Scientific name of Halfa grass: Desmostachya bipinnata
Name of Halfa grass in different languages:-
English: Sacrificial grass, Big cord grass, Kusha Grass
Sanskrit: Barhi, Darbha, Darbhah, Durbha
Hindi: कुशः-Kusha, Dab, Davoli
Malayalam: Darbhappullu-ദർഭപ്പുല്ലു
Tamil: Darbhaipul, Taruppai
Plant description:
Halfa grass or Darbha grass is a rough perennial grass, that grows to the height of 1 to 1.5 M. The Leaves are long blades sized up to 65 cm long, the lower parts are leathery, the Inflorescence is pale brown, up to 60 cm long, the roots are creeping stout, and it is covered with shining sheaths. The flowering period is July to November.
Useful plant parts: Leaf, roots
Medicinal uses: It is one of TrunaPanchamoolam
To treat dysentery and menorrhagia, epilepsy, diabetes, piles and wounds.
Chemical content: Used as a diuretic.
Ayurveda medicinal uses
“Halfa grass” or “उसाब” (Usab) in Ayurveda, has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for various therapeutic purposes.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: It is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and is used in Ayurveda to help alleviate inflammation-related conditions.
- Diuretic: Desmostachya bipinnata is considered diuretic, which means it may help increase urine production. This property can be beneficial in conditions where promoting urine flow is desired.
- Antipyretic: It is believed to have properties that may help reduce fever.
- Digestive Disorders: In Ayurveda, it is sometimes used to address digestive disorders. It is thought to have properties that may help improve digestion.
- Hemorrhoids (Piles): It is used in some Ayurvedic formulations aimed at treating hemorrhoids, possibly due to its potential anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Wound Healing: Desmostachya bipinnata may be used externally in poultices or pastes to promote wound healing.
- Skin Conditions: It may be used in Ayurvedic remedies for certain skin conditions due to its potential soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Respiratory Conditions: It might be used in Ayurvedic preparations targeting respiratory conditions, as it is believed to have properties that may support respiratory health.
Halfa grass is used as an ingredient to prepare Ayurveda medicines like:-
