Kutkins are a group of iridoid glycosides, primarily kutkin, picroside I, and picroside II, derived from the plant Picrorhiza kurroa. The use of kutkins for hepatic (liver) support is supported by both traditional Ayurvedic medicine and an increasing body of scientific evidence. Traditional use in Ayurveda involves Picrorhiza kurroa (Kutki) as a "hepatoprotective" herb, often indicated for disorders like jaundice and liver inflammation. Scientific studies—primarily in vitro and animal models—have demonstrated that kutkins exhibit hepatoprotective effects. For example, kutkin and its constituents have shown to reduce liver enzyme levels, protect against chemically-induced liver damage, and display antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory actions.

A number of studies (e.g., Sharma et al., 1991; Dwivedi & Rastogi, 1993) report that extracts containing kutkins can prevent or mitigate damage from toxins such as carbon tetrachloride and paracetamol in experimental animals. Mechanisms proposed include free radical scavenging, enhancement of hepatic glutathione, and stabilization of cell membranes. However, robust clinical trials in humans remain limited, with a few small-scale studies suggesting benefit but lacking in size and methodological rigor. Thus, the evidence is moderate but not definitive.

In summary, there is a reasonable scientific basis for kutkins’ use in supporting liver health, rooted in both traditional usage and preclinical research, but large human trials are still needed to confirm efficacy.