picrorhiza kurroa

**Picrorhiza kurroa** (also known as "Kutki") is a perennial herb native to the Himalayan region, valued in Ayurvedic medicine for its bitter rhizomes used primarily as a hepatoprotective agent. Its key active constituents, kutkin (a mixture of picroside I, picroside II, kutkoside, and other iridoid glycosides), exhibit liver-protective effects by reducing elevated liver enzymes (SGOT, SGPT), promoting hepatic regeneration, and protecting against toxins like acetaminophen, galactosamine, and viruses such as hepatitis B and C. It demonstrates anti-inflammatory activity via NF-κB modulation, antioxidant properties, immunomodulation by enhancing cytokine production (IFN-γ, IL-4), antibacterial effects against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, anticancer cytotoxicity in cell lines (breast, liver, prostate), antidiabetic effects by lowering blood glucose and improving GLUT-4 translocation, and additional benefits in asthma, vitiligo, and skin disorders. Clinical trials support its use in acute viral hepatitis, NAFLD, NASH, and vitiligo, typically at 300-500 mg doses of rhizome powder 2-3 times daily, with a favorable safety profile from traditional use though mild GI side effects like diarrhea can occur.[1][2][3][4][5]

Other names

kutkikutakikarkatika