Kutki
Sanskrit: Katuki
Picrorhiza kurroa
A intensely bitter Himalayan root used in classical Ayurveda in tiny quantities, traditionally associated with the liver and with bitter digestive formulations. It is a slow-growing, high-altitude plant that is now conservation-sensitive and widely adulterated. Use belongs firmly with a qualified practitioner.
Also known as
Katuki · Kutki
- hindi:
- Kutki
- kashmiri:
- Kaur
Parts used
- Rhizome and root
Traditional overview
- Classically used as a bitter within liver-related Ayurvedic formulations
- Included in compound preparations rather than taken as a single herb
- Traditionally used in very small quantities because of its extreme bitterness
- Referenced in classical texts alongside other bitter tonics for sluggish digestion
Common traditional forms
- root powder within classical formulations
- bitter decoctions
Wellness tags
- liver tradition
- digestion
Body focus
- liver
- digestive system
Concerns
- practitioner-guided digestive and liver wellness
What to know before use
Do not use this as a self-directed liver remedy. Liver symptoms such as yellow eyes, dark urine, persistent nausea or upper-abdominal pain need medical testing, not a bitter herb. Large amounts can cause nausea and loose stools.
Important cautions
Practitioner guidance required. This is not suitable for self-use, for diagnosed liver disease, or for prolonged use. Wild-sourced material is also conservation-sensitive.
Who should avoid it
- Anyone with diagnosed liver disease seeking self-treatment
- People with low blood pressure
- People with digestive ulcers or ongoing diarrhoea
- Anyone planning long-term use
Medicine interactions
- Caution with liver-related medicines
- Caution with blood-pressure and diabetes medicines
PregnancyAvoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
ChildrenNot for children unless prescribed and supervised by a qualified practitioner.
Quality and buying guidance
Genuine Picrorhiza kurroa is expensive and scarce; cheap Kutki is very often substituted with related or unrelated bitter roots. Buy only from a licensed manufacturer that names the species and, ideally, states sourcing. Prefer cultivated material for conservation reasons, and avoid unnamed bitter powders sold generically for the liver.
Evidence note
This is used mainly within qualified practitioner practice and classical formulations. Self-directed use is not appropriate, and evidence outside traditional texts is limited.
Traditional wellness information only — not medical advice. Start small, and check with a qualified practitioner if you are pregnant, nursing, treating a child, or managing a medical condition.