Khadir

Khadir, scientifically called Acacia catechu, is a tree from the Fabaceae family that has gained attention in Ayurveda as having medicinal attributes. Also known as Cutch Tree in English, Khair Tree in Hindi, and Khadira in Sanskrit, it has been widely accepted to help manage different body disorders. The hard part of this tree is served as “Katha,” which is highly useful, mainly because of its astringent, anti-inflammation, and antioxidant properties. Khadir, abundant in flavonoids, tannins, and catechins, is important in assisting skin, respiration, and digestion health. It is often included in the management of betel leaves and smoked surfaces.

Source of Khadir

Khadir, or Acacia catechu, is native to the southern Himalayas, Andhra Pradesh in India, and eastwards to Thailand. It thrives in dry, deciduous forests.

Acacia catechu has a rich history in Ayurveda, which extends back several generations and is said to possess a range of therapeutic effects. Highly regarded as a natural herb, Khadir is used for everything from managing ulcers and infections to protecting respiratory and digestive tracts due to its rich antioxidants, anti-inflammatory effects, and astringent properties. Some of the most essential health benefits of Khadir are as follows:

1. Management of Mouth Ulcers

Root Paste: The root of Khadir can be ground into a paste and used to manage mouth ulcers. Its astringent and healing attributes can help relieve stress in the focused region and speed up recovery.

Katha Application: Khadir heartwood is ground into Katha and then applied to mouth ulcers to relieve the affected region of pain and swelling.

2. Management of Tuberculosis

Root Paste: It is common for health practitioners to recommend patients consume two teaspoons of khadir root paste for a month and two weeks as home medicine to prevent symptoms of tuberculosis. This fact highlights that Khadir’s antimicrobial attributes are useful in strengthening lung health and overcoming the disease.

3. Relief from Cough and Cold

Bark Decoction with Milk: Khadir bark is known for managing colds and coughs when taken with milk. This aid reduces the inflammation in the respiratory tract and helps clear mucus.

Bark Extract: For upper respiratory infections like cold and cough, two spoons of Khadir bark extract are taken two times a day for three days, which helps to relieve the symptoms.

4. Diarrhea Management

Bark Decoction: Khadir bark decoction, together with poppy seeds has been used to control watery types of diarrhea. These tannins can bind and protect the intestinal lining.

Stem Decoction: The stem is also used in decoction for diarrhea, relieving disturbed intestinal and functional activities. 

5. Skin Disorders

Bark Paste: Khadir bark is made into a paste and applied on different skin areas with acne, eczema, and rashes. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties are effective in controlling infection and thus provide healing of the skin.

6. Management of Rheumatism and Toothache

Root Paste: Pain caused by rheumatism and toothaches is relieved by applying Khadir root paste on the affected area. It reduces inflammation and brings soothing feelings.

7. Bone Fractures and Sprains

Bark Decoction: Fractures, dislocations, and sprains are managed by the application of Khadir bark decoction with Scindapsus officinalis. The decoction has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling in the affected area and boost healing.

8. Fever and Pain Relief During Pregnancy

Heartwood Decoction: Pregnant women use khadir heartwood decoction in warm water to keep their bodies warm and reduce fever. It is also helpful in postnatal care to repair women’s body pains and gain strength when walking.

Boiled Water: Khadi heartwood is chipped into boiled water and used to take a bath after childbirth to help relieve pain.

9. Asthma Relief

Bark Decoction: An asthma sufferer in the morning may take two spoons of Kadhir ki katha, which alters the structure of 500g Khadir heartwood is boiled with sugar and cow milk for two weeks. This aids in opening the lungs and decreasing coughing through respiratory tract inflammation.

10. Piles Management

Katha (heartwood extract): To manage piles, a Katha is taken with a lemon slice, which is swallowed on an empty stomach. This natural way of reducing swelling and having smooth bowel actions is helpful. 

11. Fever and Infections

Heartwood Extract: Katha made from Khadir heartwood is applied to manage cold, diarrhea, leucorrhoea, piles, erysipelas, etc. Its antibacterial compounds help manage and alleviate the infection’s symptoms.

12. Anti-Diabetic Properties

Bark Extract: Khadir bark extract has been reported to have anti-diabetic effects due to inhibiting enzymes like α-glucosidase and α-amylase, which help in blood sugar regulation. 

13. Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Action

Khadir Extract: Flavonoids of Khadir, catechin, and epicatechin impart high antioxidant defense, which assists in scavenging free radicals. Further, its antimicrobial action makes it therapeutically useful against bacteria, fungi, and viruses and thus enhances the immune system.

Acacia catechu, also known as Khadir, has been used in traditional medicine for many ailments. It is considered sacred by Ayurvedic, Unani, and other ancient medicine practitioners. Therapeutic products like kattha are extracted from the bark and heartwood of the tree as they are extensively used medicinally and otherwise. Some of the khadir’s common uses are listed below:

1. Skin Care and Management of Skin Disorders:

In Ayurveda, Khadir is popularly prescribed to patients suffering from skin diseases like eczema, acne, psoriasis, and allergies. The heartwood or bark decoction is used externally to manage inflamed skin and other dermatological disorders.

It has astringent effects that assist in decreasing swelling, mitigating redness, and fighting infection.

2. Oral Health:

Khandir-based Kattha has been frequently used in oral care routines. It can be found in numerous toothpaste and mouthwash, among other things that help alleviate oral diseases.

These Khadir sticks contain anti-bacterial properties as well as astringent properties that can help manage gum infections and clean both teeth and gums effectively.

3. Digestive Health:

People suffering from digestive disorders, diarrhoea dysentery or trouble caused by indigestion can benefit from Khadir. Khadir has a number of properties that can deal with intestinal infections, as well as a brisk tone to stop unnecessary movements.

The elimination of toxins is claimed to have cleansing effects on the walls of the digestive tract.

4. Respiratory Health:

Khadir has been used for cough, cold, asthma and bronchitis management. It is believed to help reduce congestion and inflammation of the airways.

The decoction made from the bark of the tree helps in the management of symptoms of chronic respiratory disease.

5. Natural Astringent:

Khadir also has several other benefits. It is a natural astringent and has wound and ulcer-healing effects. This has a very strong antiseptic effect, which reduces both the duration of healing and the chances of infections.

Furthermore, it can also be applied in case of active bleeding from the gums or even superficial cuts to manage the blood loss and/or inflammation which has been induced.

6. Use in Tanning and Dyeing:

Traditionally, the tannins extracted from khadir were used for leather tanning and dyeing. The strength and durability of these tannins made them ideal for preserving leather and giving depth to fabrics.

7. Culinary Use:

Khadir Kattha is often used to make paan or betel leaves tuck. It is used for its astringent taste and is believed to be helpful for digestion.

• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are not recommended to take Khadir without seeking permission from their healthcare provider as it may have adverse effects on them. 
• Khadir has medicinal astringent properties; therefore, it should be taken in limited amounts to avoid causing constipation as a side effect.
• When taking Khadir medicament, patients with gastrointestinal complications see medical professionals to limit use to short intervals of time only.
• Allergy skin tests should be done before using acacia species, as allergens are known in allergy patients.
• It is essential to follow the directions given by the Ayurvedic practitioner when using Khadir to avoid possible side effects.

• Khadir Powder: 3-6 grams daily, which should be taken with water or honey or as the doctor advises.
• Khadir Decoction: 10-20 ml on a daily dose spread into two times following meals
• Khadir Tablets: 1 tablet, weighing 250 mg each, to be taken twice a day, preferably after meals.
• Khadir Oil/Extract: Follow directions on the bottle or as prescribed; usually used topically for skin or oral use.

It is better to observe the proper dosage on the recommendation of a licensed healthcare provider.

• Khadir is a multi-purpose medicinal tree that improves skin, digestive and respiratory health.
• Some of the common uses are the management of skin diseases, dental health, and gut health. 
• It possesses several beneficial characteristics, including astringent solid activity, detoxification, and antimicrobial activity, which help relieve many ailments. 
• While katha can be effective, caution must be taken in its use, especially among pregnant women and those with gastrointestinal issues. 
• Dosage must also be given strictly regarding Medical Instructions. Constipation may be a resultant side effect if not avoided. 

Conclusion

Khadir (Acacia catechu) is widely valued in Ayurveda for its diverse therapeutic benefits, including the management of skin conditions, improving oral and digestive health, and supporting respiratory function. Its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties help address disorders such as eczema, mouth ulcers, diarrhoea, and respiratory congestion. Khadir also plays a role in detoxification and blood sugar regulation. However, it should be used under medical supervision, especially by individuals with gastrointestinal sensitivity or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, to minimise risks such as constipation or allergic reactions. Dosage should follow professional recommendations.