Introduction
Punarnava, also known as Boerhavia diffusa or Spreading Hogweed, is a very powerful herb in Ayurveda. The name Punarnava means “the one which renews the body.”
It is known for its rejuvenating, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties. Most of you know Punarnava is only for kidney and liver health, but it has many other uses too. It is used for skin, digestion, heart, anemia, and swelling.
In this article, I will tell you about 7 practical uses of Punarnava and the simple ways to take it at home.
Punarnava for Anemia
Low hemoglobin or anemia can make you feel tired, dizzy, and weak. In Ayurveda, this is often linked to poor digestion and improper blood formation. Punarnava helps improve the quality of blood and supports the body’s natural ability to absorb iron.
It also balances the pitta dosha, which helps in managing fatigue and weakness related to anemia.
How to Use
- Drink Punarnava leaf juice daily.
- Or take 2 tablets of Punarnava mandoor once or twice a day.
- You can also drink Punarnava decoction made from roots.
Benefits
With regular use, it supports hemoglobin levels and brings back natural energy and glow.
Punarnava for Edema and Swelling
Swelling or water retention in the body — especially in legs, ankles, or face — shows fluid imbalance or weak kidney function. Ayurveda calls this Shotha. Punarnava is one of the best herbs to manage this condition.
It acts as a natural diuretic, helping the body eliminate excess water and toxins through urine. It also reduces inflammation and heaviness.
How to Use
- Take decoction or paste of Punarnava root mixed with ginger paste once daily.
- Or use Guggulu with a decoction of Punarnava, Devdaru, and Ginger for better results.
Benefits
This helps reduce puffiness, joint stiffness, and swelling — making the body feel lighter and active.
Punarnava for Skin Problems
Punarnava root is very helpful for various skin problems, it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that helps with ulcers, abscesses, and swellings.
In Ayurveda, Punarnava root paste is often applied as a natural dressing to help wounds heal faster and to calm redness or irritation.
How to Use
- Apply a paste of Punarnava root on oedematous swelling.
- For ulcers and abscesses, use a hot poultice of Punarnava root.
- It is also used traditionally for extracting guinea worms.
Benefits
This external application reduces inflammation and promotes skin repair.
Punarnava for Kidney Stones and Urinary Disorders
Punarnava is very beneficial for the urinary system. It helps cleanse the kidneys, promotes urine flow, and prevents stone formation. When taken with other herbs, it also helps break and expel small kidney or bladder stones.
It reduces burning during urination and clears the urinary tract of toxins.
How to Use
- Boil together Punarnava, Gokhru, Varun bark, and Pashanbheda.
- Drink this decoction daily.
Benefits
This herbal combination increases urine output, breaks down stones, and supports overall kidney health.
Punarnava for Liver Problems and Jaundice
Punarnava is one of the most effective Ayurvedic herbs for liver health. It helps remove excess pitta (heat) and toxins from the liver and purifies the blood. It’s also helpful in hepatitis, jaundice, and fatty liver.
Regular use of Punarnava helps in better digestion, improved bile flow, and overall liver detoxification.
How to Use
- Take Punarnava root powder with warm water once or twice a day.
- Or prepare a decoction of Punarnava root and drink 50–100 ml daily.
Benefits
It helps reduce yellowing of eyes and skin, improves appetite, and supports a healthy liver.
Punarnava for Stomach Disorders
Did you know that poor digestion is the root cause of many health problems. Punarnava helps to strengthens the stomach, improves digestion, and helps in acid reflux, gas, and intestinal worms. It increases appetite and supports the natural detox process of the gut.
How to Use
- Take Punarnava root powder (5 grams) three times a day with warm water.
- You can also add a pinch of ginger or black salt for better digestion.
Benefits
With regular use, it helps relieve bloating and improves gut function.
Punarnava as a Rejuvenator (Rasayana)
Punarnava is also used as a rejuvenating tonic in Ayurveda. It refreshes the body, improves strength, and restores vitality.
How to Use
- Take 20 grams of fresh Punarnava root paste with milk daily.
- Continue for 15 days, 2 months, or even longer (under guidance).
Benefits
This helps renew energy, strength, and body tissues naturally.
Recommended General Doses of Punarnava
Here are the common forms and general doses of Punarnava:
- Juice: 5 to 10 ml daily.
- Decoction: 50 to 100 ml daily.
- Tablets (Punarnava Mandoor): As directed on the product label or by your doctor.
You can also find Punarnava in powder, capsule, or liquid extract forms.
Precautions
Even though Punarnava is natural, it should be used with care:
- Consult your doctor if you are on any medication.
- Not recommended for pregnant women or children below 12 years.
- Do not overdose, as it may cause drowsiness or a medical emergency.
- Avoid taking Punarnava with alcohol.
Conclusion
So, now you know how Punarnava helps in health problems. From reducing swelling and detoxifying the liver to improving blood, skin, and kidney function, this herb works gently yet effectively.
If you wish to know more about its Ayurvedic background, chemical composition, and ancient references, you can read my complete guide on Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa).
FAQS
What is Punarnava used for?
It is mainly used to manage swelling (edema), liver disorders, anemia, kidney problems, and digestive issues. It helps remove toxins, reduce water retention, and supports natural detoxification of the body.
Can Punarnava be taken daily?
Yes, Punarnava can be taken daily but in suggested dose. Always consult a naturopath or Ayurvedic doctor before long-term use.
What are the side effects of Punarnava?
When taken in high doses, Punarnava may cause drowsiness, dehydration, or weakness due to its diuretic effect. Avoid taking it with alcohol or without guidance if you are on other medications.
Can Punarnava be taken with other herbs?
Yes, it can combine with other herbs like Gokhru, Varun bark, Devdaru, Ginger, or Guggulu for enhanced results in liver and kidney disorders. But ask professional before use.
Which form of Punarnava is best — juice, powder, or decoction?
All forms are effective, but Punarnava juice or decoction acts faster for detox and swelling. The powder works well for digestion and liver support. Choose the form that’s easiest for you to take regularly.