Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Sharp (Tikshna)
- Potency (Virya)
- Hot (Ushna)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- In latex (Asclepiadin, Vincetoxin)
- Also Known As
- English: Bastard Ipecacuanha, Blood Flower
Sanskrit: काकनासा
Hindi: काकनासा
What is Asclepias?
Its bright orange-red flowers make it a garden favourite, but its older English name gives away its medicinal role. Asclepias was once called Bastard Ipecacuanha, because, like ipecac, it makes you vomit.
The plant is Asclepias curassavica, known in Sanskrit and Hindi as Kakanasa and in English also as Blood Flower. It has opposite leaves, clusters of orange-red flowers and a milky latex that contains asclepiadin.
The Bhavaprakash Nighantu (Varga 3) describes it as an emetic, a remedy for poisoning and an anti-worm herb, used against parasites. It also warns that the latex is irritant and must be used cautiously. This is a herb for practitioners, not home use.
Benefits of Asclepias
Asclepias is pungent and bitter (Katu, Tikta Rasa), light and sharp (Laghu, Tikshna), hot in potency (Ushna Virya) and pungent after digestion (Katu Vipaka). These are forceful, penetrating qualities, and its uses follow from them.
Inducing vomiting
Its main listed action is emetic (Chhardikara). Therapeutic vomiting is a classical cleansing method in Ayurveda, known as Vamana, and it is carried out only under supervision.
Poisoning
It is listed as anti-poison (Vishaghna) and used in poison treatment, where emptying the stomach is the classical first step.
Worms
It is anthelmintic (Krimighna), linked to parasites and worms (Krimi).
The latex contains asclepiadin and vincetoxin. Our sources hold no modern clinical research on it.
How to Use Asclepias
Asclepias is not a herb to use at home. Our sources give no dose, and its main action, vomiting, is one that only a trained practitioner should bring about.
| Form | Dose | Best For | When to Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practitioner-prepared emetic | Not given in our sources | Supervised emesis, poison treatment | Only under supervision |
| Latex | Not for self-use | None at home | Irritant; avoid contact |
If you suspect poisoning, contact emergency services or a poison centre straight away rather than reaching for any herb.
Safety & Side Effects
Asclepias is one of the exceptions among Ayurvedic herbs: it is meant to provoke a strong reaction, and it carries real risks.
- Vomiting: it is an emetic. Taking it will make you vomit, which is why it is reserved for supervised use.
- Irritant latex: the Bhavaprakash Nighantu warns that the milky latex is irritant and must be used cautiously. Avoid getting it on your skin or in your eyes.
- Heat: it is hot, sharp and pungent, which strongly aggravates Pitta.
- Pregnancy, nursing, children, the frail: do not use.
- Poisoning: seek emergency care. Do not self-treat.
Recommended: Start Here
For Asclepias, the right starting point is not a product but a practitioner. It is an emetic with an irritant latex, used classically for supervised vomiting, poisoning and worms.
If your concern is worms: see a doctor for a diagnosis, then ask an Ayurvedic practitioner about gentler anti-worm herbs such as Vidanga.
If you are curious about cleansing: therapeutic vomiting (Vamana) is done in a clinic, with preparation beforehand and care afterwards.
Find Vidanga on Amazon ↗ Ayurvedic Herb Guides ↗
Never take Asclepias or its latex on your own, and seek emergency care for any suspected poisoning.
Asclepias vs Other Herbs & Supplements
| Comparison | Asclepias | Alternative | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asclepias vs ipecac | Called "Bastard Ipecacuanha" for its emetic action | The plant its old name compares it to | Both induce vomiting; neither is for home use |
| Asclepias vs Vidanga | Hot, sharp emetic with an irritant latex; also anti-worm | A classical anti-worm herb | For worms, ask a practitioner about Vidanga before a harsh emetic |
Asclepias for Specific Populations
Pregnancy & Nursing
Do not use. It is a strong emetic with an irritant latex.
Children
Do not use. Keep the plant and its latex away from children.
Elderly
Forced vomiting is hard on a frail body. Avoid it unless a physician directs otherwise.
Athletes
Our sources say nothing about athletic use, and it has no place in training or recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Asclepias called Bastard Ipecacuanha?
Because, like ipecac, it is an emetic: it induces vomiting. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu lists emesis as its main action.
Is the milky sap of Asclepias safe to touch?
The latex is described as irritant and to be used cautiously. Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
What is Kakanasa?
It is the Sanskrit and Hindi name for Asclepias curassavica, also called Blood Flower for its orange-red flowers.
Is Asclepias heating?
Yes. It is hot in potency, sharp and pungent.
How to Use Asclepias by Condition
Explore how Asclepias is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.