Water Hyacinth

(Water Hyacinth)
Sanskrit: जलकुम्भी • Botanical: Eichhornia crassipes Solms

Eichhornia crassipes (Water Hyacinth) is mentioned as a modern invasive plant in Indian waterways. Its inflated petioles help it float. The beautiful blue-purple flowers arise in spikes. It was introduced from Brazil and has become a problematic weed. The funnel-shaped flowers are 1-2.5 inches across with lilac-blue color. The plant contains Carotene in its leaves. While it is problematic ecologically, some medicinal uses are attributed including its use in animal fodder. The commentary notes its rapid spread. Verse: 5 (commentary note by Dr. Chunekar).

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Sweet (Madhura)
Quality (Guna)
Heavy (Guru), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Key Constituents
Carotene, Minerals, Protein
Also Known As
English: Water Hyacinth
Sanskrit: जलकुम्भी, नीलसरोजिनी
Hindi: जलकुम्भी

What is Water Hyacinth (Jalkumbhi variety / जलकुम्भी प्रभेद)?

Eichhornia crassipes (Water Hyacinth) is mentioned as a modern invasive plant in Indian waterways. Its inflated petioles help it float. The beautiful blue-purple flowers arise in spikes. It was introduced from Brazil and has become a problematic weed. The funnel-shaped flowers are 1-2.5 inches across with lilac-blue color. The plant contains Carotene in its leaves. While it is problematic ecologically, some medicinal uses are attributed including its use in animal fodder. The commentary notes its rapid spread. Verse: 5 (commentary note by Dr. Chunekar).

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Mutrala (diuretic)

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.