Tazhuthama, scientifically known as Boerhavia diffusa and popularly referred to as Punarnava in Sanskrit, is one of India’s most valued medicinal plants. Known by various regional names Tamilzhama in Tamil and Spreading Hogweed in English this humble herb has been part of Ayurvedic practice for centuries. Its name Punarnava, meaning “the one that rejuvenates,” reflects its ability to dry up during summer only to bloom back with new life during the monsoon.
Though simple in appearance, Tazhuthama belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family and is renowned for its capacity to remove excess fluid from the body. Every part of the plant leaves, stems, and roots holds medicinal value. Its leaves and stems are also consumed as food, commonly prepared as thoran or mezhukkupuratti in traditional South Indian kitchens, making it an easily accessible health supplement.
Tazhuthama grows widely across India, thriving in wild and open spaces. The plant is found in several colour variants, including yellow, white, red, blue, and green. Its flowers are tiny and grow in clusters, while certain watery varieties are particularly known for enhancing perspiration an important property in traditional healing.
For ailments linked to the respiratory system, Tazhuthama behaves like a natural tonic. Classical Ayurvedic texts, including the Charaka Samhita, highlight its usefulness in treating conditions such as leprosy and dysentery. The herb supports both heart and kidney function and is considered especially valuable in strengthening these vital organs.
The plant contains significant amounts of potassium nitrate and an alkaloid called punarnavine, which contribute to its diuretic action helping the body flush out excess water and toxins. These properties make it effective in treating edema, cough, and fluid retention. It is widely used for managing heart disease, kidney disorders, rheumatism, and fever.
Tazhuthama leaves are known to ease cough, cold, jaundice, eye infections, and various digestive issues. When the leaves are ground in rice water and consumed, they help reduce fluid accumulation in the body. The root, used in decoctions, is a proven remedy for fever.
The root decoction of Tazhuthama is widely recommended in Ayurvedic medicine for urinary tract infections, kidney stones, rheumatic pain, snakebite, insomnia, and certain eye diseases. Its versatile healing capabilities have made it a staple in traditional treatments.
Tazhuthama plays a key role in several Ayurvedic preparations. Medicines made from this herb offer relief in conditions such as ulcerative colitis and hemophilia. Its root decoction is also recognized for regulating high blood pressure. Well-known Ayurvedic combinations like Punarnavadi Kashayam and Sukumara Ghritam include Tazhuthama as a primary ingredient. It is also essential in treatments for bhagandara (fistula).
In essence, Tazhuthama stands as a powerful testament to India’s herbal heritage offering natural, effective, and time-tested remedies for a wide range of health concerns.