Names & Classification
- Botanical Name
- Holarrhena antidysenterica
- Sanskrit Name
- Kutaja
- English Name(s)
- Kutaja / Kurchi
- Family
- Apocynaceae
- Part Used
- Bark, seed
About This Herb
Kutaja is Ayurveda's most trusted remedy for diarrhea and dysentery. Its very botanical name ℔ 'antidysenterica' — was given by modern scientists in recognition of what Ayurvedic practitioners have known for thousands of years: this bark stops intestinal distress effectively and safely.
Where It Grows
Common in tropical parts of India and sub-Himalayan tract, growing in tropical Himalayas at altitude of 1100 meters. Found in Travancore, Assam, and Uttar Pradesh parts of India. Found in Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, and Assam. Beyond India, found in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Africa including Burma, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal, and various African parts.
Ayurvedic Profile
The foremost Atisarahara (anti-diarrheal) and Pravahika-nashana (anti-dysenteric) herb. The name means 'one that destroys Kuta (intestinal toxins).' Classified as Grahi (absorbent/astringent for the intestines) and Deepaniya (digestive fire kindling). Rasa: Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent). Virya: Sheeta (Cooling). Vipaka: Katu (Pungent). Dosha: Pacifies Pitta and Kapha.
Key Benefits
Anti-diarrheal action, intestinal health, antimicrobial, digestive support
Research & Studies
The following research highlights scientific validation of traditional uses:
Clinical studies on amoebiasis and giardiasis evaluating the efficacy of kutaja (holarrhena antidysenterica) in entamoeba histolytica cyst passers
Authors: Parasitology Research Team
Journal: ResearchGate/Clinical Documentation (2011)
Clinical study of 40 cases with amoebiasis/giardiasis showed 70% good response in E.H. cyst passers when treated with Kutaja bark, validating traditional anti-parasitic applications.
Clinical trial of Ayurvedic formulation for diarrhoea and dysentery containing Holarrhena antidysenterica seeds
Authors: Gastroenterology Research Team
Journal: Clinical Trial Documentation (2016)
Small clinical trial of 25 patients with diarrhoea and dysentery showed relief in about 80% after 3 days treatment with Ayurvedic formulation containing Holarrhena antidysenterica seeds and complementary herbs.
Antidiabetic efficacy of ethanolic extract of Holarrhena antidysenterica seeds in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Endocrinology Research Team
Journal: Animal Model Studies (2018)
Research examined antidiabetic effects of Kutaja seed extract in animal models showing significant improvement in blood glucose levels and biochemical parameters related to diabetic complications.
Preliminary clinical study of Kutaja (Holarrhena antidysenterica) bark and seed on medodushti with respect to hyperlipidemia
Authors: Lipid Metabolism Research Team
Journal: ResearchGate/Clinical Documentation (2020)
Two-arm open labeled randomized controlled study showed Kutaja bark and seed exhibited positive role in lowering lipid levels with better results observed in Kutaja bark than seed.
Review of Holarrhena antidysenterica: Pharmacognostic, Pharmacological, and Toxicological Perspective
Authors: Pharmacology Research Team
Journal: PMC (PubMed Central) (2017)
Comprehensive review documented phytochemicals extracted from H. antidysenterica with typical pharmacological properties including antibacterial, analgesic, anti-diarrheal, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory activities.
Products Containing Kutaja / Kurchi
- Amoeb Plex (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.