Punarnava

(Hogweed)
Sanskrit: पुनर्नवा • Botanical: Boerhaavia diffusa Linn.

Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa) is one of the most important diuretic and anti-edema herbs in Ayurveda. Its name literally means 'that which renews the body.' The text distinguishes between two species: Boerhaavia diffusa (Rakta Punarnava, red variety) and Trianthema portulacastrum (Shweta Punarnava, white variety). However, the text notes these are often confused and The Wealth of India Vol.1 clarifies that B. diffusa is the true Punarnava. The plant is a prostrate, spreading herb with reddish stems. The root is the main medicinal part, containing the alkaloid Punarnavine (0.04%). It is sweet, bitter, astringent, light, dry, and hot in potency. It is the premier herb for edema (Shotha) and fluid retention - being strongly diuretic. Also useful in heart diseases, liver disorders, kidney diseases, anemia, and as a rejuvenative. The text mentions it is also valuable in ascites, nephritis, and general debility. Dose: root powder 1-3 grams; decoction 40-80 ml. Verse refs: pages 421-423.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Sweet (Madhura), Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Punarnavine (alkaloid, 0.01% in dried roots), Potassium nitrate, Saponin (C32H46O6N2), and other alkaloids
Also Known As
English: Hogweed, Horse Purslane, Spreading Hogweed
Sanskrit: पुनर्नवा, शोथघ्नी, कठिल्लका
Hindi: गदहपूर्ना, साँठ, बिसख़पड़ा

What is Punarnava (Hogweed / पुनर्नवा)?

Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa) is one of the most important diuretic and anti-edema herbs in Ayurveda. Its name literally means 'that which renews the body.' The text distinguishes between two species: Boerhaavia diffusa (Rakta Punarnava, red variety) and Trianthema portulacastrum (Shweta Punarnava, white variety). However, the text notes these are often confused and The Wealth of India Vol.1 clarifies that B. diffusa is the true Punarnava. The plant is a prostrate, spreading herb with reddish stems. The root is the main medicinal part, containing the alkaloid Punarnavine (0.04%). It is sweet, bitter, astringent, light, dry, and hot in potency. It is the premier herb for edema (Shotha) and fluid retention - being strongly diuretic. Also useful in heart diseases, liver disorders, kidney diseases, anemia, and as a rejuvenative. The text mentions it is also valuable in ascites, nephritis, and general debility. Dose: root powder 1-3 grams; decoction 40-80 ml. Verse refs: pages 421-423.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Shothahara (reduces swelling / anti-edema)
  • Mutrala (diuretic)
  • Rasayana (rejuvenative)
  • Hridya (cardiotonic)
  • Deepana (kindles digestive fire)
  • Anulomana (carminative)
  • Vatahara (alleviates Vata)
  • Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Punarnava by Condition

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

⟶
Punarnava for Inflammation
⟶
Punarnava 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.