Nagarmotha: what Ayurveda says and how it may support your cycle
A digestive herb traditionally used in women’s formulations.
Nagarmotha (Cyperus rotundus) is an Ayurvedic herb. The rhizome is used. Ayurveda traditionally uses it as described below, and AAVIE may include it in your supplement when your assessment suggests it fits.
| Names | Nagarmotha, Musta, Mustaka. Nutgrass in English. |
|---|---|
| Botanical name | Cyperus rotundus |
| Part used | Rhizome |
| Rasa (taste) | Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent), Kashaya (astringent) |
| Guna (qualities) | Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry) |
Ayurvedic profile as described in classical texts.
What Ayurveda says about Nagarmotha
Ayurveda classes Nagarmotha as a deepana-pachana herb, one that kindles digestion and helps process Ama. It is bitter, pungent, astringent, light and dry.
Nagarmotha and your period
Traditionally used in women’s formulations to support digestion and the clearing of Ama, which Ayurveda links with heaviness and with sluggish, delayed or uncomfortable cycles.
Who it tends to suit
Often selected when digestion is sluggish and signs of Ama are present.
Why the right dose matters
Why not less
Too little is unlikely to kindle digestion as described traditionally.
Why not more
Too much is drying. It can cause constipation and aggravate Vata.
The right amount is not the same for everyone. It depends on your Prakriti and your current imbalance (Vikriti), which is why AAVIE sets it for you and a Vaidya reviews it. Read why the right dose matters.
Check with your doctor first if
- You are pregnant
- You tend to constipation
- You are breastfeeding, unless your doctor agrees
Common questions
Is Nagarmotha safe for everyone?
No herb is right for everyone. Check with your doctor first if any of the cautions on this page apply to you. AAVIE asks about your medicines and conditions before selecting herbs.
Will Nagarmotha be in my AAVIE supplement?
Only if your assessment suggests it fits. AAVIE selects herbs for each person and each cycle, and a Vaidya reviews the selection.
Related pages
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