Trivrit (Operculina turpethum) in Ayurveda Medical Science

Introduction to Trivrit (Operculina turpethum)

Trivrit, commonly known as Turpeth, is one of the most potent purgative herbs in Ayurveda. It belongs to the Convolvulaceae family and is widely used as a Sukhvirechan Dravya (mild purgative). Trivrit has been highly regarded in Ayurvedic texts for its detoxifying, rejuvenating, and disease-preventing properties. The medicinal parts of the plant, primarily its roots, are used in formulations for various ailments related to digestion, metabolism, and toxin elimination.

Most Accountable Disease in Ayurveda: Vibandha (Constipation)

Pathology of Vibandha in Ayurveda

Vibandha (Constipation) occurs due to an imbalance in Vata dosha, which causes excessive dryness in the intestines, leading to hard stools and difficulty in elimination. Pitta imbalance can further aggravate the condition by increasing heat, which dries up the stool. In chronic cases, Kapha dosha accumulation in the intestines leads to blockage and sluggish digestion.

In Ayurveda, Apana Vayu (a sub-type of Vata responsible for elimination) plays a significant role in bowel movement. If Apana Vayu is disturbed due to improper diet, lack of hydration, or lifestyle issues, it results in constipation, bloating, and toxin accumulation in the intestines.

Medicinal Actions of Trivrit in Vibandha

1. Sukhvirechak (Mild Laxative) – Stimulates peristalsis and facilitates easy evacuation of stool.

2. Vatanulomana (Regulates Vata) – Helps restore natural bowel function.

3. Pittashamak (Pacifies Pitta) – Reduces heat and inflammation in the intestines.

4. Deepana (Appetizer) – Stimulates Agni (digestive fire) and enhances digestion.

5. Pachana (Carminative) – Aids in digestion and reduces bloating.

6. Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory) – Reduces intestinal swelling and soothes mucosal linings.

7. Raktashodhaka (Blood Purifier) – Helps in detoxification and removes Ama (toxins).

8. Medohara (Anti-obesity) – Aids in weight management by improving metabolism.

9. Krimighna (Anti-parasitic) – Eliminates intestinal worms.

10. Tridoshahara (Balances all Doshas) – Primarily pacifies Vata and Pitta but also maintains Kapha balance.

Pharmacognosy of Trivrit (Operculina turpethum)

• Family: Convolvulaceae

• Genus: Operculina

• Part Used: Roots and bark

• Habitat: Found in India, Sri Lanka, and tropical Asian regions

• Taste (Rasa): Tikta (Bitter) and Kashaya (Astringent)

• Potency (Virya): Ushna (Hot)

• Post-Digestive Effect (Vipaka): Katu (Pungent)

• Effect on Doshas: Balances Vata and Pitta doshas

Mode of Action for Vibandha in Ayurveda and Its Dosha & Dhatu Physiological Impact

Trivrit acts primarily on Purisha Vaha Srotas (the excretory system), facilitating bowel movements and detoxification. It affects Rasa Dhatu (Plasma) and Mamsa Dhatu (Muscle tissue) by clearing toxic accumulation and promoting better metabolic function. Apana Vayu is regulated to ensure smooth elimination and proper bowel movements.

Different Names of Trivrit in Different Languages

• Sanskrit: Trivrit, Nishoth, Turpeth

• Hindi: Nishoth

• Tamil: Shivadari

• Telugu: Tegada

• Kannada: Turuve

• Malayalam: Tiruvrit

• Bengali: Nishoth

• Marathi: Triputa

• Persian: Turbud

• Arabic: Turbud Safed

Chemical Constituents of Trivrit

• Resins – Provide purgative action.

• Glycosides (Turpethin, Operculin, Scopoletin) – Stimulate bowel function.

• Tannins – Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

• Alkaloids – Aid in detoxification and liver health.

• Flavonoids – Antioxidant and immune-boosting properties.

• Mucilage – Soothes intestinal linings and reduces irritation.

Ten Diseases and Conditions Where Trivrit Is Used in Ayurveda

1. Constipation (Vibandha) – Acts as a natural laxative for smooth bowel movement.

2. Piles (Arsha) – Reduces straining and alleviates hemorrhoidal pain.

3. Indigestion (Ajeerna) – Improves digestion and prevents bloating.

4. Liver Disorders (Yakrit Vikara) – Detoxifies the liver and improves bile flow.

5. Ascites (Jalodara) – Reduces fluid retention and relieves abdominal swelling.

6. Skin Disorders (Kushta Roga) – Purifies the blood and treats skin diseases.

7. Obesity (Sthoulya) – Helps in fat metabolism and weight loss.

8. Gout (Vatarakta) – Reduces uric acid levels and inflammation.

9. Intestinal Worms (Krimi Roga) – Acts as an anthelmintic and eliminates parasites.

10. Diabetes (Madhumeha) – Helps in blood sugar regulation.

Ten Ayurvedic Medications Containing Trivrit

1. Avipattikar Churna – Used for acidity and constipation relief.

2. Triphala Churna – Aids in digestion and bowel cleansing.

3. Trivrit Lehyam – A strong purgative preparation.

4. Swadishta Virechan Churna – A natural detoxifying formula.

5. Panchakola Churna – Improves digestion and balances Vata.

6. Dashmoola Kwatha – Supports liver and digestive health.

7. Hingwashtak Churna – Used for gas and abdominal discomfort.

8. Abhayarishta – Relieves chronic constipation and indigestion.

9. Patolakaturohinyadi Kashaya – Used for detoxification.

10. Gandharvahastadi Kwatha – Treats constipation and bloating.

Home Remedies Using Trivrit

1. Constipation Relief: Mix 1-2 teaspoons of Trivrit powder with warm water before bedtime.

2. Piles Treatment: Take Trivrit with Triphala to ease hemorrhoidal pain.

3. Liver Detox: Consume Trivrit powder with buttermilk.

4. Cholesterol Control: Take Trivrit with lemon water.

5. Weight Loss Aid: Mix Trivrit with honey and warm water.

6. Gas and Bloating: Drink Trivrit tea after meals.

7. Blood Sugar Regulation: Consume Trivrit with fenugreek powder.

8. Skin Detox: Apply a paste of Trivrit and neem powder on the skin.

9. Fever Relief: Mix Trivrit with giloy and turmeric.

10. IBS Management: Drink Trivrit with buttermilk and rock salt.

Harmful Effects and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Should be taken under medical supervision.

• Chronic Use: Prolonged usage may cause dependency.

• Dehydration: Excessive consumption may lead to loss of electrolytes.

• Intestinal Disorders: Not recommended for those with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.

Relevance as Sukhvirechan Dravya in Ayurveda

Trivrit is classified as a Sukhvirechan Dravya (mild purgative) due to its ability to facilitate smooth bowel movements without excessive irritation.