Overview
Karanj is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for parasites and worms. Karanj (Pongamia glabra) is a large tree commonly found across India. It is considered one of the important medicinal trees. The seeds yield Karanj oil which is extensively used in skin diseases. The bark, leaves, flowers, and seeds are all used medicinally. Karanj oil is effective against Kushtha (skin diseases), Krimi (worms), and Vrana (wounds). It is described as bitter and pungent in taste. The oil is applied externally on scabies, ringworm, and other parasitic skin conditions. Internally it is used as an anthelmintic and digestive stimulant. The tree bark decoction is given in chronic fevers. Dose: oil 5-10 drops; bark powder 1-2 ratti.
How Karanj Helps with Parasites and Worms
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Karanj 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), Tikshna (sharp)
Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Pungent (Katu)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Sharp (Tikshna)
- Potency (Virya)
- Hot (Ushna)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Karanjin (S18H12O4), Pongamol, Fixed oil
- Also Known As
- English: Indian Beech, Smooth Leaved Pongamia
Sanskrit: करंज, नक्तमाल, घृतपूर्ण, चिरबिल्व
Hindi: करंज, करंजुआ
Other Herbs for Parasites and Worms
See all herbs for parasites and worms on the Parasites and Worms page.
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.