Citrus Hystrix (Ma Krut)
Citrus hystrix
About Citrus Hystrix (Ma Krut)
Citrus Hystrix (Ma Krut) (Citrus hystrix) is a herb used in the Thai Traditional Medicine tradition to help with Digestive Issues, Anxiety, Hair Health, and Detox. The aerial parts and leaves are the parts traditionally used, taken internally.
Botanical background
Citrus hystrix, called the kaffir lime, makrut lime (US: /ˈmækrɪt/; UK: /məkˈruːt/) or Mauritius papeda, is a citrus fruit native to tropical Asia, including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
Source: Wikipedia, via iNaturalist
Parts used
Conditions addressed
Tea / Infusion
- Steep 1–2 tsp of dried Citrus Hystrix (Ma Krut) in freshly boiled water for 5–10 minutes.
- Cover while steeping.
- Strain and drink.
Tincture
- Pack dried Citrus Hystrix (Ma Krut) into a jar and cover with 40–60% alcohol.
- Seal and steep for 4–6 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain and store in a dark dropper bottle.
Powder / Capsule
- Grind dried Citrus Hystrix (Ma Krut) into a fine powder.
- Fill size 00 capsules or stir into smoothies or honey.
Herbal Bath
- Brew 4–6 tbsp of Citrus Hystrix (Ma Krut) in 1 litre of hot water for 15 minutes, strain, and add to a warm bath.
- Soak for 20–30 minutes.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
No herb-specific pregnancy/child safety research is documented for Citrus Hystrix (Ma Krut) in our references — the guidance below is based on its general effect category, not research on Citrus Hystrix (Ma Krut) itself. Always confirm with a midwife, doctor, or pediatrician.
Pregnancy
Use CautionThis herb is processed through the liver, which is already working harder during pregnancy — generally used cautiously and not at high/concentrated doses without guidance. This is a general, mechanism-based caution, not herb-specific research.
Breastfeeding
Use CautionLiver-processed compounds can appear in breast milk — generally used cautiously and in moderation.
Children
Use CautionA child's liver is still developing its full drug/herb-processing capacity — these herbs are generally used cautiously and at reduced, age-appropriate doses.
Contraindications
- Active liver disease — monitor liver enzymes with long-term use
- CNS medications (benzodiazepines, SSRIs, MAOIs) — may potentiate sedative or serotonergic effects
Warnings
⚠️ Sedatives & Antidepressants
May potentiate the effects of sedative, anxiolytic, or antidepressant medications. Use with caution alongside any CNS-active drugs.
⚠️ Liver Health
Some herbs used for liver conditions can be hepatotoxic at high doses. Have liver function monitored if using long-term.
⚠️ Allergic Reactions
Discontinue immediately if you experience rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
⚠️ Not Medical Advice
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies.
Drug & herb interactions
May have a calming/sedative effect
Watch for: Benzodiazepines, sleep medications, other sedative herbs, and alcohol
Combined CNS-depressant effects can cause excessive drowsiness or impaired coordination.
Processed by the liver
Watch for: Any medication that is also processed by liver enzymes (ask your pharmacist — this includes many common prescriptions)
Can alter how quickly the body clears certain medications, raising or lowering their effective dose.
May have a diuretic effect
Watch for: Diuretic medications and lithium
Additive fluid loss can affect electrolyte balance and change how the body clears lithium.
Where to find in nature
Native region
Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia
Climate
Tropical monsoon
Habitat
Tropical forests, temple gardens, and village herb plots of Southeast Asia
🌿 To see Citrus Hystrix (Ma Krut) growing, visit botanical gardens, university plant collections, or specialist herb nurseries near you. If foraging in the wild, always work with an expert identifier — never consume a plant you are not 100% certain of.
Where to buy
In store
- Thai and Southeast Asian grocery stores
- Asian supermarkets with herbal and fresh produce sections
- Health food stores (Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Holland & Barrett, GNC)
- Naturopathic clinics and integrative medicine practices
- Specialist herbal apothecaries and herbalist practices
Online
iHerb
Wide selection of standardised extracts, capsules, and powders with lab testing
Mountain Rose Herbs
Premium bulk dried herbs — certified organic, ethically sourced
Starwest Botanicals
Large selection of certified organic bulk herbs and powders
Herb Pharm
High-quality liquid extracts and tinctures, rigorous quality standards
Amazon
Convenient — verify brand certifications and check third-party testing
Etsy
Small-batch artisan herbalists, hand-harvested and wildcrafted herbs
Quality tips
When buying Citrus Hystrix (Ma Krut), look for: certified organic labelling, clearly stated country of origin, third-party lab testing for heavy metals and pesticides, and a batch expiry date. Standardised extracts offer consistent dosing; bulk dried herbs are more economical for regular use. Avoid very cheap, unlabelled products — quality varies enormously.