Thazhuthama or Boerhavia diffusa or ‘Punarnava’

Comman names

English:     Hogweed

                   Pigweed

                   Boerhaavia.                                   

Hindi :        Gadahpurna, Punarnava              

Tamil:        Mukkarattai Keerai

Telugu:      Attamamidi        

Kannada:  Adakaputtana gida,   Sanadika.

Botanic name:  Boerhavia diffusa

In Ayurveda Thazuthama is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Traditionally it is used for the treatment of various hepatic disorders. Roots is used as expectorant, diuretic, laxative, stomachic, diaphoretic, emetic, anthelmintic, febrifuge, purgative,  used in anemia, jaundice, oedema and ascites.

All its parts – flowers, leaves, stem, roots - have their own specific uses. It is an effective first aid in many cases.The leaves are rich in iron.

• Blood Purification: Drinking water boiled with thazhuthama leaves can purify the blood.
• Consuming its leaves (after cooking) is good for eyesight. Here we make a dish with its chopped leaves mixed with coconut, we call it ‘thoran’. I hope 'mallus' know it very well :)
• Crushed roots mixed with medicated oil can cure dizziness if applied on the head.
• Consuming the juice obtained from is said to have the capability of curing cataract and myopia. But do it after proper advice to achieve good results.