Akarkara

Akarkara (botanical name: Anacyclus pyrethrum), also known as Pellitory Root or Akarkarabh in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, is a medicinal herb widely used for its health benefits. It belongs to the family Asteraceae and is native to Mediterranean regions, though it is also cultivated in parts of India and North Africa.

Physical Description:

• Plant: A small, perennial herb that grows up to 30–60 cm in height.
• Leaves: Fern-like, finely divided, and slightly hairy.
• Flowers: Resemble daisies, with white petals and a yellow center.
• Root: The most commonly used part, dark brown on the outside and pale inside, with a strong, pungent taste.

Active Components:

The roots of Akarkara contain compounds like:

• Alkylamides
• Pyrethrins
• Anacycline (a prominent bioactive component)
• Sesquiterpenes

Precautions:

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Should be avoided as its effects are not well-documented in these conditions.
• Overuse: Excessive consumption may lead to mouth irritation, ulcers, or nausea.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare but possible in sensitive individuals.