Introduction
Dolichos biflorus, commonly known as Kulthi (Horse Gram), is a نوع of pulse widely used as food and medicine, especially in rural areas. In Unani medicine, it is valued for its stone-breaking (lithotriptic), diuretic, and cleansing properties.
Morphology (Plant Description)
Plant
- Height: About 1.5 feet
- Grows mainly in the rainy season
Leaves
- Similar to urad (black gram) leaves
- Arranged in groups of three (trifoliate)
- Length: 1–1.5 inches
- Color: Greenish-yellow
Pods
- Appear in winter
- Length: 1–2 inches
- Shape:
- Crooked
- Flat
- Slightly hairy
Seeds
- Each pod contains 6–7 seeds
- Color:
- Usually brown
- Sometimes green or black
Habitat
- Found throughout India in small amounts
- Abundant in:
- Himalayan regions
- Rajasthan
- Bombay (Mumbai)
- Madras (Chennai)
- Sri Lanka
Chemical Composition
- Protein
- Starch
- Oil
- Phosphoric acid
- Urea
Temperament (Mizaj)
- Hot in 3rd degree
- Dry in 2nd degree
Pharmacological Actions
- Mufattit-e-Hasat (breaks kidney & bladder stones)
- Mudir-e-Baul (diuretic)
- Mudirr-e-Haid (promotes menstruation)
- Jali (detergent – cleanses skin)
Medicinal Uses
1. Kidney & Bladder Stones
- Highly effective in:
- Breaking and expelling stones
- Used as:
- Decoction (Joshanda)
- Syrup
- More effective when combined with:
- Kushta Hajar-e-Yahud
2. Urinary Disorders
- Increases urine output
- Helps cleanse urinary system
3. Menstrual & Postpartum Disorders
- Used for:
- Menstrual flow regulation
- Postpartum discharge (Nifas)
4. Skin Care
- Powder applied externally:
- Removes facial blemishes
- Improves complexion
5. Respiratory Disorders
- Roasted and powdered seeds with honey:
- Useful in cough
- Helps remove phlegm
Special Benefit
- Powerful lithotriptic (stone-breaking) action
Dosage
- 3–5 grams
Compound Formulations
Used in:
- Majoon Sang Sarmahi
- Other stone-breaking (Mufattit) formulations
