Punarnava (Spreading Hogweed)
Punarnava (Spreading Hogweed)
Boerhavia diffusa
"That which renews" — the classic herb for fluid retention and puffiness.
Punarnava creeper · Herb · Parts: Root, Leaf, Whole plant
- Taste (rasa)
- Bitter, astringent, sweet
- Energy (virya)
- Heating
- Balances
- Kapha, Vata
What it is used for
Benefits
- Traditionally used for water retention, morning puffiness and swollen ankles
- Supports healthy kidney and urinary function
- Used in Ayurveda to lighten a heavy, sluggish, congested body
How it has been used
Traditional uses & benefits
Punarnava means 'renewer' — the classical anti-oedema herb for water retention, puffiness and heavy limbs.
Traditional uses
- Morning puffiness and fluid retention
- Kidney and urinary comfort support
- Sluggish, heavy Kapha-type mornings
Practical guidance
- 1Take in the first half of the day; it is mildly diuretic.
- 2Drink enough water alongside — the herb moves fluid, it does not replace it.
- 3Speak to a clinician first if you take diuretics or have kidney disease.
How much
Dosage
Powder 1-3 g twice daily with warm water, or as a decoction.
How to take it
Preparation & usage
Punarnava decoction
Simmer 1 teaspoon powder in 2 cups water until reduced to half; strain.
Morning and late afternoon, before meals
Punarnava and ginger tea
Add a pinch of dry ginger to the decoction for extra warmth.
Cold, damp weather
Read this first
Precautions
- Do not self-treat swelling that is sudden, painful or one-sided — see a doctor
- Avoid alongside prescription diuretics without medical advice
- Not recommended in pregnancy
Where this comes from
Sources
Where to buy
Shop this remedy
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