Khadir: Health Benefits, Uses and Side effects
2022-04-25 00:00:00
Khadir, commonly known as kattha, is a deciduous tree whose wood and bark are valued primarily for its indispensable medicinal uses. Khadir has short twisted spines and bipinnate compound leaves with 50 pairs of leaflets that look like beautiful feathers. The tree grows to a height of 9-12 meters and the flowers are pale yellow with cylindrical spikes that can produce flat fruits with oblong pods.
Khadir is also known by different names such as Kharira, Khadira, Khera, Black catechu, Cutch tree, Kath, and Kattha. Its scientific name is Acacia catechu.
Importance of Khadir
Khadir is also known to be rich in various Ayurvedic properties. It is described as a rasayana herb in ancient texts due to its Kashaya (Astringent) and bitter nature. This herb is rich in Guna (physical properties) such as Laghu (light) and Ruksha (Dryness) and it has sita (cold) potency.
Khadir is useful in treating many diseases and medical conditions as it has antioxidants, anti-microbial, astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
Benefits of Khadir
Treats Diarrhea-
Khadir is rich in antidiarrheal properties, making it useful in treating diarrhea. The chemicals present in Khadir reduce intestinal muscle spasm and the frequency of bowel movements.
Controls bleeding-
Khadir can help prevent bleeding due to its astringent properties, which helps tighten the skin and reduce blood flow to the applied area.
Reduces swelling-
Khadir causes skin cell contraction, thus reducing swelling of the inner layer of nose and throat. It helps treat sore throat due to its soothing properties.
Treats piles-
Khadir can be beneficial in treating piles due to its astringent properties. It can heal mucous membranes, which helps relieve the burning, itching, and pain in piles.
Heals skin problems-
Khadir is known to have antibacterial and antifungal properties which inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause most of the skin problems.
Treats acne or pimples-
Applying Khadir paste on the face, can be used to treat acne that is common in teenagers. This is due to the antimicrobial properties of the herb.
Heals wound-
Khadir has wound healing properties and contains certain chemicals that shrink skin cells and reduceinflammation, thereby promotinghealing.
Good for mouth ulcers-
Khadir is good for mouth ulcers because it contains several main constituents that have an astringent effect.
Treats liver problems-
Khadir contains certain constituents that showantioxidant properties that are beneficialin treating liver damage.
How to use Khadir?
Khadir is used in various forms such as decoction, extract, gargles, mouthwash and powder.
The dosage of khadir depends on age, health, and other factors. It is best to consult an Ayurvedic doctor to find out the right dosage.
Side effects of Khadir
- If you are nursing a baby, it is best to talk to your doctor before taking this herb in any form.
- Khadir is said to be an anti-hypertensive herb. Avoid it if you are about to undergo surgery.
Where is Khadir found?
The Khadir plant is common throughout Asia. It is majorly found in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Thailand. This plant grows in mixed deciduous forests and in lower mountains. It grows well in dry areas, sandy soils and river banks.