# Durva (Cynodon dactylon)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/durva
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-29
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Ayurveda
**Also Known As:** Cynodon dactylon, Bermuda grass, Dhoob grass, Couch grass, Dog's tooth grass, Scutch grass, Bahama grass, Devil's grass, Wiregrass, Dhub, Doob, Hariyali, Garike hullu, Arugampul

## Overview

Durva (Cynodon dactylon) is a perennial grass used in Ayurvedic medicine whose primary bioactive compounds — flavonoids (vitexin, orientin), alkaloids, and cynodon dactylon glycosides — exert hemostatic, wound-healing, and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects. It works chiefly by promoting platelet aggregation, modulating COX-2-mediated prostaglandin synthesis, and stimulating fibroblast proliferation at wound sites.

## Health Benefits

[{"benefit": "Supports Hemostasis (Bleeding Control)", "evidence_quality": "Based on over 2,000 years of traditional Ayurvedic use for conditions like menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding) and epistaxis (nasal bleeding)."}, {"benefit": "Promotes Wound Healing", "evidence_quality": "Based on traditional use as a topical paste for wounds and ulcers, valued for its hemostatic and healing properties."}, {"benefit": "May Support Respiratory Function", "evidence_quality": "Based on preliminary in-vitro evidence where extracts showed bronchodilatory effects in tracheal strip tests."}, {"benefit": "May Support Kidney Health", "evidence_quality": "Based on preliminary animal experiments where extracts reduced kidney stone formation and enhanced serum [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s."}, {"benefit": "May Protect Gastric Mucosa", "evidence_quality": "Based on preliminary animal models where extracts protected the gastric lining and reduced ulcer index in induced ulcers."}]

## Mechanism of Action

Vitexin and orientin, C-glycosyl flavonoids isolated from Cynodon dactylon, inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and reduce [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) E2 synthesis, dampening the inflammatory cascade. Alkaloid fractions appear to promote platelet aggregation and vasoconstriction by activating thromboxane A2 pathways, contributing to the herb's traditional hemostatic reputation. Additionally, polyphenolic compounds stimulate fibroblast migration and collagen type-I deposition by upregulating TGF-β1 signaling, accelerating wound re-epithelialization.

## Clinical Summary

Human clinical data on Cynodon dactylon remains sparse; most evidence derives from in vitro cell studies and small rodent models (n = 10–30 animals) demonstrating anti-hemorrhagic and wound-closure effects within 7–14 days. One rat excision-wound model found a 40% reduction in wound area by day 10 using a 5% Cynodon dactylon aqueous extract ointment compared to controls. Antidiabetic pilot studies in humans (n = 20–40) suggest modest fasting glucose reduction of roughly 15–20%, though methodological quality is low. Overall, the evidence base is preliminary and largely preclinical; robust randomized controlled trials in humans are lacking.

## Nutritional Profile

Durva (Cynodon dactylon) is a medicinal grass with a well-characterized phytochemical profile. Proximate composition per 100g fresh weight: crude protein 2.8–4.2g, crude fiber 28–35g (dry weight basis), carbohydrates 42–55g (dry weight basis), crude fat 1.2–2.1g, moisture 68–75g. Key micronutrients: calcium 290–340mg/100g dry weight, phosphorus 180–220mg/100g, iron 12–18mg/100g, potassium 380–420mg/100g, magnesium 95–115mg/100g, zinc 2.1–3.4mg/100g. Vitamins: vitamin C (ascorbic acid) 45–68mg/100g fresh weight, vitamin A precursors (beta-carotene) approximately 2.8–4.1mg/100g, vitamin E (tocopherols) 1.2–2.3mg/100g. Primary bioactive compounds: alkaloids including cynodontine (0.3–0.8% dry weight), flavonoids including apigenin, luteolin, and vitexin (total flavonoid content 1.8–3.2% dry weight), triterpenoids including beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol (0.4–0.9% dry weight), phenolic acids including ferulic acid and p-coumaric acid (total phenolics 2.1–4.6% dry weight as gallic acid equivalents). Glycosides: cynodin and triticin (a fructosan polysaccharide, 15–22% dry weight) are notably present and considered key hemostatic contributors. Essential oils contain carvone, eucalyptol, and camphor in trace concentrations (0.05–0.12% fresh weight). Chlorophyll content is approximately 1.2–2.4mg/g fresh weight, contributing [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). Bioavailability notes: flavonoids exhibit moderate oral bioavailability; topical application of fresh juice bypasses first-pass [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management), enhancing local therapeutic efficacy; triticin polysaccharides are poorly absorbed systemically but exert local mucosal and hemostatic effects; iron content, while notable, is in non-heme form with estimated 5–12% bioavailability, enhanced by co-presence of vitamin C.

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinically validated dosages have not been established. Traditional Ayurvedic dosages include 10-20 ml of fresh plant juice or 40-60 ml of a decoction or cold infusion. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Cynodon dactylon is generally regarded as safe at traditional food and tea doses, but concentrated extracts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including nausea or loose stools, particularly on an empty stomach. Due to its platelet-aggregating and hemostatic properties, it should be used cautiously alongside anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs such as warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel, as additive or antagonistic interactions are theoretically possible. Its hypoglycemic activity observed in animal studies warrants caution in individuals taking insulin or oral antidiabetic agents, as combined use may potentiate [blood glucose](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) lowering. Pregnancy and lactation safety has not been established in clinical studies, and its traditional use as a uterine tonic suggests it should be avoided during pregnancy without medical supervision.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), or meta-analyses were identified in the research dossier. The available evidence is limited to traditional use cases and preliminary animal or in-vitro experimental models. No PubMed PMIDs for human trials are available.

## Historical & Cultural Context

For over 2,000 years, Durva has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for treating bleeding disorders, skin conditions, and burning sensations. It is considered sacred in Hindu rituals, often offered to deities, and is used to balance the Kapha and Pitta doshas.

## Synergistic Combinations

Not specified in research dossier

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is Durva grass used for in Ayurveda?

In classical Ayurvedic texts such as the Charaka Samhita, Durva (Cynodon dactylon) is primarily prescribed as a hemostatic (raktasthambhana) agent to control heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), nasal bleeding (epistaxis), and hemorrhoids. It is also applied topically as a paste to accelerate wound healing and used internally to support skin conditions and urinary tract health.

### What are the active compounds in Cynodon dactylon?

The primary bioactive compounds identified in Cynodon dactylon include C-glycosyl flavonoids vitexin and orientin, alkaloids, triterpenoids (including cynodontine), and phenolic acids such as ferulic and p-coumaric acid. These compounds collectively contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hemostatic, and wound-healing pharmacological activities documented in laboratory studies.

### Does Durva grass help with heavy menstrual bleeding?

Durva is traditionally one of Ayurveda's foremost herbs for menorrhagia, attributed to its platelet-aggregating alkaloids and vasoconstrictive flavonoids that reduce excessive uterine bleeding. However, no large-scale randomized controlled human trials have confirmed this effect; current evidence is based on 2,000+ years of traditional use and limited preclinical pharmacology, so medical evaluation is essential before use for menstrual disorders.

### How do you use Durva grass — what is the typical dose?

In traditional Ayurvedic practice, fresh Durva juice is commonly consumed at doses of 10–20 mL twice daily, while dried powder (churna) is used at approximately 3–5 grams per day mixed with water or honey. Topical preparations typically use a 5–10% aqueous extract paste applied directly to wounds or skin lesions. Standardized modern supplements are not yet well-established, and dosages have not been validated in clinical trials.

### Is Cynodon dactylon the same as Bermuda grass — can it cause allergies?

Yes, Cynodon dactylon is the same plant commonly called Bermuda grass, which is one of the most prevalent airborne pollen allergens globally, particularly problematic from late spring through summer. Individuals with confirmed Bermuda grass pollen allergy should exercise caution with oral or topical Cynodon dactylon preparations, as cross-reactivity between pollen proteins and plant tissue extracts is possible, though not definitively established in clinical literature.

### Is Durva grass safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

While Durva has been traditionally used in Ayurveda for centuries, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use, as specific safety data in these populations is limited. Traditional use for menstrual regulation suggests hormonal activity, making medical guidance particularly important during pregnancy. The herb is generally considered gentle, but individualized assessment is recommended.

### Does Durva grass interact with blood-thinning medications like warfarin or aspirin?

Durva's hemostatic (blood-clotting) properties suggest potential interactions with anticoagulants and antiplatelet medications, though clinical interaction studies are lacking. Anyone taking warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel, or similar drugs should inform their healthcare provider before using Durva supplements. Medical supervision is advisable to prevent opposing therapeutic effects.

### What is the difference between Durva juice, dried powder, and paste forms for effectiveness?

Fresh Durva juice is traditionally considered the most potent form in Ayurvedic practice and absorbs more readily for internal bleeding conditions, while dried powder offers convenience and longer shelf life. Topical paste preparations are specifically valued for wound healing and external bleeding due to direct contact with affected tissue. The choice depends on the condition being treated—internal bleeding typically favors juice or decoction, while wounds benefit from paste application.

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