What is danti?

In the ancient science of Ayurveda, the herb Danti holds a unique place for its powerful detoxifying properties. Known as a natural purgative and anti-inflammatory remedy, it is especially valued for balancing the Kapha and Vata doshas. Though lesser-known than popular herbs like ashwagandha or tulsi, Danti has been traditionally used for deep internal cleansing and treating stubborn skin conditions.

Its use dates back to classical Ayurvedic texts, where it is classified under Shodhana Dravyas – herbs that purify the body by eliminating toxins.v

Latin Name: Baliospermum montanum
Vernacular Names:

• Hindi: Danti
• Bengali: Dhattigach
• Tamil: Neeradi-mooligai
• Telugu: Chinnapotugadam
• Kannada: Devadaru
• Malayalam: Neeradimulaku
• Marathi: Danti
• English : Himalayan  Cedar

Sanskrit Names:

Danti: the roots resemble elephant tusk

Udumabaraparni : leaves resembles that of udumbar tree.

Erandaphala : The fruits are like castor fruits

Sheeghra: One which grows very fast.

Chitra : With molted seeds

Ghunaprirya : roots gets infected with worms.

Vishodhani: The roots induce purgation.

Benefits & Ayurvedic Properties of Danti

 

Ras

• Katu (Pungent)
• Tikth ( Bitter)

  Veerya ( Potency) 

• Ushna (Hot)

Vipaak ( Post-digestive effect)

• Katu (Pungent)

 Guna ( Qualities)

• Laghu (Lightness)
• Tikshna (Sharp)

Also read Basics of Ayurveda: Learn about Vata, Pitta, Kapha

Dosha Effect

• Balances: Vata and Kapha dosha

• May increase: Pitta (if overused)

Classical Categorization

In Charak Samhita –  It is categorized as

• Bhedaniya : Group of herb that helps in piercing and purgation
• Muliniya dravya: It is included in group of herbs who’s roots are used

In sushrut samhita –  It is categorized as

• Shyamadi : Elimination of morbid toxins through rectal route.
• Adhobhaghar : remove ama through rectal route

Vagbhatt- Shyamadi

Health Benefits of Danti

Constipation

Constipation is caused due to an aggravated Vata and Pitta dosha. This can be due to the frequent consumption of junk food, excess intake of coffee or tea, sleeping late at night, stress and depression. All these factors aggravate Vata and Pitta leading to constipation. Danti root powder helps to manage constipation because of its Bhedna (purgative) nature. It helps to expel waste products easily.

Piles

Piles are known as Arsh in Ayurveda which is caused by an unhealthy diet and a sedentary lifestyle. This leads to the impairment of all the three doshas, mainly Vata. An aggravated Vata causes a low digestive fire, leading to constipation. This causes swelling in the veins in the rectum area leading to pile mass. Danti root powder helps to manage constipation due to its Bhedna (purgative) property. It also reduces the size of the piles mass.

Intestinal worms

Danti helps to control intestinal worms. According to Ayurveda, worms are called as Krimi. The growth of worms is encouraged by low Agni (weak digestive fire). Taking Danti root powder helps to improve the digestive fire and destroys the ideal condition for the growth of worms. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. It helps control worms because of its Krimighna (anti-worm) property.

Useful in Skin problems

Devdaru is said to kusthhar and kanduhar and also posses antibacterial  and antifungal properties. Because of this it is very effective in managing skin problems especially the one having vata-kapha imbalance. This includes problems like

• Eczema
• Acne
• Psoriasis
• Non healing wound

Joint pain relief

Danti helps reduce bone and joint pain when applied to the affected area. According to Ayurveda, the bones and joints are considered a site of Vata. Pain in the joints is mainly due to Vata imbalance. Applying Danti root powder helps to reduce joint pain due to its Vata balancing property.

Actions (Karma) of Devdaru in Ayurveda

• Ashukari – spreads very fast in the body

• Vikasi– it causes loosening of joints, intoxication

• Vatahar – useful in treating disorder of  Vata dosha imbalance such as neuralgia and paralysis

• Krimighna – Destroys worms and microbes

• Kaphahara – Clears phlegm and congestion

• Kushtahar – Good for skin diseases

• Udar :  useful in ascites

• Arshoghna : helps to relieve piles and fissure

• Ashmarihar: relieves urinary stone

• Shoolhara: relieves abdominal colic pain

• Deepana : improves digestion

• Pachana : digest excess Ama ( toxins)

• Shodhana : helpful in detoxification

• Anahahar: relieves gas, abdominal fullness, bloating

• Pleehahar : Useful in spleen disorders and speenomegaly

• Gulmahar : useful in abdominal tumors

How to use Danti

Danti can be consumed in various forms, including:

• Danti powder:  1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of danti powder mixed with 5 gms of jaggery should be taken two times a day.
•  Seed powder: 125 to 250 mg
• Part Used :  Roots, leaves, seed, seed oil.

What are the side effects of Danti

 Like any other Ayurvedic herb danti is having many health benefits . However , it may have some side effects as well They include

Allergic Rashes

If someone is sensitive to devdaru they may see skin rashes or redness and ithcing. In this condition it is advisable to discontinue the use .

Nausea and Diarrhea

 Overdose may cause twitching pain, nausea and diarrhea.

Toxic effects

Pain, tachycardia, diarrhea, excessive salivation and vertigo.

Milk and coconut water act as antidote in case of these symptoms appear.

Danti shodhan(purification) process

As per charaka danti root is coated with paste made from pippali (piper longum)churna and madhuka(Madhuka longifolia). This mass is then wrapped grass and tied. It is again wrapped with mud. Now this mass wrapped with mud coating is heated in fire and sunlight. After this process is over danti root is taken out. This root is now purified and can be used.

Precautions

During breast feeding avoid consuming Danti.

Avoid consuming danti during pregnancy due to lack of research on safety during pregnancy.

Always use Danti in recommended dosage  to avoid potential side effects such as nausea and bloating. It is better to ask Ayurveda doctor about dose and suitability for your body type.

If you have pre existing medical conditions or taking any medications, consult a doctor before using danti. This ensures that there are no harmful interactions or contraindications.

Don’t use danti continuosly for long period of time . Take break to allow your body to respond appropriately. Also when we use any herb continuosly ,then the body becomes use to it and it don’t respond to it.

Store danti in cool and dark place to maintain its potency and prevent it from contamination. Proper storage helps in retaining its therapeutic value.

Home Remedies of Danti

Danti root powder for Constipation

For this remedy you will need following ingredients:

• Danti root powder – 1/4 tsp

• Water – 2 cups

How to Take:
Take 1/4 teaspoon of dantimool powder and take it with lukewarm water early morning. Use this every 15 days don’t take it regularly.

It helps to clear the colon there by relieving constipation and strengthening digestive system.

Skin paste for Acne and Infection

To make the skin paste you need following ingredients:

• Danti root powder – 1 tsp

• Neem powder – 1 tsp

• Rosewater or plain water – to mix

How to make the paste:
Make a smooth paste by mixing danti root powder and neem powder in rose water or plain water. Apply on acne spots or small skin infections. Leave for 15–20 mins, then rinse.

This paste is having natural antibacterial property that helps to clear blemishes and soothes itching.

Danti mool powder for worm infestation

To make the  you need following ingredients:

• Danti mool  powder – 1/4 teaspoon

• Vidang powder- 1/4 teaspoon

• Water

How to use:
Mix both the herbs and take it with water. Repeat this dose every week for 1 month.

This formulation will help in relieving worm infestation.

Danti root for piles

To make the  you need following ingredients:

• Danti mool  powder – 1/4 teaspoon

• Water

How to use:
Mix danti root powder with water and  make a paste. Apply this paste on the piles mass.

This remedy will help to relieve pain, swelling and help to shrink pile mass.

Frequently asked question

1.Can this herb be used while taking homeopathic medicine ?

Yes. This herb does not react with homeopathic medicine.

2.Can this herb/medicine be continued while taking supplements like multivitamin, omega 3, spirulina ?

Yes .Generally this herb goes well with most dietary supplement. However if you are taking more than one product per day please consult your doctor for opinion.

3. With western/modern medicine

Seek your doctors advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicine. Some ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine.

When taking ayurvedic medicine or herb with modern medicine it is best to keep one hour gap in between both the medicine.

4. How long does danti take to start showing benefits ?

It depend on  any existing disease, overall health, your prakriti ( genetic make up) all these factors plays a role in how quickly danti powder benefits are seen.

5.Can it be used in people with diabetes?

Yes. But always keep watch on your sugar levels. This herb can lower your blood sugar levels. Do not stop your diabetes medicine once you start taking this herb/medicine. Keep in touch with your ayurvedic doctor. They will guide you in this respect.

6.Are there any diet restriction( Pathya) while taking this seeds ?

No .There are no such restriction while taking this product. However if you have been advised with any specific diet based on disease, you should continue to follow it.

Ayurvedic medicine that contains danti

Danti  is one of the ingredients in following medicines

Punarnavadi gugulu:  It is one of the ayurvedic medicine which is used to treat gout, sciatica low backache.

 Dantyaristh: It is used in treatment of  piles ,constipation, liver and spleen related problems.

Shiva Gutika : This medicine used in liver and spleen disorders, respiratory conditions, neuro-psychiatric.

Conclusion

Danti is a powerful herbal tool in the Ayurvedic toolkit – revered for its deep cleansing, healing, and rejuvenating qualities. While its effects are potent, so are its risks if not used correctly. But when used with care and proper guidance, it can be an incredible aid in restoring gut health, detoxifying the body, and supporting overall wellness.

Please consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

This Article is written by Dr. Ashutosh Tiwari B.A.M.S, PGDCR Director of Risha’s Health And Ayurvedaa Solutions.He is having more than 20 years of experience in field of Ayurvedic medicine.

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Disclaimer  :The content provided here is for informational purpose only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek medical advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concern you may have regarding a medical conditions.

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