Eraka (Gundramūla, Śivi, Gundrā Sharīti, Aruka, Aluka, Virasenaka)
About
Eraka, scientifically known as Typha angustata, is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used for its cooling, aphrodisiac, and wound-healing properties. It is also known as narrow-leaved cattail and has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, including bleeding disorders and gynecological issues.
Botanical name: Typha angustata. Also known as: Narrow-leaved Cattail, Lesser Indian Reed Mace, Elephant Grass, Small Bulrush, Pater, Gound pater, Ramaban, Pun, Pan kanis, Dabbu Jammu, jammu, jambu, Elephant Grass, Bulrush, Indian Reed-Mace, Eraka, Hogala, Erakaa, Pateraa, Raamabaan.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory activity, Analgesic activity, Thrombolytic activity, Antioxidant activity
Dosage
3–6 gms
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Madhura (sweet), Kashaya (astringent)
- Virya: ["Sheeta (cooling)"]
- Vipaka: ["Madhura (sweet)"]
Benefits
- Vatahara (reduces Vata)
- Pittahara (reduces Pitta)
- Balancing Kapha
Traditional uses
- Rakta Pitta (bleeding disorders)
- Daha (burning sensation)
- Vrṇa (wounds)
- Dysmenorrhea
- Irregular menstruation
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Urinary issues (urine retention, dysuria, renal calculi)
- Hypertension
Dosha effects
- vata: increasing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Mats: The leaves can be used to make mats.
- Wound treatment: Flowers can be crushed and tied on wounds.
- Extracts: Extracts can be prepared using solvents like hexane, methanol, or water for analysis of bioactive properties.
- Wound paste: A paste made from the flowers can be applied to wounds.
- Medicated absorbents: The soft, woolly floss of male spikes and down from ripe fruits can be used as medicated absorbents for wounds and ulcers.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- High doses may cause constipation due to its astringent properties
- May increase Vata dosha
Side effects
- No recorded side effects for Typha angustata.
- High doses of Typha elephantina may cause constipation due to its astringent property and cold potency.
Interactions
- No known interactions with homeopathic medicine.
- Generally goes well with dietary supplements like multivitamins and Omega 3 fatty acids. Consult a doctor if taking more than one supplement per day.
- If taking with other western (allopathic/modern) medicines, seek a doctor's advice. It is recommended to take the allopathic medicine first, wait 30 minutes, and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.
Active compounds
- Flavonoids
- Steroids
- Phenylpropanoids
- Organic acids
- Alkaloids
- Tannins
- Carbohydrates
- Volatile oils
Clinical evidence
While Typha angustata has a long history of traditional use, rigorous clinical trials are limited. Some research supports its traditional applications, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, thrombolytic, and antioxidant activities. Further well-designed clinical trials are needed to validate these findings.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Vatahara (reduces Vata)
- Pittahara (reduces Pitta)
- Balancing Kapha
Classical clinical indications
- Rakta Pitta (bleeding disorders)
- Daha (burning sensation)
- Vrṇa (wounds)
- Dysmenorrhea
- Irregular menstruation
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Urinary issues (urine retention, dysuria, renal calculi)
- Hypertension
Frequently asked questions
What is Eraka?
Eraka, scientifically known as Typha angustata, is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used for its cooling, aphrodisiac, and wound-healing properties. It is also known as narrow-leaved cattail and has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, including bleeding disorders and gynecological issues.
What are the benefits of Eraka?
Vatahara (reduces Vata). Pittahara (reduces Pitta). Balancing Kapha
How is Eraka used in Ayurveda?
Mats: The leaves can be used to make mats.
Published by herbs.directory