Hornwort

(Hornwort)
Sanskrit: शैवाल • Botanical: Ceratophyllum demersum Linn.

Ceratophyllum demersum is a submerged aquatic plant found in ponds and lakes. It is rootless and free-floating beneath the water surface. The whorled leaves are finely divided. It is used as an astringent and in some traditional preparations. Vallisneria spiralis Linn. is also mentioned as another submerged aquatic plant in this context. Verse: 7-8.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Myrophyllin, Tannins
Also Known As
English: Hornwort, Coontail
Sanskrit: शैवाल, जलनीलिका
Hindi: शैवाल, सेवार

What is Hornwort (Jala Shevalaka / जल शैवाल)?

Ceratophyllum demersum is a submerged aquatic plant found in ponds and lakes. It is rootless and free-floating beneath the water surface. The whorled leaves are finely divided. It is used as an astringent and in some traditional preparations. Vallisneria spiralis Linn. is also mentioned as another submerged aquatic plant in this context. Verse: 7-8.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Grahi (absorbent)
  • Stambhana (binding)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

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.