Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Pungent (Katu)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Sharp (Tikshna)
- Potency (Virya)
- Hot (Ushna)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Colchicine, Gloriosine, Superbine, Gloriosine, Tannins, Resin
- Also Known As
- English: Flame Lily, Glory Lily, Tiger's Claws, The Glory Lily
Sanskrit: लाङ्गली, कलिहारी, बिसलाङ्गली, काकनासिका, शक्तिवृक्षक
Hindi: कलिहारी, करनाली
What is Kalihari / Flame Lily (कलिहारी / लाङ्गली)?
Kalihari (Gloriosa superba), also known as Flame Lily or Glory Lily, is a highly potent medicinal plant whose tuberous root is the primary part used. It has strong purgative and emetic properties. The plant is described as a climber with beautiful flowers. Colchicine is its major alkaloid. It is used in gout, skin diseases, worm infestation, and as a uterine stimulant. Due to its extreme potency, the root must be purified (Shodhana) before internal use. Overdose can be fatal. The root is applied externally in paste form for skin diseases and joint pain.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Virechana (purgative)
- Krimighna (anthelmintic)
- Vamana (emetic)
- Garbhashaya Sankochaka (uterine contractor)
- Vishaghna (antidote to poison)
- Kusthaghna (anti-dermatosis)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3
Kalihari by Condition
Explore how Kalihari is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
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.