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Information about the herb Picrorrhiza Kurroa
Picrorhiza kurroa, also known as Katuka is part of the Scrofulariaceae plant family. A
small herb which grows in the Himalayas at 3000-5000m.
Botanical Name: Picrorhiza kurroa
Plant Family: Scrofulariaceae
Common
name: Katuka
Tradition: Used in Ayurvedic medicine
Plant Constituents of Picrorrhiza Kurroa
Contains:
- iridoid glycosides such as
- picrosides I, II, III
- kutkoside
- cucurbitacin glycosides (highly oxygenated triterpenes)
- apocycynin
- androsin
Action:
- anti-allergic [helps with allergies]
- anti-inflammatory [an agent to ease inflammation]
- bitter tonic [applied to bitter tasting drugs which act on the mucous membranes of the mouth and stomach to increase appetite and promote digestion]
- choleretic
- hepatoprotective [protects the liver]
- immunostimulant
Medicinal Parts Used: Root (exceptionally bitter)
Picrorrhiza kurroa is used for:
Immune System Conditions
- acute and chronic infections
- treatment for allergies
- treatment for autoimmune disorders
- weakened immunity
Liver Conditions
- liver infections
- toxic liver damage
Respiratory Tract Conditions
- asthma
Dosage:
- 500mg - 2g/day of the dried root
- 1-4mL/day of 1:2 extract
Caution:
In sensitive individuals high doses may cause
- diarrhea
- flatulence and griping (due to cucurbitacins)
- skin rash
Some people find the bitterness intolerable
Global Herbal Supplies has Picrorrhiza kurroa available in the following forms:
Information given by our website is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by a physician or other medical professionals. You should not use the information given for diagnosing a health problem or disease. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider. The above information is just a guide to general circumstances and in no way should it contradict the advice that you have been given by your naturopath, medical doctor or specialist.
