Durva

(Creeping Cynodon)
Sanskrit: दूर्वा • Botanical: Cynodon dactylon (Linn.) Pers.

Durva (Cynodon dactylon) is the sacred Bermuda grass, extensively used in Hindu rituals and Ayurvedic medicine. It grows commonly as a creeping grass spreading through stolons. It is one of the most important Raktapitta-hara (anti-hemorrhagic) drugs. The juice is cooling, sweet, and astringent. It is used in epistaxis (nosebleeds), excessive menstruation, and other bleeding conditions. The fresh juice is applied externally on wounds and cuts to stop bleeding. It is also used in Pitta-dominant conditions, burning sensation, and excessive thirst. The grass has strong hemostatic properties. It is considered sacred and used in worship of Lord Ganesha. The roots spread extensively underground. Dose: juice 1-2 tola; paste externally.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Sweet (Madhura), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Also Known As
English: Creeping Cynodon, Bermuda Grass, Doob Grass
Sanskrit: दूर्वा, शतपर्वा, शतवीर्या, भार्गवी, अनन्ता, सहस्रवीर्या
Hindi: दूब, दूबला

What is Durva Grass / Durva (दूर्वा)?

Durva (Cynodon dactylon) is the sacred Bermuda grass, extensively used in Hindu rituals and Ayurvedic medicine. It grows commonly as a creeping grass spreading through stolons. It is one of the most important Raktapitta-hara (anti-hemorrhagic) drugs. The juice is cooling, sweet, and astringent. It is used in epistaxis (nosebleeds), excessive menstruation, and other bleeding conditions. The fresh juice is applied externally on wounds and cuts to stop bleeding. It is also used in Pitta-dominant conditions, burning sensation, and excessive thirst. The grass has strong hemostatic properties. It is considered sacred and used in worship of Lord Ganesha. The roots spread extensively underground. Dose: juice 1-2 tola; paste externally.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Raktapittahara (alleviates bleeding disorders)
  • Pittahara (alleviates Pitta)
  • Stambhana (hemostatic/astringent)
  • Trishnahara (alleviates thirst)
  • Dahahara (alleviates burning sensation)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

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.