What is Nagarmotha? Know its Benefits and Uses

2022-06-17 00:00:00

Nagarmotha, also known as Nut grass, is an Ayurvedic herb. It has a bitter taste and pungent odor. Due to its woody, earthy, and long lasting aroma, Nagarmotha is used to make perfumes and incense sticks. Its scientific name is Cyperus Rotundus.

Nagarmotha has other popular names such as Chakranksha and Charukesara in Sanskrit, nutgrass and Purple nutsedge in English, Nagarmotha in Bengali, Mushkezamin in Malaya, Saad Kufi in Urdu, Soad and Soadekufi in Arabic, Korai and Muthakasu in Tamil, Tangahullu in Kannada, Tungamuste in Telugu, Muththann in Malayalam, Nagarmotha and Motha in Marathi, Nagaramothaya and Motha in Gujarati.

Importance of Nagarmotha in Ayurveda

Nagarmotha has been used in Ayurveda for its Deepana (enhances stomach fire), Pachana (helps in digestion), Rochana (stimulates appetite), Kupachan (prevents bloating, indigestion), Jvara (useful in fever), Yakrit Vikara (prevents liver infections), Amahara (treats indigestion), Dahahara (relieves burning sensation), Shwasha (relieves breathing difficulties), Anulomana (improves breathing), Sangrahini (treats diarrhea), Kamala (prevents jaundice), Kasahara (Relieves cough) properties.

Benefits of Nagarmotha

Reduces hair fall-

Nagarmotha has antibacterial and antifungal properties that fights the dandruff-causing bacteria on an oily scalp. Therefore, it strengthens hair roots which further prevents hair loss.

Treats diabetes-

Nagarmotha has antioxidants that help lower blood sugar levels. It is an effective solution for diabetes.

Improves digestion-

Nagarmotha has anti-inflammatory properties that helps relieve pain caused by bloating or menstrual pain. It also aids in digestion.

Reduces dark spots-

Nagarmotha has astringent properties which reduces melanin (skin pigment responsible for skin tone). This in turn helps treat dark spots.

Treats Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)-

Nagarmotha root has antibacterial properties which helps in treating UTI symptoms such as burningsensation.

Increases Lactation-

Nagarmotha helps produce prolactin (a hormone) which increases lactation and improves the quality of breast milk.

Reduces stress and anxiety-

Nagarmotha essential oil has a pleasant aroma that has a calming effect on your body. It reduces stress and regulates serotonin levels in the body.

Effective for skin-

Nagarmotha helps with inflammation, itching, blisters, eczema etc due to its cooling and astringent properties.

Uses of Nagarmotha

Nagarmotha can be used in the following ways:

·        Nagarmotha stems can be used to make perfumes and incense sticks.

·        Nagarmotha roots can also be used as spices.

·        The powder or churna of Nagarmothaare available to treat indigestion and many problems.

·        Nagarmotha oil extracted from its roots can be used for treating stomach problems and diabetes.

·        Use of Nagarmotha oil extract acts as an insect repellent.

·        It is also available in capsule form.

Side effects of Nagarmotha

Overdose of Nagarmotha can cause complications; therefore, take the following precautions:

·        Excessive consumption of this herb can cause constipation and aggravate Vata doshas.

·        Avoid Nagarmotha if constipated, it can make gastric problems worse.

·        Since the nature of the body differs from person to person,talk to your doctor before taking Nagarmotha in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Where is Nagarmotha found?

Nagarmotha is a ground plant found in the state of Madhya Pradesh in India.