📄 Abstract
Background: Ayurveda describes numerous medicinal plants with broad therapeutic applications based on their pharmacodynamic properties, actions and specific disease indications. Kantakari, botanically identified as Solanum xanthocarpum Schrad. & Wendl. and belonging to the family Solanaceae, is an important medicinal plant widely used in Ayurvedic therapeutics. It is a component of Laghu Panchamoola and is particularly associated with the management of respiratory, digestive, febrile and urinary disorders. Aim: The present review aims to compile and critically analyse the classical references, nomenclature, classification, pharmacodynamic properties, therapeutic actions and contemporary pharmacological relevance of Kantakari. Materials and Methods: A narrative classical review was conducted using Ayurvedic Samhitas, Nighantus and available secondary literature related to Kantakari. Classical references from Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya and major Nighantus were reviewed and systematically organised. Selected modern literature describing the botanical identity, phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities of Solanum xanthocarpum was also considered. Results: Kantakari is described in important Ayurvedic drug classifications including Kasahara, Shothahara, Hikka-nigrahana, Kanthya and Angamardaprashamana Mahakashaya. Sushruta Samhita includes it under Brihatyadi, Varunadi and Laghupanchamoola Gana, while Ashtanga Hridaya mentions it under Brihatyadi and Varunadi Gana. The drug is predominantly described as Tikta-Katu in Rasa, Ushna in Virya and Kaphavata-shamaka in action. Its classical therapeutic applications include Kasa, Shwasa, Pinasa, Jwara, Aruchi, Parshvashoola, Mutrakrichra, Ashmari, Krimi and other Kapha-Vata predominant disorders. Contemporary studies have reported anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiasthmatic, anthelmintic, hypoglycaemic and other pharmacological activities. Conclusion: Kantakari represents a therapeutically important Ayurvedic drug with a strong classical foundation and considerable pharmacological potential. The concordance between its classical indications and modern experimental findings supports further systematic research, particularly clinical studies, pharmacological standardisation and evaluation of its role in respiratory and urinary disorders.
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📚 How to Cite:
Harshada Rajesh Dholwade , A CLASSICAL REVIEW OF KANTAKARI (Solanum xanthocarpum Schrad. & Wendl.): AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE , Volume 11 , Issue 7, July 2026, EPRA International Journal of Research & Development (IJRD) , Pages: 300 - 305 ,