Akarkara or Akallaka is a perennial herb that grows in the Himalayan region. The roots of this plant are slightly aromatic and have a pungent taste.
Akarkara is generally used to manage pain and inflammation related to arthritis due to its antioxidant property. It is also beneficial for indigestion as it stimulates the secretion of saliva as well as digestive enzymes needed for digestion. Akarkara improves sexual desire as well as sexual performance of men by maintaining the testosterone levels due to its aphrodisiac property. It might also be helpful in detoxification of the body as it increases urination due to its diuretic activity. It also helps improve brain function due to its memory-enhancing and antidepressant activity.
Akarkara is beneficial for skin problems and insect bites due to its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Applying a paste of Akarkara powder along with honey on the gums helps in relieving toothache due to its antioxidant and analgesic property[2].

What are the synonyms of Akarkara?

Anacyclus pyrethrum, Kulekhara, Pellitory, Akkalkaro, Akkalgaro, Akalkara, Akkallakara, Akallakara, Akalakarabha, Akkallaka Hommugulu,, Akikaruka, Akravu, Akkalakara, Akkalakada, Akarakarabh, Akarakara Akkaraka, Akkarakaram, Akkalakarra, Aqaraqarh[1].

What is the source of Akarkara?

Plant Based

Benefits of Akarkara

What are the benefits of Akarkara for Toothache?

Modern Science View

Akarkara has antioxidant and analgesic properties due to which it may be useful in managing toothache[3][7][8].

Ayurvedic View

Akarkara helps to reduce toothache when its powder form is rubbed on the gums and teeth. According to Ayurveda, the mouth acts as the seat of Kapha dosha and an imbalance in Kapha dosha might lead to several dental problems like toothache. Akarkara helps to manage toothache due to its Kapha balancing nature.
Tips:
a. Take 2-4 pinches of Akarkara powder.
b. Mix with 1/2-1 teaspoon of honey and make a paste.
c. Rub on the teeth once or twice a day to manage toothache.

What are the benefits of Akarkara for Insect bite?

Modern Science View

Even though enough scientific evidence is not available, Akarkara might be useful in preventing the growth of microbes and protecting the skin from diseases due to its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties[9][10].

How effective is Akarkara?

Insufficient evidence

Insect bite, Toothache

Precautions when using Akarkara

Allergy

Modern Science View

People sensitive to chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies and other members of the same family may be allergic to Akarkara. So it is advised to consult your doctor before applying Akarkara if you are allergic to members of the Asteraceae/Compositae plant family[3].

Recommended Dosage of Akarkara

Akarkara Powder - 2-4 pinches or as per your requirement.

How to use Akarkara

1. Akarkara Powder
a. Take 2-4 pinches of Akarkara powder.
b. Mix well with ½ -1 teaspoon of honey.
c. Apply on the gums and massage gently to get relief from toothache.

Frequently asked questions

Q. Where can I get Akarkara powder from?

Modern Science View

Akarkara powder is easily available in the market under various brands. It can be bought either from online websites or any Ayurvedic medical store.

References

1
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
2
Kumar KV, Lalitha KG. Pharmagonostical studies on the root of Anacyclus pyrethum DC.Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources.2012;3(4):518-526.
3
WebMD.Pellitory: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
4
Usmani A, Khushtar M, Arif M et al.Pharmacognostic and phytopharmacology study of Anacyclus pyrethrum: an insight.J Appl Pharm Sci.2016;6(3):144-150.
5
Chandrasekar R, Chandrasekar S.Natural herbal treatment for rheumatoid arthritis-a review.International journal of pharmaceutical sciences and research.2017;8(2):368-384.
6
Sujith K, Darwin CR, Suba V.Antioxidant activity of ethanolic root extract of Anacyclus pyrethrum.International Research Journal of Pharmacy.2011;2(12):222-226.
7
Jalayer Naderi N, Niakan M, Khodadadi E.Determination of antibacterial activity of Anacyclus pyrethrum extract against some of the oral bacteria: an in vitro study.J Dent Shiraz Univ Med Scien.2012;13(2):59-63.
8
Gautam OP, Verma S, Jain SK.Anticonvulsant and myorelaxation activity of Anacyclus pyrethrum DC. (akarkara) root extract.Pharmacologyonline.2011;1:121-125.
9
Naderi NJ, Niakan M, Khodadadi E, et al.The antibacterial activity of methanolic Anacyclus pyrethrum and pistacia lentiscus L. extract on Escherichia coli.IJM.2016;8(6):372-376.
10
Canli K, Yetgin A, Agata I, et al.Antimicrobial activity and chemical composition screening of Anacyclus pyrethrum root.Indian journal of pharmaceutical education and research.2017;51(3):244-248.
11
Kapoor LD.CRC Handbook of Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants.CRC Press.2018.
12
Sharma V, Thakur M, Chauhan NS. Evaluation of the Anabolic, Aphrodisiac and Reproductive Activity of Anacyclus Pyrethrum DC in Male Rats.Sci Pharm. 2009; 77; 97–110.
13
Sujith K, Darwin CR, Sathish.Memory-enhancing activity of Anacyclus pyrethrum in albino Wistar rats.Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease.2012;2(4):307–311.

Disclaimer

The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.