SCIENTIFIC NAME: Picrorhiza kurroa

 

HINDI NAME: Katuka

 

FAMILY: Scrophulaceae

SHORT DESCRIPTION

Katuki is butter taste dominant with properties of dryness and light to digest (ruksha and laghu). Katuki comes in two varieties, Katukarohini (P. kurroa) and Ashoka rohini, according to Ayurveda (E. paniculata) It is said to balance the Kapha and Pitta doshas. Katuki may help control blood sugar levels and support healthy liver, enzyme, and cholesterol levels, according to research. Aside from the roots and rhizome leaf, the stem and seeds contain a variety of components, making this plant a very promising herb.

USES & HEALTH BENEFITS

• Amazing herb to treat asthma by easing breathing and respiration 
• Natural anti-pyretic 
• Heals wounds and primary bacterial infections
• Aid in weight management
• Hepatoprotective
• Immunomodulator
• Anti-cancerous
• Anti-diabetic 

PRECAUTIONS & SIDE EFFECTS

• Use only under the supervision of an expert physician, in case of pregnancy and lactation.
• In case of side effects like burning sensation in urine, diarrhoea or vomiting, drink a glass of milk and seek medical attention immediately.

HOW TO USE

• Take 1-3 g of Katuki along with honey or warm water once or twice a day, to relieve asthmatic episodes, or as advised by the Ayurveda expert.
• An equal amount of katuki powder and turmeric powder is highly effective in Type II diabetes. Take as directed by a physician.
• Use 0.5-1 g katuki fine powder in buttermilk or with honey or suitable adjuvant to cure constipation and fatty liver condition.
• A pinch of fine root powder mixed with honey can be used to treat upper respiratory infections, by licking it 4-5 times a day.
• 15 ml of hot decoction of katuki has great benefits in treating fever and cold. Take honey or jaggery, optional.