Introduction
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Nagarmotha
Botanical Name – Cyperus rotundus
Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus), also known as Mustaka, is a perennial herb widely used in Ayurveda. It holds significant therapeutic value due to its digestive, carminative, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antimicrobial properties. This herb balances Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas, making it a key ingredient in various Ayurvedic formulations. It is commonly found in rice fields, lowlands, and water-logged areas across India.
Benefits of Nagarmotha
1. Improves Digestion & Gut Health
- Enhances digestion and stimulates appetite
- Reduces bloating, gas, and indigestion
- Treats diarrhea and dysentery
2. Promotes Healthy Skin
- Reduces acne, eczema, and dermatitis
- Soothes skin irritation and inflammation
- Has anti-aging and antioxidant effects
3. Strengthens Hair & Scalp
- Treats dandruff and scalp infections
- Reduces hair fall and nourishes the scalp
- Acts as a natural lice treatment
4. Supports Weight Management
- Boosts metabolism and burns excess fat
- Reduces unwanted fat accumulation
5. Provides Joint Pain Relief
- Relieves pain caused by arthritis and rheumatism
- Reduces swelling and stiffness in joints
6. Acts as a Natural Antipyretic
- Helps reduce fever by eliminating toxins
- Aids in recovery from infections
7. Enhances Women’s Health
- Boosts lactation in nursing mothers
- Supports post-partum recovery
8. Promotes Urinary Health
- Acts as a diuretic, improving kidney function
- Reduces burning sensation during urination
How to Use Methi?
1. For Digestion & Stomach Disorders
- Take ½ to 1 teaspoon of Nagarmotha powder with lukewarm water twice daily after meals.
- For children, mix with honey and administer in smaller doses.
2. For Skin Disorders
- Mix ½ to 1 teaspoon of Nagarmotha powder with rose water.
- Apply to affected areas and leave for 2 to 4 hours before rinsing.
3. For Hair & Scalp Care
- Mix 1-2 teaspoons of Nagarmotha powder with coconut oil.
- Massage onto the scalp and leave for 2 to 4 hours before washing.
4. For Fever & Infections
- Boil ½ teaspoon of Nagarmotha powder in 1-2 cups of water.
- Reduce to half and drink 2-3 times a day.
5. For Joint Pain & Inflammation
- Mix Nagarmotha powder with mustard oil and apply to affected joints.
6. For Weight Management
- Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of Nagarmotha powder with lukewarm water after meals twice a day.
7. For Urinary Disorders
- Take ½ teaspoon of Nagarmotha powder with honey or warm water twice daily.
8. For Women’s Health & Lactation
- Consume ¼ to ½ teaspoon of powder daily with milk.
Recommended Dosage of Nagarmotha
Form | Dosage |
Powder (Churna) | ¼ to ½ teaspoon twice a day |
Decoction (Kashayam) | 1-2 cups per day |
Paste (Lepa) | Applied externally on skin/hair |
Oil (Taila) | Used for massage & scalp care |
Precautions
- Safe when consumed in moderation
- Avoid in pregnancy due to its uterine contraction properties
- May cause mild skin irritation when applied topically in sensitive individuals
- People with low blood pressure should use cautiously as it may lower BP further
FAQs
1. What is Nagarmotha?
Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus), also known as Nut Grass or Mustaka, is a medicinal herb widely used in Ayurveda. It is known for its digestive, carminative, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
2. What are the health benefits of Nagarmotha?
- Nagarmotha offers multiple health benefits, including:
Improves digestion and relieves bloating - Treats diarrhea, dysentery, and indigestion
- Promotes skin and hair health
- Supports weight management
- Relieves joint pain and inflammation
- Reduces fever and detoxifies the body
- Enhances lactation in nursing mothers
- Acts as a natural diuretic, aiding in urinary health
3. How is Nagarmotha used in Ayurveda?
Nagarmotha is used in various forms such as powder (churna), decoction (kwath), paste (lepa), and oil (taila) for internal and external applications.
4. How can I use Nagarmotha for digestion?
- Dosage: Take ½ to 1 teaspoon of Nagarmotha powder with lukewarm water after meals.
- Helps relieve gas, bloating, indigestion, and diarrhea.
5. Can Nagarmotha help with weight loss?
Yes! Nagarmotha boosts metabolism and reduces fat accumulation.
Dosage: Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of powder with lukewarm water twice daily after meals.
Conclusion
Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus) is a versatile Ayurvedic herb with digestive, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties. Its applications range from digestive health and weight management to skin & hair care, fever reduction, and urinary health. Whether used in powder, decoction, or oil form, Nagarmotha is a powerful natural remedy for overall well-being.
References
Ayurvedic Classical Texts
- Charaka Samhita – Sutrasthana (Digestive & Metabolic Disorders)
- Sushruta Samhita – Dravya Guna Vijnana (Properties of Herbs)
- Bhavaprakasha Nighantu – Mustaka Varga
Scientific Research & Studies
- Singh, A., & Gupta, R. (2019). Pharmacological activities of Cyperus rotundus in digestive disorders. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 240, 111965.
- Kaur, P., & Kaur, G. (2021). Role of Nutgrass in fever management: A review of Ayurvedic and modern research. Indian Journal of Pharmacognosy, 58(3), 78-85.
Reviews By Doctor
Dr. Sapna Kangotra
Dr. Meenu Kaushik
Dr. Megha Rathi
Dr. Nishant Bhardwaj
