Nirgundi
- Botanical Name: Vitex negundo
- Family: Verbenaceae
- Synonyms: Sindhuvara, Sambhalu, Nallavalli, Nishinda
- Vernacular Name: Commonly known as “Nirgundi” in Hindi, “Five-Leaved Chaste Tree”
in English, and “Nallanochi” in Tamil.
- Classification: A deciduous shrub or small tree belonging to the Verbenaceae family.
- Habitat: Native to South and Southeast Asia, it thrives in tropical and subtropical regions.
It is commonly found in riverbanks, wastelands, and along roadsides.
- Morphology: A shrub that grows up to 2–8 meters in height. It has quadrangular stems,
compound leaves with five lanceolate leaflets, and small, bluish-purple flowers arranged in
panicles. The fruits are small, round, and black when ripe.
- Useful Parts: Leaves, roots, flowers, and seeds.
- Chemical Composition: Contains flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and essential oils. It is
rich in bioactive compounds like nishindine and vitricine.
- Pharmacological Action: Known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and
antioxidant properties. It is used in treating joint pain, respiratory disorders, skin ailments,
and menstrual issues. It also has calming effects and is used for stress relief.
- Formulation: Used in Ayurvedic preparations like Nirgundi Taila (oil) and herbal
decoctions for pain relief and respiratory health. It is also applied externally as a poultice for
wounds and swelling.
Rasa: Katu
Guna: Ruksha , Laghu
Virya: Ushna
Vipaka: Katu