Caper Bush

(Caper Bush)
Sanskrit: करीर • Botanical: Capparis aphylla Roth.

Karira (Caper Bush) is a thorny, much-branched shrub found in arid regions, particularly in Rajasthan and Gujarat. It is almost leafless with cylindrical green branches that perform photosynthesis. The unripe fruits are pickled and eaten. The root bark is used in cough, asthma and rheumatic conditions. The plant is considered heating and is useful in Vata and Kapha disorders. The tender branches are used for tooth cleaning. The fruit is laxative. The plant grows extensively in the Thar desert. Dose: Root bark decoction 1-2 tola; fruit as food. Verse: 33.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Pungent (Katu)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Cappariline, Stachydrine, Rutin
Also Known As
English: Caper Bush, Leafless Caper
Sanskrit: करीर, ग्रन्थिल, क्रकचच्छद, मरुभव
Hindi: करील, कैर

What is Caper Bush (Karira / करीर)?

Karira (Caper Bush) is a thorny, much-branched shrub found in arid regions, particularly in Rajasthan and Gujarat. It is almost leafless with cylindrical green branches that perform photosynthesis. The unripe fruits are pickled and eaten. The root bark is used in cough, asthma and rheumatic conditions. The plant is considered heating and is useful in Vata and Kapha disorders. The tender branches are used for tooth cleaning. The fruit is laxative. The plant grows extensively in the Thar desert. Dose: Root bark decoction 1-2 tola; fruit as food. Verse: 33.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vatahara (alleviates Vata)
  • Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

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.