Bauhinia Variegata

BotanicalBest with a meal

What is it

Bauhinia variegata, known as kachnar in Ayurveda, is a flowering tree native to South Asia whose bark and flowers are used in traditional medicine, particularly for thyroid and lymphatic complaints.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Thyroid and lymphatic support (traditional use)

Mixed Evidence

Long traditional Ayurvedic use for thyroid and lymphatic complaints. Modern controlled human evidence is essentially absent.

How it works

The bark contains flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin glycosides), tannins, and triterpenes. Traditional Ayurvedic use targets 'kapha' conditions, including thyroid swellings, skin issues, and lymph node enlargement. Laboratory studies suggest anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Modern controlled human evidence is limited.

Dosage

Traditional doses are 3-6 g of dried bark daily, often as a decoction (kvath) or paste (kashayam). Standardized extracts vary by manufacturer.

When and how to take it

Traditional preparations are usually taken twice daily with meals. Follow practitioner or product guidance.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Bark decoction or powder

Traditional Ayurvedic preparation.

Tannins and flavonoids extracted

Safety

Generally well-tolerated at traditional doses. Modern controlled safety data are limited.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited data. People with thyroid disorders should consult a clinician before use.

Interactions

Possible interactions with thyroid medications based on traditional use for thyroid conditions; specific data are limited.

Food sources

Bauhinia variegata flower (culinary in some regions)

Amount
varies
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is kachnar safe long-term?⌄

Modern long-term safety data are limited. Use under qualified Ayurvedic guidance.

Does it work for thyroid nodules?⌄

Traditional use targets thyroid swellings, but modern clinical evidence is lacking. Discuss thyroid issues with a clinician.

References

Bauhinia Variegata on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Bauhinia Variegata on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Bauhinia Variegata (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.