Kutaja

Sanskrit: कुटज Botanical: Holarrhena antidysenterica Wall.

Among the most important drugs for diarrhea and dysentery. Kutaja Ghan Vati (Kutajarishta) is a classical formulation. Bark more commonly used than seeds.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Laghu, Ruksha
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Key Constituents
Conessine (main alkaloid), Kurchine, Kurchicine — steroidal alkaloids with anti-amoebic activity
Also Known As
Sanskrit: कुटज, इन्द्रयव (seeds), वत्सक (bark), गिरिमल्लिक, शक्रतरु
Hindi: कुड़ा, कोड़ा, कुड़ैया

What is Kutaja / Indrayava?

Among the most important drugs for diarrhea and dysentery. Kutaja Ghan Vati (Kutajarishta) is a classical formulation. Bark more commonly used than seeds.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Atisara hara (anti-diarrheal — prime action)
  • Grahani hara (cures IBS/malabsorption)
  • Amoebahara (anti-amoebic)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Raktastambhana (hemostatic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

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.