Zedoary is a white turmeric with a history going back to prehistoric times, especially in the South Pacific and Australia.  It is a member of the ginger family and has a white interior rhizome and sweet aroma but bitter aftertaste.  It is often used in Chyawanprash and other Ayurvedic preparations. Like other members of the ginger family, it is used both in cooking and medicine. It is anti-inflammatory and analgesic and is often used externally for wound healing, but its function in longevity tonics is to support the female reproductive system, urinary tract, and protect against ulcers due to stress. Its strength should not be underestimated: it is an antivenom for cobra toxins.

Kachur is useful in conditions characterized by coughs and phelgm.  It is contraindicated during pregnancy as well as with bleeding as it can elevate pitta dosha when used in excess.