Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Cold (Sheeta)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Tannins, terpenoids
- Also Known As
- English: Kakajanghaa
Sanskrit: काकजंघा
Hindi: काकजंघा
What is Kakajangha?
Kakajangha is a herb with a narrow, specific job description. The Bhavaprakash Nighantu describes it first and foremost as an antidote to poison, with a second role in bringing down swelling.
Its Sanskrit name, Kakajangha, is also used as its common name. Botanically it is Leea hirta Roxb., a shrub with spreading, compound leaves.
The root is the medicinal part. If you came here looking for help with swelling and inflammation, this is the use most relevant to everyday life.
Benefits of Kakajangha
Kakajangha is bitter (Tikta) and astringent (Kashaya) in taste, light (Laghu) and dry (Ruksha) in quality, cooling in potency (Sheeta Virya) and pungent after digestion (Katu Vipaka). Bitter and cooling herbs are classically used to calm heat and inflammation.
Antidote to Poison
Its primary classical action is anti-poison (Vishaghna). In the classical texts this covers toxins in a broad sense; poisoning is always a medical emergency first.
Swelling
The Bhavaprakash Nighantu also classes it as a swelling-reducer (Shothahara). This is the basis of its link to inflammation (Shotha), the classical term for swelling.
How to Use Kakajangha
Only the root is used. Our sources record no dose or preparation, so let a practitioner choose the form and amount.
| Form | Dose | Best For | When to Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Root | As prescribed | Swelling; classical anti-poison use | As directed by a practitioner |
Because it is cooling, it fits swelling that feels hot rather than cold and stiff.
Safety & Side Effects
Our classical sources list no specific contraindications or drug interactions for Kakajangha, and they record no dose. Keep use under a practitioner's guidance.
Its light, dry, cooling qualities can aggravate Vata, so it is a poor match for cold, dry, stiff conditions.
Never rely on any herb for poisoning, a bite or a sting. Call emergency services first.
Recommended: Start Here
Kakajangha is a specialist herb, not a daily supplement. The sensible place to start is a practitioner consultation for swelling, where they can decide whether its cooling, anti-swelling root fits your case.
It is rarely sold outside India. If you find it, check that the supplier names Leea hirta and sells the root.
Find Kakajangha on Amazon ↗ Kakajangha Root ↗
Safety note: for any suspected poisoning, bite or sting, get emergency care before anything else.
Kakajangha vs Other Herbs & Supplements
For swelling, Kakajangha is easiest to understand next to two better-known herbs on this site.
| Comparison | Kakajangha | Alternative | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kakajangha vs Punarnava | Bitter, cooling, light, dry; reduces swelling | Bitter, cooling, light, dry; drains fluid from the tissues | Similar profile. Punarnava is the classical first choice for fluid swelling and is easy to buy. |
| Kakajangha vs Kala Adusa | Cooling root for swelling | Heating leaf poultice for painful Vata joints | Choose Kakajangha for hot swelling, Kala Adusa for cold, stiff, aching joints. |
Kakajangha for Specific Populations
Pregnancy & Nursing
Our sources give no guidance on Kakajangha in pregnancy or nursing. Avoid it unless a qualified practitioner prescribes it.
Children
No pediatric dose is recorded. Do not give it to children without professional guidance.
Elderly
Older adults who run cold and dry may find its cooling, drying nature unsuitable. Use only with a practitioner.
Athletes
Our sources describe no athletic use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kakajangha used for?
The Bhavaprakash Nighantu describes it mainly as an antidote to poison (Vishaghna) and also as a herb that reduces swelling.
Which part is used?
The root.
Is Kakajangha cooling or heating?
Cooling. Its potency is Sheeta (cold), with bitter and astringent tastes and a pungent post-digestive effect.
What does it contain?
Our sources list tannins and terpenoids.
How to Use Kakajangha by Condition
Explore how Kakajangha 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.