Herb × Condition

Kakamachi for Inflammation

Sanskrit: काकमाची | Solanum nigrum Linn.

How Kakamachi helps with Inflammation according to Ayurveda. Classical references, dosage, preparation methods, and what modern research says.

Overview

Kakamachi is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for inflammation. Kakamachi (Solanum nigrum) or Makoy is a common weed found up to 6000 feet elevation. The berries and whole plant are used medicinally. It is described as bitter, pungent, light, unctuous, with anushna (not excessively hot) potency. It is especially valued as a liver tonic (Yakritottejaka) and rejuvenative. The text notes it benefits the eyes (Chakshushya), voice (Svarya), treats fever, swellings, and skin diseases. The ripe berries are edible and nutritious. The plant contains Solanin (Solanine) alkaloid which can be toxic in large doses. This is an important hepatoprotective herb used in liver disorders including hepatitis and cirrhosis. Solanine content requires careful dosing. Verse refs: pages 438-439.

How Kakamachi Helps with Inflammation

According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Kakamachi has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing inflammation:

  • Potency (Virya): Ushna (hot) / Anushna (not excessively hot)
  • Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
  • Taste (Rasa): Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent)
  • Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Snigdha (unctuous)

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Pungent (Katu)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Not excessively hot (Ushna (hot) / Anushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Solanin (Solanine alkaloid), glycoalkaloids
Also Known As
English: Garden Nightshade, Black Nightshade
Sanskrit: काकमाची, काकाहवा, ध्वांक्षमाची
Hindi: मकोय, गुर्दी

Other Herbs for Inflammation

⟶
Agastya Flowers Sesbania grandiflora Linn.
⟶
Arani Premna integrifolia Linn.
⟶
Alexandrian Laurel Ochrocarpus longifolius Benth. & Hook. f.; Calophyllum inophyllum Linn.
⟶
Amla Phyllanthus emblica Linn.
⟶
Ashwagandha Withania somnifera Dunal
⟶
Bael Aegle marmelos Corr.
⟶
Vamsha Bambusa arundinacea Willd.
⟶
Barleria Barleria prionitis Linn.

See all herbs for inflammation on the Inflammation page.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.