Kutaja

Kutaja (Holarrhena antidysenterica)

---

Treasures of Nature (Prakriti Ka Khazana) – Kutaja

Kutaja, scientifically known as Holarrhena antidysenterica, is an ideal Ayurvedic herb to curb diarrhea. It is also used to treat irritable bowel syndrome. Common Ayurvedic herbs like Kutaj Ghanavati, Kutajarishta etc. are prepared from Kutaja. This plant is pronounced differently in differently languages. In English it is also called Kuruchi.

Sangrahani, one of the types of this plant, helps in chronic diarrhea or constipation. The powdered form of Kutaja helps in indigestion. Kutaja is also used in giving treatment to diarrhea or other ailments related to digestion. Bark of kutuj, when taken in proper amount (generally 15-30 ml.) after meal with equal amount water helps in various digestion problems.

It also helps in diseases like arthritis, pain in bones, inflammation etc. By boiling the bark of the plant in water and applying it on infected wound with some salt, it helps boost the healing process. It also helps in sexual debility and Dhatu rog. It is beneficial for diabetic patients and various skin problems. For people with high blood sugar, soak Kutaja bark with water at night and consume it in the morning. This will help keep the sugar in check. Skin boils and Eczema can also be curbed by Kutaja.