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Usheer

Reviewed by medical experts · For informational purposes only

Usheer

Introductory summary

Usheer is extensively referenced in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India across various dosage forms for its cooling properties. In the Bhaishajyaratnavali it acts as the primary ingredient in Ushirasava indicated for bleeding disorders and skin diseases and is a key component in Sarivadyasava for urinary issues and Shrikhandasava for intoxication. The Ashtangahrdaya lists it in the famous refrigerant formula Shadanga Kvatha for fever and thirst and in Anu Taila under the synonym Sevya. In Sahasrayoga it appears in Kaccuradi Curna for relieving headaches and burning sensations. Additionally it is found in Arkaprakasha within Karpuradyarka and in Dashanga Lepa for treating erysipelas and fever.

Usheer

Usheer, commonly known as Vetiver or Khus, is a tall, tufted, perennial aromatic grass. In Ayurveda, the fragrant fibrous roots of this plant are highly prized for their cooling (Sheeta) and soothing properties. It is a renowned refrigerant, widely used to treat health issues related to excess heat in the body, such as burning sensations, fevers, and bleeding disorders. It is also famous for its use in regulating sweating and body odor.

1. Name of the Herb

2. Brief Description

Usheer is a dense, clumping grass with aromatic, spongy roots. These roots are the source of the famous Vetiver oil. In traditional Ayurveda, Usheer is described as Dahaprasamana (reliever of burning sensation) and Angamarda-prasamana (reliever of body aches). It is considered a "natural air conditioner" for the body, used internally in drinks and medicines, and externally as pastes or mats to provide relief from scorching heat and skin disorders.

3. Source / Part Used

4. Ayurvedic Properties

Based on its therapeutic indications in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India and Charaka Samhita:

  • Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter) and Madhura (Sweet) (Inferred from its Pitta-pacifying nature).
  • Guna (Qualities): Laghu (Light) and Snigdha (Unctuous/Soothing).
  • Virya (Potency): Sheeta (Cold). (Evidenced by its inclusion in the Daha-prasamana or burning-relieving group).
  • Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Madhura (Sweet) or Katu (Pungent).
  • Dosha Effect: Pitta-Kapha Hara (Pacifies Pitta and Kapha). Its coldness neutralizes Pitta (heat), while its bitterness and aromatic nature help dry up excess Kapha (sweat/mucus).

5. Key Benefits

6. Uses / Indications

Usheer is indicated in Ayurveda for the following conditions:

7. How It Works

8. Dosage

(General guidance based on formulations):

  • Powder (Churna): 3 to 6 grams.
  • Decoction (Kvatha): 20 to 30 ml.
  • Fermented Liquid (Asava - Usirasava): 12 to 24 ml taken with water after meals.
  • Paste (Lepa): For external application on skin or forehead.

9. Safety Information

Usheer is considered very safe and is commonly consumed as a summer drink (Sherbet) in India. It is well-tolerated by children and the elderly.

10. Side Effects

  • Digestive Coldness: Excessive intake in winter or by people with high Kapha (cold/cough) might lead to slight congestion or dampening of digestive fire due to its extreme cold nature.

11. Precautions

  • Cold Constitution: People suffering from severe cold, cough, or asthma should consume it with caution or combined with warmer spices like ginger.
  • Ayurvedic Consultation: For treating specific conditions like bleeding disorders or anemia, it should be taken under the guidance of a physician.

12. Storage Instructions

  • Store the roots in a cool, dry place.
  • Keep in an air-tight container to preserve the volatile oil and fragrance, which are crucial for its medicinal efficacy.

13. References

14. FAQs

 Q. Can it be taken daily?

Yes, especially in the summer season, weak infusions (Khus water) can be taken daily to maintain body temperature.

 Q. When should it be taken?

Medicinal formulations like Usirasava are generally taken after meals. Herbal teas or cooling drinks can be taken during the hot part of the day.

 Q. Can it be taken with milk/water?

Yes. Water is the most common vehicle for Usheer preparations. It is also used in medicated milks and ghees.

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