Kadi Patta
- Botanical Name: Murraya koenigii
- Family: Rutaceae
- Synonyms: Meetha Neem, Sweet Neem, Kariveppilai, Karivempu
- Vernacular Name: Commonly known as “Kadi Patta” in Hindi, “Curry Leaf” in English,
and “Kariveppilai” in Tamil.
- Classification: A small evergreen tree or shrub belonging to the Rutaceae family.
- Habitat: Native to India and Sri Lanka, it thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It is
often cultivated in home gardens and farms for its aromatic leaves.
- Morphology: A small tree, growing up to 4–6 meters in height. It has pinnate leaves with
11–21 leaflets, small white fragrant flowers, and black, berry-like fruits. The fruits are edible,
but the seeds are toxic.
- Useful Parts: Leaves, fruits, and roots.
- Chemical Composition: Contains essential oils (like linalool), alkaloids, flavonoids, and
glycosides. The leaves are rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E, as well as calcium and iron.
- Pharmacological Action: Known for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory,
hepatoprotective, and hypoglycemic properties. It is used in treating digestive disorders,
diabetes, and skin ailments.
- Formulation: Used in traditional remedies, herbal teas, and culinary preparations. It is
also a key ingredient in Ayurvedic formulations for digestive and metabolic health.
Rasa: Kasaya, Tikta
Guna: Laghu , Ruksha
Virya: Ushna
Vipaka: Katu