Cynodon dactylon (Poaceae) Bermuda Grass, Durva

Das K
Jan 19
7 min read

Updated: Jan 20

Quick Overview:

Cynodon dactylon is a sacred, cooling, and hemostatic herb, revered in Ayurveda as one of the most important medicinal grasses. It is primarily used as a potent anti-hemorrhagic agent to control bleeding, a cooling refrigerant for fevers and inflammatory conditions, a diuretic for urinary disorders, and a wound-healing vulnerary.

1. Taxonomic Insights

Species: Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.

Family: Poaceae (Grass family)

The Poaceae family is primarily known for cereal crops, but several grasses hold medicinal value. Cynodon dactylon is a perennial, creeping grass with remarkable resilience, forming dense mats. Its medicinal properties, particularly its hemostatic and cooling actions, have been recognized for millennia in Ayurveda, where it is considered a sacred offering to Lord Ganesha.

Related Medicinal Grasses:

· Imperata cylindrica (Dab, Cogon Grass): Used as a diuretic, febrifuge, and for urinary tract disorders.

· Desmostachya bipinnata (Darbha, Kusha Grass): Sacred grass used in rituals and medicinally for dysentery and skin diseases.

· Saccharum officinarum (Sugar Cane): The stem juice is a nutritive, cooling tonic.

---

2. Common Names

---

3. Medicinal Uses

Primary Actions: Hemostatic (Styptic), Refrigerant (Cooling), Diuretic, Vulnerary (Wound Healing), Antipyretic.

Secondary Actions: Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Astringent, Galactagogue, Antiemetic.

Medicinal Parts:

The whole fresh plant, especially the tender shoots and roots, is used medicinally. The fresh juice is paramount.

· Fresh Herb & Tender Shoots (Durva): The primary part, crushed for juice or paste.

· Roots: Used in decoctions for urinary issues.

· Fresh Juice (Swarasa): The most potent and commonly used form.

---

4. Phytochemicals Specific to the Plant and Their Action

· Alkaloids (Cynodon, Erdostetine): Actions: Hemostatic (vasoconstrictive), Antioxidant, Mucolytic (Erdostetine).

· Flavonoids (Apigenin, Luteolin, Tricin): Actions: Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Diuretic, Capillary protective.

· Glycosides (Cyanogenic Glycosides in trace amounts): Action: Mild Expectorant and Soothing in very small, traditional doses.

· Phenols & Tannins: Actions: Astringent, Wound healing, contribute to Antimicrobial activity.

· Proteins & Amino Acids (High Chlorophyll content): Actions: Nutritive, Vulnerary, Deodorant.

· Phytosterols (β-Sitosterol): Actions: Anti-inflammatory, potential Hypoglycemic and Hypolipidemic effects.

---

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical Uses Covering the Medicinal Uses

Raktapitta (Bleeding Disorders) – Epistaxis, Hematuria, Menorrhagia

Formulation: Fresh juice (Swarasa) of Durva.

Preparation & Use: 5-10 ml of freshly extracted juice from crushed tender shoots is mixed with a teaspoon of honey or sugar and consumed 2-3 times daily to stop internal bleeding. For nosebleeds, a few drops of juice are instilled into the nostrils.

Reasoning: The hemostatic alkaloids (e.g., Cynodon) are believed to promote vasoconstriction and platelet aggregation, quickly arresting bleeding.

Daha (Burning Sensations) & Pitta Prakopa (Inflammatory Pitta Conditions)

Formulation: Fresh juice or cold infusion.

Preparation & Use: 10-15 ml of fresh juice is taken as a coolant in conditions like gastritis, cystitis, or skin rashes with burning. A paste is applied on burns or inflamed skin.

Reasoning: Its inherently cooling energy (Sheeta Virya) pacifies Pitta dosha. The anti-inflammatory flavonoids reduce underlying heat and inflammation.

Mutrakrichra (Dysuria) & Ashmari (Urinary Gravel)

Formulation: Root decoction or fresh plant juice.

Preparation & Use: A decoction made from the roots is taken to soothe painful urination and act as a mild diuretic. It is traditionally believed to help flush small urinary stones.

Reasoning: The diuretic flavonoids increase urine flow, while the anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties soothe the irritated urinary tract mucosa.

Vrana (Wounds) & Twak Vikara (Skin Disorders)

Formulation: Fresh paste or juice for topical application.

Preparation & Use: A clean paste of the fresh plant is applied directly to cuts, wounds, and chronic ulcers to promote healing. The juice is applied in conditions like herpes sores and eczema.

Reasoning: The hemostatic action stops bleeding. The antimicrobial phenolics prevent infection, while the chlorophyll and astringent tannins promote granulation tissue formation and wound contraction.

Jwara (Fever) & Trishna (Excessive Thirst)

Formulation: Cold infusion of the fresh plant.

Preparation & Use: The herb is soaked in cold water overnight; this infused water is sipped throughout the day to reduce fever and quench pathological thirst.

Reasoning: Its refrigerant property helps lower body temperature. The cooling sensation and hydration alleviate thirst.

---

6. Healing Recipes, Teas, Decoctions

Primarily used fresh. Not a culinary herb, but the juice is a potent medicine.

Fresh Durva Juice (Swarasa)

Purpose: For bleeding disorders and as a cooling tonic.

Preparation & Use:

1. Thoroughly wash a large handful of tender Durva shoots.

2. Crush in a mortar or blender with a small amount of water.

3. Strain through muslin cloth to extract pure juice.

4. Take 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 ml) mixed with honey, 2-3 times daily.

Cooling Refrigerant Infusion

Purpose: To reduce internal heat and fever.

Preparation & Use:

1. Chop a handful of fresh Durva (whole plant).

2. Soak in 1 liter of cool, clean water for 4-6 hours.

3. Strain and sip throughout the day.

Topical Healing Paste

Purpose: For wounds, burns, and skin inflammation.

Preparation & Use:

1. Crush fresh, clean Durva into a fine paste.

2. Apply directly to the affected area and cover with a clean cloth.

3. Change dressing 2-3 times daily.

---

7. In-Depth Phytochemical Profile and Clinical Significance of Cynodon dactylon

Introduction

Cynodon dactylon, commonly dismissed as a tenacious weed, is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine. Its Sanskrit name, "Durva," signifies its hardiness and its status as a sacred offering. Therapeutically, it is classified as a Sheeta Virya (cooling potency) herb, making it a primary choice for Raktapitta (bleeding disorders) and Pittaja (inflammatory) conditions. Modern phytochemistry reveals a complex profile of alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolics that validate its traditional uses, particularly its rapid hemostatic and anti-inflammatory actions.

1. Alkaloids and Nitrogenous Compounds (Key to Hemostasis)

Key Compounds: Cynodon dactylon specific alkaloids, Erdostetine, Trigonelline.

Actions and Clinical Relevance:

· Rapid Hemostatic (Styptic): The alkaloids are believed to act as direct vasoconstrictors, reducing blood flow to capillaries, and may promote platelet aggregation. This explains its immediate, first-aid application for nosebleeds, cuts, and internal hemorrhages. It is a prototype of a "local" systemic hemostatic.

· Antioxidant & Mucolytic: Erdostetine is a known mucolytic and antioxidant agent, protecting tissues from oxidative damage. This may contribute to its healing effect in mucosal injuries (e.g., in the gut or urinary tract).

2. Flavonoids and Phenolic Acids (The Cooling, Anti-inflammatory Matrix)

Key Compounds: Apigenin, Luteolin, Chlorogenic acid, Caffeic acid.

Actions and Clinical Relevance:

· Anti-inflammatory & Capillary Stabilizing: Apigenin and luteolin are potent inhibitors of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and enzymes (COX-2). They also reduce capillary fragility, which synergizes with the hemostatic action by strengthening blood vessel walls.

· Diuretic & Urinary Antiseptic: These flavonoids promote kidney filtration and urine flow, providing a mechanical flushing action for the urinary tract. Their antimicrobial activity offers a chemical defense against infection.

· Systemic Antioxidant: The phenolic matrix provides broad-spectrum free radical scavenging, protecting cells from the oxidative stress associated with inflammation and fever.

3. Nutritional-Physiological Components (The Vulnerary Support)

Key Compounds: Chlorophyll, Potassium ions, Soluble silica.

Actions and Clinical Relevance:

· Tissue Repair & Deodorization: Chlorophyll promotes the growth of granulation tissue in wounds and acts as a natural deodorant for foul-smelling ulcers.

· Electrolyte Balance: High potassium content supports the diuretic action without causing electrolyte depletion, consistent with its cooling, rehydrating nature.

An Integrated View of Healing in Cynodon dactylon

· For Acute Hemorrhage (Raktapitta): Durva acts as a fast-acting physiological astringent. The alkaloids initiate rapid vasoconstriction at the site of bleeding. Concurrently, the flavonoids (like apigenin) stabilize the capillary basement membrane, preventing further leakage. This dual mechanical and vascular tonic action makes it effective for diverse bleeding manifestations—from gingival bleeding and menorrhagia to hematuria.

· As a Refrigerant for Pitta Imbalance: In Ayurvedic physiology, it directly counteracts the hot, sharp, spreading qualities of aggravated Pitta. Biochemically, this translates to reducing inflammatory mediators, quenching oxidative stress, and promoting hydration. It is indicated in any condition with burning sensations—gastritis, acid reflux, inflammatory skin rashes, and cystitis.

· For Wound Healing and Skin Health: Its wound therapy is multi-phase. The hemostatic alkaloids stop initial bleeding. The antimicrobial phenolics prevent infection. Chlorophyll and the anti-inflammatory flavonoids then create an optimal environment for fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis, promoting clean, rapid healing. It is especially useful for hot, inflamed, weeping wounds.

· As a Diuretic in Urinary Inflammation: Unlike harsh diuretics, Durva soothes as it drains. The diuretic flavonoids increase urine output, helping to flush out irritants or bacteria. Simultaneously, their anti-inflammatory action calms the burning and pain of urethritis or cystitis. This makes it a gentle yet effective agent for urinary tract discomfort.

Conclusion: Cynodon dactylon (Durva) is a humble grass with profound medicinal intelligence. Its pharmacology elegantly supports its traditional characterization as a cooling hemostatic. The synergy between its vasoconstrictive alkaloids and capillary-protective flavonoids provides a robust scientific basis for its premier role in managing bleeding disorders. Its safety profile is excellent when used fresh and in traditional doses. It stands as a powerful example of a ubiquitous plant offering potent, accessible medicine, embodying the principle that true healing often lies close to the earth.

---

Disclaimer:

Cynodon dactylon is generally safe when used fresh in traditional therapeutic doses. However, due to its strong hemostatic properties, individuals on anticoagulant medication (e.g., warfarin, aspirin) should use it with caution and under medical supervision to avoid potential interactions. The fresh plant may harbor environmental contaminants; ensure it is sourced from clean, pesticide-free areas. Avoid use in conditions of severe internal stagnation or high Ama (toxicity) where its cooling nature might suppress digestive fire. This information is for educational purposes only.

---

8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

· Bhava Prakasha Nighantu (Classical Ayurvedic Text - detailed descriptions of Durva)

· Indian Medicinal Plants by K.R. Kiritkar & B.D. Basu

· Dravyaguna Vijnana (Vol. II) by Dr. P.V. Sharma

· The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (Part I, Vol. II)

---

9. Further Study: Plants That Might Interest You Due to Similar Medicinal Properties

1. Rubia cordifolia (Manjistha)

· Species: Rubia cordifolia | Family: Rubiaceae

· Similarities: Both are excellent blood purifiers and hemostatics used in Raktapitta. Manjistha is more specific for clearing stagnant blood and treating skin disorders, while Durva is faster-acting for acute bleeding and more strongly cooling/refrigerant.

2. Achyranthes aspera (Apamarga, Prickly Chaff Flower)

· Species: Achyranthes aspera | Family: Amaranthaceae

· Similarities: Both are widely used hemostatic herbs for nasal and internal bleeding. Apamarga is more abrasive and pungent, used for deeper cleansing and calculi, while Durva is cooler and more soothing for mucosal bleeding.

3. Aloe vera (Kumari, Ghritakumari)

· Species: Aloe vera | Family: Asphodelaceae

· Similarities: Both are potent cooling (Sheeta Virya) herbs used topically for burns, wounds, and inflammation, and internally for Pitta conditions. Aloe vera is more demulcent and a stronger laxative, while Durva is superior for hemostasis and as a diuretic.

-x-x-x-End-x-x-x-

PREHEALING

Cynodon dactylon (Poaceae) Bermuda Grass, Durva

Recent Posts