What is Kandankathiri?
Kandankathiri (கண்டங்கத்திரி) is a powerful medicinal plant used for centuries in Tamil Siddha, Ayurveda, and folk medicine. It is often referred to as a natural lung cleanser and kapha balancer, with significant benefits for the lungs, throat, and sinuses. Click For More Product.
- Tamil Name: கண்டங்கத்திரி
- Common Names: Yellow-berried nightshade, Kantakari
- Botanical Name: Solanum xanthocarpum
- Family: Solanaceae
- Part Used: Whole plant – mainly fruits, root, and leaves
- Taste (Rasa): Bitter, astringent
- Energy (Veeryam): Heating
- Virya (Potency): Kapha-Vata hara (reduces excess mucus and wind)
Themes of Kandankathiri
1. Respiratory Relief and Mucus Removal
Kandankathiri is best known as a Kapha-reducing herb, meaning it clears mucus, phlegm, and congestion in the lungs, sinuses, and throat. It is one of the Dashamoola herbs in Ayurveda and is often used in bronchitis, asthma, and wheezing.
2. Strengthens Lungs and Immunity
It improves respiratory strength, helping individuals with weak lungs or chronic cough. It is often boiled into a kashayam (herbal decoction) and given to children and elders alike.
3. Detox and Anti-Inflammatory Action
Kandankathiri acts as a natural cleanser, especially for the urinary system and liver. It is mildly diuretic and also relieves swelling in joints due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Click For purchase.
Medicinal Benefits
- Loosens and expels phlegm and congestion
- Relieves chronic cough, asthma, sinusitis, bronchitis
- Detoxifies liver and improves digestion
- Reduces joint pain and inflammation
- Acts as a mild diuretic and urinary cleanser
- Boosts immunity and resistance to respiratory infections
Who Can Take It?
Recommended For:
- Children and adults with recurrent cold, cough, or sinus block
- People with asthma, bronchitis, or wheezing
- Those suffering from seasonal allergies
- Individuals with joint pain or water retention
Avoid In:
- Pregnant women
- People with ulcers or excess body heat
- Those on diuretics or blood pressure medication (only with supervision)
- Small children under 2 years (only with mild external usage). Click For purchase.
How Many Times to Take Per Day?
- As Powder (Chooranam): 1/2 tsp with honey or warm water, once or twice daily
- As Decoction (Kashayam): Boil dried root/fruit with 1 cup water until reduced to half. Take 30 ml once or twice a day
- In Rasam or Soup Form: A traditional Kandankathiri Rasam is made during cold season for the whole family
- External Use: Root paste applied on swelling or skin infections
Warnings
- Overuse may cause body heat, thirst, or stomach upset
- Not suitable for people with Pitta dominance or ulcers
- Should not be consumed raw
- Best taken for short durations (7–21 days) unless advised
- Always ensure it’s properly dried and cleaned, as raw plant can be toxic. Click For purchase.
Conclusion
Kandankathiri is a strong detoxifying herb and a true gift for those who suffer from chronic respiratory issues, blocked sinuses, and cold-related ailments. It is a powerful kapha-balancer, clearing the channels of the body and allowing prana (vital energy) to flow freely. Rooted in the wisdom of Paatti Vaithiyam, it continues to be a trusted guardian herb in Tamil homes, especially during seasonal changes and monsoons.
