Which part of Kulekhara is used?

December 10, 2025 •

3 min read

According to ancient Ayurvedic texts, all five parts of the Kulekhara plant—the root, stem, leaves, flowers, and fruit—are used to make traditional medicines. However, the specific part used varies depending on the ailment being treated and the desired health benefits, from boosting hemoglobin to aiding digestion.

Quick Summary

Different parts of the Kulekhara plant (Hygrophila auriculata) are used for various health benefits. The leaves are used for anemia and digestion, roots for liver health, seeds for urinary issues and blood disorders, and the whole plant for general wellness and antioxidant properties.

Key Points

Leaves for Anemia: The leaves of the Kulekhara plant are exceptionally rich in iron and Vitamin C, making them a popular and effective traditional remedy for iron-deficiency anemia.
Roots for Liver and Kidneys: The roots contain compounds that offer hepatoprotective and diuretic effects, supporting liver health and acting as a renal tonic.
Seeds for Reproductive Health: Kulekhara seeds are used as an aphrodisiac to boost male reproductive health and also help address urinary problems.
Whole Plant for Holistic Use: In Ayurveda, the entire plant, known as Panchanga, is utilized to harness the full range of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and overall wellness benefits.
Nutritional Superiority: Kulekhara leaves possess a higher concentration of iron, Vitamin C, and potassium compared to popular greens like spinach, making them a potent nutritional supplement.
Diverse Preparations: Different parts can be consumed as juice, decoctions, powdered supplements, or cooked as a leafy vegetable depending on the therapeutic goal.

Understanding the Kulekhara Plant

Kulekhara, scientifically known as Hygrophila auriculata (also called Hygrophila spinosa or Hygrophila schulli), is a flowering plant treasured in Ayurvedic medicine. Often found in tropical and subtropical wetlands, this swamp weed is recognizable by its purple flowers and spiny stems. Its use dates back centuries, and modern research continues to validate many of its traditional applications. While the entire plant, known as Panchanga, can be used, different parts offer specific therapeutic properties due to their unique phytochemical composition.

The Leaves: A Powerhouse for Anemia and Digestion

The leaves of the Kulekhara plant are perhaps its most well-known part, particularly in Eastern Indian cuisine and medicine. They are frequently used to combat iron-deficiency anemia due to their high iron and vitamin C content. Research has shown that extracts from the leaves can significantly increase hemoglobin levels and red blood cell counts. The leaves also aid digestion and can help treat stomach issues. Additionally, leaf extracts have shown anti-inflammatory and potent antioxidant properties. Kulekhara leaves are a rich source of nutrients like Vitamin A, potassium, and copper, often surpassing the content in greens like spinach.

The Roots: Supporting the Liver and Kidneys

Kulekhara's roots are highly valued for their benefits to the liver and urinary system. The roots contain active compounds providing hepatoprotective effects. A decoction from the roots is traditionally used for liver ailments like jaundice. The roots also serve as a renal tonic and a remedy for kidney stones due to their diuretic properties. Nutrients in the roots can also aid iron absorption.

The Seeds: A Remedy for Reproductive and Blood Health

Kulekhara seeds are utilized for distinct medicinal properties and are often consumed as a powder. They are traditionally used as an aphrodisiac to help manage male infertility issues and improve sperm parameters. Seeds are also used to treat urinary tract problems and increase urine production, as well as for treating several blood-related disorders.

Comparison of Kulekhara Plant Parts and Common Greens


Plant Part/Ingredient	Primary Benefits	Key Nutrients/Compounds	Common Preparations
Kulekhara Leaves	Anemia, digestion, anti-inflammation, antioxidants	High in Iron, Vitamin C, Flavonoids	Juice, decoction, cooked as a leafy green (saag)
Kulekhara Roots	Liver and kidney health, diuretic effects	Alkaloids, Phytosterols, Essential Oils	Decoction, herbal tonics
Kulekhara Seeds	Male fertility, urinary health, blood disorders	Alkaloids, Phytosterols, Potassium Salts	Powder mixed with milk or buttermilk
Spinach	General nutrition, fiber	Iron (lower than Kulekhara), Vitamin A, Vitamin K	Cooked, salads, smoothies
Kale	Vitamins, minerals	Iron (lower than Kulekhara), Vitamin A (higher than Kulekhara), Vitamin C	Salads, smoothies, cooked

The Whole Plant (Panchanga): A Holistic Approach

In Ayurveda, Panchanga refers to using the entire Kulekhara plant (roots, leaves, stem, flowers, fruit). This approach is believed to capture the full range of the herb's healing properties for general wellness. The whole plant has demonstrated potent antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity. Commercial formulations sometimes use the whole plant for maximum efficacy.

Conclusion

Kulekhara is a versatile medicinal herb, with different parts offering specific health benefits. The iron-rich leaves combat anemia and aid digestion, the roots support liver and kidney health, and the seeds benefit reproductive and urinary systems. While the whole plant is used holistically, specific parts target particular concerns. Its impressive nutritional profile highlights its value as an herbal remedy. Always consult a healthcare provider before using Kulekhara, especially for specific conditions.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new health supplement or treatment.

References

Bestsasta. (2023). Kulekhara Juice Benefits. Available at: https://bestsasta.com/blog/tag/kulekhara-juice
Branolia. (2020). Kulekhara. Available at: https://www.branoliachemicals.com/tag/kulekhara/

Frequently Asked Questions

The leaves of the Kulekhara plant are most commonly used for treating anemia because they are particularly rich in bioavailable iron and Vitamin C, which helps the body absorb iron more effectively.

The roots of the Kulekhara plant are primarily used to support liver and kidney health. They are often made into a decoction to treat conditions like jaundice and also possess diuretic properties that can help with kidney stones.

Yes, Kulekhara seeds are traditionally used as an aphrodisiac to address issues related to male infertility, such as low sperm count. They are also known for their benefits to the urinary system.

The Ayurvedic concept of Panchanga involves using all five parts of the Kulekhara plant (roots, stem, leaves, flowers, fruit) to create a holistic remedy. This is believed to capture the full spectrum of the plant's therapeutic properties for general wellness.

Kulekhara leaves have been shown to contain significantly higher levels of iron, Vitamin C, and potassium compared to popular greens like spinach. This makes it a superior source of these micronutrients.

Common methods of consumption include juicing fresh leaves, boiling leaves into a decoction (tea), drying and grinding leaves into a powder, or cooking the leaves as a leafy vegetable (saag).

While generally considered safe, excessive consumption may lead to digestive upset or imbalances. It's crucial to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.