Gorakh Mundi | Mundi |गोरखमुंडी|Bodasaramu|Kottakaranthai

Gorakh Mundi (Sphaeranthus indicus Linn.)

Other Names: Mundi / Kshirak / East Indian Globe Thistle / गोरखमुंडी
Classical Reference: Bhav Prakash Nighantu – Pushpa Varga

📝 Description:
Gorakh Mundi, botanically known as Sphaeranthus indicus, is a highly valued herb in Ayurveda, mentioned in the Pushpa Varga of Bhav Prakash Nighantu. It is traditionally used for its blood-purifying, liver-protective, antipyretic, and mind-calming properties. This fragrant, globe-shaped flowering herb is especially recognized for its role in managing skin disorders, fevers, and mental imbalances.

🧪 Classical Properties (as per Bhav Prakash Nighantu):

• Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent)

• Guna (Qualities): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)

• Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)

• Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu (Pungent)

• Dosha Karma: Balances Kapha and Vata

📜 Reference from Bhav Prakash Nighantu – Pushpa Varga:

मुंडी तिक्तकषाया च कटुका दाहपित्तकृत्।
व्रणमेहकुष्ठहृद्रोगनाशिनी विषकृच्छ्रनुत्॥

Translation:
Mundi is bitter, astringent and pungent in taste. It increases Pitta and helps in treating wounds, diabetes (Prameha), skin diseases (Kushtha), cardiac disorders, and neutralizes toxins and urinary difficulties.

🌱 Key Ayurvedic Benefits:

✅ Detoxifying & Blood Purifier – Supports skin health and helps eliminate toxins
✅ Liver Tonic – Promotes healthy liver function
✅ Antipyretic – Helps in reducing fever and body heat
✅ Medhya (Nootropic) – Supports memory, calmness, and mental clarity
✅ Urinary Support – Useful in managing urinary tract infections and difficulties
✅ Anti-inflammatory & Antimicrobial – Useful in managing wounds and skin diseases

🧴 Traditional Uses:

• Decoction (Kashayam) for fever and liver disorders

• Powder (Churna) used in skin and urinary disorders

• Paste for external application on wounds and boils

• Often included in Ayurvedic formulations like Mundi Churna, Sphaeranthus Rasayana

⚠️ Caution:

Should be used under medical supervision, especially in conditions of high Pitta or during pregnancy.