Kakanasa

(Cat's Claw Plant)
Sanskrit: काकनासा • Botanical: Martynia diandra Glox.

Kakanasa (Martynia diandra) is originally from Mexico and has naturalized in India. It is found growing on thorny bushes and waste lands. The plant has claw-like fruits. The text describes it as pungent, sharp, and hot in potency. It is used for worm infestations and as an anti-venom. The juice of leaves is applied for scorpion stings. Verse ref: page 442.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Pungent (Katu)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Sharp (Tikshna)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Not clearly specified
Also Known As
English: Cat's Claw Plant, Devil's Claw
Sanskrit: काकनासा
Hindi: काकनासा, बिच्छू

What is Kakanasa (Kakanasa / काकनासा)?

Kakanasa (Martynia diandra) is originally from Mexico and has naturalized in India. It is found growing on thorny bushes and waste lands. The plant has claw-like fruits. The text describes it as pungent, sharp, and hot in potency. It is used for worm infestations and as an anti-venom. The juice of leaves is applied for scorpion stings. Verse ref: page 442.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Jvaraghna (reduces fever)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Kakanasa by Condition

Explore how Kakanasa is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Kakanasa for Male Sexual Health

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.