Kusha

(Kusha Grass)
Sanskrit: कुश • Botanical: Eragrostis cynosuroides Beauv.; Desmostachya bipinnata Stapf

Kusha (Desmostachya bipinnata / Eragrostis cynosuroides) is the sacred grass used extensively in Hindu rituals. It grows commonly in dry areas. The root is the main medicinal part. It is sweet in taste and cooling in nature. It is especially valued as a Mutral (diuretic) and Ashmari-bhanjana (lithotriptic - breaks urinary stones). The small variety is a different species from the larger one. The roots when dried become hard and are 2 to 4 inches long. Rhizomes are sweet-smelling. The root decoction is given for urinary calculi, dysuria, and bleeding disorders. It is also an important ritual plant in Hindu ceremonies. Several related grass species are discussed including similar ritual grasses. Dose: root decoction 2-4 masha; 1-2 tola.

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: Kusha Grass, Sacrificial Grass
Sanskrit: कुश, दर्भ, कुथ, सूचीपत्र, बर्हिस
Hindi: कुश, डाभ

What is Kusha Grass / Kusha (कुश)?

Kusha (Desmostachya bipinnata / Eragrostis cynosuroides) is the sacred grass used extensively in Hindu rituals. It grows commonly in dry areas. The root is the main medicinal part. It is sweet in taste and cooling in nature. It is especially valued as a Mutral (diuretic) and Ashmari-bhanjana (lithotriptic - breaks urinary stones). The small variety is a different species from the larger one. The roots when dried become hard and are 2 to 4 inches long. Rhizomes are sweet-smelling. The root decoction is given for urinary calculi, dysuria, and bleeding disorders. It is also an important ritual plant in Hindu ceremonies. Several related grass species are discussed including similar ritual grasses. Dose: root decoction 2-4 masha; 1-2 tola.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Mutral (diuretic)
  • Raktapittahara (alleviates bleeding disorders)
  • Ashmari-bhanjana (lithotriptic/stone-breaking)

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.