Botanical Overview
Boerhaavia diffusa (family Nyctaginaceae) is a widespread perennial herb known commonly as Red Spiderling, Punarnava, and Hogweed. It is native to Asia, Africa, and Australia. The root, leaves, and whole plant are traditionally used for their medicinal properties.
Energetics
This herb is considered cooling and moistening in nature, with bitter, astringent, and sweet tastes. Its energetic profile is generally relaxing, influencing the qi energy in traditional frameworks.
Primary Actions
- Diuretic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Hepatoprotective
- Antioxidant
- Antimicrobial
- Laxative
- Expectorant
Indications
Western
- Edema
- Bronchitis
- Jaundice
- Urinary tract infections
- Constipation
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Fluid retention
- Hepatitis
- Respiratory congestion
- Dyspepsia
TCM
- Damp-heat
- Heat toxicity
- Edema
- Urinary difficulty
Syndromes
- Damp-heat accumulation
- Spleen qi deficiency with dampness
Ayurveda
- Ascites
- Jaundice
- Dyspepsia
- Fever
- Skin diseases
- Urinary disorders
Syndromes
- Kapha and Pitta imbalance
- Fluid retention
- Ama (toxins) accumulation
Unani
- Hepatic disorders
- Ascites
- Malarial fevers
- Urinary infections
Syndromes
- Phlegmatic imbalances
- Plethora
- Bilious conditions
Constituents & Mechanisms
Phytochemicals identified include boeravinones, flavonoids, alkaloids, triterpenoids, and phenolic compounds, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and diuretic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 10-15 g daily
- Tincture 1:5 40% ethanol: 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
- Powder: 3-6 g daily
Safety & Contraindications
Boerhaavia diffusa is generally considered safe at traditional dosages. However, caution is advised during pregnancy due to lack of sufficient data on safety. Concomitant use with diuretics or antihypertensives may potentiate effects. High doses might cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers identified in authoritative herbal or esoteric sources.
Selected References
- Medicinal Plants of India, Vol. 1, K. V. Raghavan, 1999
- Phytochemical and Pharmacological Review of Boerhaavia diffusa Linn., S. Srivastava et al., 2013
- Plants of the Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia, 2018
- Ethnopharmacology of Boerhaavia diffusa, V. S. Mishra et al., 2014