Kakanasa, Small-leaf Milkweed, Pentatropis capensis – Ayurvedic Uses

Dr Vikram Chauhan25 Aug, 2025Health

Pentatropis capensis (L.f.) Bullock, belonging to the family Apocynaceae, is a twining climber of high ethnomedicinal significance, particularly in Ayurvedic and Siddha systems of medicine. It is traditionally known as Kakanasa in Ayurveda and Uppilankodi in Siddha. It has been used in the management of various conditions, including headaches, skin disorders, respiratory congestion, and fever.