A REVIEW ARTICLE ON KSHAVAK –AYURVEDIC MEDICINAL PLANT

Kshavak (Centipeda minima Linn.), commonly known as Sneeze wort, is an important medicinal herb of Ayur-veda belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is widely distributed across India and Sri Lanka, particularly in wet and marshy habitats. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Kshavak as a potent Shirovirechana drug, extensively used in Nasya karma for expelling vitiated Kapha dosha from the head and sinus region. The herb possesses Katu rasa, Teekshna guna, Ushna veerya, and Katu vipaka, making it effective in Kapha–Vata disorders while increasing Pitta dosha. Traditionally, Kshavak is indicated in nasal and respiratory disorders such as rhinitis, sinusitis, headache, and cough, as well as in digestive ailments, skin diseases, worm infestation, vatarakta (gout), and neurological weakness. Various parts of the plant, especially seeds and leaves, are used in different dosage forms, including powder, decoction, paste, and nasal preparations. Modern studies indicate its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiprotozoal, anti-arthritic, and anticancer properties, attributed to its chemical constituents, such as myrioginin, quinic acid, and tricin. This review highlights the therapeutic potential of Kshavak, drawing on classical literature and contemporary findings, and emphasises the need for systematic re-search, authentication, and conservation of this valuable medicinal plant.