Names & Classification
- Botanical Name
- Bauhinia variegata
- Sanskrit Name
- Kanchnar
- English Name(s)
- Kanchnar / Orchid Tree
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Part Used
- Bark
About This Herb
Kanchnar bark is Ayurveda's most important herb for thyroid health and lymphatic drainage. The beautiful orchid tree (with flowers resembling orchids) has bark that helps normalize thyroid function whether it is overactive or underactive, while also addressing abnormal tissue growths.
Where It Grows
Native to South and Southeast Asia, widely distributed throughout India. Found in tropical and subtropical regions with warm climates. Cultivated in gardens, parks, and temple courtyards across India as an ornamental tree. Grows in well-drained soils with adequate sunlight. Listed in Charaka Samhita (~1st-2nd century CE) as an important medicinal plant. Adapts to various soil types and rainfall conditions typical of tropical India.
Ayurvedic Profile
The foremost Galaganda-hara (thyroid disorder-alleviating) and Granthi-hara (growth/lump-dissolving) herb. Kanchnar bark is the principal ingredient in Kanchnar Guggulu, one of Ayurveda's most important classical formulations for thyroid disorders. Classified as Lekhana (scraping) and Granthihara (lump-dissolving). Rasa: Kashaya (Astringent). Virya: Sheeta (Cooling). Vipaka: Katu (Pungent). Dosha: Pacifies Kapha.
Key Benefits
Thyroid support, lymphatic drainage, abnormal tissue growth management, metabolic regulation
Research & Studies
The following research highlights scientific validation of traditional uses:
PLANT PROFILE, PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND PHARMACOLOGY OF BAUHINIA VARIEGATA LINN. (KACHNAR): AN OVERVIEW
Authors:0 Multiple authors
Journal: International Journal of Pharmacognosy (2012)
Comprehensive review of Bauhinia variegata containing flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin) and tannins with documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potentially cyst/fibroid management properties.
Antioxidant activity assessment of Bauhinia variegata extracts
Authors:0 Rajni G P et al.
Journal: Journal of Phytochemistry (2009)
Study evaluating antioxidant activity of B. variegata crude extracts and fractions (ethyl acetate, methanol, n-hexane) using DPPH radical scavenging assay with moderate activity comparable to quercetin standard.
A BOON TO HUMAN HEALTH-BAUHINIA VARIEGATA
Authors:0 Multiple authors
Journal: International Journal of Pharmacognosy (2015)
Review documenting Bauhinia variegata's antidiabetic, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-dyslipidemia, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic properties supporting use for ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and infertility.
Phytochemical analysis and clinical applications of Kanchnar bark formulations
Authors:0 Multiple authors
Journal: NCBI Research (2016)
Clinical application study indicating Kanchnar Guggulu formulation helps manage ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and infertility through estrogen-modulating and anti-proliferative mechanisms.
Products Containing Kanchnar / Orchid Tree
- Kanchnar Guggulu (Capsule)
- Prostate Support (Tablet)
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have pre-existing health conditions.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.