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