Which term denotes the intake of bitter herbs with antipyretic action in jvara chikitsa?

• A. Tiktako
• B. Pachanani
• C. Yavagu
• D. Langhanam

Answer: (A)

In jvara chikitsa, using the bitter taste to counter fever taps into the cooling, heat-dissipating properties of tikta (bitter) herbs. Tiktako specifically denotes the intake of bitter herbs chosen for their antipyretic action, helping to reduce the excessive heat and neutralize fever by soothing pitta and clearing heat from the body. This aligns with the idea that bitter substances oppose heat and calm inflammatory processes.

Pachanani refers to pachana, digesting ama, which is about aiding digestion rather than directly providing antipyretic cooling. Yavagu is a nourishing gruel used for hydration and gentle nourishment during fever, not focused on bitter antipyretic herbs. Langhanam is a therapy of reducing intake or fasting to lower metabolic heat, not about bitter herbal medicines.

Thus, the term for the intake of bitter herbs with antipyretic action is tiktako.