Description
Kutki or Picrorhiza kurroa is one of the major income-generating non-timber forest products found in the Nepalese Himalayas. It is one of the oldest medicinal plants traded from the Karnali zone and is a perennial herb used as a substitute for Indian gentian (Gentiana kurroo). Kutki has been used for many centuries in various medicinal cultures across Nepal, India, Greece and Arabia. Kutki is traditionally used as a hepatoprotective, antiasthmatic, immunomodulator and anti-inflammatory. It has an incredibly bitter taste, which is indicative of its activity in the liver.
Kutki root has wonderful anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties and is most widely recognized for its protective and regenerative effects upon the liver, protecting against long-term damage and bacterial infection that can be influenced by chronic drug consumption or abuse. Kutki will also improve circulation within the liver, ensuring that it is working and metabolizing efficiently, supporting detoxification. Its profound effect upon the immune system, the allergic response and strong anti-inflammatory activities, makes kutki an excellent choice for those with autoimmune based conditions and hypersensitivities such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic asthma and Crohn’s disease.
