Catechu, also spelled as "kattha," is a natural substance derived from the heartwood of various acacia trees and other plants belonging to the Leguminosae family. It has been used for centuries for its medicinal and tanning properties.
In its purest form, catechu appears as a brown, water-soluble extract, primarily used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Chinese medicine. It contains various organic compounds, including tannins, catechins, and catechols, which give it its characteristic properties.
In Ayurveda, catechu is considered as an astringent and a bitter tonic. It is believed to possess cooling and drying qualities, making it useful in the treatment of conditions such as diarrhea, dysentery, and bleeding disorders. Furthermore, it is often utilized as a mouthwash to alleviate oral inflammations and gum diseases.
Beyond its medicinal applications, catechu has been historically employed in the process of tanning leather due to its high tannin content. When catechu is applied to animal hides, it acts as a mordant, binding with collagen fibers and rendering the material resistant to deterioration.
Catechu has also been used in the production of natural dyes, adding a brown color to fabrics and other materials. In addition, it has been utilized as a flavoring agent in certain chewing tobacco preparations, providing a distinctive and somewhat spicy taste.
Overall, catechu is a versatile extract known for its therapeutic, tanning, dyeing, and flavoring properties, making it a significant substance across various fields.
