Amarvela

(Dodder)
Sanskrit: अमरवल्ली • Botanical: Cuscuta reflexa Roxb.

Amarvela (Cuscuta reflexa) is a parasitic, leafless, orange-yellow twining vine. It grows on other plants and trees, obtaining nutrition parasitically. The plant is found throughout India up to 2000 feet elevation. It has thread-like stems that are orange-yellow in color. The whole plant is used medicinally. It is described as bitter, astringent, light, dry, and cold in potency. It is used for hair health (Keshya), worm infestations, blood purification, and bilious disorders. Contains Cuscutin and Amarbelin as key chemical constituents, along with reducing sugars. The plant is also known as Akashbel (sky-vine) due to its hanging, rootless nature. Dose: juice 10-20 ml; powder 3-6 grams. Verse refs: pages 447-448.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Cuscutin (0.5%), Amarbelin, Lactose (0.1%), Cuscontalin (1%), reducing sugar, saponins
Also Known As
English: Dodder, Giant Dodder
Sanskrit: अमरवल्ली, आकाशवल्ली, नीलिका
Hindi: अमरबेल, आकाशबेल

What is Amarvela (Dodder / अमरबेल)?

Amarvela (Cuscuta reflexa) is a parasitic, leafless, orange-yellow twining vine. It grows on other plants and trees, obtaining nutrition parasitically. The plant is found throughout India up to 2000 feet elevation. It has thread-like stems that are orange-yellow in color. The whole plant is used medicinally. It is described as bitter, astringent, light, dry, and cold in potency. It is used for hair health (Keshya), worm infestations, blood purification, and bilious disorders. Contains Cuscutin and Amarbelin as key chemical constituents, along with reducing sugars. The plant is also known as Akashbel (sky-vine) due to its hanging, rootless nature. Dose: juice 10-20 ml; powder 3-6 grams. Verse refs: pages 447-448.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Keshya (beneficial for hair)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Pittahara (alleviates Pitta)
  • Raktashodhaka (blood purifier)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Amarvela by Condition

Explore how Amarvela is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Amarvela for Male Sexual Health

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.