Kembuka — Crepe Ginger

Ayurvedic herb Kembuka (Hellenia speciosa) — Crepe Ginger. Pharmacological properties: Rasa Tikta, Kashaya, Virya Sheeta, Vipaka Katu. Balances Pitta, Kapha.

This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional.

Costus speciosus is used to treat respiratory conditions, skin diseases, and to purify the blood.

ⓘ Information
PropertyValueDescription
RasaTikta, KashayaTikta (Bitter) — detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic; Kashaya (Astringent) — drying, absorbent, wound-healing
GunaLaghu, RukshaLaghu (Light) — easy to digest, promotes lightness; Ruksha (Dry) — absorbs moisture, drying
ViryaSheetaSheeta (Cold) — cooling, decreases Pitta and inflammation
VipakaKatuKatu (Pungent) — post-digestive pungent, lightening
PrabhavaKushtaghna, KasaharaKushtaghna — treats skin diseases; Kasahara — relieves cough

Sanskrit Synonyms

In the classical Ayurvedic texts, Kembuka is known by the following Sanskrit names:

Kebuka, Kemuka, Shura, Chanda

Parts Used

The medicinal parts of Kembuka are: kanda.

Main Indications

Kembuka is indicated in Ayurveda for the following conditions:

Kasa, Shwasa, Kushta, Krimi, Prameha.

Dosha Effects

Kembuka pacifies Pitta, Kapha.

It may aggravate Vata when used in excess or in sensitive individuals.

Usage

Kembuka 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).

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API)

Source: Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India — Government of India, Ministry of AYUSH

Rasa (Taste)Tikta
Guna (Quality)Laghu, Rūkṣa
Virya (Potency)śita
Vipaka (Post-digestive effect)Kauu
Karma (Action)Pittahara, Kaphahara, Dipana, P¡cana, Gr¡hi, Krmighna, Hrdya, Rakta¿odhaka, Garbh¡¿¡ya Sa´kocaka
Dose3-6 g (after purification).
Therapeutic Uses: Kaphapittaja Vik¡ra, Agnim¡ndya, Grahaḍi, Krmiroga, Raktavik¡ra,
Important Formulations: Krmighna Kv¡tha Cūrḍa
Part Used: Rz.