Durva – Dub (Medicinal uses and home remedies of this life saving herb in ayurveda)

 

Introduction of Durva (dub): Durva, scientifically known as Cynodon dactylon and commonly referred to as Bermuda grass or Bahama grass, is a perennial grass that transcends its role as a common lawn covering to embody profound medicinal properties. Embraced in traditional medicine across diverse cultures, Durva has woven itself into the fabric of Ayurveda, offering a spectrum of therapeutic applications.

Nature of Durva (dub): Durva is a hardy, creeping grass with stoloniferous runners and flat, slender leaves. Known for its resilience and ability to thrive in various environmental conditions, Durva is characterized by its wiry stems and root system. It is a tenacious grass, often found in lawns, meadows, and disturbed areas.

Availability of Durva (dub): Widespread across tropical and subtropical regions, Durva is abundant in countries like India, where it is commonly found in lawns and open spaces. Its adaptability and resilience contribute to its prevalence in different climates, making it easily accessible for various applications.

Ayurveda Perspective of Durva (dub): In Ayurveda, Durva holds significance primarily for its cooling and Pitta-pacifying properties. It is considered a Tridoshic herb, meaning it has the potential to balance all three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Ayurvedic texts highlight its ability to pacify excess heat in the body and its positive impact on digestive health and skin disorders.

Parts Used of Durva (dub):

1. Whole Plant:
• The entire Durva plant, including its roots, stems, and leaves, is utilized in Ayurvedic preparations.
2. Juice:
• The fresh juice extracted from Durva is commonly used for medicinal purposes.

Indications of Durva (dub): Durva is indicated for various health concerns, including:

1. Pitta Imbalance:
• Its cooling nature makes it beneficial in conditions associated with excess Pitta, such as acidity and inflammation.
2. Digestive Disorders:
• Durva is known to support digestive health, alleviating issues like indigestion.
3. Skin Disorders:
• The application of Durva juice is believed to be effective in managing skin disorders and promoting wound healing.

Side-Effects of Durva (dub): Durva is generally considered safe when used in moderation. However, individual sensitivities may vary. There are no widespread side-effects reported, but it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating Durva into the routine, especially for individuals with specific health conditions or allergies.

Dosage of Durva (dub): Dosage can vary based on the form of Durva used and the specific health concern. It is recommended to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized dosage guidance. The fresh juice is often consumed in small quantities for digestive and Pitta-balancing benefits.

Medicinal Uses of Durva (dub):

1. Digestive Aid:
• Durva is used to alleviate indigestion and enhance digestive function.
2. Cooling Agent:
• Its cooling properties make it beneficial in managing conditions related to excess heat, including acidity.
3. Skin Healing:
• The application of Durva juice is believed to aid in wound healing and manage skin disorders.
4. Anti-inflammatory:
• Durva is valued for its anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to overall well-being.

Home Remedies of Durva (dub):

1. Durva Juice for Acidity:
• Consume fresh Durva juice to alleviate acidity and promote digestive comfort.
2. Skin Healing Poultice:
• Create a poultice using Durva juice for topical application on wounds or skin irritations.
3. Digestive Infusion:
• Prepare an infusion using Durva leaves to support digestion and balance Pitta.

Durva, with its versatile applications and Ayurvedic significance, stands as a testament to the integration of nature into holistic well-being. Whether addressing digestive concerns or promoting skin health, Durva exemplifies the synergy between traditional wisdom and natural remedies. As with any herbal intervention, consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner ensures optimal and personalized benefits.

Story of Lord Ganesha:

The story of Lord Ganesha & Durva grass is fascinating. It says that there lived a demon known as ‘Analasur’ who used to trouble the sages and saints. Fed up of this demon, all the gods requested Lord Ganesh for help. To protect the world, Lord Ganesha swallowed the whole beast. But, as soon as he did so, he felt severe burning sensation. The feeling was so intense that he couldn’t bear it at all. Kashyap Muni & other sages showered 21 stacks of Durva grass all over Ganesha’s body and soon he was relieved of the suffering. Since then it became Ganesha’s favorite herb; hence it is a household ritual to offer Durva grass stacks during every ‘Ganesh Poojan’

Durva Medicinal Properties:

Durva is a highly medicinal grass of immense importance in Ayurveda. It is used externally as well as internally to relieve stress, headaches, body heat, irritation of eyes, bloody nose, ulcers, acidity, Ascites, stomach ache, skin diseases, and fevers. It is said that even mere walking barefoot on a doob grass carpet is therapeutic & healing in nature. Cats & dogs often chew on Durva grass for relief, whenever they feel sick.

Doob grass lawn:

Doob grass is the most used lawn grass in India. This grass thrives well in hot, sunny weather & it doesn’t grow properly under shade. Many new forms of Doob grass are exclusively developed for lawn carpet. The lawn can be developed by turfing, turf plastering, dibbling (planting grass roots) or seed sowing.

 

Following is the procedure of planting doob grass lawn by seed sowing method

1. Select an open sunny location for making a lawn. Preferably at southern side of garden.
2. Prepare the ground by thorough digging (45-60 cm), remove stones, weeds & other debris.
3. Add good quality cow manure to the ground & mix it with soil.
4. Make 15 cm surface layer of fine soil & level the land properly.
5. Get the Doob grass (Carpet lawn) seeds from a reliable source. Around 500 gm seed is required for 200 sq. m. Area.
6. Since seeds are small & powder like, they are mixed with a double amount of sand.
7. Prior to sowing, the surface is scratched to a depth of 2.5 cm with the help of garden rake.
8. The seed-sand mixture is broadcasted evenly all over the ground.
9. For bigger lawns, total area should be divided into equal plots of 200 to 300 sq.mt. To ensure even sowing of seeds.
10. Avoid seeding procedure during the days of heavy rains. The sowing should be preferably undertaken on a windless day.
11. After sowing is completed, the rake is drawn lightly twice in opposite directions to mix up the seeds.  
12. It will be advisable to cover the seeds with thin layer of finely sifted soil.
13. Watering is done daily by the hose pipe fitted with fine nozzle to keep the surface moist.
14. After first watering, a light rolling should be done.
15. The seeds start germinating three weeks after seeding.
16. If germination is poor or patchy the re-seeding should be done to cover such areas.
17. There is a belief that seeds sown within two days of full moon gives best gemination and stronger growth.
18. When the grass is about 5 cm tall, it is clipped with pair of garden shears.
19. Initially lawn mower is not used as this will uproot the grass.
20. It takes 5-6 months to develop lush green doob grass lawn by this method.

 

 Benifites

the Durva plant (Cynodon dactylon) offers several potential benefits, both in traditional and modern medicinal practices. Here are some of the key benefits associated with the Durva plant:

1-Digestive Health: Durva is known for its digestive properties. It can help soothe an upset stomach, alleviate indigestion, and provide relief from diarrhea and dysentery due to its astringent qualities.

2- Oral Health: Chewing fresh Durva leaves is believed to promote oral health. It can help with oral ulcers, gum problems, and even bad breath.

3- Anti-Inflammatory: Durva has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used externally as a poultice or paste to reduce inflammation and soothe skin conditions, insect bites, and minor wounds.

4- Hemostatic: It is considered a natural hemostatic agent, which means it can help stop bleeding in minor cuts and wounds.

5- Cooling Properties: Durva is cooling in nature, making it beneficial for individuals with excessive heat or Pitta dosha. It can help reduce heat-related disorders and acidity.

6- Anti-Diabetic Potential: Some studies suggest that Durva may have a role in managing diabetes by helping to regulate blood sugar levels.

7- Joint Health: Durva’s anti-inflammatory properties can be useful in managing joint pain and arthritis when used topically.

8-Nutritional Value: Durva grass is rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It can provide a nutritional boost when included in the diet.

9-Erosion Control: In agriculture and landscaping, Durva grass is used for erosion control. Its dense, fibrous root system helps stabilize soil.

10-Traditional Medicine: In traditional herbal medicine systems, Durva has been used to address various health issues, including respiratory conditions and menstrual problems.