Kachnar
Kachnar
Kachnar is also known as Mountain Ebony or Rakta Kanchan is an ornamental plant planted in gardens, parks, and roadsides in many warm temperate and subtropical regions. All parts of the plant (leaves, flower buds, flower, stem, stem bark, seeds, and roots) possess medicinal benefits.
Kachnar leaves are beneficial in managing diabetes by reducing blood glucose levels and improving lipid profile due to the presence of antioxidants. Kachnar stem might help manage weight by improving metabolism.
As per Ayurveda, consuming Kachnar powder along with honey or lukewarm water helps manage the thyroid due to its Tridosha balancing and Deepan (appetizer) properties.
Kachnar helps in wound-healing by inducing the formation of new skin cells due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In Ayurveda, applying Kachnar powder mixed with honey helps manage skin problems such as acne, pimples due to its Sita (cold) and Kashaya (astringent) properties.
Overconsumption of Kachnar should be avoided as it might cause constipation.[2][3][11-13].
Kachnar leaves are beneficial in managing diabetes by reducing blood glucose levels and improving lipid profile due to the presence of antioxidants. Kachnar stem might help manage weight by improving metabolism.
As per Ayurveda, consuming Kachnar powder along with honey or lukewarm water helps manage the thyroid due to its Tridosha balancing and Deepan (appetizer) properties.
Kachnar helps in wound-healing by inducing the formation of new skin cells due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In Ayurveda, applying Kachnar powder mixed with honey helps manage skin problems such as acne, pimples due to its Sita (cold) and Kashaya (astringent) properties.
Overconsumption of Kachnar should be avoided as it might cause constipation.[2][3][11-13].
What are the synonyms of Kachnar?
Bauhinia variegata, Kancanaraka, Kancan, Kanchan Kanchana, Rakta Kanchana, Mountain Ebony, Champakati, Kanchnar, Kachanar, Kanchanar, Keyumandar, Kanchavala, Kalad, Chuvanna Mandharam, Kanchana, Raktakancana, Kachana, Kaniara, Sigappu mandarai, Sihappu mantarai, Deva Kanchanam, orchid-tree, poor-man’s orchid, camel's foot, Napoleon's hat[1][2].
What is the source of Kachnar?
Plant Based
Benefits of Kachnar
1. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce a sufficient amount of thyroid hormones. According to Ayurveda, the initial causes of Hypothyroidism are diet and lifestyle factors that imbalance the digestive fire and metabolism and disrupt the balance of the Tridoshas (Vata/Pitta/Kapha). Kachnar improves the digestive fire which corrects the metabolism and also helps to balance Tridosha due to its Deepan(appetizer) and Tridosha balancing property.
Tip to use Kachnar to help manage Hypothyroidism-
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water or honey once or twice a day to help manage Hypothyroidism.
2. Piles
Piles, known as Arsh in Ayurveda, 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 leads to low digestive fire, leading to constipation. If ignored or left untreated, this causes swelling in the veins in the rectum area leading to formation of Piles mass. Kachnar helps to improve the digestive fire because of its Deepan (appetizer) property, thereby preventing constipation and also helps to reduce swelling of the Piles mass.
Tip to use Kachnar to get relief from Piles-
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water or honey once or twice a day to get relief from the symptoms of Piles.
3. Menorrhagia
Menorrhagia or heavy menstrual bleeding is known as Raktapradar (or excessive secretion of menstrual blood) in Ayurveda and is caused due to an aggravated Pitta dosha. Kachnar balances an aggravated Pitta and controls heavy menstrual bleeding or Menorrhagia as it has Sita (cold) and Kashaya (astringent) properties.
Tip to use Kachnar to control Menorrhagia or heavy menstrual bleeding -
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water or honey once or twice a day to control the symptoms of Menorrhagia.
4. Diarrhea
Diarrhea, known as Atisar in Ayurveda occurs due to improper food, impure water, toxins, mental stress and Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). All these factors are responsible for aggravating Vata. Aggravated Vata brings fluid to the intestines from various tissues of the body and mixes with the stool. This leads to loose, watery motions or Diarrhea. Kachnar helps to control Diarrhea by improving the digestive fire due to its Deepan (appetizer) properties. It also makes the stool thick and controls water loss due to its Grahi (absorbent) and Kashaya (astringent) properties.
Tip to use Kachnar to get relief from Diarrhea -
a. Take 1/2- 1 teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Add 2 cups of water to it and bring to a boil.
c. Wait 5-10 minutes or till the water gets reduced to 1/2 cup.
d. Take 3-4 teaspoons of this Kachnar decoction.
e. Add same quantity of water to it.
f. Drink it once or twice a day after taking meals to help control watery motion during Diarrhea.
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce a sufficient amount of thyroid hormones. According to Ayurveda, the initial causes of Hypothyroidism are diet and lifestyle factors that imbalance the digestive fire and metabolism and disrupt the balance of the Tridoshas (Vata/Pitta/Kapha). Kachnar improves the digestive fire which corrects the metabolism and also helps to balance Tridosha due to its Deepan(appetizer) and Tridosha balancing property.
Tip to use Kachnar to help manage Hypothyroidism-
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water or honey once or twice a day to help manage Hypothyroidism.
2. Piles
Piles, known as Arsh in Ayurveda, 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 leads to low digestive fire, leading to constipation. If ignored or left untreated, this causes swelling in the veins in the rectum area leading to formation of Piles mass. Kachnar helps to improve the digestive fire because of its Deepan (appetizer) property, thereby preventing constipation and also helps to reduce swelling of the Piles mass.
Tip to use Kachnar to get relief from Piles-
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water or honey once or twice a day to get relief from the symptoms of Piles.
3. Menorrhagia
Menorrhagia or heavy menstrual bleeding is known as Raktapradar (or excessive secretion of menstrual blood) in Ayurveda and is caused due to an aggravated Pitta dosha. Kachnar balances an aggravated Pitta and controls heavy menstrual bleeding or Menorrhagia as it has Sita (cold) and Kashaya (astringent) properties.
Tip to use Kachnar to control Menorrhagia or heavy menstrual bleeding -
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Swallow it with lukewarm water or honey once or twice a day to control the symptoms of Menorrhagia.
4. Diarrhea
Diarrhea, known as Atisar in Ayurveda occurs due to improper food, impure water, toxins, mental stress and Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). All these factors are responsible for aggravating Vata. Aggravated Vata brings fluid to the intestines from various tissues of the body and mixes with the stool. This leads to loose, watery motions or Diarrhea. Kachnar helps to control Diarrhea by improving the digestive fire due to its Deepan (appetizer) properties. It also makes the stool thick and controls water loss due to its Grahi (absorbent) and Kashaya (astringent) properties.
Tip to use Kachnar to get relief from Diarrhea -
a. Take 1/2- 1 teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Add 2 cups of water to it and bring to a boil.
c. Wait 5-10 minutes or till the water gets reduced to 1/2 cup.
d. Take 3-4 teaspoons of this Kachnar decoction.
e. Add same quantity of water to it.
f. Drink it once or twice a day after taking meals to help control watery motion during Diarrhea.
Precautions when using Kachnar
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before taking Atis during breastfeeding.
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable for diabetics to avoid or consult a physician before taking Kachnar.
Patients with heart disease
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable for patients with heart disease to avoid or consult a physician before taking Kachnar.
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available, it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before taking Kachnar during pregnancy.
FAQs about Kachnar precautions
Recommended Dosage of Kachnar
- Kachnar Powder - ¼-½ teaspoon once or twice a day.
- Kachnar Tablet - 1-2 tablets once or twice a day.
Benefits of Kachnar
FAQs about Kachnar benefits
1. Wound healing
Kachnar helps in quick healing of the wound, decreases swelling and brings back the normal texture of the skin. Boiled water of Kachnar helps can be used to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation due to its Ropan (healing) and Sita (cold) properties.
Tip to use Kachnar to promote Wound healing-
a. Take 1/2- 1 teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Add 2 cups of water to it and bring to a boil.
c. Wait 5-10 minutes or till the water is reduced to 1/2 cup.
d. Take 3-4 teaspoon (or as per your requirement) of this Kachnar decoction.
e. Add water to the decoction as per your requirement.
f. Use it to clean the wounds once or twice a day to promote healing.
2. Acne & Pimples
A person with Kapha-Pitta dosha skin type can be prone to Acne and Pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha increases sebum production which clogs the pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. An aggravation of Pitta also causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Kachnar is useful for removing oil and dirt due to its Kashaya (astringent) nature. It also balances aggravated Pitta due to its Sita (cold) property, thus preventing Acne and Pimples.
Tip to use Kachnar to prevent Acne and Pimples -
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Add honey to it and make a paste.
c. Apply the paste evenly on the affected area once a day.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of Acne and Pimples.
Kachnar helps in quick healing of the wound, decreases swelling and brings back the normal texture of the skin. Boiled water of Kachnar helps can be used to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation due to its Ropan (healing) and Sita (cold) properties.
Tip to use Kachnar to promote Wound healing-
a. Take 1/2- 1 teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Add 2 cups of water to it and bring to a boil.
c. Wait 5-10 minutes or till the water is reduced to 1/2 cup.
d. Take 3-4 teaspoon (or as per your requirement) of this Kachnar decoction.
e. Add water to the decoction as per your requirement.
f. Use it to clean the wounds once or twice a day to promote healing.
2. Acne & Pimples
A person with Kapha-Pitta dosha skin type can be prone to Acne and Pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha increases sebum production which clogs the pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. An aggravation of Pitta also causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Kachnar is useful for removing oil and dirt due to its Kashaya (astringent) nature. It also balances aggravated Pitta due to its Sita (cold) property, thus preventing Acne and Pimples.
Tip to use Kachnar to prevent Acne and Pimples -
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Add honey to it and make a paste.
c. Apply the paste evenly on the affected area once a day.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of Acne and Pimples.
Precautions when using Kachnar
Allergy
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the use of Kachnar in allergies. So it is advisable to avoid or consult a physician before using Kachnar.
How to use Kachnar
Kachnar Powder Paste
a. Take ½ -1 teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Add honey to it and make a paste.
c. Apply the paste evenly on the affected area once a day.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of skin diseases.
a. Take ½ -1 teaspoon of Kachnar powder.
b. Add honey to it and make a paste.
c. Apply the paste evenly on the affected area once a day.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of skin diseases.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Yes, Kachnar has been used as an antidote for snakebite in the traditional medicine system. It acts as a snake venom neutralizer and helps in alleviating the toxic effects of snake poisoning[4].
Modern Science View
Kachnar should be stored at room temperature and kept away from direct exposure to heat and light.
Modern Science View
A single dose of expired Kachnar drug may produce adverse reactions such as seizures, heart problems, and skin allergies. So it is generally advisable to avoid taking expired Kachnar.
Modern Science View
Kachnar can be used for the manufacture of the wood wool board, production of gum, and fibers[9].
Modern Science View
Kachnar is commonly known as Rakta Kanchan in Sanskrit and Mountain Ebony in English.
Modern Science View
Kachnar is a medicinal tree which is used to treat various ailments. It has edible buds and flowers which could be used in cooking meals. It is rich in essential minerals which make it a healthy source of food.
Modern Science View
Kachnar bark might be useful in the case of diabetes due to the presence of flavonoids that have antioxidant properties. These antioxidants possess anti-diabetic activity that prevent the damage of pancreatic cells and stimulate the secretion of insulin. This helps in lowering the blood sugar levels[4].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Kachnar helps to control blood sugar levels. It has Deepan (appetizer) property which helps reduce Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) that is the primary cause of high sugar level in blood.
Modern Science View
Yes, Kachnar might be good for weight loss as it helps improve body metabolism. It has anti-obesity property which helps in the release of a hormone known as serotonin in the brain. Serotonin works as an appetite suppressant that helps manage appetite and controls excessive weight gain or obesity[4].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Kachnar helps to control excessive weight gain (obesity) by reducing Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) which is the prime cause of weight gain. Kachnar has Deepan (appetizer) which improves digestive fire which reduces Ama and helps reduce belly fat.
Modern Science View
Yes, Kachnar might lower the risk of development of parasitic worms due to its anthelmintic properties. It suppresses the activity of the parasite and helps in the expulsion of the parasite from the host body, thereby managing worm infections[4].
Modern Science View
Yes, Kachnar might help in lowering lipid levels as it has antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant properties. It helps lower the level of bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein or LDL) as well as triglycerides and increases the levels of good cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein or HDL). This helps reduce the fat deposited in the arteries and prevents artery blockage[4].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Kachnar is an effective herb to manage cholesterol. It has Deepan (appetizer) property that helps to improve the digestive fire and reduce Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the body which is the primary cause of high cholesterol level.
Modern Science View
Yes, Kachnar might show neuroprotective activity as it has antioxidant properties. It reduces oxidative stress and protects the brain cells (neurons) against damage caused by free radicals[14].
Modern Science View
Yes, Kachnar shows an anti-ulcer property. It controls the amount of gastric secretion and total free acidity in the stomach which might help manage ulcers[4].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Kachnar is good for ulcers as it promotes quick healing of ulcers due to its Ropan (healing) property. It also controls excessive secretion of gastric juices which further prevents the symptoms of ulcers due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Sita (cold) properties.
Modern Science View
Yes, Kachnar might reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Various animal studies suggest that Kachnar decreases the activity of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine which is an essential neurotransmitter and thus helps in reducing the risk of memory loss in case of Alzheimer’s disease[8].
Modern Science View
Yes, taking Kachnar in large doses might lead to constipation[5].
Modern Science View
Yes, Kachnar might help relieve flatulence due to its carminative property[10].
Ayurvedic View
No major side effects are associated with the use of Kachnar when it is taken at the recommended dose and duration. However, remember excessive intake of Kanchnar might cause constipation due to its Kashaya(astringent) nature.
Ayurvedic View
Kanchnar guggul is a classical Ayurvedic polyherbal medicine which is mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic text. The word Guggul is taken from the Sanskrit word Guggulu which means 'protection from the disease'. The main ingredient of this medicine is Kanchanar which helps in treating various ailments like skin diseases, wounds, edema, dysentery, and ulcers. The anti-helmintic, astringent, anti-leprotic, and anti-microbial properties of Kanchnar make it an effective Ayurvedic medicine.
Ayurvedic View
Take Kachnar Powder ¼-½ teaspoon or as directed by the physician. Swallow it with lukewarm water or honey once or twice a day to get quick relief from diarrhea.
Modern Science View
Enough evidence is not available to suggest Kachnar’s use in pregnancy. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with your doctor before consuming it.
Modern Science View
Yes, Kachnar might be helpful in the healing of wounds. A paste of Kachnar bark has good antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Various animal studies state that the phytoconstituents present in Kachnar help in the formation of collagen and release inflammatory and growth mediators. These growth mediators help in wound contraction and closure, thereby promoting wound healing[5].
Modern Science View
Yes, Kahchna might be useful in toothache due to its analgesic and its anti-inflammatory properties. Ash of Kachnar dried branches is used to massage teeth to help reduce pain and inflammation in gums[6].
Ayurvedic View
Kachnar helps to reduce toothache when applied on the affected area due to its Kashaya (astringent) and Sita (cold) nature. It also prevents bacterial growth that causes toothache and bad odour from the mouth.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Al-Snafi AE, The Pharmacological Importance of Bauhinia variegata. A Review.International Journal of Pharma Sciences and Research.2013;4(12):160-164. 3.Sahu G, Gupta PK.A review on Bauhinia Variegata.IRJP.2012;3(1):48-51.
- Sahu G, Gupta PK.A review on Bauhinia Variegata.IRJP.2012;3(1):48-51.
- Singh KL, Singh DK, Singh VK.Multidimensional uses of medicinal plant Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata Linn.).American Journal of phytomedicine and clinical therapeutics.2016;4(02):058-072.
- Negi A,Sharma N, Singh MF. Spectrum of Pharmacological activities from Bauhinia variegata: A review. Journal of pharmacy research.2012;5(2):792-797.
- Balkrishna A. Secrets of Indian Herbs for good health.Divya Prakashan;2008.
- Mishra A, Sharma AK, Kumar S, et al.Bauhinia Variegata leaf extracts exhibit considerable antibacterial, antioxidant and anticancer activities.Biomed Research International.2013;1-10.
- Nariyal V, Sharma P.Kanchnar (Bauhinia Variegata) as a medicinal herb : A systematic review.International Journal of Advanced Research.2017;5(9):587-591.
- Sahu G, Gupta PK. A Review on Bauhinia variegata Linn. International Research Journal of Pharmacy.2012;3(1):48-51.
- Jatav N, Ganeshpurkar A, Gupta N, et al.Nootropic potential of Bauhinia variegata: A systematic study on murine model.Archives of Medicine and Health Sciences.2014;2(1):29-35.
- Kulkarni YA, Garud MS.Bauhinia variegata (Caesalpiniaceae) leaf extract: An effective treatment option in type I and type II diabetes.Biomed Pharmacother. 2016 Oct;83:122-129.
- Balamurugan G, Muralidharan P. Antiobesity effect of Bauhinia variegata bark extract on female rats fed on hypercaloric diet. Bangladesh J Phar-macol. 2010; 5: 8-12.
- Parveen S, Husain SA, Khan N. Bauhinia variegate Linn. : Traditional and Scientific Validation. Adv. Biores., Vol 8 [Spl issue 1] 2016: 78-83.
- Khare P, Kishore K , Sharma DK.Historical aspects, Medicinal uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological review of Bauhinia variegata.Asian Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology 2018; 4(5): 546-562.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.