Karkotaki (Karkotaki (Pitapushpa, Mahajali, Vandhyakarkotaki, Devi, Kanya, Yogishvari))
Karkotaki, known as spiny gourd, is a dioecious climbing vine traditionally used in Ayurveda for its antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and skin-healing properties. The plant's fruit and root are utilized for various therapeutic purposes.
Botanical name: Momordica dioica. Also known as: Spiny gourd, spine gourd, teasle gourd, bristly balsam pear, prickly carolah, Kakoda, Ban Kakoda, Banykakod, Vankakod, Junglee karela, kakrol, Karkotaki, Karkoti, Peethapushpa, Mahajaali, Bonkarela, Ghikalla, Kartoli, Vanjkatoli, Kartole, Kankodi, Kankoda, Kantola, Meluku-pakal, Palu-pakal, Kattupadavalam, Boda kakara, Adavikakara, Akakara.
Properties
Antidiabetic, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Thrombolytic
Dosage
General dose: 2-5 grams with sugar. Root juice: 50 ml once a day on an empty stomach for diabetes. Kantakari powder: ¼ - ½ teaspoon mixed with water or honey, once or twice a day after a light meal.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Tikta (Bitter)
- Virya: ["Ushna (Heating)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (Pungent)"]
Benefits
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
- Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory)
- Kushtahara (Anti-skin disease)
Traditional uses
- Diabetes
- Skin diseases (pimples, acne, eczema)
- Hypertension
- Anorexia
- Nausea
- Leprosy
- Wounds
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Culinary: The fruit is used as a vegetable and can be fried or cooked with or without meat or fish.
- Juice: Karkotaki juice can be consumed on an empty stomach in the morning.
- Decoction: Boil the pieces of Karkotaki in water and drink the strained liquid.
- Powder: The fruit or root can be used in powder form.
- Paste: For external application, the leaves can be made into a paste.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: High dosages are contraindicated due to limited safety data and the potential effect of bitter phytochemicals on uterine tone.
- Blood Sugar Management: Can cause hypoglycemia, especially if combined with anti-diabetic drugs like metformin or sulfonylureas. Monitor blood sugar closely.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Large amounts, especially concentrated extracts, may cause mild gastrointestinal upset like nausea and cramping.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions are possible, though rare. A skin patch test with leaf juice can help identify sensitivities.
- Specific Health Conditions: Spiny gourd might not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with chronic gastrointestinal disorders or kidney issues. Its high fiber content may worsen digestive problems, and certain compounds might exacerbate kidney conditions.
- Drug Interactions: More research is needed to understand how Momordica dioica may interact with other medications.
Side effects
- Excessive consumption may cause loose motions due to its high fiber content.
- People with hypoglycemia should monitor their blood sugar levels when consuming Karkotaki, as it may have hypoglycemic properties.
- It can cause vomiting in excess doses.
Interactions
- With Western Medicines: It is advisable to seek your doctor's advice if you are taking Karkotaki along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicines. If both Ayurvedic and allopathic medicines are advised together, it is best to take the Allopathic medicine first, wait for 30 minutes, and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.
- With Digoxin (Lanoxin): Calotropis (related plant) also seems to affect the heart. Taking calotropis along with digoxin can increase the effects of digoxin and increase the risk of side effects. Do not take calotropis if you are taking digoxin (Lanoxin) without talking to your healthcare professional.
- With Lithium: Calotropis might have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic." Taking calotropis might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium. This could increase how much lithium is in the body and result in serious side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider before using this product if you are taking lithium. Your lithium dose might need to be changed.
Clinical evidence
Clinical studies on *Momordica dioica* demonstrate antidiabetic and renal protective effects. A double-blind study showed a significant reduction in fasting glucose levels in pre-diabetic subjects. *In vitro* studies suggest thrombolytic potential.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
- Shothahara (Anti-inflammatory)
- Kushtahara (Anti-skin disease)
Classical clinical indications
- Diabetes
- Skin diseases (pimples, acne, eczema)
- Hypertension
- Anorexia
- Nausea
- Leprosy
- Wounds