Caesalpinia crista
Synopsis
Caesalpinia crista, also known as Karanja, Fever Nut, or Bonduc Nut, is a thorny, woody climbing shrub native to India, Sri Lanka, and tropical parts of Asia and Africa. Belonging to the Fabaceae (legume) family, it produces hard, grey seeds enclosed in spiny pods, which are the primary part used medicinally. In Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani medicine, Caesalpinia crista is considered a powerful bitter tonic, immune stimulant, and anti-parasitic herb, used especially for liver disorders, fever, reproductive health, and digestive imbalances.
Its key active constituents include:
- Caesalpinins – compounds with antimalarial, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant activity
- Bonducin and sitosterol – linked to anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and hormone-regulating effects
- Essential oils and alkaloids – offering antimicrobial and anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) benefits
Therapeutic uses of Caesalpinia crista include:
- Reducing chronic and intermittent fevers, including malarial and viral fevers
- Enhancing liver function and bile flow
- Expelling intestinal worms and parasites
- Supporting male fertility and libido, traditionally used as an aphrodisiac and sperm tonic
- Relieving digestive disturbances, especially constipation, bloating, and weak digestion
- Modulating blood sugar and inflammation in metabolic disorders
The seeds are typically used in powdered or decocted form, sometimes roasted to reduce toxicity, and are often combined with other herbs like triphala, kutki, or ashwagandha.
Historical Use:
In Ayurveda, Caesalpinia crista is known as Latakaranja or Kantakikaranja and is classified as a tikta (bitter), ushna (heating), and deepana (digestive stimulant) herb. It is often included in formulations for fever (jvara), liver disorders (yakrit roga), infertility (vandhyatva), and helminthic infestations (krimi roga).
Traditional practitioners used the seed powder for cleansing the bowels, treating malaria, and boosting reproductive energy in men. The root and bark were also used for skin diseases, inflammation, and swelling.
In Siddha medicine, the plant was employed to balance vata and kapha, and used in external applications for joint pain and wounds.
Today, Caesalpinia crista remains a valued herb in Ayurvedic pharmacology and modern ethnomedicine, especially for its immune-regulating, liver-toning, and anti-parasitic effects. Though potent, it should be used with caution and under professional guidance, as high doses or improper preparation of the seeds can be irritating or toxic.
Body Systems
Digestive System (Science)
Immune System (Science)
Liver (Science)
Male Reproductive System (Science)