Ketaka (Suchikapushpa, Jambuka, Krakachchhada, Kataka)

About

Ketaka, known scientifically as Pandanus odorifer, is a fragrant plant used in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties. It is traditionally used to balance Kapha dosha and address various ailments.

Properties

CNS depressant action, Antioxidant activity, Antimicrobial activity, Anti-inflammatory activity

Dosage

Root powder: 2-3 grams with hot water. 1-2 grams of dried root powder, once or twice daily. Cold infusion/distillate: 30-40 ml. 40-50ml. Root decoction: 10-15 ml once daily. 25-30 ml boiled in milk. Leaf decoction: Boil 5–10 g fresh leaves (or 2–3 g powdered) in 250 ml water for 10 minutes; strain and drink warm, up to twice daily. Root powder capsules: Standardized to 20% pandanine; 300 mg three times a day with meals, for urinary support.

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Pungent, Sweet, Bitter
• Virya: ["Unknown"]
• Vipaka: ["Unknown"]

Benefits

• Kaphahara (Kapha-reducing)

Traditional uses

• Eye disorders
• Water purification
• Anxiety

Dosha effects

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

Preparation methods

• Paste: Prepared from the root and applied to the skin. Mix 1 tsp root powder with a few drops of water to make a paste; apply to minor fungal lesions or skin irritations and leave on 20–30 minutes before rinsing.
• Oil: Root processed in sesame or coconut oil for external application. The stigma of the flowers can be processed in oil for nasal drops.
• Decoction: Boil the root or leaves in water. Boil 5–10 g fresh leaves (or 2–3 g powdered) in 250 ml water for 10 minutes; strain and drink warm, up to twice daily.
• Cold Infusion: Soak the root in cold water.
• Powder: Dried root powder can be taken with hot water.
• Essential oil inhalation: Add 2–3 drops of pandan leaf oil to an oil burner or diffuser; inhale for 5–10 minutes in the morning or evening.
• Other forms: Water, essential oil, incense.

Contraindications

• High doses should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation without expert guidance.
• Some individuals may have sensitive skin reactions; a patch test is recommended before topical application.
• Use with caution if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic / modern) medicines.
• Exercise caution in pregnant women, those on diuretics, or with kidney issues.
• Overconsumption of root decoction may cause gastrointestinal upset.

Side effects

• No adverse effect is known or reported after use.
• Overconsumption of root decoction (beyond 60 ml/day) can cause mild nausea or diarrhea.
• May cause diarrhea if consumed in large amounts.
• Rarely, topical use of leaf paste may provoke contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
• Excessive consumption can lead to nausea, dizziness, or allergic reactions.
• High doses may stimulate uterine contractions, posing risks during pregnancy.
• Skin irritation or respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.

Interactions

• May interact with diuretics or sedatives, altering their efficacy.
• Mild diuretic effect may potentiate blood pressure–lowering or potassium-depleting medications.
• Seek your doctor's advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic / modern) medicines.
• If both Ayurvedic and allopathic medicines are advised together, then it is best to take Allopathic medicine first, wait for 30 minutes and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.

Active compounds

• Eugenol
• Capric acid
• Germacrene B
• Camphor
• Linalool
• Phenylethyl methyl ether
• Flavonoids
• Phenols

Clinical evidence

Animal studies suggest potential anti-anxiety effects of Pandanus odorifer, but further rigorous clinical trials are needed to validate these claims in humans.

Ayurvedic karmas

• Kaphahara (Kapha-reducing)

Classical clinical indications

• Eye disorders
• Water purification
• Anxiety

Frequently asked questions