• Name: Katuki (Picrorrhiza)
• Scientific Name: Picrorrhiza Kurroa

Description:

The katuki plant is native to the Himalayas and is now part of Ayurvedic medicine as a treatment for primarily gastrointestinal problems, such as indigestion and constipation. Usually the root or rhizome of the plant is used medicinally. Preliminary studies in animals indicate that katuki may be useful for treating diabetes, hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), liver disorders and conditions, and wounds.

Uses:

Picrorhiza is used for yellowed skin (jaundice), sudden liver infections caused by a virus (acute viral hepatitis), fever, allergy, and asthma. It is also used to treat skin conditions including eczema and vitiligo, a disorder that causes white patches on the skin. Some people use picrorhiza for digestion problems including indigestion, constipation, and ongoing diarrhea. Other uses include treatment of infection, scorpion stings, epilepsy, malaria, and rheumatoid arthritis.