Description

Kantakari is a branched perennial shrub, a warm season plant that grow mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. It is one of the popular herb in Ayurvedic literature. It has cylindrical root, 10-45 cm long with small rooflets. It has green stem, 8-10mm thick with young branches, covered with hair. It has elliptical shaped leaves, 4 to 12.5 cm long and 2 to 7.5 cm wide. Its purple flowers are 2 cm long, with 5 petals. It bears globular dropping, edible berries, yellow in color with green veins. It can be most commonly found in Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Northern Africa and Australia.

Health benefits

• Kantakari acts as an antitussive which helps to reduce the cough reflex. It clear airways and helps to maintain proper functioning of lungs.⁽¹⁾
• It also prevents common cold, sinusitis and other upper respiratory allergies.⁽¹⁾
• It acts as a diuretic and helps to treat urinary disorders like urinary tract infections and its symptoms.⁽¹⁾
• It acts as an antioxidant and prevent the damage caused by free radicals in the body.⁽¹⁾
• It regenerates new cells and improves functioning of the liver. It also increases liver metabolism.⁽¹⁾
• It acts as antacid that helps to neutralize acid content and also decreases its production.⁽¹⁾
• It relieves pain and inflammation caused by insect bite.⁽¹⁾
• It can also help to reduce gum problems like inflamed gums.⁽¹⁾

Selection Guide

Kantakari is available in the form of juice, powder, extract and tonic.