Common names: Kutki, Katuka
Botanical name: Picrorhiza kurroa
The herb originated in and continues to grow primarily in the Himalayan mountains. The rhizomes or underground stems of picrorhiza are used.The bitter rhizomes of picrorhiza have been used for thousands of years in India to treat people with indigestion. It is also used to treat people with constipation due to insufficient digestive secretion and for fever due to all manner of infections.
Scientists think picrorhiza may benefit the liver in four ways. First, studies suggest that it may actually be able to stimulate the growth and regeneration of damaged liver tissues. Next, picrorhiza may be able to protect the liver from viral hepatitis infection and potentially toxic agents like alcohol and acetaminophen (ie. an overdose of Tylenol). Picrorhiza may exert anti -inflammatory effects on the liver as well. And finally, it may function as an antioxidant in the liver by limiting free radical oxidation of liver tissues. Other studies have suggested that picrorhiza may offer benefit to asthma sufferers. Scientists think it may be involved in a complex chain of events that reduces inflammation of the lungs and obstruction of airways. Studies further
suggest that picrorhiza may have general anti- inflammatory properties outside the lungs. Picrorhiza may also lower blood sugar levels, which may prove beneficial to people with diabetes.Additionally, picrorhiza may help
regulate general immunity, especially in relation to a benign skin disorder called vitiligo. The disorder, which is characterized by irregular, pigment-free skin patches, is the result of a hyperactive immune system.
Picrorhiza may offer support for patients who suffer from hypoxia, a condition in which inadequate oxygen is supplied to parts of the body. Studies suggest that picrorhiza may protect cells and tissues from the damaging effects of this oxygen starvation while supporting regeneration after it occurs