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Review Article

Trikatu and Chaturushana

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

2025 Volume 10 Number 7 JULY
Publisherwww.maharshicharaka.in

A Literary Review on the Historical and Therapeutic Significance of Trikatu and Chaturushana in Ayurvedic Texts

Chaudhary R1*, Gupta R2
DOI:10.21760/jaims.10.7.42

1* Randeep Chaudhary, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Dravyaguna, Post Graduate Training and Research Institute, Government Ayurvedic College, Patiala, Punjab, India.

2 Rosy Gupta, Incharge and Reader, Department of Dravyaguna, Post Graduate Training and Research Institute, Government Ayurvedic College, Patiala, Punjab, India.

This literary review explores the historical evolution and therapeutic relevance of two classical Ayurvedic polyherbal formulations: Trikatu and Chaturushana. Trikatu composed of Sunthi, Maricha, Pippali; and Chaturushana which includes Pippalimoola in addition, are deeply rooted in Ayurvedic tradition. While not explicitly mentioned in the Vedic texts (2500–600 BCE), their constituent herbs are frequently referenced. The term "Trikatu" first appears in the Agni Purana, detailing its applications in organ disorders, toxicology, and veterinary care. In the Samhita period, Trikatu is classified under Mishraka Gana in Sushruta Samhita, while Charaka Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya provide numerous references using various synonyms. Chaturushana first emerges in Paryayaratnamala (9th Century AD) and is further discussed in several Nighantus. Both formulations are consistently credited with Deepana, Pachana, Krimighna and Kaphmedohara actions. This review underscores the enduring therapeutic significance of these formulations and the richness of Ayurvedic pharmaco-literary tradition.

Keywords: Trikatu, Chaturushana, Ayurveda, Deepana, Pachana, Agnimandya, Krimighna, Kaphmedohara

Corresponding Author How to Cite this Article To Browse
Randeep Chaudhary, Post Graduate Scholar, Department of Dravyaguna, Post Graduate Training and Research Institute, Government Ayurvedic College, Patiala, Punjab, India.
Email: 		Chaudhary R, Gupta R, A Literary Review on the Historical and Therapeutic Significance of Trikatu and Chaturushana in Ayurvedic Texts. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2025;10(7):277-284.
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2025-05-20 2025-05-27 2025-06-07 2025-06-17 2025-06-26
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© 2025 by Chaudhary R, Gupta R and Published by Maharshi Charaka Ayurveda Organization. This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ unported [CC BY 4.0].

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Randeep C et al. Significance of Trikatu and Chaturushana in Ayurvedic Texts

Introduction

Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, extensively emphasizes the therapeutic importance of compound formulations, many of which have stood the test of time through their widespread usage across varied clinical conditions. Among these, Trikatu and Chaturushana hold a distinguished place for their Deepana (appetizing), Pachana (digestive), and Srotoshodhana (channel-cleansing) properties. Trikatu, a synergistic blend of Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), Pippali (Piper longum), and Maricha (Piper nigrum), is frequently cited across Ayurvedic Samhitas and Nighantus under various synonyms and therapeutic groupings, reflecting its wide spectrum of actions on Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala.

Chaturushana, though lesser-known and lacking in synonymic references, shares similar pharmacodynamic characteristics with Trikatu but is recognized for its more potent Ushna Virya[1] (hot potency). Both formulations are prominently indicated in disorders related to Agnimandya, Kapha-vata imbalance, and metabolic derangements such as obesity and Prameha (Diabetes Mellitus). This article presents a detailed literary review of the classification, synonyms, properties, actions, and therapeutic indications of Trikatu and Chaturushana, based on classical Ayurvedic compendia. Understanding their classical relevance enhances their rational application in contemporary Ayurvedic practice.

Materials and Methods

A systematic review was conducted of classical Ayurvedic texts to analyse the classification, synonyms, properties, actions, and therapeutic indications of Trikatu and Chaturushana. The texts included:

Brihattrayi: Charaka Samhita (Ch.), Sushruta Samhita (Su.) and Ashtang Sangraha (A.S.)- for their foundational authority.

17 Nighantus spanning the 7-19th Century AD for their detailed pharmacological insights: Saraswati Nighantu (S.N.), Ashtanga Nighnatu (A.N.), Paryayaratnamala (P.R.M.), Madanadi Nighnatu (M.N.), Shabdacandrika (S.C.), Sodhala Nighantu (Sh.N.), Hrudayadipaka Nighantu (H.N.), Dhanvantari Nighnatu (D.N.), Abhidhana Ratnamala (A.R.), Madanapala Nighantu (Mp.N.),

Kaideva Nighantu (K.N.), MadhavdravyaGuna (Md.G.), Raj Nighantu (R.N.), Bhavprakash Nighantu (Bp.N.), Shivakosha (S.K.), Amarakosha (A.K.), Siddhasara Nighantu (SS.N.), Abhidhana Manjari (A.M.).

The review involved manual analysis of original texts and their commentaries, focusing on references of Trikatu & Chaturushana, and their synonyms, with cross-verification for accuracy.

Literature Review

Brihattrayi

1. Charaka Samhita (Ch.)

Despite the absence of an explicit group classification or pharmacodynamic description of Trikatu and Chaturushana as composite formulations in the Charaka Samhita, Acharya Charaka has extensively acknowledged the therapeutic value of their individual constituents. Notably, Shunthi, Maricha, and Pippali - the three ingredients of Trikatu - have been included under Shoolprashamana Mahakashaya[2] (group of Analgesics/Antispasmodic drugs/Carminatives), highlighting their analgesic and antispasmodic utility. Pharmacological attributes of these individual drugs are well elaborated in the Annapanavidhi Adhyaya, wherein their role in digestion, metabolism, and Dosha balance is emphasized. While Trikatu and Chaturushana as formulations are not separately defined or classified, their practical utility is evident from the numerous references and therapeutic applications embedded throughout text.

A thorough textual analysis reveals a significant number of references to Trikatu and its synonyms in Charaka Samhita, reaffirming its clinical importance. The synonym Vyosha appears 81 times, Tryushana 30 times, and Trikatu itself is directly mentioned 9 times, collectively amounting to 121 instances. This extensive mention underscores the implicit recognition of the formulation's significance, especially in managing disorders linked to Agnimandya, Ama, and Kapha-Vata vitiation. Hence, although not categorized under a specific Varga by Acharya Charaka, Trikatu is undeniably integral to Ayurvedic therapeutics. Its frequent citation through synonyms reflects both its historical prominence and the classical understanding of its pharmacological impact, thereby justifying its continued use and scholarly exploration in current Ayurvedic practice.


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2. Sushruta Samhita (Su.)

In the Sushruta Samhita, Trikatu is clearly recognized under the broader classification of Mishraka Gana,[3] a foundational concept in Ayurvedic pharmacology. This method of grouping - Karmatmaka Vargikarana - is based on the similarity of pharmacological actions rather than solely morphological or botanical features. Within this framework, Acharya Sushruta describes 37 such Gana, and Trikatu is prominently included.

This classical verse explicitly defines Trikatu as the polyherbal combination of Pippali (Piper longum), Maricha (Piper nigrum), and Shunthi (Zingiber officinale).

Furthermore, the subsequent verse outlines its Karma (therapeutic actions). This verse clearly delineates Trikatu’s role in treating Kapha and Medo-dominant disorders, including Meha, Kustha, Tvagvikara, Gulma, Pinas and Agnimandya, with prominent Deepana (digestive stimulant) and Lekhana[4] (scraping) properties.

A review of the text reveals that Trikatu and its synonyms are well represented with a total of 98 references found in the Sushruta Samhita. Of these, Vyosha appears 48 times, Trikatu 28 times, Katutrik 13 times, and Tryushana 9 times. This widespread mention across the text emphasizes the significant clinical utility of Trikatu, especially in conditions involving impaired Agni, accumulation of Ama and disorders rooted in Kapha-Meda imbalance. Therefore, while Acharya Charaka did not explicitly classify Trikatu, Acharya Sushruta not only defined it precisely but also systematically categorized it under a pharmacologically functional group. This structured and action-based classification reinforces the role of Trikatu as a potent therapeutic agent and justifies its continued prominence in Ayurvedic formulations and clinical practice.

3. Ashtang Sangraha (A.S.)

Acharya Vagbhata, in both Ashtanga Sangraha and Ashtanga Hridaya, provides valuable insights into the therapeutic applications and pharmacological understanding of Trikatu, though he does not formally classify it under a specific Gana. Unlike Acharya Sushruta who included Trikatu under Mishraka Gana, Acharya Vagbhata addresses it more through practical application, describing its properties, actions and indications in multiple contexts across both texts.

In Ashtanga Sangraha, Trikatu is described in the Vividha Aushadha Vijñaniya Adhyaya (A.S.Su.Sth.12/54), while in Ashtanga Hridaya, it is discussed in the Annaswaroopa Vijñaniya Adhyaya (A.H.Su.Sth. 6/64). The synonyms Vyosha and Tryushan are used interchangeably for Trikatu, aligning with earlier textual traditions.

Though not part of a formal classification in Vagbhata’s treatises, Trikatu is prominently featured, where it is listed among both the Deepaniya and Shoolaprashamana groups,[5] indicating its relevance in enhancing digestion and relieving colic or abdominal discomfort.

Acharya Vagbhata emphasizes Trikatu’s efficacy in managing Sthaulya (obesity), Mandagni (poor digestion), Shwasa (dyspnoea/asthma), Kasa (cough) and Peenasa[6] (rhinitis/sinusitis). These indications demonstrate the broad therapeutic range of Trikatu in Kapha-Medovaha disorders and digestive ailments.

Moreover, Trikatu is a key component in several formulations described by Acharya Vagbhata. A notable example is his adoption and rebranding of Kusthadi Churna (from Charaka) as Hingvadi Churna,[7] used especially in treating obesity (Sthaulya), underlining the formulation’s clinical relevance.

In the Chikitsa Sthana of Ashtanga Hridaya, Acharya Vagbhata prescribes Trikatu in the treatment of Udara Roga,[8] Gulma,[9] and Swarabheda[10] (hoarseness of voice). These references reinforce the formulation’s multipurpose utility across digestive, respiratory and metabolic disorders.

In the Ashtanga Hridaya, the formulation Trikatu is referenced a total of 114 times. The individual frequencies are as follows: Trikatu is mentioned 14 times, Tryushan 12 times, Vyosha 86 times, Katutrik 3 times, and Katutrayam once. His detailed referencing of Trikatu also demonstrates continuity and evolution from earlier texts like the Charaka and Sushruta Samhitas, emphasizing the dynamic integration of classical knowledge in clinical practice.

The term "Chaturushana" is not explicitly mentioned as a formulation in the Brittrayi (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Sangraha/Ashtanga Hridaya) as a separate or well-defined formulation like Trikatu.


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Nighantus

Trikatu in Nighantus

Across almost all Nighantus - from Saraswati Nighantu (7th century AD) to Abhidhana Manjari (19th century AD) - Trikatu is consistently described with identical composition and similar therapeutic virtues.

These include its action as a Deepana (digestive stimulant), Pachana (carminative), Kaphamedohara (anti-Kapha and anti-obesity), and Shoola Prashamana (analgesic).

  • Dhanvantari Nighantu[11] and Madanadi Nighantu[12] describe Trikatu’s role in managing conditions like Mandagni, Shwasa, Kasa, Pinas, and
  • Madhava Dravyaguna[13] echoes the pharmacological effects noted in Sushruta Samhita, reinforcing its role in Kaphamedoghna, Twakvikaras, and Agni Deepana.

The consistent description of its Rasa (Katu), Guna (Laghu, Tikshana), Veerya (Ushna/hot potency), and Vipaka (Katu) across all text’s points to its foundational importance in Ayurvedic pharmacology.

Chaturushana: Emergence and Composition

Unlike Trikatu, the compound Chaturushana is not mentioned in the Bṛihat Trayi, indicating that it is a later development in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics. Its first documented appearance is in the Paryayaratnamala[14] by Madhavakara (9th century AD). Here, it is distinctly referred to as a four-ingredient combination: Pippali, Maricha, Shunthi, and Pippalimoola (root of Piper longum).

This differentiation is significant: while Trikatu contains the fruits of the first two ingredients & rhizome of third, Chaturushana introduces Pippalimoola, adding a greater depth and potency to the formulation. Several later Nighantus such as:

  • Madanapala Nighantu[15]
  • Kaiyadeva Nighantu[16]
  • Raj Nighantu[17]
  • Bhavaprakasha[18]

have provided clear references to Chaturushana and noted that it shares most of the properties of Trikatu/Vyosha but possesses additional potency, often described with terms such as “Sagranthi” (with roots/knotty parts) or “Sakandamoola”.

Therapeutic Implications and Comparative Insight

Consistent pharmacological activities of Trikatu across centuries affirm its classical status in management of Agnimandya, Aamavata, Respira-tory disorders, Metabolic syndromes, Adhymaan, Apanavayu Vikruti, & Skin diseases. Chaturushana, however, seems to represent refined evolution, possibly developed for cases requiring more potent Deepana-Pachana effect, or in chronic Kapha-Meda dominated disorders. By including Pippalimoola, Chaturushana offers additional Anulomana, Rasay-ana, & Srotoshodhana properties, as highlighted in texts like Kaiyadeva Nighantu & Bhavaprakasha. This inclusion also underscores Ayurvedic principle of formulation customization based on Prakriti of disease and Roga Bala (intensity of pathology).

Classification in Major Ayurvedic Classics

A. Trikatu

Table 1: Classification of Trikatu described in Samhitas and Nighantu.

SNName of the GranthaMahakashaya/Varga/Gana
1.Charaka SamhitaShoolprashaman Mahakashaya
2.Sushruta SamhitaTrikatu Gana
3.Ashtanga HridyamPippalyadi Varga
4.Saraswati NighantuChandanaadi Varga
5.Ashtanga NighantuViprakiran Prakarna
6.ParyayaratnamalaUshna Dravyas
7.Madanadi NighantuChaturth Gana
8.ShabdacandrikaSwaranadi Varga
9.Sodhala NighantuMishrakaVarga
10.HrudayadipakaDvipaad Varga
11.Dhanwantri NighantuMishrak Varga
12.Abhidhana RatnamalaKatu Skandha
13.Kaidev NighantuAusadhi Varga
14.Madhavdravya GunaVividh Aushadi Varga
15.Madanapala NighantuSunthyadi Varga
16.Raj NighantuMishrakadi varga
17.Bhavprakasha NighantuHaritkyadi Varga
18.ShivakoshaChaturshram Kantah
19.AmarakoshaVaishya Varga
20.Abhidhana ManjariShooka Dhanya Varga

B. Chaturushana

Table 2: Classification of Chaturushana described in Samhitas and Nighantu.

SNName of the GranthaMahakashaya/Varga/Gana
1.ParyayaratnamalaUshna Dravyas
2.Madanapala NighantuSunthyadi Varga
3.Kaidev NighantuAushadhi Varga
4.Raj NighantuChaturthak Varga
5.Bhavprakasha NighantuHarityakadi Varga

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Synonyms in various texts

1. Trikatu

Table 3: Synonyms of Trikatu described in various Texts

SynonymsChSuAHSNANPRMMNSCShNHNRNDNARAKSSNAMBpNKNMpN
Trikatu++++++++++++++-++++
Vyosha++++++++++-++++++++
Katutrik-++--++++-+-----+--
Tryushan++++++++++++-++++++
Katutryam--+++-+--++++-++-++
Katu-----------------++
Katuk---------+--------+
Tryush----------+--------

2. Chaturushana

No Synonyms of Chaturushana have been described in any text.

Varients

A. Trikatu

Three types of Trikatu were explained in Sankhya Varga of Mahaoshadi Nighantu[19]:

1. Mukhya Trikatu
2. Madhyama Trikatu
3. Kshudra Trikatu

1. Mukhya Trikatu

It comprises of -

Shunthi: Zingiber officinale Roscoe.

Maricham: Piper nigrum Linn.

Pippali: Piper longum Linn.

Indication - Kasam (Cough), Swasam (Dyspnoea / Asthma), Gala Rogam (Diseases of throat), Pinasam (chronic rhinitis), Gulmam (Abdominal lump), Meham (Excessive flow of urine), Sthaulya (obesity), Slipada (Filariasis), Arochaka (anorexia), Agnimandya (Digestive impairment), Kustam (Diseases of skin).

2. Madhyama Trikatu

It comprises of -

Shunthi: Zingiber officinale Roscoe.

Dhanyakam: Coriandrum sativum Linn.

Pippali:Piper longum Linn.

Indication - Amakaphaja Jwaram (Fever associated with Amakapha condition)

3. Kshudra Trikatu

It consists of -

Shunthi:Zingiber officinale Roscoe

Dhanyakam:Coriandrum sativum Linn

Rasona:Allium sativum Linn.

Indication - Amavata jwara (Fever associated with Amavatha/ Rheumatic fever)

B. Chaturushana

No Variants of Chaturushana have been mentioned in ayurvedic literature

Rasa Panchaka

A. Trikatu

PropertyDescrption
RasaKatu
GunaLaghu, Tikshna
ViryaUshna
VipakaKatu

B. Chaturushana

PropertyDescrption
RasaKatu
GunaLaghu, Tikshna
ViryaUshna
VipakaKatu

Chaturushana has same properties as that of Trikatu but it is more Ushna[20] in Virya.

Action of Trikatu on Dosha, Dhatu & Mala

A. Trikatu

  • Action on Dosha - Kapha-Vata-Hara:

Trikatu is Kapha-Hara due to following

1) As Kapha is Snigdha, Shita, Guru- Trikatu being Ushna, Tikshna & Ruksha counteracts these guna.

2) It also digests Ama clears Srotorodha and enahances Agni which are typical Kapha

Trikatu is Vata-Hara due to following

1) Vata is Shita- Trikatu due to its Ushna Virya counteracts it.

*Overuse may lead to excess dryness or heat, potentially aggravating Vata in sensitive individuals


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Pitta Dosha

1) Pitta is Ushna, Tikshna - Trikatu’s similar guna may aggravate Pitta leading to

2) In Pitta Prakruti individuals it should be used with Anupana like ghee.

  • Action on Dhatus

On Ahara Rasa and all Rasadi Dhatus, mainly Meda Dhatu.

1) Ahara Rasa:Due to Deepana, Pachan action - it stimulates Jathr-agni (digestive fire) & strong Agni is essential for proper formation of Rasa and subsequent

2) Rasadi Dhatus:Helps in Dhatu Nirman by improving metabolism (Dhatwagni) and reducing Ama, thus ensuring better Sara (essence) of nutrients reaching each Dhatu.

3) Meda Dhatu: Due to Lekhana, Kapha-hara & Srotoshodhan properties it balances Meda Dhatu.

4) Srotoshodhana: It is Srotoshodhana (cleansing bodily channels) due to Ushna & Tikshna

5) Yogavahi: Acts as It is well reputed for enhancing the bioavailability of other medicines and eatables.

Overall, it improves digestion, metabolism and assimilation thus improving all Dhatus.

  • Action on Mala

1) Action on Purisha (Stool)

Deepana-Pachana action improves digestion, reducing the formation of Ama and excess stool bulk.

Its Tikshna and Ushna properties can help relieve constipation caused by Kapha or Ama; normalize bowel movements by correcting Agni.

2) Action on Mutra (Urine)

Indirectly promotes Mutravaha srotas shuddhi (cleansing of urinary channels) by reducing Ama and Kapha accumulation.

3) Action on Sveda (Sweat)

Trikatu's Ushna Virya promotes sweating (Diaphoretic) by increasing internal heat. Helps in breaking fevers and relieving blocked sweat glands (seen in Kapha dominance). Enhances proper Sveda mala formation and expulsion.

Chaturushana, on the other hand, contains an additional ingredient – Pippalimoola - which gives it a broader therapeutic range. Pippalimoola, with its Tikshna, Ushna, qualities, exerts a targeted influence on Udara Roga, Anaha, Gulma, Mala Bhedana,[21] thus regulating Apana Vata. This makes Chaturushana more effective in conditions like constipation, flatulence, urinary retention, and pelvic congestion. Its efficacy in Gulma, Udara Roga, and Meda-Vriddhi particularly stands out due to its action in the lower abdominal region.

In conclusion, while Trikatu remains a go-to formulation for general digestive and metabolic disorders, Chaturushana offers additional benefits in managing lower abdominal Vata-Kapha conditions, due to the unique action of Pippalimoola on Apana Vata.

Karma (Actions) and Prayoga (Uses) of Trikatu

Use of Trikatu in different diseases acc. to different texts of Ayurveda-

SNRogadhikarChSsASAHMpNKNMdGRNBpN
1. Gulma+++++++++
2. Udar Roga+++++
3. Kasa++++++
4. Visuchika++
5. Maha Vata Vyadhi++
6. Galaganda++
7. Upkusha++
8. Shvitra+-
9. Grahani Roga++
10.Pandu Roga++++
11.Atisara+++
12.Twagamya-Kushth+++++++
13.Dadru-+
14.Shwitra-++
15.Maha Kushtha-+
16.Ashmari-+
17.Jwara++
18.Visha++
19.Shopha++
20.Sthaulya+++++++
21.Unmada++
22.Apasmara++
23.Krimi++
24.Rajyakshma+
25.Shwasa+++++
26.Shlipada+++
27.Pinas+++++
28.Prameha+++++++

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Conclusion

The comprehensive analysis of Trikatu’s therapeutic applications, as documented, highlights its extensive and versatile role in Ayurvedic medicine across various classical texts. Trikatu is indicated in a wide array of conditions, ranging from digestive disorders (e.g., Gulma, Udara Roga, Grahani Roga, Atisara), respiratory ailments (e.g., Kasa, Shwasa, Pinas), metabolic imbalances (e.g., Sthaulya, Prameha), skin diseases (e.g., Twagamya-Kushtha, Dadru, Shwitra), to systemic conditions like Jwara, Visha, and Krimi. The most of the indications, such as Gulma, Sthaulya, Prameha, Kasa, and Shwasa, were established early in the Samhita period (Charaka, Sushruta, Ashtanga Sangraha, and Ashtanga Hridaya) and consistently maintained in later Nighantus. However, Shlipada (filariasis) emerges as a later addition, first documented in Madanapala Nighantu (~14th century CE) and further reinforced in Kaiyadeva Nighantu and Bhavaprakasha Nighantu. This addition reflects the evolving understanding of Trikatu’s pharmacological potential in addressing conditions like filariasis, likely due to its Kaphamedohara and Srotoshodhana properties.

Alongside Trikatu, Chaturushana shares a synergistic pharmacodynamic profile. While it parallels Trikatu in its Deepana, Pachana, and Kaphahara actions, Chaturushana offers added depth due to the inclusion of Pippalimoola, which is especially effective in Vatanulomana and Apanavata regulation, addressing conditions rooted in lower gastrointestinal dysfunction. Chaturushana’s relevance in Krimi Roga, Gulma, and Udara is emphasized in classical and regional practices, where it acts as a potent Agni dipaka and Krimighna yoga, facilitating both Ama digestion and expulsion of intestinal parasites. In respiratory and metabolic conditions like Kasa, Shwasa, and Prameha, it supports mucolytic activity, enhances bioavailability (Yogavahi Guna), and promotes Srotas cleansing. Moreover, its role in emerging indications such as Shlipada may be inferred from its Tikshna, Ushna, and Srotoshodhana properties, which help reduce Kleda, clear obstructions in lymphatic channels and counter Kapha-Meda Dushti. The expansion of Trikatu & Chaturushana’s indication over time underscores the adaptability of Ayurvedic pharmacology and its responsiveness to emerging clinical needs.

Further research is warranted to explore the scientific basis of Trikatu & Chaturushana’s efficacy in these conditions, particularly for newer indications like Shlipada, to enhance its integration into modern healthcare.

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