Pellitory (Akarkara)

Pellitory, or Akarkara, is a perennial herb of the daisy family native to North Africa and Mediterranean Europe, and naturalised in parts of India. It resembles chamomile, with finely divided leaves and white flower heads tinged red beneath, and a thick, pungent root.

Known as Akarakarabha in Sanskrit, its root is well known in Ayurveda and Unani practice. It produces a tingling warmth in the mouth and is used in traditional tooth powders and preparations for oral care and vitality. The root is used.