INTRODUCTION:
Kakra Singhi is a traditional herbal remedy commonly used in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. It is primarily derived from the dried resinous exudates or galls found on the leaves of the Pistacia integerrima tree, which belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. These galls form as a reaction to insect bites and are harvested for their medicinal properties.
Hindi: ककरसिंघी (Kakra Singhi), ककरसिंगी (Kakarsingi)
Sanskrit: कर्कटशृंगी (Karkatshringi)
English: Pistacia galls, Resinous galls
Tamil: கற்கடிச்சிறகு (Karkadi Chiragu)
Telugu: కాకరసింఘి (Kakarasinghi)
Kannada: ಕಕರಸಿಂಘಿ (Kakarasinghi)
Marathi: ककरसिंघी (Kakarsinghi)
Gujarati: કકરસિંઘી (Kakarasinghi)
Punjabi: ਕਕਰਸਿੰਘੀ (Kakarasinghi)
Bengali: ককরসিঙ্ঘি (Kokarsinghi)
Urdu: ککر سنگھی (Kakar Singhi)
HEALTH BENEFITS:
Expectorant:
It helps clear mucus from the airways, lungs, and trachea, which aids in relieving coughs and asthma symptoms.
Anti-inflammatory:
The anti-inflammatory properties of the galls help soothe inflammation in the airways.
Anti-asthmatic:
Scientific studies have found that Kakra singhi has anti-asthmatic and antihistaminic effects that can reduce bronchospasms.
Diarrhea and dysentery:
Its antimicrobial and antidiarrheal properties help manage diarrhea by inhibiting the bacteria that cause intestinal infections.
Indigestion and bloating:
The plant’s carminative and digestive properties assist in improving digestion and reducing flatulence.
Antimicrobial:
It possesses antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, making it useful for treating and preventing infections.
Antioxidant:
The galls have antioxidant activity that helps neutralize harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress.
Anti-inflammatory and pain relief:
The plant’s compounds can help relieve general inflammation and pain, including joint and muscular discomfort.
Immune booster:
By strengthening the body’s natural defense mechanisms, it can help fight off illness.
Female reproductive health:
It is traditionally used to cleanse and heal the uterus after menstruation.
Wound healing:
The plant’s antimicrobial properties can help protect cuts and wounds from infection.
Sexual health:
It is traditionally believed to act as an aphrodisiac and may help with male sexual health issues.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
There is insufficient reliable scientific data on the effects of Kakra singhi during pregnancy and lactation. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to consult a doctor before use.
Diabetes:
Although some traditional uses suggest it helps manage blood sugar levels, there is not enough scientific evidence. Diabetics should consult a doctor before use.
Heart conditions:
Kakra singhi should not be taken without medical supervision if you have a heart condition, as its effects on the heart are not fully understood.
Allergies:
Individuals with known allergies to plants should be cautious and avoid contact with Pistacia integerrima.
HOW TO USE:
Decoction (Kashaya):
Take about 3-5 grams of Kakra Singhi galls.
Boil it In 100-200 ml of water until the water reduces to half.
Strain and drink this decoction 1-2 times a day.
It’s commonly used to relieve cough, cold, and respiratory issues.
Powder Form:
The dried galls are powdered finely.
Take 1-2 grams of this powder mixed with honey or warm water.
Useful for soothing sore throat and cough.
In Herbal Syrups:
Kakra Singhi is often an ingredient in herbal cough syrups combined with other herbs like Tulsi, Vasaka, and Mulethi (Licorice).
Follow the syrup dosage as per the product label or practitioner’s advice.
Paste:
Powdered Kakra Singhi mixed with a small amount of water to make a paste can be applied externally in some traditional remedies for skin infections or inflammations (only under practitioner guidance).
Important Tips
Always use Kakra Singhi under guidance if you’re unfamiliar with herbal medicines.
Avoid overdose; excessive use might cause digestive discomfort.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Not recommended for long-term use without medical supervision.
