Kanchanar Guggulu: Benefits, Side Effects, Precautions & More!

Introduction

Kachnar tree (Bauhinia variegata) is a deciduous tree native to India and China. In India, it is widely found in Assam, central, eastern, and southern India. The bark of this tree is used for multiple medicinal purposes¹. 

Guggul, also known as Indian Myrrh, is the yellowish gum-resin obtained from the stem of the Guggul tree or Commiphora wightii. This tree is native to Pakistan, India, and Arabia. In India, it is distributed in Rajasthan, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat².

The decoction obtained from the bark of the Kachnar tree and Guggulu is mixed along with other ingredients to produce Kanchanar guggulu. Kanchanar guggulu helps in the normal functioning of the lymphatic system and aids in the elimination of toxins from the body. 

Ingredients of Kanchanar Guggulu

Kanchanar guggulu has a distinct odour and a bitter taste. It consists of about 12 ingredients. These include:

• Kanchanar³ 
• Haritaki³
• Bibhitaka³ 
• Amalak³
• Marica³
• Shunthi³
• Pippali³
• Ela or Suksmaila³
• Varuna³
• Tvak³
• Tejpatta³
• Guggulu shuddha³ 

Out of the above-mentioned ingredients, kanchanar and guggulu are the major ingredients. Kanchanar guggulu contains phytochemicals (plant-based derivatives), compounds like phenolic compounds, tannins, alkaloids, sterols, fatty acids, fixed oils, proteins, carbohydrates, glycosides, lactones, saponins, and terpenoids. 

Properties of Kanchanar Guggulu

Kanchanar guggulu contains several active ingredients that have different beneficial properties and can be used to help in various conditions.

Potential Uses of Kanchanar Guggulu

1. Potential Uses of Kanchanar Guggulu for Hypothyroidism

According to Ayurveda, excess kapha dosha and medha dhatu (excess fats) lead to an impairment in the function of pitta dosha, which might cause hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism⁴.

• Kanchanar guggulu helps balance kapha and reduces medha dhatu. Thus, it may be effective in reducing the swelling in the neck and goitre. 
• Kanchanar guggulu contains properties like ruksha  (dry),  laghu  (light), and ushna virya  (hot potency).  Thus, it may be helpful for hypothyroidism.

However, the research available seems insufficient to identify the extent of benefits in humans, thus, it is suggested that one must visit a qualified doctor to get proper treatment for hypothyroidism.

2. Potential Uses of Kanchanar Guggulu for Cancer

Studies⁵ show that kanchanar guggulu contains a cytotoxic property by which it may regulate cell division and decrease cell proliferation. Hence, this Ayurvedic preparation might help with the treatment of cancer. However, for humans, we would need more extensive research that can validate this claim. Moreover, cancer is a serious illness that may require you to consult a qualified doctor for its diagnosis and treatment.

3. Potential Uses of Kanchanar Guggulu for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Kanchanar Guggulu contains triphala and trikatu, which contain vitamin C. This might help in relaxing the muscles of the prostate and the bladder neck. This might help relieve pressure and improve urination⁶. This may indicate the benefits of kachanar gugglu for this condition, but it needs further study to establish its effectiveness. You must consult a doctor for advice.

4. Potential Uses of Kanchanar Guggulu for Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is a common condition among children.  Kanchanar guggulu may have a beneficial effect on the increased kapha and rakta doshas in the body⁷. Hence, it is beneficial in decreasing the signs and symptoms of chronic tonsillitis. Please visit your doctor for proper prescription and guidance.

5. Potential Uses of Kanchanar Guggulu for Lymph Node Swelling

Lymph node swelling may occur due to bacterial and viral infections. They may occur in the neck, groin or armpit.  

Kanchanar guggulu may have potential antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it an effective remedy for lymph node swellings. It may also be helpful in reducing glandular swellings. 

6. Other Potential Uses of Kanchanar Guggulu

Kanchanar guggulu may have some beneficial effect in the treatment of fistulas, leprosy, cysts, skin diseases, boils, liver cysts, polycystic kidney disease, and other swellings in the body.  

Though studies show the benefits of kanchanar guggulu against various disease conditions, these studies are insufficient, and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of beetroot on human health.  

From my experience, Kanchanar Guggulu may help ease symptoms associated with PCOS. Insulin resistance, commonly seen in PCOS, may be reduced because of the anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic qualities of Kanchanar Guggulu.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

Side Effects of Kanchanar Guggulu

Even Ayurvedic herbs may have specific side effects and may react differently in every person. Ensure that you consult an Ayurvedic physician before using it for proper guidance.

Additionally, Kanchanar Guggulu might result in mild gastric discomfort in people with a sensitive stomach. It might cause headaches, vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea, hiccups, stomach upset, allergic reactions, skin rashes, and itching when taken in large doses. If you experience any of these side effects or allergic reactions after using beetroot, stop its use and contact your healthcare provider immediately.  

From my knowledge, Kanchanar Guggulu might be your ally in your weight loss journey. The bitter, astringent, and pungent flavour of Guggulu stimulates metabolism and may aid in fat burning and improving digestion. Hence, they may play a significant role in overall body weight loss.

Dr. Smita barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.

Precautions and Warnings to be Taken with Kanchanar Guggulu

• Kanchanar guggulu may be avoided by pregnant and lactating mothers.    
• For children, this preparation must be given only under medical supervision.  
• Guggul might slow down blood clotting and result in excess bleeding in people with clotting disorders⁸. Thus, one must disclose such medications to the doctor before consuming herbal preparations for their benefits.
• Guggul might result in an increase in LDL (bad cholesterol) in people with excess cholesterol levels.This must be avoided by people with cholesterol-related issues.

You must consult a qualified doctor before taking any herbal supplements. Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

1. Sahu AN, Padhy RN. Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata): 18. ResearchGate. 2020 Dec [cited 2025 Apr 17]. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/347463758_Kachnar_Bauhinia_variegata_18
2. Sarup P, Bala S, Kamboj S. Pharmacology and phytochemistry of oleo-gum resin of Commiphora wightii (Guggulu). Scientifica (Cairo). 2015;2015:138039. doi: 10.1155/2015/138039. Epub 2015 Oct 26. PMID: 26587309; PMCID: PMC4637499. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4637499/
3. Lamsal R, Kumar A. Action of Kanchanar Guggulu in the management of Galganda (hypothyroidism): A review. ResearchGate. 2023 Mar [cited 2025 Apr 17]. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/369471533_ACTION_OF_KANCHANAR_GUGGULU_IN_THE_MANAGEMENT_OF_GALGANDA_HYPOTHYROIDISM_A_REVIEW
4. Yadav V. Exploring the Ayurvedic perspective on hypothyroidism: Insight and holistic solution. ResearchGate. 2024 Apr [cited 2025 Apr 17]. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/380355840_EXPLORING_THE_AYURVEDIC_PERSPECTIVE_ON_HYPOTHYROIDISM_INSIGHT_and_HOLISTIC_SOLUTION
5. Shukla V, Bhathena ZP, Shah G, Jha A, Nishteswar K. Cytotoxic and antiproliferative activity of Kanchnar Guggulu, an Ayurvedic formulation. ResearchGate. 2018 Oct [cited 2025 Apr 17]. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328070686_Cytotoxic_and_antiproliferative_activity_of_kanchnar_guggulu_an_Ayurvedic_formulation
6. Patel JK, Dudhamal TS, Gupta SK, Mahanta V. Efficacy of Kanchanara Guggulu and Matra Basti of Dhanyaka Gokshura Ghrita in Mootraghata (benign prostatic hyperplasia). Ayu. 2015 Apr-Jun;36(2):138-44. doi: 10.4103/0974-8520.175552. PMID: 27011713; PMCID: PMC4784122. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4784122/
7. Adhvaryu TR, Patel KS, Kori VK, Rajagopala S, Manjusha R. Evaluation of the effect of Kanchnara Guggulu and Tankana-Madhu Pratisarana in the management of Tundikeri (tonsillitis) in children. Ayu. 2016 Jul-Dec;37(3-4):190-197. doi: 10.4103/ayu.AYU_91_14. PMID: 29491671; PMCID: PMC5822979. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5822979/
8. Urizar NL, Moore DD. Therapeutic effects of Guggul and its constituent guggulsterone: Cardiovascular benefits. ResearchGate. 2003 Dec [cited 2025 Apr 17]. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/5771050_Therapeutic_Effects_of_Guggul_and_Its_Constituent_Guggulsterone_Cardiovascular_Benefits
9. Tomar R, Kaur G, Sannd R, Singh H, Sarkar B. A review on Guggulu formulations used in Ayurveda. Ann Ayurvedic Med. 2013;2(4):140-145. Available from: https://aamjournal.in/fulltext/70-1389420886.pdf

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

15

1