Musta – Cyperus Rotundus

Musta (Nutgrasss) is a common perennial weed with medicinal underground tubers.  It is used widely in the globe ranging from southern Europe, across the Arabian peninsula, to China.  Musta grows all over India these days.

musta - Cyperus Rotundus

The tubers are primarily anti-inflammatory and diuretic.  With an astringent quality, musta is called for in ulers adn sores.  Dioscorides notes it as a diuretic for ulcer and for use in warm plasters for sores.  Since it lowers blood pressure, it is found in cardiovascular formulas.

Musta is a general tonic for women’s issues, and is rich in minerals.  It appears in many female hormone regulating and balancing formulas.  It is a diaphoretic and emmenagogue.

Musta’s aromatic qualities make it suitable as a perfume ingredient.

Scientific Name: Cyperus rotundus

Family: Cyperaceae

Common Name: Nutgrass

Ayurvedic Name: Musta

Part used: Rhizome (rootstock)

Temperature: Cooling

Tastes: Pungent, Bitter, Astringent

Dosha Effects: PK- V+(in excess)

Action: Energier, Astringent, Alterative, Carminative, Emmenagogue, Antispasmodic, Anthelmintic

Use: Menstrual disorders, Menopause, Dysmenorrhea, Diarrhea, Malabsorption, Indigestion, Sluggish liver

Preparation and Dose: Docoction-low simmer; powder – 250 to 1 gram.

From: The way of Ayurvedic Herbs by Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa & Michael Tierra
* image credit: foro.inforjardin.com

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