Ankota for Parasites and Worms

According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Ankota has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing parasites and worms:

• Potency (Virya): Ushna (hot)
• Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
• Taste (Rasa): Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent)
• Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)

Ankota needs more caution than most Ayurvedic herbs. Its active alkaloid, alangine, is described as emetic in a way similar to ipecac, and the classical text notes that the herb has sharp and emetic properties in large doses.

What Too Much Looks Like

The main sign of an excess dose is the herb's own action: vomiting and purgation. The root bark only acts as a mild bile stimulant at 1 to 2 grains, and anything beyond that moves into emetic territory.

Contraindications and Interactions

Our sources do not list specific contraindications or drug interactions for Ankota. That is a gap in the record, not a sign of safety. Because the herb is heating and drying, and because it can trigger vomiting and purging, it is sensible to avoid it unless a qualified practitioner has prescribed it.

Pregnancy and Nursing

Classical sources give no specific guidance for pregnancy or breastfeeding. Given the herb's emetic and purgative effects, do not use it during these times without a practitioner's direct advice.

Identity

The name Ankota is linked to both Aesculus indica and Alangium lamarckii in our records. Make sure you know which plant you have before taking anything.