Kutki
Katuka
A bitter, cooling liver herb supporting healthy bile flow and Pitta balance; a classic hepatoprotective.
increases Vatareduces Pittareduces Kapha
Ayurvedic properties
- Rasa (taste): bitter
- Virya (energy): cooling
- Vipaka (post-digestive): pungent
- Guna (qualities): light, dry
Traditionally used for
- liver support
- excess Pitta
- sluggish bile
- skin heat
Contraindications & cautions
- high Vata
- pregnancy
- low Agni
Possible interactions
- immunosuppressants
Evidence notes
Picroliv fraction studied for hepatoprotection in animal models.
Regulatory notes
Supplement; sourcing concerns — prefer cultivated material.
Classical sources
- Charaka Samhita — Sutrasthana 4 — bhedaniya group
- Bhavaprakasha — Nighantu — Haritakyadi varga
Educational information about Ayurveda — not a medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult a qualified professional before starting any herb, supplement, or therapy.