Gorakhmundi

(Globe Thistle)
Sanskrit: मुण्डी • Botanical: Sphaeranthus indicus Linn.

Gorakhmundi or Mundi (Sphaeranthus indicus) is a small, prostrate herb found in marshy areas and wet lands. The plant reaches about 4000 pods of small globe-shaped flower heads. The whole plant is used medicinally. It is described as bitter, astringent, pungent, light, dry, and hot in potency. It is specifically mentioned for treating skin diseases (Kushtha), worm infestations, diabetes (Prameha), blood impurities, swellings, and fevers. The globe-shaped flower heads are the most characteristic feature. The plant flowers in rainy and winter seasons. It is used in chronic skin diseases and has blood-purifying properties. There is also a species S. amaranthoides noted. The text also mentions Maha Mundi (larger variety). Dose: 1-2 tola juice or decoction. Verse refs: pages 413-414.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya), Pungent (Katu)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Sphaeranthine (essential oil), flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones
Also Known As
English: Globe Thistle, East Indian Globe Thistle
Sanskrit: मुण्डी, महामुण्डी, श्रावणी
Hindi: गोरखमुण्डी, मुण्डी

What is Gorakhmundi (Globe Thistle / गोरखमुण्डी)?

Gorakhmundi or Mundi (Sphaeranthus indicus) is a small, prostrate herb found in marshy areas and wet lands. The plant reaches about 4000 pods of small globe-shaped flower heads. The whole plant is used medicinally. It is described as bitter, astringent, pungent, light, dry, and hot in potency. It is specifically mentioned for treating skin diseases (Kushtha), worm infestations, diabetes (Prameha), blood impurities, swellings, and fevers. The globe-shaped flower heads are the most characteristic feature. The plant flowers in rainy and winter seasons. It is used in chronic skin diseases and has blood-purifying properties. There is also a species S. amaranthoides noted. The text also mentions Maha Mundi (larger variety). Dose: 1-2 tola juice or decoction. Verse refs: pages 413-414.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Kushthaghna (treats skin diseases)
  • Pramehahara (anti-diabetic)
  • Shothahara (reduces swelling)
  • Raktashodhaka (blood purifier)
  • Jvaraghna (reduces fever)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Gorakhmundi by Condition

Explore how Gorakhmundi is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Gorakhmundi for Inflammation
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Gorakhmundi for Male Sexual Health

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.