how to use gond katira - #41881
I am really confused about how to use gond katira. Last month, I started getting these crazy stomach cramps and heard about it from a friend who swears by it for digestion issues. I even found some at an Indian grocery store, but the way to use gond katira seems a bit unclear to me. Like, do I just add it to water or something? I tried soaking a bit in water and then just drinking it, but it tasted kinda weird and I’m not sure if I did that right. Some people mention using gond katira in sweet dishes, and I am just not sure how that works. I really want to avoid any more tummy problems, ya know? Also, my sister's been looking into how to use gond katira too for her dry skin since I mentioned it. I told her I’d figure it out first! Do I need to take it every day or just when I feel those cramps? Ugh, I feel like I keep going in circles trying to get the right info. Any tips from you wise Ayurvedic folks would be absolutely appreciated!
Doctor-recommended remedies for this condition

Doctors' responses
Gond katira is a natural gum derived from the Tragacanth plant, and it’s been long prized in Ayurvdeic medicine for its cooling properties and various health benefits. If you’re dealing with stomach cramps, it can indeed be beneficial, as it soothes the digestive tract. To use gond katira effectively, soak it overnight in water. You’ll notice it swells up and turns into a jelly-like substance. This is how you prepare it for consumption.
Once soaked, you can mix the swollen gum with a glass of cool water, adding a little lemon, sugar or honey to taste. This concoction can be particularly refreshing in the summer months. Alternatively, gond katira is often incorporated into sweet dishes like falooda or desserts containing milk. Its neutral taste helps it blend well, making it less noticeable while still gaining its benefits. For your stomach issues, try consuming it once daily until symptoms improve. Consistency can aid digestion and support your digestive fire, or ‘agni’.
As for your sister’s interest in using it for dry skin, gond katira can be added to her skincare routine. Its hydrating and healing properties make it suitable for topical applications. She can make a paste by mixing it with rose water or milk, applying it gently on her face, and leaving it on for about 20 minutes before rinsing with water. It helps retain moisture and gives a nice glow.
Remember, according to Ayurvedic concepts like doshas, it’s crucial to consider individual constitution when using such remedies. If your stomach cramps persist or are very severe, it might be wise to consult a healthcare professional to rule out other issues. Use gond katira moderately and with care to address specific symptoms without relying on it heavily every day, unless advised otherwise by a practitioner.
Gond katira, or Tragacanth gum, can be an effective aid for both digestion and skin health. Its application can indeed be beneficial particularly for balancing Pitta dosha-related issues like those stomach cramps. Let’s clarify how to properly use it.
For digestive concerns, like your cramps, you can soak 1 teaspoon of gond katira in a glass of water overnight. It will swell and form a gel-like consistency. In the morning, mix this into a glass of room temperature water or milk, you can add a little sugar or honey if needed to improve the taste. Drink this before breakfast. Initially start with consumption two to three times a week, observing how your body responds, and adjust the frequency accordingly.
As for your sister’s dry skin, gond katira is known for its hydrating properties. She can make a simple face mask. Soak 1 teaspoon of gond katira in water overnight. The next morning, mix the gel with a bit of rose water and apply it on her skin. Leave it on for about 15-20 minuets before rinsing off with cool water. This can be done two times weekly for optimal hydration.
To incorporate gond katira in sweet dishes, you can add the soaked gum to beverages like falooda or chilled milk-based drinks—often served as a dessert. Maintain a balance, neither too hot nor too cold, as extremely cold foods can aggravate Vata dosha, while hot foods may disturb Pitta dosha.
Remember, though, moderation is important. Regular, modest use is ideal, as excessive intake may cause imbalances or even digestive discomfort. If your cramps persist, do consult with a healthcare provider to exclude any underlying conditions.

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.
