Ketaki — Fragrant Screw Pine

Ayurvedic herb Ketaki (Pandanus odorifer) — Fragrant Screw Pine. Pharmacological properties: Rasa Tikta, Madhura, Virya Ushna, Vipaka Katu. Balances Pitta, Kapha.

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

Kewra flower is used in Ayurveda for its aromatic properties and to support brain and nerve health.

ⓘ Information
PropertyValueDescription
RasaTikta, MadhuraTikta (Bitter) — detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic; Madhura (Sweet) — nourishing, grounding, promotes tissue growth
GunaLaghuLaghu (Light) — easy to digest, promotes lightness
ViryaUshnaUshna (Hot) — heating, increases metabolism and Pitta
VipakaKatuKatu (Pungent) — post-digestive pungent, lightening
PrabhavaMedhya, ChakshushyaMedhya — intellect-promoting, enhances cognition; Chakshushya — eye health promoter

Sanskrit Synonyms

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

Ketaka, Suchipushpa, Krakachachhada, Dhulipushpika

Parts Used

The medicinal parts of Ketaki are: pushpa, moola.

Main Indications

Ketaki is indicated in Ayurveda for the following conditions:

Kaphaja Roga, Netraroga, Shiroroga, Kushta.

Dosha Effects

Ketaki pacifies Pitta, Kapha.

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

Usage

Ketaki 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, Madhura, Kauu
Guna (Quality)Laghu
Virya (Potency)Uṣḍa
Vipaka (Post-digestive effect)Kauu
Karma (Action)Varḍya, Ke¿ya, Daurgandhyan¡¿ana, Balya, Ras¡yana, D¡rthyakara, Saukhyakara, Kaph¡paha, Cakṣuṣya
Dose20-30 g of the drug for decoction
Therapeutic Uses: Gulma, Kapharoga, Netraroga
Important Formulations: Triphal¡di Taila
Botanical Name: Pandanus tectorius Soland. (Pandanaceae)
Part Used: Rt.