# Arugampul (Cynodon dactylon)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/arugampul
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** Southeast Asian
**Also Known As:** Cynodon dactylon, Bermuda grass, Durva, Dub grass, Couch grass, Dog's tooth grass, Dhub, Garike hullu

## Overview

Arugampul (Cynodon dactylon) is a medicinal grass in Siddha medicine containing bioactive compounds like flavonoids and saponins that support wound healing and gastric protection. Research shows it enhances tissue granulation and epithelialization while reducing gastric acid secretion through anti-[inflammatory pathway](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s.

## Health Benefits

• Wound healing support - One open-label clinical study showed significant improvements in granulation, epithelialization, and vascularity of chronic wounds (evidence: preliminary human data)
• Gastroprotective effects - Preclinical studies in rats showed 50% ethanolic extract at 300-600 mg/kg reduced ulcer index in multiple ulcer models (evidence: animal studies only)
• Anticonvulsant properties - Ethanolic extract suppressed seizures in mice models of maximal electroshock and pentylenetetrazol-induced convulsions (evidence: animal studies only)
• [Immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) modulation - Cynodon Dactylon Protein Fractions (CDPF) increased neutrophil count and antibody titre in mice (evidence: animal studies only)
• Traditional bleeding disorder management - Used for epistaxis, menorrhagia, and hematuria in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine for over 1,000 years (evidence: traditional use only)

## Mechanism of Action

Arugampul's flavonoids and saponins modulate inflammatory pathways by inhibiting cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzymes, reducing [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s like TNF-α and IL-1β. The compound's gastroprotective effects involve increasing prostaglandin E2 synthesis and mucus production while reducing gastric acid secretion. Its wound healing properties work through enhanced [collagen synthesis](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) and angiogenesis via VEGF pathway activation.

## Clinical Summary

One open-label clinical study demonstrated significant improvements in chronic wound healing parameters including granulation, epithelialization, and vascularity, though sample size and control group details were not specified. Preclinical rat studies showed 50% ethanolic extract at 300-600 mg/kg provided gastroprotective effects against ulcer formation. The current evidence base consists primarily of preliminary human data and animal studies, requiring larger randomized controlled trials for clinical validation. Most research has focused on topical applications rather than oral supplementation.

## Nutritional Profile

Arugampul (Cynodon dactylon) has been partially characterized nutritionally, with available data primarily from crude extract and phytochemical analyses rather than standardized food composition studies. Crude protein content ranges from approximately 8–12% dry weight, making it a modest protein source compared to conventional leafy greens. Crude fiber content is relatively high at approximately 25–35% dry weight, consistent with its grass morphology, which may contribute to digestive bulk and [prebiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) effects. Crude fat content is low, approximately 1–3% dry weight. Ash content (mineral residue) is approximately 10–15% dry weight, suggesting a meaningful mineral load. Specific mineral data indicates the presence of calcium (reported at approximately 340–400 mg/100g dry weight), phosphorus (approximately 180–220 mg/100g dry weight), potassium (approximately 300–350 mg/100g dry weight), iron (approximately 4–6 mg/100g dry weight), and magnesium at moderate concentrations. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) has been detected at approximately 40–60 mg/100g fresh weight, though this degrades rapidly post-harvest. Beta-carotene (provitamin A) is present given the plant's chlorophyll-rich tissue, with estimated concentrations of 2–4 mg/100g dry weight, though precise standardized values are limited. Key bioactive compounds include flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, and their glycosides), alkaloids (cynodontin), triterpenoids (beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol), saponins, tannins (approximately 2–4% dry weight), and phenolic acids (caffeic acid, ferulic acid). Chlorophyll content is substantial, consistent with the grass family. Glycosides including cynodin have been identified and are considered contributors to bioactivity. Bioavailability note: mineral bioavailability may be reduced by the presence of oxalates, tannins, and phytates in the plant matrix. The plant is typically consumed as fresh juice or aqueous decoction in traditional Southeast Asian and South Asian practice, with juice extraction likely improving bioavailability of water-soluble compounds (vitamin C, potassium, flavonoid glycosides) while concentrating chlorophyll and alkaloids. Data gaps remain for standardized quantification of individual amino acids, precise glycemic index, and fat-soluble vitamin fractions.

## Dosage & Preparation

Traditional dosages include: fresh juice 15-20 ml for epileptic seizures/psychosomatic disorders, 50-60 ml decoction/cold infusion for bleeding disorders or urinary issues, and 50 ml for blood-mixed diarrhea. Preclinical animal studies used 300-600 mg/kg of 50% ethanolic extract for gastroprotection and 80 µg/kg/day methanolic extract for antitumor effects, though human clinical dosages have not been established. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Arugampul is generally considered safe when used traditionally, though comprehensive safety data from clinical trials is limited. No significant adverse effects have been reported in available studies, but long-term safety profiles remain unestablished. Potential interactions with anticoagulant medications may exist due to its [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties, though specific drug interactions have not been documented. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to insufficient safety data in these populations.

## Scientific Research

Clinical evidence for Arugampul is limited to one open-label wound healing study showing significant improvements (p<0.05) in wound parameters, though sample size and blinding details were not specified. No randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, or PubMed-indexed studies were identified in the available research, with evidence primarily derived from preclinical animal models and traditional medicine documentation.

## Historical & Cultural Context

In Ayurveda and Siddha systems of Indian traditional medicine, Cynodon dactylon has been used for over 1,000 years to treat bleeding disorders, skin conditions, eye disorders, digestive problems, and nervous system disorders. It features in traditional formulations like Raktasthambaka tablet for bleeding disorders and Durvadi taila for wounds and scabies.

## Synergistic Combinations

Turmeric, Neem, Ashwagandha, Triphala, Gotu Kola

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the recommended dosage of Arugampul extract?

Preclinical studies used 300-600 mg/kg of 50% ethanolic extract, but standardized human dosing has not been established through clinical trials. Traditional Siddha preparations typically use fresh juice or dried powder, though specific quantities vary by practitioner and condition.

### How long does Arugampul take to show wound healing effects?

The available clinical study on chronic wounds showed improvements in granulation and epithelialization, though specific timeframes were not clearly reported. Traditional use suggests effects may be observed within days to weeks of consistent application.

### Can Arugampul be taken with stomach medications?

While no specific drug interactions have been documented, Arugampul's gastroprotective mechanisms may theoretically interact with acid-suppressing medications. Consultation with healthcare providers is recommended before combining with prescription gastric medications.

### What compounds in Arugampul provide the healing benefits?

The primary bioactive compounds include flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic compounds that contribute to anti-inflammatory and tissue repair properties. These compounds work through cyclooxygenase inhibition and enhanced collagen synthesis pathways.

### Is Arugampul safe for people with diabetes?

Traditional Siddha medicine has used Arugampul in diabetic patients, and some preliminary research suggests potential glucose-lowering effects. However, diabetic individuals should monitor blood sugar closely and consult healthcare providers due to limited clinical safety data.

### What is the difference between Arugampul extract and whole grass powder forms?

Arugampul extract (typically 50% ethanolic) concentrates the active compounds and was used in the clinical wound healing study, making it more potent per dose than whole grass powder. Whole grass powder provides the full plant matrix but requires higher volumes to achieve similar compound concentrations. Extract forms generally show faster onset of action in preclinical models, though whole grass may offer synergistic benefits from co-occurring compounds not isolated in extracts.

### Is Arugampul safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

There is insufficient clinical safety data for Arugampul use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it should be avoided in these populations as a precaution. Traditional Ayurvedic use does not constitute adequate modern safety evidence for these vulnerable periods. Pregnant or nursing women should consult a healthcare provider before considering this supplement.

### What does the current clinical evidence show about Arugampul's effectiveness compared to standard wound care?

One open-label human study demonstrated significant improvements in chronic wound healing metrics (granulation, epithelialization, and vascularity) with Arugampul, though this represents preliminary evidence without comparison to placebo or standard treatments. Gastroprotective benefits are only supported by animal studies in rats, not yet confirmed in human trials. Overall, evidence is promising but limited, requiring larger randomized controlled trials to establish definitive efficacy and compare effectiveness against conventional therapies.

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