Kadukkai powder, also known as Haritaki powder, is an ancient Ayurvedic remedy derived from the dried fruit of the Terminalia chebula tree.
Also known as “king of medicine,” in Tibet, kadukkai is cherished in traditional medicine for its powerful health benefits.
Triphala (derived from the Sanskrit words ‘tri’ meaning ‘three’ and ‘phala’ meaning ‘fruits’) is a traditional Ayurvedic herbal blend made from equal parts of three powerful fruits: Emblica officinalis (Amla), Terminalia chebula (Haritaki), and Terminalia bellerica (Bibhitaki). Together, these fruits offer a range of health benefits, including supporting digestive health, detoxification, immune function, and overall well-being.
In this blog, we’ll explore the numerous ways kadukkai powder can support your health, from boosting digestion to enhancing immunity and even promoting skin health.
What is Kadukkai Powder?
Kadukkai powder is made from dried kadukkai fruit, it is also known as haritaki in Sanskrit, as it can treat wide range of illnesses and revered by God Shiva (Hara).
Also known as black, yellow, or chebulic myrobalan, kadukkai tree belongs to Combretaceae family, native to South and Southeast Asia.
When dried and ground, the fruit transforms into kadukkai powder, a highly valued remedy believed to have potent healing properties.
Health Benefits
Following are the kadukkai powder benefits for health.
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Kadukkai powder is rich in powerful antioxidants, which are responsible for its therapeutic benefits.
Antioxidants are compounds that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals—unstable molecules generated by environmental factors and metabolic processes. They help reduce oxidative stress, supporting overall health and reducing disease risk.
Kadukkai powder is rich in various bioactive phytoconstituents, such as phenols, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, sterols, and amino acids, with tannins being the most prominent component.
The tannins in kadukkai powder include chebulic acid, chebulinic acid, chebulagic acid, gallic acid, corilagin, and ellagic acid. And the flavonoids include quercetin, catechin, and kaempferol.
Incorporating kadukkai powder into your wellness routine can be a powerful way to boost antioxidant levels, helping to shield your body from oxidative stress and support long-term health.
2. May Support Gastrointestinal Health
Kadukkai powder is widely known for its ability to promote digestive health.
In traditional Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine, fruits are commonly used to treat various digestive system conditions such as chronic diarrhea, gastroenteritis, constipation, malabsorption syndrome, dyspepsia, hemorrhoids, and loss of appetite. These fruits are believed to support digestive health, alleviate discomfort, and restore balance within the gastrointestinal tract.
Kadukkai has potential to support the gastrointestinal tract and is especially effective in treating gastrointestinal disorders like constipation, gastric ulcers, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), among others.
In a study on effects of dried kadukkai fruit extract on dextran sodium sulfate-induced ulcerative colitis in mice, it was found that the extract inhibited weight loss, disease activity, and improved colon health, possibly by regulating certain pathway and balancing gut microbiota, suggesting kadukkai’s therapeutic potential for ulcerative colitis.
In another study, piglets fed with kadukkai extract or zinc oxide showed reduced diarrhea, increased growth, and improved antioxidant capacity. The exact also improved immune markers, intestinal health, and gut microbiota, along with enhancing villus height in small intestine, demonstrating potential as a ZnO alternative for piglet health.
However, further research on humans is necessary.
3. May Boost Immunity
One of the most significant benefits of kadukkai powder is its immune-boosting properties.
In Ayurveda, Kadukkai is one of the three fruits used in the traditional formulation of Triphala, renowned for its immune-boosting properties.
A small-scale study tested the immune-boosting effects of LN20189, a blend of kadukkai fruit and ashwagandha root extracts. After 28 days, participants who took LN20189 showed significant improvements in immune function, with better overall immune health and reduced immune function issues, compared to the placebo group.
While these findings are promising, larger studies with more participants and longer durations are needed to confirm these effects.
For a natural immunity boost, you can take 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of Kadukkai powder mixed with warm water or honey, preferably on an empty stomach in the morning.
As always, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before adding Kadukkai powder or any other herbal supplement to your routine, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have underlying health conditions.
4. May Have Liver-protecting Properties
Kadukkai powder supports liver health with its powerful detoxifying and hepatoprotective properties. It helps shield the liver from oxidative stress and inflammation—two major factors that contribute to liver damage.
A study examined how kadukkai fruit extract on diazinon-induced liver damage in rats, diazinon caused oxidative stress, reduced antioxidant levels, and increased liver damage. It was found that the treatment with kadukkai fruit extract improved antioxidant levels, decreased harmful markers, and reduced liver inflammation, demonstrating its protective effects against the liver toxicity.
In another study on mice with t-BHP-induced severe liver damage showed that water extract of dried kadukkai fruit significantly reduced elevated liver enzymes (AST, ALT, LDH) and inflammatory markers. The extract also improved antioxidant levels, reduced oxidative stress, and prevented liver damage, as confirmed by genetic analysis and tissue examination.
High levels of AST, ALT, LDH indicate liver damage.
However, more research, especially on humans is needed to validate these results.
5. May Help Relieve Joint Pain and Promotes Joint Health
Joint discomfort, which includes pain, stiffness, or soreness in the joints, can be caused by conditions like osteoarthritis, lower back pain, or even certain exercises.
Oxidative stress and inflammation play a role in joint discomfort, but kadukkai fruit offers a natural solution with its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
A study evaluated the effects of kadukkai fruit extract (AyuFlex®) dietary supplementation on joint health, comfort, and function in 105 healthy overweight adults. The participants were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or AyuFlex® at two doses (250 mg or 500 mg twice daily) for 84 days.
Results showed that AyuFlex® significantly improved joint mobility, comfort, and function, including reduced knee discomfort during exercise and better performance on a 6-minute walk test. It also improved overall joint function and reduced knee soreness after exercise. Remarkably, there were no major side effects, and the lower dose (250 mg) was as effective as the higher dose.
AyuFlex® contains phytochemicals like tannins, flavonoids and some sugars of kadukkai fruit.
Taking kadukkai fruit extract has also been shown to increase pain threshold time and tolerance time, likely due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties from the fruit’s natural compounds.
Longer pain threshold times indicate greater tolerance to the stimulus before pain is felt.
Including Kadukkai powder in your diet may help ease joint discomfort. However, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before using it regularly, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
6. May Help Manage Weight and Blood Sugar Levels
Obesity is a growing global health issue. It occurs when there is an imbalance between food intake and energy expenditure, leading to an increase in both the size and number of fat cells (adipocytes).
In a cellular study, chebulinic acid, found in Kadukkai and Longan fruits, was shown to strongly inhibit PPP1CB, a protein that promotes fat cell development and demonstrated antiadipogenic effects in a dose-dependent manner.
Antiadipogenic refers to inhibiting fat cell formation.
Additional studies have also demonstrated that chebulinic acid effectively prevented fat cell formation, highlighting its potential as a natural remedy for obesity by blocking PPP1CB activity.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common condition in which the body either fails to produce adequate insulin or becomes resistant to its effects.
Rich in antioxidants, kadukkai powder may help manage blood sugar levels with its ability to reduce oxidative stress.
A study on rats with type 2 diabetes showed that treatment with aqueous extract of kadukkai powder significantly lowered blood sugar levels, improved insulin sensitivity, and reduced harmful fat levels. It was also found that the extract helped protect pancreatic tissue from damage caused by high blood sugar. Additionally, it improved the expression of a protein (SIRT1) that supports better cell function and health in the pancreas.
Interestingly, in a clinical study with 80 pre-diabetic healthy subjects, those who received 1,000 mg of water extract of kadukkai fruit daily showed a significant decrease in fasting blood sugar and visceral fat compared to those who took a placebo. The extract was found to be safe with no major side effects.
The study also concluded that 2,000 mg of extract per day is safe and may help manage obesity in pre-diabetic individuals.
These studies suggest that kadukkai powder may offer dual benefits: helping with weight management while effectively controlling blood sugar levels.
However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using kadukkai, especially if you’re using kadukkai powder for these conditions.
7. May Improve Cognitive Function
Kadukkai powder may also support cognitive function with its antioxidative properties.
An animal study found that kadukkai extract improved memory and learning in mice with scopolamine-induced amnesia. The extract increased acetyltransferase and acetylcholine levels, reduced acetylcholinesterase activity, and protected the brain from oxidative stress, suggesting its potential as a cognitive enhancer.
These findings suggest that kadukkai may improve learning and memory by modulating the cholinergic system and reducing oxidative stress.
However, further research in both animals and humans is needed to clarify its mechanism and confirm its effectiveness for cognitive health.
8. May Help Relieve Cough
The cough reflex is a key defense for keeping airways clear. Along with the mucociliary transport system, it helps clean the respiratory tract, preventing mucus buildup. Coughing stops infected mucus from reaching the lungs and bronchial tubes, which could lead to serious issues.
In Ayurveda and Unani Medicine, kadukkai fruits has been used to treat various respiratory conditions like asthma, cough, bronchitis,.etc.
In an animal study, kadukkai extract was tested for its cough-relieving effects on mice exposed to sulfur dioxide gas. At a dose of 500 mg/kg, it significantly reduced coughing, performing similarly to popular cough suppressants like codeine. Even at doses up to 1265 mg/kg, the extract was safe and showed no negative effects on the nervous system.
This cough-relief effect of kadukkai likely involves opioid receptors and may also be attributed to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
In another study a key polysaccharide (CP) was identified in the water extract of dried kadukkai fruit, which showed a strong cough-suppressing effect in mice with citric acid-induced cough. This polysaccharide was more effective than codeine, significantly reducing coughing at a dose of 50 mg/kg.
These findings back kadukkai’s long-standing use in traditional medicine for treating various respiratory conditions.
There is now ongoing research to identify the exact compounds behind its powerful cough-relieving properties, aiming to unlock even more potential benefits of this natural remedy.
9. May Provide Anti-Aging Benefits for the Skin
Not just for internal health, kadukkai powder has its benefits for external beauty too. It may offer anti-aging properties to the skin due to its rich antioxidant profile.
A laboratory study found that extracts of Bahera, Phyllanthus emblica, Triphala, and Carica papaya displayed antioxidant, skin-whitening, and anti-wrinkle properties. Interestingly, using ethanol as a co-solvent significantly boosted these effects, with the optimal concentration for maximum benefit being 70%.
However, despite these valuable research findings, the study was limited by the lack of clinical trials or animal testing models.
Kadukkai is a medicinal plant known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects, commonly used in Ayurveda and herbal products.
Here is a study on how consumption of kadukkai powder effects on your skin health.
In a double-blind study, healthy women ages 25 to 65 took either a placebo or a 250 mg kadukkai capsule (Synastol TC) twice daily for 8 weeks.
Results showed that in participants with higher baseline oil levels, kadukkai supplementation reduced forehead oil by 33% after eight weeks, while the placebo group saw a 29% increase. Additionally, the capsule reduced redness in the cheeks and improved wrinkle appearance by 4.3%, while wrinkles increased by 3.9% in the placebo group.
However, this study focused on overweight women with BMIs between 25 and 35, so the results may not apply to those outside this range. Additionally, since the study only included women, the findings may not hold true for men without further research.
Despite some limitations, kadukkai powder may support overall skin health.
While studies on its topical use are limited, you can create an Anti-aging face mask by mixing it with water or honey. Apply to your skin and leave it on for 10 minutes. Be sure to patch test before use to check for any potential side effects.
10. May Reduce the Risk of Cancer
Kadukkai powder has potential anti-cancer properties due to its powerful antioxidants, such as tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, that help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which plays a key role in cancer development.
Cellular studies suggest that kadukkai powder or its active compounds may inhibit the growth of cancer cells and promote apoptosis (programmed cell death) in certain types of cancer like colorectal cancer, breast cancer, gastric cancer, retinoblastoma and neuroblastoma cells. (1, 18, 19, 20, 21)
While promising, more research on animals and humans is needed to validate these results.
How to Use Kadukkai Powder
For Health
Kadukkai powder can be taken in several ways, depending on the intended benefits:
- As a Drink: Mix half a teaspoon of kadukkai powder in warm water and drink it before bedtime to support digestion and detoxification.
- In Tea: Kadukkai powder can be added to herbal teas, combined with ingredients like ginger and turmeric for an immune-boosting drink.
- Capsules: For those who find the taste too strong, kadukkai powder is available in capsule form.
Start with a small dose and gradually increase as your body adjusts. It’s also important to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication.
For Skin
Kadukkai powder is known for its skin rejuvenating and anti-aging properties. To use it for skincare
- Mix a teaspoon of Kadukkai powder with water or rose water to create a smooth paste.
- Apply the paste to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water.
- This helps reduce acne, exfoliate dead skin cells, and promote a healthy glow.
Alternatively,
- Mix Kadukkai powder with honey and lemon juice to create a natural face pack.
- Apply it evenly on your skin, leave it on for 10 minutes, then wash off.
- This combination helps lighten dark spots, improve skin texture, and treat blemishes.
- Regular use can give your skin a clearer, more youthful appearance.
However, patch test before use to find any potential side effects or sensitivity to skin.
Precautions and Side Effects
While kadukkai powder offers numerous benefits, it should be consumed in moderation.
- Excessive intake can lead to digestive discomfort, such as diarrhea or bloating.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid kadukkai powder, as it can be too stimulating for the body.
- Additionally, people with certain health conditions, such as chronic dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, should consult a healthcare provider before use.
In Closing
Kadukkai powder is a powerful gift from nature, deeply rooted in traditional systems like Ayurveda and Unani medicine.
From aiding digestion and detoxifying the body to supporting oral health, immunity, skin, and hair—its benefits are wide-ranging. Modern science is slowly validating what ancient wisdom has long claimed, showing promise in areas like constipation relief and respiratory health.
Still, it’s important to use kadukkai mindfully. Not all benefits are backed by strong human studies, and individual responses can vary. Start with small doses and consult a healthcare provider if you have health conditions or take medications.
Incorporating kadukkai powder wisely could be a simple step toward more balanced, holistic wellness.
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