Orris Root

Sanskrit: पुष्करमूल • Botanical: Iris germanica Linn.; also Inula racemosa

Important drug for respiratory disorders, especially asthma. The rhizome is used. Some confusion exists between Iris germanica (true Pushkarmool) and Inula racemosa (also called Pushkarmool). Both have anti-asthmatic properties.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Laghu, Tikshna
Potency (Virya)
Ushna
Key Constituents
Iridin, essential oil, starch, Orris-ketone
Also Known As
Sanskrit: पुष्करमूल, पद्मपत्र
Hindi: पोहकरमूल, पुष्करमूल

What is Pushkarmool / Orris Root?

Important drug for respiratory disorders, especially asthma. The rhizome is used. Some confusion exists between Iris germanica (true Pushkarmool) and Inula racemosa (also called Pushkarmool). Both have anti-asthmatic properties.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Shwasa hara (relieves asthma — prime action)
  • Kasa hara (cough)
  • Hridya (cardiac tonic)
  • Parsva Shula hara (relieves pleuritic pain)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 1

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.