Herb · Africa
Bermuda grass
Cynodon dactylon
Traditionally attributed effects: soothing, astringent, diuretic, stops bleeding, mildly laxative; for oedema, blood in the urine, vomiting, chronic diarrhoea, hysteria, bleeding haemorrhoids, bladder irritation, bladder stones, gout and rheumatism.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Tea 14–28 ml; powder 1–3 g; decoction 56–112 ml; juice; with milk for haemorrhoids; paste externally.
Use in traditions
In India the grass is called durva and is sacred: it is offered to Ganesha in bundles of 21 blades. In Ayurveda the fresh juice is used for nosebleeds and bleeding piles, and the decoction for bladder complaints. Elsewhere it is mainly known as a hard-wearing lawn and pasture grass. Sanskrit name: Doorwa.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Soothing, astringent, diuretic, stops bleeding, mildly laxative; for oedema, blood in the urine, vomiting, chronic diarrhoea, hysteria, bleeding haemorrhoids, bladder irritation, bladder stones, gout and rheumatism.
Preparation and amount
Tea 14–28 ml; powder 1–3 g; decoction 56–112 ml; juice; with milk for haemorrhoids; paste externally.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)DecoctionCompress, poultice and pastePowder and kitchen