Atis
Atis
Atis, also known as Ativisha, is a tall herb mainly grown in the Himalayan region. It is a characteristic species of Nepal, Chumbi area, and Sikkim.
Atis is effective in maintaining a healthy digestive system due to its carminative property. It is also helpful in diarrhea as it inhibits the growth of pathogenic microorganisms due to its antibacterial activity. Atis might also aid in weight loss as it lowers the levels of triglycerides and increases levels of HDL- cholesterol (“good cholesterol”). As per Ayurveda, it helps manage the symptoms of diabetes due to its Tikta (bitter) and Kapha balancing properties. Atis powder when consumed with honey helps to manage cough and cold due to its Ushna (hot) nature and removes the accumulated mucus.
The topical application of Atis seeds with honey provides relief to throat infections and tonsilitis.
The roots of Atis can be inhaled for managing severe headaches or migraines.
In some cases, Atis might cause nausea, periodic fever, piles, or dryness of the mouth. Consumption of large quantities might cause constipation[6][9][10-12].
Atis is effective in maintaining a healthy digestive system due to its carminative property. It is also helpful in diarrhea as it inhibits the growth of pathogenic microorganisms due to its antibacterial activity. Atis might also aid in weight loss as it lowers the levels of triglycerides and increases levels of HDL- cholesterol (“good cholesterol”). As per Ayurveda, it helps manage the symptoms of diabetes due to its Tikta (bitter) and Kapha balancing properties. Atis powder when consumed with honey helps to manage cough and cold due to its Ushna (hot) nature and removes the accumulated mucus.
The topical application of Atis seeds with honey provides relief to throat infections and tonsilitis.
The roots of Atis can be inhaled for managing severe headaches or migraines.
In some cases, Atis might cause nausea, periodic fever, piles, or dryness of the mouth. Consumption of large quantities might cause constipation[6][9][10-12].
What are the synonyms of Atis?
Aconitum heterophyllum, Indian Atees, Atibage, Ativish, Ati Vasa, Aruna, Ghunapriya, Visa, Aatich, Ataicha, Atis Root, Ativishni Kali, Ativikhani Kali, Ativisha, Athihage, Atividayam, Ativisha, Atushi, Atisa, Atees, Ativasa, Kashmeera, Shuklakanda, Bhangura, Vishva[1].
What is the source of Atis?
Plant Based
Benefits of Atis
FAQs about Atis benefits
1. INDIGESTION
According to Ayurveda, indigestion is termed as Agnimandya that occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta dosha. Whenever the consumed food is left undigested due to Mand agni (low digestive fire), it results in the formation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) which causes indigestion. In simple words, we can say that indigestion is the state of an incomplete process of digestion of the ingested food. Atis helps in the management of indigestion by digesting the Ama due to its Deepana (appetizer) and Pachana (digestion) properties, thereby providing relief from indigestion[9].
2. VOMITING
Vomiting is a condition which occurs due to an imbalance of all three doshas, especially Pitta and Kapha dosha. Imbalance of Doshas occurs due to various eating habits like consuming excessive Teekshna (sharp), Kashaya (pungent), Amla (sour), Vidahi (which causes burning sensation), Guru (heavy diet), Ati-Sheeta (cold diet) and Apakwa Ahaara (raw/uncooked food). This results in the formation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the body which leads to indigestion. Atis helps to prevent Vomiting by digesting the Ama due to its Deepana (appetizer), Pachana (digestion) and Tridosha (Vata Pitta and Kapha) balancing properties[9].
3. DIARRHEA
Diarrhea, also known as Atisara in Ayurveda is a condition in which a person passes watery stools more than 3 times in a day. This condition occurs due to the imbalance of Vata dosha which disturbs the functioning of the digestive fire (Agni) and results in Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). The other factors that might be responsible for Diarrhea are improper food, impure water, toxins (Ama) and mental stress. Atis helps in the management of diarrhea due to its Vata balancing property. It also helps in the management of weak digestive fire due to it’s Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties[9].
4. PILES
Due to today’s sedentary lifestyle, Piles have become a common problem occurring as a result of chronic constipation. Constipation leads to the impairment of all the three doshas, mainly Vata dosha. An aggravated Vata leads to low digestive fire, causing persistent constipation, which might further result in pain and swelling around the anal region if ignored or left untreated. This can then lead to the formation of pile mass. Atis helps in the management of Piles by managing constipation due to its tridosha balancing property (mainly Vata)[9].
According to Ayurveda, indigestion is termed as Agnimandya that occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta dosha. Whenever the consumed food is left undigested due to Mand agni (low digestive fire), it results in the formation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) which causes indigestion. In simple words, we can say that indigestion is the state of an incomplete process of digestion of the ingested food. Atis helps in the management of indigestion by digesting the Ama due to its Deepana (appetizer) and Pachana (digestion) properties, thereby providing relief from indigestion[9].
2. VOMITING
Vomiting is a condition which occurs due to an imbalance of all three doshas, especially Pitta and Kapha dosha. Imbalance of Doshas occurs due to various eating habits like consuming excessive Teekshna (sharp), Kashaya (pungent), Amla (sour), Vidahi (which causes burning sensation), Guru (heavy diet), Ati-Sheeta (cold diet) and Apakwa Ahaara (raw/uncooked food). This results in the formation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the body which leads to indigestion. Atis helps to prevent Vomiting by digesting the Ama due to its Deepana (appetizer), Pachana (digestion) and Tridosha (Vata Pitta and Kapha) balancing properties[9].
3. DIARRHEA
Diarrhea, also known as Atisara in Ayurveda is a condition in which a person passes watery stools more than 3 times in a day. This condition occurs due to the imbalance of Vata dosha which disturbs the functioning of the digestive fire (Agni) and results in Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). The other factors that might be responsible for Diarrhea are improper food, impure water, toxins (Ama) and mental stress. Atis helps in the management of diarrhea due to its Vata balancing property. It also helps in the management of weak digestive fire due to it’s Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestion) properties[9].
4. PILES
Due to today’s sedentary lifestyle, Piles have become a common problem occurring as a result of chronic constipation. Constipation leads to the impairment of all the three doshas, mainly Vata dosha. An aggravated Vata leads to low digestive fire, causing persistent constipation, which might further result in pain and swelling around the anal region if ignored or left untreated. This can then lead to the formation of pile mass. Atis helps in the management of Piles by managing constipation due to its tridosha balancing property (mainly Vata)[9].
Precautions when using Atis
Advice from Experts
Important
Modern Science View
Atis may be toxic when taken in the raw form, so it is advisable to take it in the recommended manner and dosage only[3].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before taking Atis during breastfeeding.
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable for diabetics to avoid or consult a physician before taking Atis.
Patients with heart disease
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before taking Atis in people with heart-related disorders.
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before taking Atis during pregnancy.
Side Effects
Modern Science View
1. Nausea
2. Vomiting
3. Weakness or inability to move
4. Dryness of mouth
5. Sweating
6. Tremors
7. Breathing problems[2]
8. Heart problems[5]
2. Vomiting
3. Weakness or inability to move
4. Dryness of mouth
5. Sweating
6. Tremors
7. Breathing problems[2]
8. Heart problems[5]
FAQs about Atis precautions
Recommended Dosage of Atis
- Atis Powder - For adults-1-3 gm per day.
For children-1 gm per day in divided doses.
How to use Atis
1. Atis Powder
a. Take 1 teaspoon of Atis Powder.
b. Add honey to it and take preferably in the morning.
c. Use this remedy once a day to get rid of indigestion.
2. Atis Extract
a. Take 1-2 pinches of Atis Extract.
b. Add honey to it and take preferably in the morning.
c. Use this remedy preferably for children to get relief from fever, loose motions, bloating etc.
3. Atis Kwatha
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Atis Kwath.
b. Add an equal quantity of water and some honey to it.
c. Drink it twice a day after meals to get rid of digestive problems.
a. Take 1 teaspoon of Atis Powder.
b. Add honey to it and take preferably in the morning.
c. Use this remedy once a day to get rid of indigestion.
2. Atis Extract
a. Take 1-2 pinches of Atis Extract.
b. Add honey to it and take preferably in the morning.
c. Use this remedy preferably for children to get relief from fever, loose motions, bloating etc.
3. Atis Kwatha
a. Take 2-3 teaspoons of Atis Kwath.
b. Add an equal quantity of water and some honey to it.
c. Drink it twice a day after meals to get rid of digestive problems.
Benefits of Atis
FAQs about Atis benefits
1. ARTHRITIC PAIN
The pain that is felt in rheumatic arthritis or osteoarthritis due to an imbalance of Vata dosha is known as Arthritic pain. Atis can be applied locally on the affected area to reduce this pain due to its Vata balancing property[9].
2. NERVOUS PAIN
Nervous pain is a condition which occurs due to any disturbance in the nerves like obstructed blood flow due to imbalanced Vata dosha. Atis can be applied locally on the affected area to reduce this pain due to its Vata balancing property[9].
The pain that is felt in rheumatic arthritis or osteoarthritis due to an imbalance of Vata dosha is known as Arthritic pain. Atis can be applied locally on the affected area to reduce this pain due to its Vata balancing property[9].
2. NERVOUS PAIN
Nervous pain is a condition which occurs due to any disturbance in the nerves like obstructed blood flow due to imbalanced Vata dosha. Atis can be applied locally on the affected area to reduce this pain due to its Vata balancing property[9].
Precautions when using Atis
Advice from Experts
Important
Modern Science View
Atis belongs to the family of poisonous plants so it should be used as advised by a physician[11].
FAQs about Atis precautions
Recommended Dosage of Atis
- Atis Powder - ½-1 teaspoon
- Atis Oil - 1-2 teaspoons
How to use Atis
1. Atis Powder
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Atis Powder.
b. Add rose water to it.
c. Apply evenly to the affected area.
d. Let it sit for 8-10 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of boils and ulcers.
2. Atis Oil
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Atis oil.
b. Add sesame oil and gently massage it on the affected area.
c. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of pain and inflammation of the joints.
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Atis Powder.
b. Add rose water to it.
c. Apply evenly to the affected area.
d. Let it sit for 8-10 minutes.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of boils and ulcers.
2. Atis Oil
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Atis oil.
b. Add sesame oil and gently massage it on the affected area.
c. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of pain and inflammation of the joints.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Atis is available in the market in various forms such as:
1. Powder
2. Extract
3. Oil
They are available under various brands such as Planet Ayurveda, Vhca Ayurveda, Neeraj Traders, etc. You can choose the brand and product according to your liking and requirement.
1. Powder
2. Extract
3. Oil
They are available under various brands such as Planet Ayurveda, Vhca Ayurveda, Neeraj Traders, etc. You can choose the brand and product according to your liking and requirement.
Modern Science View
Atis should be stored at room temperature and should not be exposed to direct light, moisture and heat. Atis should be kept away from the reach of children and pets.
Modern Science View
Aconitum heterophyllum is also known as Atis, Atibage, Ativish, Ati Vasa, Aruna, Ghunapriya, Visa, Aatich, Ataicha, Atis Root, Ativishni Kali, Ativikhani Kali, Ativisha, Athihage, Atividayam, Ativisha, Atushi, Atisa, Atees, Ativasa, Kashmeera, Shuklakanda, Bhangura, Vishva[1].
Modern Science View
Aconitum heterophyllum or Atis is an ayurvedic medicinal plant which is reported to have antidiarrheal activity when taken with fine powder of dry ginger, Beel (Bellpetra in India) fruit, or Nutmeg (jaiphal in India). The juice of the root when taken with milk acts as an expectorant (property which promotes the secretion of sputum by the air passages). The plant also shows diuretic, antipyretic, analgesic, antioxidant, anti-flatulent and anti-phlegmatic properties. Furthermore, the plant is also helpful in the treatment of reproductive disorders.
Modern Science View
Spermatorrhoea is the condition of excessive, involuntary ejaculation.
Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Atis might help manage spermatorrhoea[3][4].
Although enough scientific evidence is not available, Atis might help manage spermatorrhoea[3][4].
Modern Science View
Cervical lymphadenitis is the condition of swelling of the cervical lymph nodes caused due to an infection in the upper respiratory tract, which can even turn fatal. Atis root powder possesses anti-inflammatory property and is given orally to patients to reduce the inflammation associated with Cervical lymphadenitis. The juice of Atis roots taken with milk is also recommended for the management of respiratory diseases as it acts as an expectorant[3][2].
Modern Science View
Atis is useful in the management of diarrhea due to its antidiarrheal property. Atis also has antimicrobial action and it prevents the growth of various disease-causing organisms in the large intestines[3][5].
Tips for using Atis to prevent Diarrhea:
1. Mix Atis root with bael fruit i.e. belpatra, nutmeg (jaiphal), ginger (dry form) and atvika.
2. Mix all the contents together in equal proportion.
3. Take 2 pinches along with water thrice a day to help manage Diarrhea.
Tips for using Atis to prevent Diarrhea:
1. Mix Atis root with bael fruit i.e. belpatra, nutmeg (jaiphal), ginger (dry form) and atvika.
2. Mix all the contents together in equal proportion.
3. Take 2 pinches along with water thrice a day to help manage Diarrhea.
Modern Science View
The seeds and root decoction of Atis help manage burning sensation in the urinary tract due to its diuretic property. It helps in increasing the volume of urine thereby reducing the burning sensation[3][5].
Modern Science View
Yes, Atis helps in reducing the high levels of fat due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachana (digestion) properties. Fats get accumulated in the body due to weak or poor digestion in the form of toxins (Ama). Atis helps improve digestion and prevents the formation and accumulation of fats in the body, thereby aiding weight loss.
Modern Science View
Although Atis belongs to the family of toxic plants, it has been shown to reduce the effect of other poisons. It also has medicinal importance and should always be used as per the doctor’s advice[11].
Modern Science View
Yes, since Atis when taken in larger doses it may cause constipation[3].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Atis might cause constipation due to its Rooksha (dry) property. It increases dryness in the intestines which leads to dry and hard stools. Once the stool in the intestine dries up it gets difficult to pass out from the body, thus leading to constipation.
Modern Science View
Some scientific studies have shown that overdosage of Atis might cause irregular heartbeat[5].
Ayurvedic View
Ativisha powder is an effective herbal medicine to get quick relief from indigestion. You can take Ativisha powder with warm water once or twice a day.
Modern Science View
The root powder of Ativihsa when taken with honey is prescribed for cough irritations and bronchitis. It is one of the bitter constituents which are prescribed in Ayurveda which give relief in type-2 diabetes (also known as non-insulin dependent diabetes). It is considered as a remedy against gastroenteric fevers amongst infants and children[13].
Ayurvedic View
Atis is beneficial in metabolic, digestive and lungs related disorders. Atis powder helps to promote digestive fire which corrects the symptom of indigestion. It also gives relief in cough and cold due to Kapha balancing nature.
Modern Science View
Inhalation of Atis leaf/root powder is considered to be beneficial for Migraine[7].
Tip to use Atis to get relief from migraine.
1. Crush the leaves or roots of Atis.
2. Mix with rock salt.
3. Inhale or apply on the affected area to get relief from migraine pain.
Tip to use Atis to get relief from migraine.
1. Crush the leaves or roots of Atis.
2. Mix with rock salt.
3. Inhale or apply on the affected area to get relief from migraine pain.
Ayurvedic View
Migraine is a condition that occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta dosha and leads to certain symptoms like headaches, nausea or sometimes vertigo. Atis helps to manage this condition due to its Pitta balancing property. It helps reduce the symptoms of migraine, thus providing relief from pain.
Modern Science View
Yes, Atis is considered to be useful in case of throat infection due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties[7][8].
Tip:
1. Crush some Atis seeds.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of honey to it.
3. Apply it locally on your throat to get relief from tonsillitis.
Tip:
1. Crush some Atis seeds.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of honey to it.
3. Apply it locally on your throat to get relief from tonsillitis.
Modern Science View
Atis is used as a remedy for joint pain and inflammation but it can cause skin inflammation in some cases if not used properly[3].
Modern Science View
Since Atis belongs to the family of toxic plants, it is advisable to handle it carefully as per the physician’s advice[3].
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Paramanick D, Panday R, Shukla SS, et al.Primary Pharmacological and Other Important Findings on the Medicinal Plant “Aconitum Heterophyllum” (Aruna). Journal of Pharmacopuncture.2017;20(2):089-092.
- Paramanick D, Sharma N , Parveen N, et al.A Review Article on Ayurvedic/Herbal plant “Aruna” Aconitum heterophyllum.International Journal of Advanced Research 2017;5(2):319-325.
- Puri HS. Uses of Aconites.Journal D’Agric, Tropicale Et Botanique Appliquee.1974;21(7-9):239-246.
- Khurshid S, Amjad MS, Malik KF, et al. Clinical and therapeutic potential of Aconitum heterophyllum.Journal of Coastal LIfe Medicine.2015;3(12): 1003-1005.
- Subhash A, Augustine A.Hypolipidemic effect of methanol fraction of Aconitum heterophyllum wall ex Royle and the mechanism of action in diet-induced obese rats.Journal of advanced pharmaceutical technology and research.2012;3(4):224-228.
- Khurshid S, Amjad MS, Malik KF, et al. Clinical and therapeutic potential of Aconitum heterophyllum.Journal of Coastal LIfe Medicine.2015;3(12): 1003-1005.
- Nayak V, Jadhav V, Sajjanshetty MR.Traditional medicine in the management of Recurrent Tonsillitis- An Ayurvedic Perspective.Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated medical sciences.2017;2(6):98-106.
- Ukani MD, Mehta NK, Nanavati DD.Acontium Heterophyllum (Ativisha) in Ayurveda.Ancient Science of life.1996;16:166-171.
- Prasad SK, Jain D, Patel DK et.al.Antisecretory and antimotility activity of Aconitum heterophyllum and its significance in treatment of diarrhea.Indian J Pharmacol.2014;46(1):82–87.
- Rasve VR, Paithankar VV, Shirsat MKet.al.Evaluation of antiulcer activity of aconitum heterophyllum on experimental animal.WJPPS.2018;7(2):819-839.
- Buddhadev S, Buddhadev SS.A complete review on ativisha –aconitum heterophyllum.Pharma Science Monitor.2017;8:111-114.
- Nagarajan M, Kuruvilla GR, Kumar KS, and Venkatasubramanian P. Pharmacology of Ativisha, Musta and their substitutes. J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2015 Apr-Jun; 6(2): 121–133.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.