Top 7 Kantakari Uses and Health Benefits

Kantakari, one of the major ingredients of Dashmula (an Ayurvedic concoction made with ten herbal roots), is known for its numerous medicinal values. The scientific name of Kantakari is Solanum virginianum. Kantakari use, under proper guidance, can help in treating multiple diseases like asthma, cough and cold are immensely popular and effective.

Let’s know various aspects, including the uses and benefits of Kantakari, in detail.

The Kantakari plant belongs to the Solanaceae family and mainly thrives in sandy plains. You can find this herb in almost every part of India under different local names, including Bhatakataiya, Katali, Katai, Nelagulla, etc.

The following are some major health benefits that you can get from this Indian herb:

1. Treats Asthma: Kantakari contains antihistamine elements that restrict the narrowing down of airway passages to the lungs. This element also ameliorates swellings in bronchioles and prevents mucus formation. As a result, the inhaled air reaches the human lungs without much restriction, improving asthmatic symptoms. For this same reason, treating the symptoms of the common cold, sinusitis, and various respiratory allergies are among the many uses of Kantakari.
2. Remedies Urinary Disorders: The diuretic elements of Kantakari also increase urine formation, thereby removing the toxins from the body through discharges. Since salts also get flushed out through urination, you can also lower your overall blood pressure by consuming Kantakari. Furthermore, the antibacterial properties stunt the growth of bacteria and reduce infection in the urinary tract.
3. Boosts Liver Health: The antioxidants and hepatoprotective qualities stop inflammation of healthy cells in human livers and extricate damaged cells out of the body. Besides, Kantakari benefits the human liver by sustaining new cell generation, thereby strengthening the organ and improving its overall function.
4. Enhances Digestion: The consumption of Kantakari powder benefits the human digestion system due to its Pachan (digestive) and Deepan (appetiser) properties. It improves the Agni or digestive fire, which is essential for developing an appetite.
5. Promotes Hair Growth: It can also help you reduce Vata dosha, which is responsible for the flakiness and dryness of hair. With regular Kantakari uses, you can reduce hair fall and promote its growth. In addition, with a regular application of Kantakari juice, you can nourish your hair scalps.
6. Fights Pimples: Kantakari has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These ensure that it can effectively combat skin conditions like pimples when applied directly on the affected areas.
7. Improves Oral Health: Due to its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, Kantakari is considered beneficial in the treatment of oral conditions like toothaches, gum infections, and several other oral health issues.

You can use Kantakari in the following ways:

• Mix ½ to 1 tablespoon of Kantakari powder with honey and water and consume it after light meals. The Kantakari powder benefits in treating indigestion, asthma, cold and cough and boosting liver function.
• Mix Kantakari juice with an equal amount of water and apply this mixture to your scalp. After staying in this way for 2-3 hours, wash your hair with shampoo.
• You can also apply the Kantakari fruit juice or paste made from its leaves externally on your skin.

There is no data in Ayurvedic medicine on the side effects of the uses of Kantakari. Therefore, you need to consume this medicinal herb as prescribed.

You also need to use it cautiously if you have Pitta disorders. Else, you may experience discomfort because of its hot potency.

You need to consider the following precautions while using Kantakari for its medicinal value:

• Children and Elderly: Due to a lack of sufficient scientific research on the efficacy or side effects of Kantakari on elderly people or children, they should consult with Ayurvedic practitioners before using it.
• Pregnant Women: There is also inadequate research on the side effects of this herb on pregnant women. This is why they need to refrain from consuming Kantakari in any form.

Here is a list of people who must avoid using Kantakari:

• Pregnant Women.
• Children.
• Elderly People.
• Diabetic Patients.
• Breastfeeding Women.
• Individuals With Heart Ailments.

There is no sufficient evidence to indicate that they can enjoy the benefits of this herb without any side effects.