Kutaj Avaleha – Medicinal Properties, Ingredients, Indications, Dosage & More

Reference : Written from Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Page no 229, 300 (Ayurveda Sar Sangrah, Page number – 614)

Abstract

Kutaj Avaleha is a classical Ayurvedic formulation prepared from the decoction of Kutaja bark (Holarrhena antidysenterica) and fortified with multiple herbal ingredients known for their digestive, astringent, and anti-inflammatory properties. This Avaleha (herbal jam) is highly effective in treating Grahani (malabsorption syndrome), Pravahika (dysentery), and Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea). Its formulation enhances gut integrity, halts excessive discharge, and restores digestive strength. The addition of honey and digestive stimulants makes it palatable, bioavailable, and rejuvenating.

Introduction

Kutaj Avaleha is one of the most potent formulations in Ayurvedic medicine for managing chronic digestive disturbances. With Kutaja bark as the principal ingredient, this Avaleha combines the deepana-pachana (appetizer-digestive), grahi (absorbent), and raktasthambhaka (hemostatic) properties of herbs. It is especially indicated in conditions involving aggravated Vata and Pitta, presenting as chronic diarrhea, intestinal inflammation, bleeding disorders, and malnutrition. The formulation’s strength lies in its ability to stop pathological discharges while preserving agni (digestive fire) and nourishing dhatus (body tissues).

Ingredients

Kutaj Bark (Holarrhena antidysenterica)
Laung (Syzygium aromaticum)
Jeera (Cuminum cyminum)
Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus)
Dhataki Flowers (Woodfordia fruticosa)
Pulp Of Young Bael Fruit (Aegle marmelos)
Netrabala (Pavonia odorata)
Ela (Elettaria cardamomum)
Patha (Cissampelos pareira)
Dalchini (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
Kakadashringi (Pistacia integerrima)
Jaiphal (Myristica fragrans)
Saunf (Foeniculum vulgare)
Indrayava (Holarrhena pubescens)
Atees (Aconitum heterophyllum)
Yavakshar (Hordeum vulgare)
Kakoli (Roscoea purpurea)
Rasanjan (Berberis aristata)
Mochras (Bombax ceiba)
Shreeveshtaka (Pinus longifolia)
Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia)
Rakta Chandan (Pterocarpus santalinus)
Vatashunga (Ficus benghalensis)
Khadira (Acacia catechu)
Dried Jamun Leaves (Syzygium cumini)
Dried Mango Leaves (Mangifera indica)
Honey
Sugar

Description Of The Ingredient

1. Kutaj Bark (Holarrhena Antidysenterica)

It is one of the most potent classical remedies for Pravahika (dysentery) and Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea). It possesses powerful anti-amoebic, astringent, and anti-inflammatory properties. The key active alkaloids present in Kutaj include conessine, kurchicine, and holarrhenine, which have demonstrated significant anti-bacterial and anti-parasitic action, particularly against Entamoeba histolytica. These constituents help in reducing intestinal motility, arresting loose stools, and eliminating pathogenic organisms. Kutaj bark also supports Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) by improving digestion, reducing ama (toxins), and stabilizing the intestinal mucosa.

2. Laung (Syzygium Aromaticum)

It is a well-known aromatic spice and a medicinal herb with potent antiseptic and carminative actions. In cases of Pravahika (dysentery) and Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea), its bioactive compound eugenol exerts a strong anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial effect on the gut flora. It helps in relieving intestinal spasms, reducing bloating, and controlling abnormal motility of the intestines. Its warming nature aids in enhancing digestion and mitigating symptoms associated with Grahani (malabsorption syndrome), such as indigestion, low appetite, and heaviness in the abdomen.

3. Jeera (Cuminum Cyminum)

This herb is widely used in Ayurveda for gastrointestinal disturbances, especially Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) and Pravahika (dysentery). It contains active constituents like cuminaldehyde, thymol, and flavonoids, which exhibit digestive, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. These compounds help in stimulating Agni (digestive fire), reducing Ama (toxins), and enhancing the absorption of nutrients in the intestines. Jeera (Cuminum cyminum) reduces intestinal fermentation and bloating, thus proving beneficial in Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) and Shotha (inflammation) by controlling inflammation and promoting gut healing. It is also useful in Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea) by regulating fever and pacifying aggravated Pitta and Vata doshas in the colon.

4. Nagarmotha (Cyperus Rotundus)

It is a herb renowned in Ayurveda for its deep digestive, carminative, and anti-diarrheal properties. It is highly effective in treating Pravahika (dysentery) and Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) by pacifying aggravated Kapha and Pitta doshas in the gastrointestinal tract. The active constituents include cyperene, cyperol, and rotundone, which have anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and astringent actions. These phytochemicals help control excessive intestinal secretion, reduce swelling in the mucosa, and regulate bowel movements. This herb is also beneficial in Shotha (inflammation) and Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea) due to its cooling, detoxifying, and gut-strengthening effects.

5. Dhataki Flowers (Woodfordia Fruticosa)

It is a classical astringent (Kashaya Rasa Pradhana) herb known for its Grahi (absorbent) and Stambhana (bleeding control) qualities. Rich in tannins, flavonoids, and anthocyanins, the flowers help manage Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) and Pravahika (dysentery) by healing the intestinal mucosa and controlling blood-laced loose motions. This herb also supports Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) by enhancing digestive strength and reducing intestinal inflammation. Its Stambhan and Deepan (appetizer) properties make it suitable for managing Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea), where fever is accompanied by diarrhea and gut weakness.

6. Pulp Of Young Bael Fruit (Aegle Marmelos)

It is a time-tested Ayurvedic remedy for Pravahika (dysentery), Aamatisara (diarrhea with undigested food), and Grahani (malabsorption syndrome). It contains bioactive compounds such as marmelosin, tannins, and lupeol, which exert strong astringent, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. It stabilizes bowel movements, reduces intestinal inflammation, and helps restore gut integrity, making it useful in Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) and Shotha (swelling of the intestinal mucosa). Its mild cold potency and Grahi (absorbent) action also make it suitable for Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea), especially when diarrhea is accompanied by fever and digestive weakness. It enhances Agni (digestive fire) without aggravating Pitta.

7. Netrabala (Pavonia Odorata)

It is known in Ayurveda for its cooling, demulcent, and anti-inflammatory actions. Traditionally used in gut disorders involving heat and irritation, it is beneficial in Pravahika (dysentery) and Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) due to its ability to soothe and heal the intestinal lining. Rich in volatile oils and mucilage, it acts as a natural coolant and supports mucosal repair. Its pitta-pacifying action helps relieve Shotha (inflammation) and burning sensation in the bowels. It is also effective in Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea) when intestinal inflammation and low-grade fever are present, helping to calm the gut and restore balance.

8. Ela (Elettaria Cardamomum)

This herb is a well-known aromatic spice with powerful Deepana (digestive stimulant) and Pachana (digestive) actions. Its key constituents—cineole, limonene, and terpineol—exhibit anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and carminative properties. In Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) and Pravahika (dysentery), it helps improve appetite, regulate digestion, and eliminate toxins (Ama). It reduces intestinal gas, cramping, and sluggish digestion, which supports recovery from Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) and Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea), especially when associated with foul-smelling stools and low-grade fever. Its Tridosha-balancing nature makes it suitable for inflammation-related conditions of the gut.

9. Patha (Cissampelos Pareira)

It is a classical herb indicated in intestinal and febrile disorders, especially those of Kapha-Pitta origin. Its bitter and astringent nature, along with alkaloids such as cissampeline and hayatin, makes it effective in arresting diarrhea, particularly in Pravahika (dysentery) and Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea). Patha (Cissampelos pareira) strengthens digestive fire (Agni), improves nutrient assimilation in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome), and controls intestinal inflammation. Its febrifuge and anti-microbial effects are valuable in managing Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea), helping to reduce fever and gut irritation. It also acts as a natural immunomodulator and mucosal healer in chronic enteric conditions.

10. Dalchini (Cinnamomum Zeylanicum)

It is a potent aromatic herb with Deepana (digestive stimulant) and Krimighna (antimicrobial) properties. Its chief bioactive compounds, including cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and cinnamic acid, exhibit strong antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic actions. In Pravahika (dysentery) and Grahani (malabsorption syndrome), Dalchini helps reduce intestinal spasms, destroy harmful pathogens, and improve digestive efficiency. It is especially useful in Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea) by pacifying Kapha and Vata, promoting warmth in the gut, and aiding in the recovery from weakness and poor metabolism. It also supports Shotha (inflammation) by regulating blood flow and reducing tissue congestion in the intestines.

11. Kakadashringi (Pistacia Integerrima)

It is a traditional Ayurvedic herb known for its Stambhana (anti-diarrheal) and Kasahara (anti-cough) properties. Its astringent taste and phytochemicals like tannins, gallotannins, and flavonoids help to arrest loose motions in Pravahika (dysentery) and Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea). It tones the intestinal mucosa and reduces secretions, making it especially beneficial in children’s diarrhea and febrile conditions. In Grahani (malabsorption syndrome), it aids in restoring absorption by strengthening intestinal walls. Its mild anti-inflammatory effect provides relief in Shotha (inflammation), while its febrifuge nature assists in the management of Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea).

12. Jaiphal (Myristica Fragrans)

It is a warming, digestive, and nervine herb used in various gastrointestinal disorders. It contains essential oils such as myristicin, elemicin, and safrole, which possess carminative, anti-diarrheal, and antimicrobial effects. In Pravahika (dysentery) and Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea), it acts as a powerful intestinal stabilizer, reducing the frequency and urgency of stools. It also helps in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) by rekindling Agni (digestive fire) and reducing intestinal irritation.

13. Saunf (Foeniculum Vulgare)

It is known for its Deepana (digestive stimulant) and Pachana (carminative) actions. Rich in anethole and fenchone, it helps reduce bloating, intestinal cramps, and promotes healthy digestion. It is especially beneficial in Pravahika (dysentery) and Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) by improving Agni (digestive fire) and clearing Ama (toxins). It also soothes inflammation in Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) and Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea).

14. Indrayava (Holarrhena Pubescens)

It is the seed of Kutaj and is renowned for treating Pravahika (dysentery), Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea), and chronic Grahani (malabsorption syndrome). Its active alkaloids—conessine, kurchicine, and holarrhenine—have anti-amoebic, astringent, and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps arrest loose stools, control bleeding, reduce intestinal inflammation (Shotha), and promote mucosal healing in Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea).

15. Atees (Aconitum Heterophyllum)

It is a classical Ayurvedic herb known for its Jwaraghna (antipyretic) and Atisara-hara (anti-diarrheal) properties. It is especially beneficial in Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea), Pravahika (dysentery), and Grahani (malabsorption syndrome). Rich in alkaloids like atisine and aconitine, it helps reduce fever, soothe intestinal inflammation, and calm gut irritation. This herb enhances Agni (digestive fire), eliminates Ama (toxins), and pacifies Pitta and Kapha doshas, making it effective in both acute infections and chronic digestive conditions.

16. Yavakshar (Hordeum Vulgare)

This herb is an alkaline extract obtained from barley, traditionally used for its Deepana (digestive), Bhedana (mild laxative), and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) actions. It helps in reducing acidity, bloating, and intestinal gas, making it beneficial in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) and chronic Pravahika (dysentery). Its alkaline nature neutralizes excess Pitta, supports detoxification of Ama (toxins), and relieves Shotha (inflammation) of the intestinal mucosa. It also aids in balancing the gut environment during Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea) and promotes smooth elimination without irritation.

17. Kakoli (Roscoea purpurea)

It is a rejuvenative herb listed among the Ashtavarga group in Ayurveda, valued for its Balya (strengthening), Rasayana (restorative), and Pittashamaka (Pitta-pacifying) properties. It nourishes and strengthens the gut lining, making it useful in post-infectious phases of Pravahika (dysentery) and Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea). Its cooling and restorative nature soothes Shotha (inflammation) and supports digestion without aggravating Pitta. It also improves immunity and vitality in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) and Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea), especially when weakness and tissue depletion are prominent.

18. Rasanjan (Berberis aristata)

This herb is rich in berberine, a potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory alkaloid. It is especially effective in Pravahika (dysentery) and Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) due to its ability to arrest infection, stop bleeding, and heal the mucosal lining. It also pacifies Pitta and reduces Shotha (inflammation) in the intestines, making it useful in Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea) and chronic Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) with persistent gut irritation.

19. Mochras (Bombax ceiba)

It is known for its Stambhana (astringent) and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) effects. It is traditionally used in Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) and Pravahika (dysentery) for its ability to check bleeding, soothe inflamed bowels, and promote mucosal repair. Its cooling, demulcent nature also helps relieve burning and inflammation in Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea) and supports intestinal strength in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome). This makes it a valuable herb in chronic and acute gut disorders associated with inflammation and tissue weakness.

20. Shreeveshtaka (Pinus longifolia)

This herb possesses Lekhana (scraping), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and mild Krimighna (antimicrobial) properties. It is beneficial in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) and Pravahika (dysentery), where mucus, inflammation, and toxin accumulation are present. It helps reduce intestinal swelling, eliminate pathogens, and support the re-establishment of healthy gut function, especially in chronic or post-infectious digestive disorders.

21. Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

It is a soothing herb known for its Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), Ropan (healing), and Pittashamaka (Pitta-pacifying) actions. Rich in glycyrrhizin, it helps reduce intestinal inflammation, heals mucosal ulcers, and protects the gut lining in Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) and Pravahika (dysentery). Its demulcent and cooling nature is beneficial in Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea) and helps restore strength in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome), where digestive fire is weakened due to chronic irritation.

22. Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia)

It is a powerful Raktashodhak (blood purifier) and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) herb with specific action on intestinal and vascular inflammation. It contains rubiadin and purpurin, which help reduce intestinal bleeding and support tissue repair in Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea). Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia) is also beneficial in Pravahika (dysentery) and Grahani (malabsorption syndrome), where chronic inflammation and toxin accumulation impair gut function. Its Pitta-pacifying action helps in Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea) with associated burning and bleeding tendencies.

23. Rakta Chandan (Pterocarpus santalinus)

It is renowned for its Raktashamaka (blood-cooling), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and Pittahara (Pitta-pacifying) properties. Its bioactive constituents, such as santalin and pterocarpol, help reduce burning, bleeding, and inflammation in Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) and Pravahika (dysentery). The cooling and astringent nature of Rakta Chandan (Pterocarpus santalinus) also supports intestinal healing in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) and reduces gut irritation in Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea) where Pitta is dominant.

24. Vatashunga (Ficus benghalensis)

This herb refers to the aerial roots of the banyan tree and is praised in Ayurveda for its Stambhana (astringent) and Ropana (wound-healing) properties. Rich in tannins, flavonoids, and bioactive sterols, it effectively checks bleeding and loose stools in Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) and Pravahika (dysentery). Its ability to promote tissue repair makes it valuable in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome), where chronic inflammation weakens the intestinal lining. Its cooling and anti-inflammatory actions also provide relief in Shotha (swelling) and Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea).

25. Khadira (Acacia catechu)

It is a classical Raktashodhaka (blood purifier) and Kashaya rasa pradhana (astringent-tasting) herb. It contains catechins, tannic acid, and quercetin, which help in reducing inflammation, tightening mucosal tissues, and controlling bleeding. It is highly beneficial in Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) and Pravahika (dysentery), where blood and mucus in stools are common. Khadira also aids in correcting Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) by restoring gut tone and clearing chronic intestinal Ama (toxins).

26. Dried Jamun leaves (Syzygium cumini)

They are rich in tannins, flavonoids, and jamboline, which possess strong astringent, anti-diarrheal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is highly effective in managing Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) and Pravahika (dysentery) by arresting bleeding, reducing bowel frequency, and healing intestinal ulcers. Its drying and Pitta-pacifying action makes it useful in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) and Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea), especially when associated with excess mucus and inflammation.

27. Dried Mango leaves (Mangifera indica)

They are traditionally used for their Kashaya rasa (astringent taste) and Pittashamaka (Pitta-pacifying) effects. Rich in mangiferin, tannins, and polyphenols, they help reduce inflammation, bleeding, and excessive intestinal secretions seen in Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) and Pravahika (dysentery). Aam Patra also supports gut healing in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) and helps manage Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea) by strengthening the intestinal mucosa and reducing heat.

28. Madhu (Honey)

It acts as a Yogavahi (catalytic carrier) that enhances the absorption and potency of other ingredients. Its Lekhana (mucolytic) and Ropana (healing) properties help in Pravahika (dysentery) and Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea) by reducing excess mucus, calming intestinal Shotha (inflammation), and promoting mucosal repair. It also improves digestion and supports recovery in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome) and Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea) without disturbing Agni (digestive fire).

29. Cheeni (Sugar)

This serves as the primary Avaleha base and preserves the formulation. It has Sheetala (cooling) and Balya (strength-promoting) properties that soothe inflamed intestines in Raktatisara and Jwaratisar. In Grahani, it provides nourishment and supports tissue strength weakened by chronic diarrhea. It also improves palatability and helps deliver the active ingredients effectively.

Method of Preparation

Take 4.670 kg of Kutaj bark (Holarrhena antidysenterica) and boil it in 1 Dron (12 liters) of water to prepare a decoction (Kwatha).
Boil until only one-fourth (approx. 3 liters) remains, then filter it.
To the filtered decoction, add 750 grams of sugar and heat it further to prepare a two-thread (do taar) syrup.
Separately, make a fine powder (churna) of ingredients from items 4 to 29, using 12 grams of each.
Add this herbal powder mixture into the syrup while stirring continuously to mix thoroughly.
Remove the preparation from the heat and allow it to cool.
After cooling, add 93 grams of honey to the mixture and store it properly.

Medicinal Properties

Acts as Deepana-Pachana (appetizer and digestive), Grahi (absorbent), and helps in managing diarrhea, dysentery, and malabsorption.
Controls bleeding in Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea), reduces intestinal inflammation, and calms aggravated Vata-Pitta.
Works as a Rasayana (rejuvenator), enhances immunity, improves complexion, vision, and restores strength in chronic digestive weakness.

Indications

Grahani (malabsorption syndrome)
Pravahika (dysentery)
Raktatisara (bloody diarrhea)
Inflammation (Shotha)
Jwaratisar (febrile diarrhea)

Dosage and Anupan

Give 1 tola (approx. 6–12 grams) of this Avaleha (herbal jam) to the patient. Administer buttermilk (dahi ka pani) or goat’s milk along with it according to taste.

Contraindication

This herbal formulation does not have any side effects.
Caution advised in:
- Pregnant and lactating women
- Children below 5 years

Conclusion

Kutaj Avaleha is a time-tested classical Ayurvedic formulation for gastrointestinal disorders, especially chronic diarrhea, dysentery, and intestinal bleeding. Its unique blend of herbs not only arrests excessive discharge but also tones the intestines, enhances digestion, and nourishes the body. The formulation is also effective in systemic conditions like piles, anemia, jaundice, and urinary issues. With regular usage, it strengthens overall vitality, improves complexion, enhances eyesight, and corrects long-standing Aam-related imbalances in the gut. Kutaj Avaleha stands as one of the most comprehensive remedies for Grahani and Raktatisara in Ayurvedic practice.