Kankataka
Kankataka is a substance used in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Traditional co-processing with Trikatu (Pippali, Maricha, Shunthi) enhances bioavailability of active alkaloids. Emulsification with sesame oil improves lipophilic constituent delivery. Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
| Substance type | Identity unsettled: the sources disagree on what this drug is, so no botanical name is given |
|---|
Names and identification
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | Kankataka |
Ayurvedic pharmacology (Dravyaguna)
| Property | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rasa (Taste) | Amla | Primary taste |
| Guna (Quality) | Laghu | Physical quality |
| Virya (Potency) | Ushna | Heating/Cooling effect |
| Vipaka (Post-digestive) | Amla | Post-digestive effect |
Dosage forms and preparation
Dosage Forms: Churna (powder), Kashayam (decoction), Capsule, Swarasa (fresh juice), Lepa (external paste)
Standard Dosage: 2-4 g powder twice daily; 30-60 mL decoction twice daily
Optimal Timing: After meals with warm water; Lepa applied externally as traditionally described
Storage: Store in airtight containers at ambient temperature (15-30°C). Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
Marker Compounds: Gallic acid, Beta-sitosterol, Flavonoid glycosides, Tannins
Synergistic Combinations
- Guduchi for immunomodulatory enhancement
- Haridra for anti-inflammatory synergy
- Amalaki for antioxidant potentiation
Reviewed by Dr. Awadesh Pratap Singh, BAMS, on 11 October 2026. What that review covered.
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