Chironji
Chironji
Chironji, also known as Charoli, is found in the tropical forests of Northern, Eastern, and Central India. It bears fruit that contains the seed which are quite popular as a dry fruits. It is commonly added in desserts like kheer, ice-cream or porridge to enhance the flavour and nutrition.
Chironji might help prevent gastric ulcers by decreasing the gastric secretions as it has anti-secretory property. It is also beneficial in managing diabetes as it reduces blood glucose levels due to its antioxidant properties.
Chironji is useful in wound healing due to its astringent and antiinflammatory properties. It also prevents any skin infections due to its antibacterial properties. As per Ayurveda, applying Chironji seed paste along with rose water or milk on skin helps in managing acne and itching due to its Sita (cooling) properties[2][3][5][10].
Chironji might help prevent gastric ulcers by decreasing the gastric secretions as it has anti-secretory property. It is also beneficial in managing diabetes as it reduces blood glucose levels due to its antioxidant properties.
Chironji is useful in wound healing due to its astringent and antiinflammatory properties. It also prevents any skin infections due to its antibacterial properties. As per Ayurveda, applying Chironji seed paste along with rose water or milk on skin helps in managing acne and itching due to its Sita (cooling) properties[2][3][5][10].
What are the synonyms of Chironji?
Buchanania lanzan, Cironaji, Cireanji, Ciranjiji, Chaaroli, Priyala, Chiraunji, Sanna, Prasavaka, Lalana, Sannakadru, Dhanu, Dhanus[1].
What is the source of Chironji?
Plant Based
Benefits of Chironji
1. General Weakness
Chironji is useful to manage general weakness or fatigue in day to day life. Fatigue refers to a feeling of tiredness, weakness or lack of energy. According to Ayurveda, fatigue is also known as klama and it is caused by an imbalanced Kapha dosha. Adding chironji seeds in your daily diet helps to reduce the symptoms of fatigue due to its Balya (strength provider) and Tridosha balancing nature.
Tips for using Chironji seeds.
a. Take few Chironji seeds.
b. Use them for garnishing sweet dishes like Kheer or Halwa.
c. Have it in your breakfast or lunch to get rid of the symptoms of weakness.
2. Male Sexual Dysfunction
Male Sexual Dysfunction, as the name itself suggests, refers to the improper functioning of male sexual acts. This condition can be in the form of loss of libido i.e. having no inclination towards a sexual act or when the semen is expelled soon after sexual activity and with minimal penile stimulation. This is also referred to as early discharge or premature ejaculation. Chironji helps to manage sexual dysfunction due to its Vrishya(aphrodisiac) property. It helps to improve stamina and reduce sexual dysfunction.
Tips for using Chironji seeds.
a. Take a few Chironji seeds.
b. Boil them with milk.
c. Add some dry fruits like almonds to this boiled Chironji mixed milk.
d. Have it once a day preferably before going to bed to get quick improvement in your stamina.
Chironji is useful to manage general weakness or fatigue in day to day life. Fatigue refers to a feeling of tiredness, weakness or lack of energy. According to Ayurveda, fatigue is also known as klama and it is caused by an imbalanced Kapha dosha. Adding chironji seeds in your daily diet helps to reduce the symptoms of fatigue due to its Balya (strength provider) and Tridosha balancing nature.
Tips for using Chironji seeds.
a. Take few Chironji seeds.
b. Use them for garnishing sweet dishes like Kheer or Halwa.
c. Have it in your breakfast or lunch to get rid of the symptoms of weakness.
2. Male Sexual Dysfunction
Male Sexual Dysfunction, as the name itself suggests, refers to the improper functioning of male sexual acts. This condition can be in the form of loss of libido i.e. having no inclination towards a sexual act or when the semen is expelled soon after sexual activity and with minimal penile stimulation. This is also referred to as early discharge or premature ejaculation. Chironji helps to manage sexual dysfunction due to its Vrishya(aphrodisiac) property. It helps to improve stamina and reduce sexual dysfunction.
Tips for using Chironji seeds.
a. Take a few Chironji seeds.
b. Boil them with milk.
c. Add some dry fruits like almonds to this boiled Chironji mixed milk.
d. Have it once a day preferably before going to bed to get quick improvement in your stamina.
Precautions when using Chironji
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available about the use of Chironji during breastfeeding. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Chironji during breastfeeding.
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available about the use of Chironji during pregnancy. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Chironji during pregnancy.
How to use Chironji
1. Chironji seeds mixed with sweets
a. Take a few Chironji seeds.
b. Use them as garnishing for sweet dishes like Kheer or Halwa.
c. Have it in your breakfast or lunch to get rid of the symptoms of weakness.
2. Chironji seeds mixed with milk
a. Take a few Chironji seeds.
b. Boil them with milk.
c. Add some dry fruits like almonds to this boiled Chironji mixed milk.
d. Have it once a day preferably before going to bed to get quick improvement in your stamina.
a. Take a few Chironji seeds.
b. Use them as garnishing for sweet dishes like Kheer or Halwa.
c. Have it in your breakfast or lunch to get rid of the symptoms of weakness.
2. Chironji seeds mixed with milk
a. Take a few Chironji seeds.
b. Boil them with milk.
c. Add some dry fruits like almonds to this boiled Chironji mixed milk.
d. Have it once a day preferably before going to bed to get quick improvement in your stamina.
Benefits of Chironji
1. Hyper Pigmentation
Hyper pigmentation is caused by an aggravated Pitta dosha in the body when the skin is exposed to heat or the sun. Chironji seed oil helps in reducing tanning and pigmentation due to its Ropan (healing) property and Sita (cold) nature.
Tips for using Chironji Oil.
a. Take a few drops (as per your requirement) of Chironji oil.
b. Mix it with olive or almond oil.
c. Apply this mixture on the affected area once or twice a day to get rid of the sign of hyperpigmentation.
2. Acne and Pimples
According to Ayurveda, a person with Kapha-Pitta dosha skin type can be prone to Acne and Pimples. An aggravation of Kapha leads to increased sebum production and clogging of pores which results in the formation of both white and blackheads. Another factor, aggravation of Pitta, is marked by the appearance of some red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Chironji helps manage acne due to its Pitta-Kapha balancing and Sita (cold) properties. It prevents and reduces the formation of white and blackheads and provides a cooling effect to the affected area.
Tips for using Chironji Seed Powder.
a. Take Chironji seed powder as per your requirement.
b. Mix it with rose water or milk to make a suitable paste.
c. Apply it to the affected area.
d. Wait for 20-30 minutes.
e. Wash off with water.
f.Repeat it twice a week to get rid of acne and pimples.
Hyper pigmentation is caused by an aggravated Pitta dosha in the body when the skin is exposed to heat or the sun. Chironji seed oil helps in reducing tanning and pigmentation due to its Ropan (healing) property and Sita (cold) nature.
Tips for using Chironji Oil.
a. Take a few drops (as per your requirement) of Chironji oil.
b. Mix it with olive or almond oil.
c. Apply this mixture on the affected area once or twice a day to get rid of the sign of hyperpigmentation.
2. Acne and Pimples
According to Ayurveda, a person with Kapha-Pitta dosha skin type can be prone to Acne and Pimples. An aggravation of Kapha leads to increased sebum production and clogging of pores which results in the formation of both white and blackheads. Another factor, aggravation of Pitta, is marked by the appearance of some red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Chironji helps manage acne due to its Pitta-Kapha balancing and Sita (cold) properties. It prevents and reduces the formation of white and blackheads and provides a cooling effect to the affected area.
Tips for using Chironji Seed Powder.
a. Take Chironji seed powder as per your requirement.
b. Mix it with rose water or milk to make a suitable paste.
c. Apply it to the affected area.
d. Wait for 20-30 minutes.
e. Wash off with water.
f.Repeat it twice a week to get rid of acne and pimples.
How to use Chironji
1. Chironji Oil
a. Take a few drops of Chironji oil or as per your requirement
b. Mix with olive or almond oil
c. Apply on the affected area once or twice to get rid of the sign of hyperpigmentation.
2. Chironji Seeds
a. Take Chironji seed powder as per your requirement.
b. Mix it with rose water or milk to make a suitable paste.
c. Apply it on the affected area
d. Wait for 20-30 minutes
e. Wash off with water
f. Repeat it twice a week to get rid of acne and pimples.
a. Take a few drops of Chironji oil or as per your requirement
b. Mix with olive or almond oil
c. Apply on the affected area once or twice to get rid of the sign of hyperpigmentation.
2. Chironji Seeds
a. Take Chironji seed powder as per your requirement.
b. Mix it with rose water or milk to make a suitable paste.
c. Apply it on the affected area
d. Wait for 20-30 minutes
e. Wash off with water
f. Repeat it twice a week to get rid of acne and pimples.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Yes, Chironji seeds can be eaten raw. They are added to various food preparations like halwa, kheer etc. for garnishing. However, seeds can also be roasted or fried to enhance the flavour[12].
Modern Science View
Chironji seeds can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for short term storage. However, for long term storage they should be kept in freezer.
Modern Science View
Yes, Chironji might help in diabetes due to its antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. The antioxidants (flavonoids) present in Chironji protect pancreatic cells against damage caused by free radicals and increase insulin production, thus lowering blood glucose levels[2].
Modern Science View
Yes, Chironji might help manage cholesterol levels due to its antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic properties. It reduces the levels of total cholesterol, bad cholesterol (LDL), and triglycerides in the body. Along with that, it helps increase the levels of good cholesterol (HDL) and managing cholesterol levels[2].
Modern Science View
Yes, Chironji might help manage diarrhea. It contains certain constituents like tannins which have antidiarrhoeal property. It decreases intestinal motility and reduces the frequency of stools thus manages diarrhea [3].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Chironji bark is effective in controlling the symptoms of diarrhea because of its Kashaya(astringent) and Sita(cold) properties. It helps to control the frequency of watery stools and reduce the symptoms of diarrhea.
Modern Science View
Yes, Chironji seeds might help manage Anemia due to its anti anemic property. It contains certain components (minerals, vitamins, etc.) which stimulate the production of blood from the bone marrow and increases the red blood cell count. It also increases the production of white blood cells that strengthens the immune system[4].
Modern Science View
Yes, Chironji might be useful in gastric ulcers as it has antioxidants (flavonoids) which protect the gastric mucosa from damage caused by free radicals. It also reduces gastric secretion and acidity due to its anti-secretory properties[5].
Ayurvedic View
Gastric ulcers generally occur due to indigestion and aggravation of Pitta dosha. This often leads to a burning sensation. Chironji helps manage gastric ulcers due to its Pitta balancing and Sita (cold) properties which reduces the symptoms of gastric ulcers like burning.
Modern Science View
Yes, Chironji leaves might help reduce stress. It contains certain constituents which have antioxidant properties. These antioxidants fight against the free radicals which might induce stress[6].
Modern Science View
Yes, Chironji might be used in snake bites due to its antivenom property. It contains certain constituents like tannins which form a complex with proteins present in snake venom. Thus, it neutralizes the toxicity caused by snake venom[7].
Modern Science View
Yes, Chironji might help in improving the memory as it has neuroprotective properties. It increases the release of certain neurotransmitters (Acetylcholine) in the brain which helps to improve brain functions like memory. It also reduces serum cholesterol levels, which are generally increased in Alzheimer's disease. Thus, it prevents the onset of Alzheimer's disease[8][9].
Modern Science View
Chironji is low in fat but high in fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins. It is an active source of phenolics and natural antioxidants. Its seed oil is used to treat skin diseases, remove spots, and blemishes from the face[13].
Ayurvedic View
Chironji is an important part of our festival dishes like Kheer or Halwa. Ayurveda also recommended Chironji seed as a healthy nut because of its Vrishya (aphrodisiac) property. Chirnoji oil seeds oil also is an effective remedy to get rid the skin problems like dark spots and dryness of the skin.
Modern Science View
Chironji seeds are edible nuts which taste like almonds. Each Chironji fruit contains only one Chironji seed. They can be eaten raw or grounded into powders. The powdered form is generally used for thickening savory sauces and flavoring batters.
Modern Science View
Yes, Chironji might help in wound healing as it has astringent and antiinflammatory properties. It increases the wound contraction and closure by increasing collagen production. It also reduces the healing time of wound by preventing any infections due to its antibacterial properties[10].
Ayurvedic View
Wound generally occur due to any external injury and leads to pain or inflammation. Applying Chironji paste or its oil helps in quick wound healing due to its Ropan and Sita (cold) properties.
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Chironji in skin diseases. However, Chironji oil might help in certain skin conditions like skin blemishes or scars due to its antioxidant properties[5][11].
Ayurvedic View
Skin diseases generally occur due to an imbalance of Pitta dosha which might lead to certain conditions like itching or irritation. Applying Chironji paste or its oil help manage skin disease due to its Pitta balancing and Ropan (healing) properties. It helps to reduce symptoms like itching or irritation and provide a cooling effect to the affected area.
Ayurvedic View
Chironji is the most favorable remedy for removing dark spots on the skin. Chironji seeds powder or oil both can be used for making skin fair and spotless because of its Varnya (Improve skin complexion) property. This property helps to make skin fresh and glowing.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Chironji is good for oily skin. Mix Chironji powder with rose water and gently apply it to the skin. It helps to control excessive oil and makes the skin fresh and glowing due to its Varnya (improves skin complexion) property.
Ayurvedic View
Chironji oil is beneficial for hair growth and controlling excessive dryness. Applying Chironji oil on the scalp and hair roots helps to control excessive oil and promotes hair growth due to its Snigdha (oily) and Keshya (promotes hair growth) properties.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Sushma N, Smitha P, Gopal Y et al. Antidiabetic, Antihyperlipidemic and Antioxidant Activities of Buchanania Ianzan Spreng Methanol Leaf Extract in Streptozotocin-Induced Types I and II Diabetic Rats.Trop J Pharm Res. 2013;12: 221-226.
- D, Pareta SK, Patnaik A. Antidiarrhoeal activity of alcoholic extract of Buchanania lanzan Spreg. roots. Pharmacol Online. 2010;3:720-6.
- Singh MK, Das BK, Patidar P. The effect of methanolic extract of Buchanania lanzan Spreng seeds on hematological indices. Indian J Pharmacol 2016;48:214-5.
- Rai U, Pattnaik AK, Singh S. Antiulcer activity of the most active sub-fraction of methanolic leaf extract of Buchanania lanzan spreng. Int J Pharm Pharm Sci. 2016;8(9):93-101.
- Mehta SK, Naira N, Bains N. Adaptogenic activity of methanolic extract of Buchanania lanzan leaves an experimental study in rat model. Pelagia Research Library Der Pharmacia Sinica. 2011; 2 (3): 107-112.
- Naseeb KM, Karunaka H, Aamir SA. Evaluation of antivenom activity of ethanolic extract of buchanania lanzan bark against naja kaouthia snake venom. UJPBS. 2014; 02 (02): 39-45.
- Joshi A, Soni P, Vyas N, et al. Memory enhancing activity of Buchanania lanzan by scopolamine Induced amnesia in rats.Ejbps.2017;(6): 355-361.
- Rai P, Sharma D, Sharma A. Buchanania lanzan is a Pharmacognostic Miracle Herb. Research Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry. 2015; 7: 182. 10.5958/0975-4385.2015.00029.1.
- Pattnaik A, Sarkar R, Sharma A et al. Pharmacological studies on Buchanania lanzan Spreng.- a focus on wound healing with particular reference to anti-biofilm properties. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed. 2013 Dec;3(12):967-74.
- Kumar J, pc V, Srivastav P. Chironji nut (Buchanania lanzan) processing, present practices and scope. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge. 2012; 11: 202-204.
- Rajput BS, Gupta D, Kumar S, et al.Buchanania lanzan Spreng (Chironji): A vulnerable multipurpose tree species in Vindhyan region. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry.2018;7(5): 833-836.
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.