Punarnava

🌿 (Boerhavia diffusa) or Hog weed

Also known as Shothaghni

📖 Overview

Punarnava, which means “that which rejuvenates again”, is one of Ayurveda’s most important herbs for promoting urinary health, fluid balance, and liver detoxification. It is a spreading ground herb found throughout India, traditionally used to revitalize the kidneys, heart, and liver.

📜 Traditional Use in Ayurveda

Punarnava is categorized as Mutrala (diuretic), Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), and Rasayana (rejuvenative). It is used to regulate water metabolism, support healthy urination, and reduce swelling or fluid accumulation caused by Kapha imbalance.

Charaka Samhita (Chikitsa Sthana 1.3.38):
“Punarnava balya shothahara rasayana”
“Punarnava is strengthening, removes swelling, and rejuvenates the tissues.”

Bhavaprakasha Nighantu (Haritakyadi Varga, Verse 88):
“Punarnava tikta kashaya rasa ushna virya mutrala shothahara vatakaphahara”
“Punarnava is bitter, astringent, heating, diuretic, reduces swelling, and pacifies Vata and Kapha.”

Often used in formulas like Punarnavadi Guggulu and Punarnavasava.

🍵 Suggested Use

Punarnava is traditionally used in:

• Powder (Churna): 1–3 grams daily with warm water

• Capsules/Tablets: Often part of urinary or liver detox formulas

• Decoction (Kashaya): Classical preparation for kidney and liver support

• Fresh juice (Swarasa): Used in seasonal rejuvenation protocols

🔬 Scientific Research & References

Modern science supports Punarnava's role in fluid balance, kidney care, and inflammation:

• Diuretic & Kidney Support: Shown to increase urinary output and reduce urea/creatinine levels in animal models [1]

• Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic: Demonstrates potent anti-swelling and pain-relieving effects [2]

• Liver Protective: Punarnava extract shown to protect liver cells from toxin-induced damage [3]

References:

1. Singh, R. H., & Udupa, K. N. (1972). Clinical and experimental evaluation of Punarnava. J Res Ayurveda Siddha, 1(1), 55–59.

2. Ojha, J. K., et al. (2011). Anti-inflammatory properties of Boerhavia diffusa. Indian J Pharmacol, 43(5), 546–549.

3. Rawat, A. K. S., et al. (1997). Hepatoprotective activity of Boerhavia diffusa L. Indian J Pharmacol, 29(3), 125–128.

⚠️ Cautions & Contraindications

• Avoid in cases of severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalance

• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without supervision

• Monitor with diuretic or blood pressure medications

• Long-term use should be under guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner.

🛍️ Shop by Interest

• Kidneys

• Liver & Pancreas

• Immune System

• Products for Kapha

  "Products Featuring Punarnava"

  "These products feature Punarnava, traditionally used to support general wellness. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease."