Kantkari (Solanum xanthocarpum) is a spiny, perennial herb or small shrub found in dry plains, often used in Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani systems of medicine. It is one of the Dashamoola (ten roots) herbs in Ayurveda and is traditionally known for its efficacy in treating respiratory ailments, urinary disorders, fever, and inflammatory conditions. The entire plant, including fruits, roots, and seeds, is considered medicinal.
- Urinary Tract and Kidney Health - Traditionally used for urinary retention, dysuria, and kidney stones.
- Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic - Reduces joint inflammation, pain, and swelling in conditions like arthritis and gout.
- Antimicrobial Action - Effective against bacterial and fungal infections, Helps in managing skin diseases, wounds, and ulcers.
- Digestive and Liver Support - Aids in digestion, relieves gas and colic, Used in hepatoprotective formulations.
Phytochemical Constituents
References
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Part I, Vol. I, Govt. of India.
Nadkarni, K.M. (1976). Indian Materia Medica, Vol. 1. Popular Prakashan.
Sharma, P.V. (1996). Dravyaguna Vijnana (Materia Medica – Vegetable Drugs). Chaukhamba Bharati Academy.
Warrier, P.K., Nambiar, V.P.K., & Ramankutty, C. (1995). Indian Medicinal Plants: A Compendium of 500 Species, Vol. 5. Orient Longman.
Meena, A.K., et al. (2010). “Medicinal uses of Solanum xanthocarpum – A review.” Der Pharmacia Lettre, 2(4): 403–407.
Patil, M.V., Patil, D.A. (2007). “Ethnomedicinal Plants of Nasik District, Maharashtra.” Ethnobotanical Leaflets, 11: 1–5.
Chopra, R.N., Nayar, S.L., & Chopra, I.C. (1956). Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants. CSIR, New Delhi.