Table of Contents
| 1. Introduction |
| 2. What is Picrorhiza Kurroa? |
| 3. Ayurvedic properties of Picrorhiza Kurroa |
| 4. Health Benefits of Kutki |
| 5. Uses of Kutki |
| 6. Side Effects of Picrorrhiza |
| 7. Picrorhiza Kurroa Tea |
| 8. Frequently Asked Question |
1. Introduction
Picrorhiza Kurroa, commonly known as Kutki, is a powerful herb that has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat various health conditions. Kutki has several potential benefits, including supporting liver function, reducing inflammation, fighting infections, boosting immunity, and improving digestion. However, like all herbal supplements, it is important to understand how to use it safely and be aware of potential side effects. One unique way to incorporate Picrorhiza Kurroa into your routine is by trying Picrorrhiza Green Tea, which combines the benefits of this powerful herb with the soothing effects of green tea.
In this post, we'll explore the benefits of Kutki, how to use Picrorhiza Kurroa, its potential side effects, and the benefits of Picrorrhiza Green Tea.
2. What is Picrorhiza Kurroa?
Kutki Botanical name is Picrorhiza Kurroa, other common names are picrorrhiza, yellow gentian, picroliv, katuka, katuki, kurri, kuru, hellbore. It is found in Himalyan regions of China, Pakistan, India, Bhutan, and Nepal. Its trade name picrorrhiza is based on a scientific name.
The dried rhizomes of the plant constitute the drug, it is used extensively in conditions in which the drugs with taste are considered significant. The Picrorhiza Kurroa is a recognized substitute for the European gentian in Indian Pharmaceutical Codex 1952.
It has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for its various medicinal properties. The roots and rhizomes of Picrorhiza kurroa contain a variety of bioactive compounds, such as kutkin, picroside I, and II, apocynin, androsin, and many more, which are responsible for its medicinal properties,
Picrorhiza kurroa has been found to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, immune-modulatory, and antiviral properties. It has been used to treat various ailments such as liver disorders, respiratory disorders, digestive disorders, allergies, and fever. Moreover, it is considered safe for human consumption and has minimal side effects.
Chemical Constituent, Morphology of Picrorhiza Kurroa
Chemical Constituent
Picrorhiza Kurroa is a small, hairy perennial herb with woody rhizomes. It contains bitter glucoside kytkin, a non-bitter product kurrin, vanillic acid, alcohol kutkiol, sterol kutkisterol, and an odorous principle, sesquiterpene. In Greek, “picros” means bitter, while “rhiza” means root.
Morphology
Picrorhiza Kurroa Leaves
The leaves are basal and alternate and 8-12 cm long, almost radical, toothed, narrowed, sharply serrated, and alternately arranged on the stem. Terminal Spikes are present. Calyx divides equally into 5 parts.
Picrorhiza Kurroa Flowers
The flowers are very small white or pale blue-purple, borne in cylindric and dense terminal spikes. The flowering time of Picrorhiza Kurroa is June to August.
Picrorhiza Kurroa Fruit
The fruit is an acute capsule, tapered at the top, dehiscing into 4valves, 12 mm long. The fruiting time of Picrorhiza Kurroa is June to August.
Picrorhiza Kurroa Seeds
The seeds are numerous, ellipsoid, and coated very thick, and transparent. The color is white, with an oblong curved raphe.
Picrorhiza Kurroa Roots
The Roots are elongated, tubular,5–10 cm in length, and 0.5–1.0 mm in diameter. They are straight or marginally curved with a few longitudinal and dotted scars, mostly associated with rhizomes.
3. Ayurvedic properties of Picrorhiza Kurroa
Picrorhiza kurroa, commonly known as Kutki, is a valuable medicinal plant in Ayurveda for its various therapeutic properties. The roots and rhizomes of Picrorhiza kurroa are particularly used for their medicinal benefits.
Ayurvedic properties of Picrorhiza kurroa:
1. Rasa (Taste): Picrorhiza kurroa is believed to have a combination of bitter (Tikta) and pungent (Katu) tastes.
2. Virya (Potency): It is cooling in nature (Sheeta Virya).
3. Vipaka (Post-digestive taste): The post-digestive taste is pungent (Katu Vipaka).
4. Dosha Effects: Picrorhiza kurroa primarily balances Kapha dosha and, to a lesser extent, Pitta dosha. However, in excess, it may increase Vata dosha.
Ayurvedic Uses:
-
Liver Support: Picrorhiza kurroa is highly regarded for its beneficial effects on the liver. It is used to support liver health and function, making it helpful in managing various liver disorders.
-
Digestive Support: The herb is used to support healthy digestion and manage digestive disorders like indigestion, loss of appetite, and constipation due to its bitter taste, which stimulates digestive juices.
-
Immune Booster: Picrorhiza kurroa is known for its immune-enhancing properties and is used to boost the body's natural defense mechanisms.
-
Respiratory Health: It is used to manage respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis due to its bronchodilator and expectorant properties.
-
Anti-inflammatory: Picrorhiza kurroa possesses anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial in managing inflammatory conditions.
-
Antioxidant: The herb is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals and protect the body from oxidative stress.
-
Antimicrobial: It has antimicrobial effects and can be used to manage certain infections.
4. What are the Health Benefits of Kutki / Picrorhiza Kurroa?
In Indian medicine, Picrorhiza Kurroa is considered a valuable bitter tonic, almost as efficacious as Indian gentian, botanically known as gentian kurroo (nilkenta). It cures periodic attacks of hysteria, epilepsy, and convulsion and promotes the secretion of bile.
Picrorhiza Kurroa is considered an important medicinal plant that is mostly used in the traditional medicinal system for asthma, jaundice, fever, malaria, snakebite, and liver disorders.
It has anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, antimutagenic, cardio-protective, hepato-protective, anti-malarial, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-ulcer, and nephroprotective properties.
Picrorhiza Kurroa has a pungent and bitter taste, it has cold potency. It helps to balance the Pitta and Kapha doshas and often an excess of it can aggravate the Vata doshas.
Let’s check out the health benefits of Picrorhiza Kurroa
For Ascites
Picrorhiza is beneficial in the treatment of ascites, a disease characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity of the abdomen.
For Constipation
Picrorhiza serves as a mild purgative by inducing active movement of the bowel. It gives relief from constipation.
For Indigestion
Picrorhiza is beneficial in the treatment of dyspepsia. It strengthens the stomach and promotes its action while improving appetite and stimulating the secretion of gastric juices.
For Jaundice
Picrorhiza is one of the two major herbs considered beneficial in Ayurveda for the treatment of jaundice. The second one is Turpeth (Nisoth)
For Liver Cirrhosis
Picrorhiza is an important herb for liver treatment in Ayurveda, it stimulates the liver to produce more bile, and increased secretion relieves congestion of the liver, and the tissues start functioning again.
For Weight Management
Picrorhiza contains rich fibers and essential nutrients that help to control weight gain and shred access weight.
For Respiratory Problems
Picrorhiza contains anti-inflammatory, anti-biotic, and anti-asthmatic properties that help to treat respiratory problems and keep the track healthy.
For Ulcers
Picrorhiza contains anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties, the root of Picrorhiza helps to treat ulcers, peptic ulcers, canker sores, or mouth ulcers.
5. How to use Picrorhiza Kurroa?
Dosage and uses depend upon the health problems and conditions or as recommended by an Ayurvedic doctor. The general recommended dosage is 3-6 grams of Picrorhiza Kurroa daily once a day.
Here are some home remedies for Picrorhiza Kurroa / KutkiFor Abnormal Belly
Take 50 grams of Picrorhiza Kurroa root powder with 200ml water, boil till three-fourths of the water evaporates, and take this fresh decoction daily for 21 days. Helps to induce 4-5 motions on average, leading to a reduction of girth.
Buy Picrorhiza Kurroa Root Powder
For Indigestion
Take 5 grams Picrorhiza Kurroa root powder with water daily.
For Jaundice
Take 5 grams of each, Picrorhiza Kurroa root powder and Turpeth root powder, and mix them well. Take it with hot water, twice a day, daily.
Buy Turpeth Root Powder
Read Blog - Turpeth Root Benefits
For Liver Disorders
Take 1 tsp of Picrorhiza Kurroa root powder with an equal amount of honey and mix them well. Take it thrice a day daily.
For Liver Health
Take ½ tsp of Picrorhiza Kurroa root powder with 1 tbsp of aloe vera juice and 1 tsp of honey, mix them well, and take them after a meal.
Buy Aloe Vera Powder
Read Blog - Aloe Vera Benefits
For Blood Sugar Levels
Take ½ tsp of Picrorhiza Kurroa root powder with ½ tsp of Berberis Aristata powder mixed in ¼ cup of warm water thrice a day.
Buy Berberis Aristata Powder
Read Blog - Berberis Aristata Benefits
For Arthritis
Make a decoction of ¼ tsp Picrorhiza Kurroa root powder, ½ tsp Ginger, and 1 tsp Castor Oil. Mix them with warm water and take them before going to bed.
Buy Ginger Powder
Read Blog - Ginger Benefits
6. Side Effects of Picrorrhiza
All Ayurveda herbs are plant-based, and they don’t have any side effects but they may react with some allopathy or homeopathy medicine. It is better to consult the doctor if you are on any medications or have special health issues.
Some side effects of Picrorrhiza are mentioned below
- Consult the doctor if you are breastfeeding.
- Do not take Picrorhiza Kurroa without a doctor’s prescription if you are pregnant.
- If you are on diabetes or on hypertension medication. Consult first the doctor before consuming Picrorhiza Kurroa.
- Do not take Picrorhiza Kurroa without a doctor’s prescription if you are suffering from chronic diarrhea.
- Picrorhiza Kurroa is not suggested without medical supervision for children below 12 years of age, the elderly, or physically or mentally weaker persons.
- If you are on any health supplements, advise the doctor before starting Picrorhiza Kurroa.
7. Picrorrhiza Green Tea
This tea helps to improve digestion and immunity of the body, it is also helpful to maintain blood sugar levels. You can add this tea to your brunch menu.
Ingredients
- Water – 1 ½ cup
- Picrorhiza Kurroa Root Powder – ½ tsp
- Green Tea – ½ tsp
- Berberis Aristata Powder – ½ tsp
- Cinnamon Powder – ¼ tsp
- Nutmeg Powder – ¼ tsp
- Black Pepper Powder – ¼ tsp
- Black Salt – ¼ tsp
Method
- Heat the pan and add water, start to boil.
- Add all the ingredients except black salt.
- Boil for 2-3 minutes.
- Strain the tea in a cup with help of a tea filter.
- Add black salt according to the taste, mix it and drink hot.
- You can also add lemon.
8. Frequently Asked Question
Q - What is Picrorhiza kurroa used for?
Q - What is Kutki called in English?
Picrorrhiza is the English name of Kutki, its botanical name is Picrorhiza kurroa, some other common names are picroliv, katuka, katuki. It is found in Himalyan regions of China, Pakistan, India, Bhutan, and Nepal.
Q - Is Kutki good for liver?
Picrorhiza kurroa or Kutki is a first choice for treatment of cirrhosis of the liver in Ayurveda. A tsp of the powder of root mixed with equal amount of honey, helps to stimulates the liver to produce more bile and increase secretion, relives congestion of liver.
Q - Is Kutki good for diabetes?
Picrorhiza kurroa or Kutki has anti-diabetic properties which is helpful to control blood sugar and maintain the diabetes. Take ½ tsp of Picrorhiza Kurroa root powder with ½ tsp of Berberis Aristata powder mixed in ¼ cup of warm water thrice a day, helps to maintain under control.
Q - When should we take Kutki?
Dosage and uses depend upon the health problems and conditions or as recommended by an Ayurvedic doctor. The general recommended dosage is 3-6 grams of Picrorhiza Kurroa daily twice a day.
Q - How does Kutki support liver health?
Kutki contains several compounds that are known to support liver health, including kutkoside, picroside I and II, and apocynin. These compounds help increase bile secretion, reduce inflammation in the liver, and protect against damage from toxins and oxidative stress.
Q - Can Kutki be used to treat viral infections?
Kutki has been shown to have potential antiviral properties and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat viral infections like hepatitis A and B, as well as the flu. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
Q - What are the active compounds in Kutki?
Kutki contains several active compounds, including kutkoside, picroside I and II, and apocynin, which are responsible for its potential health benefits.
Q - Is Kutki effective for treating digestive issues like indigestion and constipation?
Kutki has traditionally been used to treat digestive issues like indigestion and constipation, and some studies have shown that it may help improve digestion and reduce symptoms of indigestion.
Q - How does Kutki help reduce inflammation in the body?
Kutki contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, including kutkoside and picroside I and II. These compounds help reduce inflammation in the body, making Kutki potentially useful for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis.
Q - Can Kutki be used to treat allergies or asthma?
Kutki has not been extensively studied for its effects on allergies or asthma. However, some preliminary research suggests that it may have anti-inflammatory effects that could be helpful for reducing inflammation in the airways.
Q - What is the best way to consume Kutki, as a supplement or a tea?
Kutki can be consumed as a supplement in capsule or tablet form, or it can be brewed as a tea using the dried root or powder. The optimal way to consume Kutki may vary depending on the desired effect and individual preferences.
Q - Is Kutki effective for treating skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis?
There is limited research on the effects of Kutki on skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. However, some studies suggest that Kutki may have anti-inflammatory effects that could be helpful in reducing symptoms of these conditions.
Q - How does Kutki help boost immunity?
Kutki has been shown to have immune-boosting properties, potentially due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It may help improve overall immune function and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
Q - Can Kutki be used to treat high blood pressure or diabetes?
Some preliminary studies suggest that Kutki may have beneficial effects on blood sugar and blood pressure levels. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness for these conditions and determine optimal dosing.