What is Mouse-ear?
Some plant names tell you exactly what to look for. Mouse-ear is one of them: its Sanskrit names (Akhukarni, Akhuparna) both mean "mouse-ear", a nod to the small rounded leaves of this creeping plant.
Its botanical name is Ipomoea reniformis Chois. The Sahasra Yoga, a classical compendium of Ayurvedic formulas, records it in its Drug Index of synonyms and Latin names.
That naming record is the extent of what our classical sources hold on Mouse-ear. This page keeps to it rather than filling gaps with guesswork.
Benefits of Mouse-ear
The classical passages we hold for Mouse-ear identify the plant and its Sanskrit synonyms, but they do not describe its taste, potency, effect on the doshas or any specific therapeutic action.
What the Record Tells You
Its listing in the Sahasra Yoga Drug Index shows that it was a recognised ingredient in Ayurvedic formulary work, named precisely so practitioners could identify it.
Because our sources attach no particular benefit to it, we do not list any. If you meet health claims for Mouse-ear elsewhere, ask what classical or clinical source supports them.
How to Use Mouse-ear
No dose, preparation form or vehicle (Anupana), meaning the liquid or food a herb is taken with, is recorded for Mouse-ear in our sources.
| Form | Dose | Best For | When to Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Any preparation | Not recorded in our sources | Practitioner guided use only | Under supervision |
This is not a herb for self-experimentation. If a practitioner includes it in a formula, follow their instructions exactly.
Safety & Side Effects
Our classical passages for Mouse-ear list no contraindications, drug interactions or overdose signs. With so little recorded, the sensible position is caution.
- Self-use: do not take it on your own; no safe dose is recorded in our sources.
- Medications: if you take any prescription medicine, tell your doctor before using any herbal formula that contains it.
- Pregnancy and nursing: no safety data appears in our sources, so avoid it.
Stop and seek advice if you notice any unusual reaction to a formula that contains it.
Recommended: Start Here
The honest starting point with Mouse-ear is not to start alone. Our classical sources name it in the Sahasra Yoga Drug Index but record no dose, form or use, so the right first step is a conversation with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.
If you want to read further, a good Ayurvedic materia medica will help you place plants like this one in context before you buy anything.
Find Ayurvedic Materia Medica Books on Amazon ↗ Ayurvedic Herb Guides ↗
Safety note: avoid Mouse-ear during pregnancy and nursing, and do not take it without professional guidance.
Mouse-ear vs Other Herbs & Supplements
Our sources do not record Mouse-ear's qualities or uses, so a head-to-head comparison with other herbs would be invented. The table keeps to what can be said.
| Comparison | Mouse-ear | Alternative | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Akhukarni vs Akhuparna | Sanskrit name meaning "mouse-ear" | A synonym with the same meaning | Two names for the same plant, Ipomoea reniformis |
| Practitioner formula vs self-use | No dose recorded in our sources | Self-dosing from online advice | Use only within a practitioner's formula |
Mouse-ear for Specific Populations
No population-specific guidance for Mouse-ear appears in our sources, so the advice here is cautious throughout.
Pregnancy & Nursing
No safety data is recorded. Avoid it.
Children
No paediatric dose is recorded. Do not give it to children.
Elderly
Older adults, especially those on medication, should use it only under a practitioner's care.
Athletes
Our sources record no role for Mouse-ear in performance or recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Akhukarni mean?
Akhukarni literally means "mouse-ear". Its synonym Akhuparna carries the same meaning. Both are Sanskrit names for Ipomoea reniformis Chois.
Where is Mouse-ear mentioned in Ayurvedic texts?
Our records place it in the Sahasra Yoga, in the Drug Index of synonyms and Latin names.
What is Mouse-ear used for in Ayurveda?
The classical passages we hold do not describe a specific use. We would rather say that plainly than guess.
Can I take Mouse-ear at home?
No dose is recorded in our sources, so it is not suitable for self-use. Ask a qualified practitioner.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.