What is Horse Gram?
Horse gram is a humble legume with a serious reputation. Classical Ayurveda reaches for it in two very different problems: stones and excess fat.
Its Sanskrit name is Kulattha (Kulattha). Our records give its botanical name as Macrotyloma uniflorum, and the Sahasra Yoga drug index lists it under the older name Dolichos biflorus Linn.
That index calls it classical for kidney stones (Ashmari), and our records also tie it to medas, the fat tissue of the body.
Benefits of Horse Gram
Our records connect horse gram to two classical uses. Neither comes with a recorded dose, but both are named in our sources.
Kidney Stones
The Sahasra Yoga drug index describes horsegram as classical for kidney stones (Ashmari, literally "stone"). This is the use most closely associated with it in our data.
Fat Tissue
Our records also list horse gram as used for medas, which corresponds to fat tissue (Meda Dhatu, the body's adipose tissue). Our sources do not record a specific mechanism or tastes behind this.
How to Use Horse Gram
Horse gram is a legume. Our sources record no preparation forms, doses or timing for it, so the table states only what is documented.
| Form | Dose | Best For | When to Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Not recorded | Not recorded | Kidney stones (Ashmari) | Not recorded |
| Not recorded | Not recorded | Fat tissue (Medas) | Not recorded |
No vehicle (anupana, the liquid or food a remedy is taken with) or seasonal guidance is recorded. For kidney stones in particular, see a doctor first and use horse gram only as a practitioner directs.
Safety & Side Effects
Our sources record no contraindications, drug interactions, pregnancy cautions or overdose signs for horse gram.
That reflects thin data, not a clean bill of health. Kidney stones can cause severe pain, infection or blockage, so do not use horse gram in place of medical assessment.
As a legume, it may not suit you if you have a legume allergy. Check with a clinician before using it for any health purpose.
Recommended: Start Here
The simplest way to meet horse gram is as a whole dried legume from a grocer, cooked like any other pulse.
If your interest is kidney stones or weight, start with a medical check, then ask a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner how they would use Kulattha. Our sources give no dose.
Find Horse Gram on Amazon ↗ Kulthi Dal ↗
Safety note: kidney stones need medical assessment. Horse gram is not a substitute for that care.
Horse Gram vs Other Herbs & Supplements
Our sources do not link horse gram to other named herbs, so the comparisons here are about its names and its two recorded uses.
| Comparison | Horse Gram | Alternative | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Macrotyloma uniflorum vs Dolichos biflorus | The current botanical name in our records. | The name in the Sahasra Yoga drug index. | Both refer to horse gram in our sources. |
| Horse gram for stones vs for fat tissue | Classical for kidney stones (Ashmari). | Also linked to medas (fat tissue). | Kidney stones is the use most strongly stated; neither has a recorded dose. |
Horse Gram for Specific Populations
Our sources give no population-specific guidance for horse gram.
Pregnancy & Nursing
No cautions are recorded. Avoid using it medicinally while pregnant or nursing unless your clinician agrees.
Children
No guidance is recorded for children. As a food, ordinary legume safety applies.
Elderly
No specific guidance is recorded. Older adults with kidney stones should be under medical care.
Athletes
No performance use is recorded in our sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kulattha?
Kulattha is the Sanskrit name for horse gram, given in our records as Macrotyloma uniflorum and in the Sahasra Yoga drug index as Dolichos biflorus Linn.
Is horse gram used for kidney stones in Ayurveda?
Yes. The Sahasra Yoga drug index describes it as classical for Ashmari, kidney stones. Always get stones assessed by a doctor.
What is medas?
Medas is the fat tissue of the body. Our records link horse gram to it.
How much horse gram should I take?
Our sources give no dose. Ask a qualified practitioner for medicinal use.
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.