Kanchanar

(Orchid Tree)
Sanskrit: कांचनार • Botanical: Bauhinia variegata Linn.

Kanchanar (Bauhinia variegata) is a medium-sized deciduous tree with characteristic bilobed (butterfly-shaped) leaves. The flowers are large, orchid-like, pink to purple in color. The flower buds are eaten as a vegetable. The bark is the most important medicinal part, especially used for thyroid and lymphatic disorders (Gandamala/Galaganda). Kanchanar Guggulu is a famous Ayurvedic formulation. The tree flowers in February-April. Verse: referenced among tree flowers.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Kaempferol, Quercetin, Flavonoids
Also Known As
English: Orchid Tree, Mountain Ebony
Sanskrit: कांचनार, काञ्चन, गण्डारि
Hindi: कचनार

What is Kanchanar / Orchid Tree (कांचनार)?

Kanchanar (Bauhinia variegata) is a medium-sized deciduous tree with characteristic bilobed (butterfly-shaped) leaves. The flowers are large, orchid-like, pink to purple in color. The flower buds are eaten as a vegetable. The bark is the most important medicinal part, especially used for thyroid and lymphatic disorders (Gandamala/Galaganda). Kanchanar Guggulu is a famous Ayurvedic formulation. The tree flowers in February-April. Verse: referenced among tree flowers.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Gandamala nashaka (resolves lymphatic swellings)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Raktashodhana (blood purifier)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

Kanchanar by Condition

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

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Kanchanar for Inflammation

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.