Gojiha

(Elephant Foot)
Sanskrit: गोजिह्वा • Botanical: Elephantopus scaber Linn.

Gojiha (Elephantopus scaber) is found in India in hilly regions at 4-12 feet elevation. The leaves are large, tongue-shaped, and rough. The root and leaves are used medicinally. It is an important herb for respiratory disorders including cough and asthma. The plant has basal rosette of leaves. The name Gojiha means 'cow's tongue' referring to the shape of the leaves. Antibiotic activity has been reported. Dose: Churna 2-4 tola. Verse: 279-280.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Elephantopin, Deoxyelephantopin, Sesquiterpene lactones
Also Known As
English: Elephant Foot, Prickly-leaved Elephantfoot
Sanskrit: गोजिह्वा, गोजिह्विका
Hindi: गोजिभ, गोजीभा

What is Gojiha (Elephant Foot / गोजिह्वा)?

Gojiha (Elephantopus scaber) is found in India in hilly regions at 4-12 feet elevation. The leaves are large, tongue-shaped, and rough. The root and leaves are used medicinally. It is an important herb for respiratory disorders including cough and asthma. The plant has basal rosette of leaves. The name Gojiha means 'cow's tongue' referring to the shape of the leaves. Antibiotic activity has been reported. Dose: Churna 2-4 tola. Verse: 279-280.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Jvarghna (antipyretic)
  • Kasahara (alleviates cough)
  • Swasahara (anti-asthmatic)
  • Mutrala (diuretic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.