Kurchi

Holarrhena antidysenterica

Traditionally attributed effects: bitter, stomachic, astringent, strongly antidysenteric, fever-reducing, expels worms; for acute and chronic (amoebic) dysentery and diarrhoea, bile complaints, fever, haemorrhoids, roundworms and threadworms.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Seed powder 2–4 g; decoction or tea 28–74 ml; tincture 2–4 ml; bark powder 2–4 g; against worms 1–1.5 g 2–3 times a day for 3 days, followed by castor oil.

Use in traditions

In Ayurveda (kutaja) and Unani medicine the bark is the classic remedy for dysentery, to which the Latin name antidysenterica also refers. The alkaloid conessine was studied against amoebic dysentery in the 20th century. Sanskrit name: Kutaja.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Ayurvedic materia medica

Attributed effects

Bitter, stomachic, astringent, strongly antidysenteric, fever-reducing, expels worms; for acute and chronic (amoebic) dysentery and diarrhoea, bile complaints, fever, haemorrhoids, roundworms and threadworms.

Preparation and amount

Seed powder 2–4 g; decoction or tea 28–74 ml; tincture 2–4 ml; bark powder 2–4 g; against worms 1–1.5 g 2–3 times a day for 3 days, followed by castor oil.

Ways to prepare herbs: Tea (infusion)Decoction Tincture Powder and kitchen

Sources

All herbs from Africa →