Kanchnar benefits uses home remedies
What are the benefits of Kanchnar?
Kanchnar (Bauhinia variegata), also known as the orchid tree or mountain ebony, is a valuable herb in Ayurvedic medicine. Its benefits are often utilized in the polyherbal formulation Kanchanar Guggulu, which combines the bark with guggul resin and other ingredients to treat a variety of conditions related to the glandular, endocrine, and lymphatic systems.
Names of Kanchnar in different languages
- Latin Name: Bauhinia variegata.
Vernacular Names: - Hindi: Kachnar, Kanchan
- Bengali: Kanchan, Raktkachan
- Tamil: Mandarai, Sem-mantarai
- Telugu: Kanchnamu, Deva Kanchnamu
- Marathi: Kanchan, Kachnar
- Malaylam: Koral, Kanchan
Kannada name – Basavanpada - English : Orchid Tree, Mountain Ebony
Sanskrit Names :
Kanchnara, Gandi – useful in cervical lymphadenitis and thyroid
Chamarica– having a beautiful bark
Kaebudara, Svalpapkesari Kovidara–
Yugmapatraka – leaves are split at the tip dividing the leaf into 2 parts
Ayurvedic Properties of Kanchnar
Ras ( Taste)
- Kashay ( Astringent)
Veerya ( Potency)
- Sheet (Cold)
Vipaak ( Post-digestive effect)
- Katu (Pungent)
Guna ( Qualities)
- Laghu (Lightness)
- Ruksha (Dryness)
Effect on Dosha's
It help balance Kapha and Pitta dosha.
Classical Categorization
- Charaka Samhita:
- Vamanopaga Mahakasaya:A group of herbs used in Vamana (therapeutic emesis).
- Shothahara:Mentioned for its anti-inflammatory properties, helping resolve swellings.
- Sushruta Samhita:
- UrdhvabhagaharaGana: Herbs for treating disorders affecting the upper parts of the body.
- Kashayavarga:Grouped with astringent-tasting herbs.
- Nighantus (Ayurvedic Lexicons):
- Dhanwantari Nighantu:Guduchyadi Varga.
- Madanapal Nighantu:Abhayadi Varga.
- Kaiyadev Nighantu:Oshadi Varga (medicinal herbs).
- Raj Nighantu:Karviradi Varga.
Bhavaprakasha Nighantu: Guduchyadi Varga.
Health Benefits of Kanchnar
1. Supports Thyroid health
- Kanchnar is widely used to support and regulate thyroid function, especially in cases of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).
- It helps reduce the size of the thyroid gland swelling (goiter) and balance hormone production by improving metabolism.
2. Glandular and Cystic swelling
- It is highly effective in managing various abnormal growths and swellings throughout the body, including enlarged lymph nodes, breast fibroadenomas, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and lipomas.
3. Hormonal Balance
- This herb helps regulate hormonal imbalances in women, which can aid in managing conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), irregular menstrual cycles, and endometriosis symptoms.
4. Detoxification & lymphatic Health
- Kanchnar acts as a powerful detox agent, helping to purify the blood and cleanse the lymphatic system, which removes toxins and waste materials from the body.
5. Weight Management
- By boosting metabolism and improving digestion, it can aid in weight loss and help burn excess body fat, especially when weight gain is linked to hormonal imbalances or a sluggish thyroid.
5. Digestive Health
- Its properties can stimulate appetite, improve nutrient absorption, help manage diarrhea, treat hemorrhoids, and alleviate general digestive discomfort.
6. Improves skin health
Kanchnar benefits in various skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and rashes, due to its blood-purifying, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
A person with Kapha-Pitta dosha skin type can be prone to Acne and pimples.
According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha increases sebum production which clogs the pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads.
An aggravation of Pitta also causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus.
Kanchnar is useful in removing oil and dirt due to its Kashaya (astringent) nature.
It also balances aggravted pitta due to its sita (cold) property,thus preventing Acne and pimples..
Actions (Karma) of Kanchnar in Ayurveda
Grahi – absorpent. because of this kanchnar benefits in ibs, diarrhea.
Krumighna – relieves worm infestation
Kushtagna – useful in skin diseases.
Gudbramsha – Useful in treatment of rectal prolapse
Gandamala– Useful in cervical lymphdanitis
Pittasara– useful in bleeding disorder
Pradara – useful in menorrhagia ( heavy menstrual bleeding)
Kasanut – useful in cough and cold
How to use Kanchnar
Kachnar Powder Paste
Take ½ -1 teaspoon of Kachnar powder. Add honey to it and make a paste. Lick this paste empty stomach in the morning.
You can also use Kanchnar guggulu one of the ready to use ayurvedic preparation made with kanchnar.
Parts Used : Stem bark, flowers
What are the Side effect of Kanchnar
Like any other Ayurvedic herb kanchnar is having many health benefits . However , it may have some side effects as well They include
Allergic Rashes
If someone is sensitive to kanchnar they may see skin rashes or redness and itching. In this condition it is advisable to discontinue the use .
Precautions
During breast feeding avoid consuming Kanchnar.
Avoid consuming Kanchnar during pregnancy due to lack of research on safety during pregnancy.
Always use Kanchnar in recommended dosage to avoid potential side effects such as nausea and bloating. It is better to ask Ayurveda doctor about dose and suitability for your body type.
If you have pre existing medical conditions or taking any medications, consult a doctor before using Kanchnar. This ensures that there are no harmful interactions or contraindications.
Don’t use Kanchnar continuosly for long period of time . Take break to allow your body to respond appropriately. Also when we use any herb continuosly ,then the body becomes use to it and it don’t respond to it.
Store Kanchnar in cool and dark place to maintain its potency and prevent it from contamination. Proper storage helps in retaining its therapeutic value.
Ayurvedic Medicine that contains Kanchnar
Kanchnar guggul : This is very famous ayurvedic medicine used in treatment of cysts, swelling and hypothyroidism.
Saraswataristha : It is used in management of stress, anxiety and insomnia.
Conclusion
In conclusion, kanchnar stands out as a time-honored herb that beautifully bridges tradition and modern wellness. Valued in Ayurveda for its cleansing and balancing properties, it has long been used to support thyroid health, lymphatic function, and overall metabolic balance. As interest in natural and holistic remedies continues to grow, kanchnar reminds us of the wisdom rooted in ancient herbal practices. When used mindfully and with proper guidance, this powerful plant can be a gentle yet effective ally in maintaining long-term health and harmony.