Cutch Tree

Aka: Khair, Khadira, Black Catechu.

used for over 3000 years for skin diseases like leprosy, vitiligo, psoriasis, eczema, and chronic itching.
kills skin pathogens (including the leprosy bacteria), dries weeping lesions cuz of astringent tannins, calms inflammation, and supports melanocytes in vitiligo.
apply topically as a paste or wash, or take internally as Khadirarishta.

people chew soft khadira stems as natural toothbrushes.
epicatechin gallate kills the bacteria that cause cavities (Strep mutans), astringent tannins tighten and strengthen gum tissue, and the anti-inflammatory compounds calm gum disease.
good for dental caries prevention, gingivitis, periodontitis, mouth ulcers, sore throat, and overall oral health.

khair lowers blood sugar by slowing carb absorption, improving insulin sensitivity, and protecting pancreatic insulin-producing cells.
catechin family compounds boost metabolism, lower cholesterol and triglycerides, and slow carb absorption. good for obesity, metabolic syndrome, high cholesterol, and weight gain.

khair powder applied topically heals wounds faster, stops bleeding, and prevents infection.

khair extract protects the liver from chemical damage, alcohol damage, and chronic inflammation. helps repair already damaged liver cells.

kills cancer cells through apoptosis and blocks tumor growth.

good for traveler's diarrhea, food poisoning, dysentery, IBS with diarrhea, and intestinal worm infestation.

khair itself is medicinal, but the paan tradition often combines it with areca nut (which IS carcinogenic. major cause of oral cancer in South Asia) and slaked lime. the oral cancer epidemic in India is primarily linked to the areca nut and tobacco often added to paan, NOT to the khair itself.

natural dye that gave us the color name khaki.