Kankushtha (Kankushtha (Kakakushtha, Viranga, Kolakakula))
Kankushtha (Garcinia morella) is a tropical tree traditionally used in Ayurveda as a purgative and for improving complexion. Modern research explores its anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant properties.
Botanical name: Garcinia morella. Also known as: Indian Gambose, Gamboge, Gambogia, Gummi gutti, Tamal, Pumakki, Iravasinni, Chikata Chetu, Chigiri, Iravi, Ardala, Devana huli, Jirigehuli, Murina huli, Ponpuli, Kujee Thekera, Kankushtha, Tamaal, Taapichha, Amitadruma, Hiravi, Kalaskandha, Lokaskandha, Niladvaja.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Anticancer, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial
Dosage
Resin: 50-125 mg, Powder (Churna): 1-3 grams with warm water or honey before meals, Standardized Extracts: 300-500 mg (containing 50-60% hydroxycitric acid) twice daily before food; start with lower doses (100-200 mg) to assess tolerance, Leaf juice: 10-15 ml, Decoction: 50-100 ml, Kankustha powder 5-10 mg in Vatashleshmaka jwara
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Bitter, Pungent
- Virya: ["Hot"]
- Vipaka: ["Unspecified"]
Benefits
- Purgative
- Complexion promoter
Traditional uses
- Digestive disorders
- Weight management
- Anti-inflammatory
- Skin health
- Liver ailments
- Appetite stimulant
- Edema and hypertension
- Worm infestations
- Dysentery
- Gastritis
- Fatigue
- Boils
- Burning sensation
- Dizziness
- Improves strength and immunity
- Aphrodisiac
- Addresses excessive thirst
- Relieves tiredness
- Good for skin complexion
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Powder (Churna): Dried pericarp (outer rind) ground to a fine powder.
- Standardized Extracts: Capsules or tablets.
- Infused Oils: Tincture mixed with coconut or sesame oil for external application.
- Tincture: Alcohol-based extract (1:5 ratio).
- Other Methods: Drying the rind and powdering it for digestion or cooking
- Other Methods: Infusing the rind in oils for skincare
- Other Methods: Ripe fruits can be sliced and dried
Contraindications
- Overdose: Overdoses of Kankushtha can lead to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort.
- Dosha Imbalance: Garcinia fruits, having a sour taste, may not be suitable for individuals with Pitta and Kapha dosha imbalances.
- Strong Purgative: Kankushtha is a strong purgative. It should be administered with caution.
- Interaction with other medicines: If you are taking allopathic medicines, it is best to take the allopathic medicine first, wait 30 minutes, and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.
Side effects
- Mild GI upset
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Mild nausea or diarrhea (5-10% of users)
- Headache or Dizziness
- Hypoglycemia Risk
- Excessive Purgation
Interactions
- Anticoagulants (warfarin)
- SSRIs
- Certain statins
- Anti-diabetic medications
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Anticoagulants
- Herbs: May interact with other herbs that affect digestive fire or reduce Kapha, like ginger or turmeric.
- Supplements: Generally goes well with most dietary supplements, but consult a doctor if taking more than one product per day.
Clinical evidence
Limited clinical trials suggest potential benefits in weight management and other areas, but results are inconsistent. More rigorous research is needed.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Purgative
- Complexion promoter