Bṛhat Gokṣura

Description

Bṛhat Gokṣura (Pedalium murex) is an annual, spreading herb with fleshy, 4–5 cm long leaves and yellow flowers. Its fruits are oblong, 1–2 cm, covered with spines, and are mucilaginous when soaked in water. It is different from Laghu Gokṣura (Tribulus terrestris), though both are used in urinary and reproductive disorders. Bṛhat Gokṣura is demulcent, cooling, and diuretic in action, commonly used in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine.

Useful Parts

Fruits

Benefits

1. Aphrodisiac: Traditionally used as an aphrodisiac for men and women, the plant has shown potential in enhancing sexual health and function. 2. Urinary Disorders: It is effective in treating urinary tract disorders and is known for its diuretic properties, making it useful for conditions like strangury and urinary discharges. 3. Digestive Issues: Pedalium murex is used for various digestive ailments, including stomach ache, indigestion, and ulcers, due to its anti-ulcerogenic and carminative properties. 4. Anti-Inflammatory: The plant exhibits anti-inflammatory activity, which can help alleviate inflammation associated with various conditions. 5. Antioxidant Activity: It is rich in antioxidants, which protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. 6. Reproductive Health: It helps in the treatment of reproductive disorders such as impotency, nocturnal emissions, and leucorrhoea, potentially by improving blood flow and reducing infections. 7. Nephroprotective (Kidney Protective): The plant shows potential in protecting the kidneys from damage.

Pharmacological Action

Diuretic, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, lithotriptic, cooling, aphrodisiac, urinary antiseptic, pitta-pacifying.

Rasapancakam

Rasa: Madhura, Tikta

Guna: Laghu, Snigdha, Picchila

Virya: Sita

Vipaka: Madhura

Dosha Karma: Vatapitta shamaka