Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata): A Natural Remedy for Glandular Swelling, Thyroid, and Skin Disorders

Botanical Name: Bauhinia variegata L.
Common Names: Kachnar, Mountain Ebony, Orchid Tree
Family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae)
Parts Used: Bark, flower buds, roots, leaves
Forms Available: Powder (Churna), decoction (Kadha), capsules, fresh buds, tablets

🌱Introduction

Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata) is a well-known herb in Ayurveda and Unani medicine, traditionally used to treat thyroid imbalance, lymph node enlargement, tumors, and digestive issues. Native to India and Southeast Asia, this beautiful flowering tree has more to offer than just its visual appeal — it’s packed with potent astringent, anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and gland-balancing properties.

✅Top Health Benefits of Kachnar

1. 🦋 Supports Thyroid Health

·       Traditionally used in managing hypothyroidism and goiter (galganda).

·       Helps balance thyroid hormones naturally.

🔬Study: Ayurvedic formulations like Kanchanar Guggulu, containing Kachnar bark, are clinically used to support thyroid function and reduce glandular swelling.

2. 🎯Reduces Glandular Swellings &Tumors

·       Used in lymphadenopathy, fibroids, and benign tumors.

·       Acts as Lekhaniya (fat scraper) and Granthi-nashak (tumor reducer) in Ayurveda.

3. 🧬 Powerful Detoxifier and Blood Cleanser

·       Purifies blood and eliminates toxins.

·       Effective in treating skin disorders, acne, eczema, and boils.

4. 🍽️ Improves Digestion & Metabolism

·       Aids in digestion, reduces intestinal worms, and promotes liver function.

·       Stimulates agni (digestive fire) and helps in managing obesity.

5. 🩸 Controls Excessive Bleeding

·       The bark acts as an astringent, helpful in heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) and bleeding piles.

·       Also supports healing of ulcers and wounds.

⚗️Phytochemical Constituents

·       Flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin) – Antioxidant

·       Tannins – Astringent and anti-inflammatory

·       Alkaloids, Saponins, Glycosides

·       Sterols – Hormonal support

·       Polyphenols – Detoxifying and anti-tumor activity

📚Traditional Uses in Herbal Medicine

📌Ayurveda:

·       Known as Kovidara

·       Balances Kapha and Pitta doshas

·       Used in treating of goiter, lymph node swelling, skin diseases, and wounds

📌Unani Medicine:

·       Acts as anti-inflammatory, blood purifier and resolves swellings

·       Used in glands, skin diseases, and hemorrhagic conditions

📜Scientific References

1.     Gupta, R. S. et al. (2009). Protective role of Bauhinia variegata in thyroid dysfunction. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 126(2), 231–235.

2.     Goyal, P. K. (2010). Anti-tumor and antioxidant activity of Bauhinia variegata extract. Journal of Cancer Research and Therapeutics, 6(3), 291–295.

3.     NCBI – PubMed:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

🧴 How to Use Kachnar

⚠️ Precautions & Side Effects

• Avoid during pregnancy and lactation unless prescribed.
• Should not be used for hypothyroidism without professional advice.
• May cause dryness or constipation in high doses.

📝 Conclusion

Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata) is a versatile, traditional herb with potent actions in detoxification, glandular regulation, thyroid health, and skin purification. Its unique ability to reduce tumors, swellings, and toxins has earned it a prominent place in classical Ayurvedic and Unani formulations.

Add Kachnar to your natural healing routine and embrace its gentle yet powerful herbal support — especially for thyroid balance, digestion, skin, and metabolism