Vidari

(Indian Kudzu)
Sanskrit: विदारी • Botanical: Pueraria tuberosa DC.

Vidari (Pueraria tuberosa) is one of the foremost Vrishya (aphrodisiac) and Jivaniya (life-promoting) drugs in Ayurveda. It produces very large tuberous roots that can weigh several kilograms. The tuber is white-fleshed, starchy, and sweet. The plant is a strong twining climber. It belongs to the Leguminosae family and is related to Kudzu. The root tuber is the main medicinal part. Vidari is specifically mentioned as a Brumhana (bulk-promoting/nourishing) drug - it increases body weight, strength, and vitality. It is extensively used in Kshaya (wasting diseases), sexual debility, post-partum recovery, and as a nutritive tonic. The tuber is also edible and consumed as food in tribal areas. Related but distinct is Ipomoea digitata (also called Vidari Kanda by some). The text also mentions Trichosanthes cordata (Kshira Vidari). Several species in the Dioscoreaceae family are related. Dose: tuber powder 5-10 masha; with milk.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Sweet (Madhura)
Quality (Guna)
Heavy (Guru), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Key Constituents
Puerarin, Tuberosin, Starch, Sugars
Also Known As
English: Indian Kudzu
Sanskrit: विदारी, भूमिकुष्माण्ड, स्वादुकन्दा, इक्षुगन्धा, क्षीरशुक्ला
Hindi: बिलाईकन्द, विदारीकन्द

What is Vidari / Indian Kudzu (विदारी)?

Vidari (Pueraria tuberosa) is one of the foremost Vrishya (aphrodisiac) and Jivaniya (life-promoting) drugs in Ayurveda. It produces very large tuberous roots that can weigh several kilograms. The tuber is white-fleshed, starchy, and sweet. The plant is a strong twining climber. It belongs to the Leguminosae family and is related to Kudzu. The root tuber is the main medicinal part. Vidari is specifically mentioned as a Brumhana (bulk-promoting/nourishing) drug - it increases body weight, strength, and vitality. It is extensively used in Kshaya (wasting diseases), sexual debility, post-partum recovery, and as a nutritive tonic. The tuber is also edible and consumed as food in tribal areas. Related but distinct is Ipomoea digitata (also called Vidari Kanda by some). The text also mentions Trichosanthes cordata (Kshira Vidari). Several species in the Dioscoreaceae family are related. Dose: tuber powder 5-10 masha; with milk.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
  • Balya (strengthening)
  • Stanyajanana (galactagogue)
  • Mutrala (diuretic)
  • Rasayana (rejuvenative)
  • Jivaniya (life-promoting)
  • Shukrala (promotes semen)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Vidari by Condition

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

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Vidari 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.