Kachnar (Kanchanara (Kanchanaka, Gandaari, Shonapushpaka))
Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata), also known as Mountain Ebony, is a medicinal plant with various parts (leaves, flower buds, flowers, stem, stem bark, seeds, and roots) possessing medicinal benefits. It is traditionally used in Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties.
Botanical name: Bauhinia variegata. Also known as: Kachnar, Orchid Tree, Mountain Ebony.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory activity, Antimicrobial activity, Immunomodulatory effects, Antidiabetic activity, Antioxidant activity
Dosage
1-3 grams of powder, 5-10 ml of decoction.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Astringent
- Virya: ["Cooling"]
- Vipaka: ["Pungent"]
Benefits
- Kaphahara
- Pittahara
- Gandamala nashana (cervical lymphadenitis relief)
- Cleansing
Traditional uses
- Goiter
- Lymphadenitis
- Skin diseases
- Wound healing
- Acne
- Weight management
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Decoction (Kwath): Boil 10-20 grams of bark or flowers in 200-400 ml of water until reduced to one-fourth. Strain and consume.
- Powder (Churna): Grind dried bark or flowers into a fine powder. Consume 1-3 grams with warm water or honey.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Lactation
- Individuals with severe constipation
Side effects
- May cause dryness in the throat
- Constipation in sensitive individuals
Interactions
- No significant drug interactions are widely reported, but caution is advised with concurrent use of other astringent or drying herbs.
Clinical evidence
Limited clinical evidence from a small randomized trial suggests potential thyroid support. Several case reports also support this, but larger, well-designed studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of Kachnar for various therapeutic uses.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Kaphahara
- Pittahara
- Gandamala nashana (cervical lymphadenitis relief)
- Cleansing
Classical clinical indications
- Goiter
- Lymphadenitis
- Skin diseases
- Wound healing
- Acne
- Weight management
Frequently asked questions
What is Kachnar?
Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata), also known as Mountain Ebony, is a medicinal plant with various parts (leaves, flower buds, flowers, stem, stem bark, seeds, and roots) possessing medicinal benefits. It is traditionally used in Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties.
What are the benefits of Kachnar?
Kaphahara. Pittahara. Gandamala nashana (cervical lymphadenitis relief)
How is Kachnar used in Ayurveda?
Decoction (Kwath): Boil 10-20 grams of bark or flowers in 200-400 ml of water until reduced to one-fourth. Strain and consume.