Botanical Overview
Bergenia ciliata, belonging to the Saxifragaceae family, is commonly known as Hairy Bergenia, Pashanbheda, or Stonebreaker. It is native to the Himalayan regions of South Asia and China. The rhizome, leaves, and roots of this plant are commonly used in traditional herbal medicine.
Energetics
The plant exhibits a cooling and moistening nature with predominant tastes of astringent, bitter, and sweet. It is tonifying and influences the body’s qi energy.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Astringent
- Demulcent
- Diuretic
- Antimicrobial
- Antioxidant
- Lithotriptic (supports dissolution of kidney stones)
Indications
Western
- Kidney stones
- Urinary tract infections
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Skin inflammation
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
Syndromes
- Urolithiasis
- Urinary tract disorders
- Respiratory inflammation
- Gastrointestinal irritation
- Dermatitis
TCM
- Blood stasis
- Damp-heat in urinary bladder
- Skin eruptions
Syndromes
- Urinary difficulty
- Heat toxin syndrome
Ayurveda
- Urinary calculi
- Inflammation
- Respiratory issues
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Skin diseases
Syndromes
- Mutrakricha (urinary tract abnormalities)
- Vata and Pitta disorders
Unani
- Kidney stones
- Dysuria
- Bronchitis
- Skin inflammations
Syndromes
- Renal colic
- Inflammatory conditions
Constituents & Mechanisms
Main phytochemical constituents include bergenin, catechins, tannins, flavonoids, gallic acid, and other phenolic compounds which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and lithotriptic activities.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 5-10 g dried rhizome, taken 1-2 times daily
- Powder: 2-3 g, taken 1-2 times daily
- Infusion of leaves used topically for skin conditions
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe when traditionally used at herbal doses. Pregnancy and lactation use require caution due to limited safety data. No major drug interactions reported but care advised in renal impairment.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers identified for Bergenia ciliata.
Selected References
- Plant Resources of South Asia (PROSEA), 2008
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, 1999
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Kumar et al., 2007
- Indian Materia Medica, K.M. Nadkarni, 1976
- Medicinal Plants of Himalaya, J.S. Nettleton, 2007