Mudavattukal Kilangu, often called Oakleaf Fern or Veg Goat Leg, is a unique root native to hilly regions of South India, like Kolli Hills and Yercaud. Traditionally valued in Siddha and folk medicine for its power to ease joint pain, boost immunity, and balance blood sugar, it’s commonly consumed as a soup or decoction. Let’s explore this little-known tuber and discover how it can support your wellness journey.
What Are The Benefits of Mudavattukal Kilangu?
Mudavattukal Kilangu is packed with powerful nutrients and bioactive compounds, offering a wide range of health benefits:
1. Relieves Joint & Knee Pain
Used traditionally to soothe arthritis and kneecap discomfort, it helps reduce inflammation and support cartilage and joint tissue regeneration.
2. Strengthens Bones
It appears to stimulate collagen production and replenish minerals like calcium and magnesium promoting bone density and skeletal health.
3. Natural Pain Reliever
With inherent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, the root serves as a gentle, plant-based painkiller.
4. Regulates Blood Sugar
Thanks to its low glycemic index and bioactive compounds, it helps stabilize blood glucose levels, making it suitable for those with diabetes.
5. Boosts Immunity & Detoxifies
High antioxidant levels support liver detoxification and help strengthen the body’s defense mechanisms.
6. Calms Infections & Respiratory Issues
With antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, it’s used traditionally for throat and respiratory problems.
7. Aids Digestion & Weight Management
As a fiber-rich root, it improves digestion and promotes satiety helping with mild weight control.
8. Reduces Oxidative Stress & Supports Heart Health
The antioxidants combat cellular damage and support cardiovascular function.
In summary, this powerful tuber offers joint support, metabolic balance, natural pain relief, digestion aid, immune protection, and more.
What is Mudavattukal Used for?
Predominantly, Mudavattukal Kilangu is used in South India as:
-
Medicinal Soup or Decoction: The root is peeled, sliced or powdered, then simmered with spices like cumin, pepper, garlic, ginger, turmeric, onion, cinnamon, and clove. This therapeutic soup is consumed daily for 10–15 days to combat arthritis, joint pain, and digestive issues.
-
Herbal Powder/Extract: Some communities dry and powder the root to increase shelf life and support regular use.
-
Topical Use: A paste made with the fresh root is applied externally to relieve swelling, bruises, and headaches.
Overall, it’s used both internally and externally typically in soups, decoctions, or medicinal blends to treat joints, bones, metabolism, immunity, or topical pain.
Is Mudavattukal Kilangu Good for Diabetes?
Yes, it is believed to benefit blood sugar control. Owing to its low glycemic index and bioactive compounds, regular intake over weeks may gradually reduce fasting and post-meal glucose levels.
While there’s limited formal clinical research, consistent traditional use supports its value as a complementary herbal supplement alongside diet and lifestyle improvements for diabetics.
How to Use Mudavattukal Kilangu?
Soup/Decoction Preparation
That’s the traditional method. Here’s a simplified recipe:
-
Prepare Root: Wash, peel off outer layer, chop 50–100 g into pieces.
-
Spice Base: Sauté garlic, ginger, cumin, pepper, onion, tomato, turmeric, clove, cinnamon in oil.
-
Add Root: Add root pieces, 3–4 cups water, and simmer or pressure cook for 4–5 whistles.
-
Strain & Serve: Garnish with coriander; take one cup daily, preferably mid-afternoon or morning, for at least 10–15 days.
Powder Form
Use 1 tsp daily with warm water, tea, or broths; ensure high-quality, unadulterated herbal powder .
Topical Paste
Grate fresh root, mix with water or oil, then apply to arthritic joints, swollen areas, or minor aches for 20–30 minutes, twice a day .
What is the price of Mudavattukal?
Prices vary depending on form and quality:
-
Fresh root (from Yercaud or Kolli Hills): Approx. ₹170–₹350/kg.
-
Powdered form: 100 g packs cost ₹599–₹750; 1 kg ranges ₹399–₹999 depending on brand and purity.
-
Soup mix variants with added spices vary ₹149–₹999 per packet .
Quality, origin, packaging, and processing determine current prices, which typically reflect artisanal or wild-harvested sourcing.
How to Store Mudavattukal?
Proper storage ensures potency and shelf life:
-
Fresh root: Peel, slice, and either sun-dry or bury in clean sand. Store in airtight containers in cool, dark places; lasts several months.
-
Powder/ Soup mix: Store in sealed, airtight packaging, away from moisture and heat. Most commercial brands last 6–12 months.
-
Topical paste: Use fresh; refrigerate unused portions and discard after a few days.
Proper storage preserves bioactive compounds and ensures long-term usability.
Conclusion
Mudavattukal Kilangu stands out as a multifaceted herbal treasure offering joint relief, bone strengthening, blood sugar balance, immune support, digestion aid, and antiviral properties. Traditionally prepared as medicinal soups or powders and stored for year-round use, it’s an accessible home remedy from India’s hills.
Whether you’re struggling with arthritis, maintaining bone health, managing blood sugar, or boosting immunity, Mudavattukal Kilangu presents a natural companion. Just remember to source it carefully, prepare correctly, and use sensibly tuning in to your body and, if needed, seeking professional advice. Embracing this humble root may bring you both traditional wellness and modern vitality.
FAQs:
1. Can I consume Mudavattukal Kilangu daily?
Yes using 50–100 g root or 1 tsp powder once daily for 10–15 days is traditional. Longer use should be consulted with a qualified practitioner.
2. When can I expect relief from joint pain?
Many people report symptom improvement in 7–15 days of consistent use, but results may vary depending on condition severity.
3. Are there side effects?
Side effects are rare, but discontinue use if you experience indigestion or allergies. Pregnant women and those with liver or kidney conditions should consult a doctor first.
4. Can children consume it?
Yes, but give smaller doses 1–2 tsp soup or ¼–½ tsp powder, and only under supervision or medical advice.
5. Does it interact with medications?
It may enhance drug metabolism or affect blood sugar levels. Diabetics or individuals on blood pressure, anti-coagulants, or pain medication should consult a healthcare provider.