Vidarikand also referred to as Indian kudzu, scientifically known as Pueraria Tuberosa, is a perennial herb. Found in Asia, it flourishes in humid climates. From the Himalayas to Sikkim, one can easily find this herb.
Ayurvedic Classification of Vidarikand
Pueraria tuberosa is known as Vidarikand in Ayurveda. As part of the Fabaceae family, Vidarikand are globose or pot-shaped tubers.
Ayurvedic practitioners have been using this herb for the treatment of spermatorrhoea, menopausal symptoms, PCOS, hepatosplenomegaly, cardiovascular illness, and other conditions. Numerous ayurvedic formulations contain it as an immune system enhancer, spermatogenic tonic, and anti-aging supplement.
Properties of Vidarikand
| Veerya (Potency) | Sheeta (Cold) |
| Guna (Qualities) | Guru (Heavy), Snighda (Smooth) |
| Rasa (Taste) | Madhura (Sweet) |
| Karma (Dosha Balancing) | Vata Pitta Shamaka (lowers vitiated vata and pitta) |
Nutritional Value Of Vidarikand
Vidarikand constitutes 64% carbohydrates and 10.9% proteins.
Biochemical constituents of Vidarikand include the following:
- β- sitosterol
- Stigmasterol
- Duidzein
- Tuberosin
- Puerarin
- Pterocarpan-tuberosin
- Pterocarpanone-hydroxytuberosone
- Two pterocarpenes-anhydrotuberosin
- 3-O-methyl anhydrotuberosin
- Coumestan tuberostan.
Being rich in these bio active components equips this herb with the following qualities:
- Immuno-protective
- Rejuvenative
- Cardiotonic
- Diuretic
- Anti-emetic
- Galactagogue
- Hypertensive
- Detoxifying
- Febrifuge
- Digestive
- Anti-inflammatory1
- Broncho-dilatory
- Pain-relieving
- Anti-microbial properties
The medicinal benefits of this herb include treating infections, reproductive problems, skin conditions, heart issues, indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, fever, allergies, asthma, blood infections, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Common Names Of Vidarikand
Following are common names of Vidarikand in different Indian regional languages:
| Hindi | Vidarikanda / Bankumara |
| English | Indian Kudzu |
| Sanskrit | Bhumikusmand / Gajavajipriya / Kandapalash / Svadukanda / Vidari / Iksu-Gandha |
| Assamese | Bhedeleton / Bhuikumra |
| Marathi | Bhuikohala / Ghodvel |
| Punjabi | Siali / Surala |
| Oriya | Bhuiankakharu |
| Tamil | Nilapoosani |
| Telugu | Darigummadi / Nelagummuda |
Health Benefits Of Vidarikand
From ancient wisdom of ayurveda to now science-backed studies, there are numerous health benefits of Indian Kudzu (Vidari). From chronic diseases like diabetes, piles and heart conditions to bad lifestyle choices like smoking and alcohol addiction, Vidarikand can aid you in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and achieve longevity naturally.
Helps To Boosts Immunity
Vidarikand is excellent in nutritional value and possesses natural aphrodisiac, diuretic, galactagogue, energizing, and spermatogenic properties. Due to this, it acts as a natural immunity booster. Its roots are used in Ayurveda as an immunity booster and restorative tonic.
Protects Against Heart Disease
Indian Kudzu (Vidari) contains flavonoids (just like Himalayan Shilajit) and cardioprotective properties which may help with blood clots, lowering blood pressure levels, reducing total cholesterol, triglycerides, very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in patients with ischaemic heart disease.
The active bio component puerarin could promote reperfusion to the injury site in ischemic heart disease by opening potassium channels and activating protein kinase C.
Reduces Alcohol Dependence
It’s antioxidant properties which assist in reducing alcohol consumption. It prevents cell damage by fighting against free radicals. Recent research suggests that many heavy drinkers reported consuming relatively less alcohol after continuously taking Vidarikand for a while.
Vidarikand is considered one of the most powerful herbs for alcohol addiction and it is also one of the main components of our flagship Ayurvedic product Addiction Killer.
Also Read: Life After Quitting Alcohol: See These 10 Improvements
Improves Respiratory Function
The anti-inflammatory, anti-biotic, and anti-asthmatic properties of Vidarikand relieve common cold, cough, and flu symptoms. It boosts overall immunity and protects against seasonal changes thereby improving respiratory function.
Relieves Digestive Problems
It has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. These properties help in managing gastritis. reduces inflammation and discomfort by reducing the production of certain inflammation-causing chemicals and gastric acid in the stomach.
This anti-inflammatory property of Vidarikand strengthens and improves digestion and eases bowel movement thereby reduces chances of you getting another prevalent chronic disease piles.
Also Read our Post on 10 Effective Home Remedies for Piles
Promotes Wound Healing
It aids in quick wound recovery. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties help reduce inflammation, aid in tissue regeneration, and restore skin to normal texture.
Enhances Fertility And Libido
For centuries Vidarikhand has been used in Vajikarana, the ayurvedic field that specialized in sexual health for boosting libido and improving fertility in men. Due to its aphrodisiac and spermatogenic properties, it increases testosterone levels, aids in the production of sperm, and improves their quality and motility.
This is why Vidarikand also happens to be one of the main ingredients of our special ayurvedic formulation for men’s sexual health, Liv Muztang.
Also containing African Mulondo besides select indigenous herbs, this herbal supplement helps you get rid of symptoms of erectile dysfunction by boosting libido, increase strength and stamina so that men could last longer in bed and enjoy greater intimacy.
Aids In Lactation
It contains a substance called galactagogue, which aids in the higher production of prolactin and corticoids, thus improving lactation and the quality of breast milk. The scientific research in this area is insufficient, leaving room for ambiguity.
Slows Ageing Process
Its active bio component puerarin along with its regenerative and antioxidant properties, acts as a boon for the skin. It reduces the signs of fine lines, and wrinkles, enhances skin texture, and slows down the aging process.
Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is an immune system response to an irritant and is characterized by pain, swelling, redness, heat, and loss of function. Vidarikand helps to reduce stomach inflammation as it stops the release of certain chemicals causing inflammation.
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Vidarikand might contribute to the maintenance of blood sugar levels as well as preventing damage to pancreatic cells, which in turn leads to an enhanced secretion and sensitivity of insulin.2 Vidarikand comes especially handy as a home remedy to help you control blood sugar naturally.
Also Read our Post on 10 Foods to Eat and 10 to Avoid if you have Diabetes
Relieves Urinary Disorders
Its antioxidant properties help to remove the free radicals from the body and improve the oxygen exchange in the nephrons which protects the kidney cells. This helps in managing diabetic nephropathy effectively.
Vidarikand Side-Effects
Vidarikand may have the following side effects:
- Gastric Upset
Vidarikand may cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It may cause liver damage or may worsen inflammation.
- Dizziness
Mild sedative properties may result in drowsiness and sedation.
- Headache
If taken in more than the prescribed dose it may cause headache and fever.
- Allergic Reaction
Reactions like itching and rashes may develop on the skin, and sometimes breathing difficulty.
- Interact With Certain Medications
Vidarikand may interact with certain medications for heart diseases, diabetes, pregnancy, and liver and kidney disorders. So one must consult a doctor before use.
How To Consume Vidarikand
Vidarikand can be consumed in different forms depending on your preference and convenience.
Fresh Vidarikand roots are edible. They can be cooked like any other vegetable or consumed in juice and tea form. The market is filled with Vidarikand herbal supplements which are available in both powder and capsule form.
Conclusion
Vidarikand is a medicinal herb which is a source of various health benefits. It has a long history of being used in Ayurvedic and Chinese treatments for treating a variety of symptoms ranging from common cold, and flu to treating libido issues.
One must keep in mind that one should never consume any medicinal herb or supplement without consulting a medical practitioner when they are diagnosed with an underlying medical condition and are already taking prescription medicine.
Nidhi Bhardwaj is a content writer with a creative edge towards science. She is currently pursuing her MBA.
Her love for expressing via words has inspired her to venture into creative writing. She is intrigued to explore various unfamiliar fields and treasures of knowledge the world has to offer.
She desires to share her experience and learnings with readers from all walks of life.