Punarnava: what Ayurveda says and how it may support your cycle
A traditional herb for water retention and bloating.
Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) is an Ayurvedic herb. The root is used. Ayurveda traditionally uses it as described below, and AAVIE may include it in your supplement when your assessment suggests it fits.
| Names | Punarnava. The name means “renews again”. Spreading hogweed in English. |
|---|---|
| Botanical name | Boerhavia diffusa |
| Part used | Root |
| Rasa (taste) | Madhura (sweet), Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent) |
| Guna (qualities) | Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry) |
Ayurvedic profile as described in classical texts.
What Ayurveda says about Punarnava
Ayurveda classes Punarnava as a shothahara herb, one that eases swelling and fluid retention, and as a gentle rasayana.
Punarnava and your period
Traditionally used where fluid retention, bloating and puffiness come with the cycle, because Ayurveda links water retention with Kapha and sluggish channels (srotas).
Who it tends to suit
Often selected when puffiness and bloating around the period are part of the picture.
Why the right dose matters
Why not less
Too little is unlikely to give the effect on fluids described traditionally.
Why not more
Too much acts strongly on fluids: frequent urination, dehydration and dryness, and it can 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 have kidney disease
- You take diuretics, blood pressure or diabetes medicines, unless your doctor agrees
- You are pregnant
Common questions
Is Punarnava 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 Punarnava 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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