Catechu (Khadira (Vitkhadira, Kalaskandha, Arimedaka))

Properties

Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Hypoglycemic, Astringent

Dosage

Powder (Churna): 1–3 grams, twice daily with warm water or honey. Decoction (Kashayam/Kwath): 10–20 grams of chips boiled down to 100–200 ml, taken once or twice daily. 5-10 grams of chips boiled in 200 ml water reduced to 50 ml, sipped warm, 1–2 times daily. 20-30 ml per day, or as directed by a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner. Tablet/Extract (Khadir Ghan): 500 mg tablets, 1–2 tablets twice daily post-meal. Khadira extract - 0.5-1 gm. Oil Infusion: For topical application, 2–3 times daily for joint pain or skin lesions. Khadir Paste: Applied topically as required for skin conditions.

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Kashaya (Astringent)
• Virya: ["শীতল (Cooling)"]
• Vipaka: ["Katu (Pungent)"]

Benefits

• Kashaya (Astringent)
• Vranaropana (Wound healing)
• Raktastambhana (Hemostatic)
• Kapha-Pitta Shamaka (Balances Kapha and Pitta)

Traditional uses

• Kushta (Skin diseases)
• Prameha (Diabetes)
• Atisara (Diarrhea)
• Raktapitta (Bleeding disorders)
• मुखरोग (Oral Diseases)

Dosha effects

• vata: balancing
• kapha: balancing
• pitta: balancing

Preparation methods

• Powder (Churna): The bark is carefully dried to preserve its natural aroma, freshness and good qualities. It is then made into a powder.
• Decoction (Kashayam): Boil 10-20 grams of *Senegalia catechu* chips in 100-200 ml of water until the liquid reduces. Strain and drink.
• Topical Paste: Mix Khadira powder with rose water or aloe gel to form a paste. Apply to the affected area.
• Mouthwash: A 2% decoction can be used as a mouthwash or gargle to relieve inflammation. You can prepare a mouthwash by boiling Khadir bark in water and gargling with the solution.
• Natural Dye: Boil Catechu in water to create a natural dye for fabrics and crafts.

Contraindications

• Peptic Ulcer: Use with caution in patients with peptic ulcers, and only under strict supervision, as it may cause mucosal tightening.
• Constipation/Hemorrhoids: May exacerbate symptoms in individuals with chronic constipation or hemorrhoids.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Due to insufficient data, it's best to avoid high doses during pregnancy and lactation. Stick to amounts normally found in food.
• Liver/Kidney Disorders: If you have liver or kidney disorders, consult a healthcare professional. Excessive tannin intake has been briefly linked to hepatic overload in animal studies.
• Medication Interactions: Always inform your Ayurvedic consultant of any medications you are taking to prevent unforeseen interactions. May reduce the absorption of certain antibiotics due to tannin binding.
• Severe *Vata* Imbalances: Contraindicated in severe *Vata dosha* imbalances.
• Low blood pressure (hypotension): Catechu might lower blood pressure. There is a concern that it might lower blood pressure too much, causing fainting and other symptoms, in people who already have low blood pressure. Stop using catechu at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery because catechu might lower blood pressure, and there is a concern that it might interfere with blood pressure control during and after surgery.
• Theophylline: Catechu might decrease how quickly the liver breaks down theophylline. Taking catechu with theophylline might increase the side effects from theophylline.
• Amoxicillin: Acacia can prevent the body from absorbing the antibiotic amoxicillin. To prevent this interaction, take acacia at least four hours before or after taking amoxicillin.

Side effects

• Generally well-tolerated in recommended doses.
• Excessive doses may cause constipation, dry mouth, or throat irritation.
• Contraindicated in severe Vata dosha imbalances and chronic constipation.
• May lower blood pressure.
• One specific product (Limbrel, Primus Pharmaceuticals) containing a mixture of catechu and Baikal skullcap has been linked to serious side effects and was recalled by the US FDA in 2017. It is unclear if these effects were due to catechu, Baikal skullcap, or the combination.
• There are concerns that flavocoxid, a combination product containing catechu, might cause liver problems in some people.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid larger medicinal amounts until more is known.
• Allergic skin reactions are possible; perform a skin test before extensive use.

Interactions

• May reduce the absorption of certain antibiotics due to tannin binding. Stagger timing by 2 hours.
• Antihypertensive drugs: Catechu might lower blood pressure, and taking it with medications for high blood pressure might cause blood pressure to go too low.
• Theophylline: Catechu might decrease how quickly the liver breaks down theophylline, potentially increasing side effects.
• Immunosuppressants: Catechu can increase or decrease the activity of the immune system, potentially interfering with the effects of immunosuppressant medications.
• Some Ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine. It is best to take Allopathic medicine first, wait for 30 minutes, and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.

Clinical evidence

Clinical trials indicate that catechu is effective for reducing dental plaque and improving cognitive function. Pilot studies show potential in treating minor acne lesions. Research also explores its effect on immune function following influenza vaccination. Additional research suggests its potential in managing diabetes and osteoarthritis.

Ayurvedic karmas

• Kashaya (Astringent)
• Vranaropana (Wound healing)
• Raktastambhana (Hemostatic)
• Kapha-Pitta Shamaka (Balances Kapha and Pitta)

Classical clinical indications

• Kushta (Skin diseases)
• Prameha (Diabetes)
• Atisara (Diarrhea)
• Raktapitta (Bleeding disorders)
• मुखरोग (Oral Diseases)