Barhih (Barhih (Shikhī, Shikhāvala, Barhī, Shikhāndī, Nīlakanthaka, Sthauneyaka, Barhibarha, Shukabarha, Kukkura))
Saccharum spontaneum, commonly known as Kasha or Kans grass, is a perennial grass traditionally used in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties. Modern research is exploring its potential benefits in managing diabetes, urinary issues, and mental health.
Botanical name: Saccharum spontaneum. Also known as: Wild sugarcane, Wild cane, Thatch grass, Tiger grass, Fodder cane, Serio grass, Kaandir, Kasha, Kans, Tian gen zi cao, Boos, Boos el-gezzair, Boos giddawi, Ghazar, Ampeon pixy, Kadu kabbu, Tebrau putih, Gelagah, Glagah, Nannana, Kusa, Thekkaygyee, Thetkiakyn, Kaans, Kasatandi, Kahi, Kaasa, Kaasekhsu, Ikhsurasa, Ikhsugandhaa, Caña de azúcar silvestre, Caña silvestre, Kasha.
Properties
Antidiabetic activity, Lithotriptic activity, Antimicrobial effects, CNS depressant activity
Dosage
The dosage of Saccharum spontaneum can vary based on the form and the specific condition being treated. It's best to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for appropriate guidance.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Madhura (sweet), Kashaya (astringent)
- Virya: ["Sheet (cooling)"]
- Vipaka: ["Madhura (sweet)"]
Benefits
- मूत्रल (Mutrala - diuretic)
- दाहशामक (Dahashamaka - anti-inflammatory)
- स्तन्यजनन (Stanyajanana - galactagogue)
Traditional uses
- मूत्रकृच्छ (Mutrakriccha - dysuria)
- अश्मरी (Ashmari - kidney stones)
- मूत्राघात (Mutraghata - urinary obstruction)
- स्तन्यअल्पता (Stanya Alpata - insufficient lactation)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Decoction (Kwatha): The root is boiled in water to extract its medicinal properties.
- Powder (Churna): The dried plant material, typically the root or stem, is ground into a fine powder.
- Fresh Juice (Swarasa): The fresh juice of the stem is used in some traditional practices.
- Extraction: Different solvents like ethanol, acetone, chloroform, and water can be used to extract various phytochemicals from the plant material.
- Cream: Root extracts can be formulated into creams for topical application, such as for anti-inflammatory purposes.
- Hot Maceration: Using a Soxhlet apparatus, the plant material is extracted successively with solvents like ethanol and chloroform.
Contraindications
- No adverse effects have been reported with the use of Kasha.
- It's always best to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before using any herbal remedy, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Side effects
- When used in moderation, Saccharum spontaneum is considered safe.
- No adverse effects have been reported in the literature.
Interactions
- There is limited information available regarding specific interactions of Saccharum spontaneum with other drugs or supplements. As a general precaution, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before using this herb, especially if you are taking other medications.
Clinical evidence
Animal studies suggest that Saccharum spontaneum has antidiabetic, lithotriptic, antimicrobial, and CNS depressant/antipsychotic activities. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings in humans.
Ayurvedic karmas
- मूत्रल (Mutrala - diuretic)
- दाहशामक (Dahashamaka - anti-inflammatory)
- स्तन्यजनन (Stanyajanana - galactagogue)
Classical clinical indications
- मूत्रकृच्छ (Mutrakriccha - dysuria)
- अश्मरी (Ashmari - kidney stones)
- मूत्राघात (Mutraghata - urinary obstruction)
- स्तन्यअल्पता (Stanya Alpata - insufficient lactation)