Luffa amara, a wild variety of Luffa, is a potent liver stimulant and purgative.
ⓘ Information
| Property | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rasa | Tikta | Tikta (Bitter) — detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic |
| Guna | Laghu, Tikshna | Laghu (Light) — easy to digest, promotes lightness; Tikshna (Sharp) — penetrating, stimulating |
| Virya | Ushna | Ushna (Hot) — heating, increases metabolism and Pitta |
| Vipaka | Katu | Katu (Pungent) — post-digestive pungent, lightening |
| Prabhava | Yakrituttejaka, Virechana | Yakrituttejaka — liver stimulant; Virechana — purgative, therapeutic cleansing |
Sanskrit Synonyms
In the classical Ayurvedic texts, Kakatikta is known by the following Sanskrit names:
Tikta Koshataki, Karkashada, Devadali bheda
Parts Used
The medicinal parts of Kakatikta are: phala, bija.
Main Indications
Kakatikta is indicated in Ayurveda for the following conditions:
Kamala, Yakrit Roga, Udararoga, Vibandha, Shotha.
Dosha Effects
Kakatikta pacifies Pitta, Kapha.
It may aggravate Vata when used in excess or in sensitive individuals.
Usage
Kakatikta is used in classical Ayurvedic formulations. Consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for appropriate dosage and preparation based on your constitution (Prakriti) and current imbalance (Vikriti).