Publication Date: April 2018
Mudakathan Keerai, also known as Cardiospermum halicacabum, is a medicinal climbing plant. It grows by clinging to fences, large shrubs, or trees. This herb is also known by several names, including Mudakkaruthan, Mudakkarutthan, and Modikkottan. It is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Africa and Asia. In Tamil Nadu, it typically grows around home gardens during the rainy season. The plant has small white flowers, and its roots, leaves, and seeds are all used for medicinal purposes, especially in homeopathic treatments.
Medicinal Benefits
Mudakathan Keerai gets its name from its ability to treat joint pain and swelling that causes stiffness and immobility in the body. Regular consumption of Mudakathan helps cure arthritis, strengthens the body, softens stools, improves appetite, and cures skin ailments like eczema. Eating the raw juice of the leaves mixed with rice can alleviate joint pain and inflammation. The leaves can also be sautéed in sesame oil and applied as a poultice to joints affected by arthritis or swelling, providing relief from pain and inflammation.
Mudakathan leaf extract can be used to treat earaches and pus discharge by simply applying a few drops into the ear. A mixture of powdered leaves with Chitrakoot root bark and Kariya Bolam (both available in traditional medicine shops) can be consumed for three days to alleviate menstrual clots. Applying sautéed leaves to the lower abdomen can help regulate excessive menstrual bleeding. Drinking a mixture of the plant’s leaves and roots with water can relieve hemorrhoids and chronic cough. Mudakathan Keerai can also be incorporated into dishes like dosa, adai, and thuvaiyal (chutney).
While raw Mudakathan leaves taste slightly bitter, cooking them makes them more palatable. Mixing the powdered leaves with honey can mask the bitterness. In Tamil Nadu, the leaves are commonly ground into a paste and mixed with dosa batter to make Mudakathan dosas. Regular consumption prevents conditions like arthritis and nerve weakness. Even consuming it twice a month provides significant relief.
One unique benefit of Mudakathan Keerai is its ability to dissolve uric acid deposits in the joints and excrete them through urine, without causing weakness. It is rich in vitamins and minerals. However, the leaves should not be boiled excessively, as this diminishes their medicinal properties. Mudakathan is also highly effective in preventing hair loss and serves as a remedy for women during menstruation.
Although this beneficial plant is easily accessible, many are unaware of its potential. It’s time to include Mudakathan Keerai in our diet to reap its benefits.
R. Kalpana Devi, Dr. S. Vasantha, Veeraiya Vandayar Memorial College, Poondi, Thanjavur – 613503.
