Kutaja Bark Powder (Holarrhena Antidysenterica)

*Kutaja literally translates to that which is found in the mountains, and it takes the shape of a tree or large shrub. The flowers are white in color and give off a fragrance that is similar to the Jasmine flower. Once the flowers are plucked there is a slight discharge of a milky substance. The herb is widely used in Ayurvedic healing as it promotes deep healing of the gut. Kutaja helps to maintain the digestive fire and eliminate any toxins from the GI tract.

*Benefits include absorbing excess fluids from the gut, firming of stools, reduces swelling in the gut, improves gut health, helps digest toxins, clears skin toxins, promotes regular bowel movement, maintains tissue health, support intestinal health, and helps in rectal health.

Suggested Use: 1/4 to 1/3 teaspoon in powder form, once or twice daily, or use as directed by your health practitioner.

Botanical Name – Holarrhena antidysentrica
Family – Apocynaceae
English Name – Kurchi, Conessi tree, Conessi Bark

Morphology –
Kutaja is a glabrous tree or large shrub. The leaves of this plant are 10 cm long and 4 – 10 cm broad opposite, oval and which are arranged in reverse directions and feel membranous. Flowers can grow up to 2-3cm high and have five white petals. The fruits of this herb are paired and cylindrical in shape. Seeds are light brown having tufts of silky hair and are numerous in quantity.

Physical and chemical properties of Kutaja –
Taste – Bitter; Astringent
Quality – Light, Dry
Potency – Cold
Post Digestive effect – Pungent

Bhavaprakasha – Guduchyadi Varga
कुटजः कटुको रूक्षो दीपनस्तुवरो हिमः |
अर्शोऽतिसारपित्तास्रकफतृष्णामकुष्ठनुत् ||१०२||