu Koshtha (sensitive bowel) — 3–6g; Madhyama — 6–12g; Krura Koshtha (resistant bowel) — 12–24g.

Classical documentation and Virechana protocol

Classical Trivrit preparations: Trivrit Churna (powder — the standard preparation); Trivrit Leha (electuary with jaggery — more palatable and appropriate for Mridu Koshtha patients who cannot tolerate the bitter powder); Avipattikara Churna (compound preparation with Trivrit as primary ingredient — the most widely prescribed classical antacid and mild purgative formulation, documented for Pittaja digestive conditions).

The classical Koshtha (bowel reactivity) assessment is performed before prescribing Trivrit: administering a small test dose (3g) and observing the response over 24 hours determines whether the patient has Mridu, Madhyama, or Krura Koshtha — and therefore the appropriate Virechana dose. This dose-assessment protocol is one of the most precise classical pharmacological systems documented.

Turpethin — resin glycoside mechanism

Trivrit root contains turpethin — a resin glycoside that produces its purgative action through stimulation of intestinal peristalsis and mild irritation of intestinal mucosa. The mechanism is similar to other anthraquinone and glycoside purgatives but with the specific quality distinction classical texts describe: Trivrit produces a 'thorough but not violent' purging compared to the potentially harsh action of Jalap (another Convolvulaceae resin). API specifies minimum resin content for quality standardisation.

Not for self-administration

Trivrit-based Virechana is a clinical procedure requiring Koshtha assessment and supervision. Incorrect dosing can produce excessive purgation leading to electrolyte imbalance and dehydration. Avipattikara Churna (mild compound preparation) is appropriate for over-the-counter use for mild Pitta digestive conditions; full Trivrit-based Virechana requires practitioner prescription and supervision.