Kutkins

PhytochemicalIridoid glycosideBest with a meal

What is it

Kutkins (kutkin) is a mixture of iridoid glycosides - mainly picroside I and II - found in kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa), a high-altitude Himalayan herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for liver and immune support.

Evidence for 1 use

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

Liver support (preclinical, small human studies)

Limited Evidence

Preclinical evidence is moderate; small human studies in viral hepatitis suggest possible benefit, but methodology is often limited. Should not replace conventional liver care.

How it works

Kutkin compounds are thought to support liver function through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. In preclinical studies, they have shown hepatoprotective activity against chemical liver injury, modulation of cytochrome P450 enzymes, and immune-stimulating effects. Small human studies have suggested possible benefits in viral hepatitis and other liver conditions, but evidence is limited and the herb is more often used in traditional formulations than as an isolated compound.

Dosage

Standardized kutki extracts typically provide 200-400 mg of extract delivering 4-12% kutkin per dose. Traditional Ayurvedic doses use 1-3 g of powdered root daily.

When and how to take it

Take with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset and to mask the bitter taste. Typically dosed once or twice daily.

2 commercial forms

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

Kutki / Picrorhiza extract standardized to kutkin

Standardized extract form.

Iridoid glycosides absorbed in small intestine.

Whole-root powder

Used in Ayurvedic compound formulas.

Traditional preparation.

Safety

Generally well tolerated at recommended doses. Side effects can include nausea, diarrhea, and skin rash. The herb has a very bitter taste. Long-term safety data are limited.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid with autoimmune conditions or on immunosuppressant medications. People with liver disease should consult a hepatologist before using.

Interactions

May interact with drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes. May add to the effect of immunostimulants and could interact with immunosuppressants.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between kutkin and kutki?⌄

Kutki refers to the whole herb (Picrorhiza kurroa). Kutkin (or kutkins) refers to the active iridoid glycoside mixture extracted from it.

Will kutki cure hepatitis?⌄

Small studies have shown possible benefit but are not strong enough to recommend kutki as a hepatitis treatment. Modern antiviral medications for viral hepatitis are far more effective.

References

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

Research on Kutkins (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Kutkins with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

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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.