Spider Flower

(Asian Spider Flower)
Sanskrit: हुरहुर • Botanical: Cleome viscosa Linn.

Hurhur (Cleome viscosa) is described as a variant growing across India. It has sticky glandular hairs and yellow flowers. The seeds yield oil that is used medicinally. It is the primary Cleome species used. The seeds resemble mustard and have a strong odor. The plant has 5-petaled flowers and palmate leaves. The juice of leaves is used for ear pain. C. monophylla is also mentioned as a related species. Verse: 274.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Sharp (Tikshna), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Viscosic acid 0.1%, Viscosin 0.0%
Also Known As
English: Asian Spider Flower, Tickweed
Sanskrit: हुरहुर, अजगन्धिका
Hindi: हुलहुल, हुरहुरी

What is Spider Flower (Hurhur / हुरहुर)?

Hurhur (Cleome viscosa) is described as a variant growing across India. It has sticky glandular hairs and yellow flowers. The seeds yield oil that is used medicinally. It is the primary Cleome species used. The seeds resemble mustard and have a strong odor. The plant has 5-petaled flowers and palmate leaves. The juice of leaves is used for ear pain. C. monophylla is also mentioned as a related species. Verse: 274.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Vedanasthapana (analgesic)
  • Karnanashaka (ear disease remedy)

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.