Latin name: Cyperus rotundus
Chinese name: xiang fu
Other names: coco-grass, purple nutsedge, red nut sedge
What is Nutgrass?
Nutgrass is a perennial plant native to Africa, Southern and Central Europe, and Southern Asia. Known to be one of the most invasive plants in the world, nutgrass infests over fifty crops worldwide, and this trait has earned it the nickname “the world’s worst weed.” The tubers of the plant are bitter, but they have a nutritional value as food and have been eaten in famine-stricken areas. Additionally, the root is used as a perfume in India.
What are the health benefits of Nutgrass?
Nutgrass, despite its reputation as a weed, has a long history of medicinal use in both traditional Chinese medicine and the Ayurvedic system of medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine considers it the primary herb for regulating qi, or vital energy, and Ayurveda uses it to treat and digestive disorders. Nutgrass is used to treat nausea, menstrual conditions, and digestive problems, and it is used as a tool for reducing pain and relaxing muscles. It is used to regulate the liver qi and treat cervical cancer as well.
Where can I find Nutgrass?
Nutgrass can be found online, in herbal specialty shops, and in the offices of Chinese and other alternative medical practitioners.
You can find this herb combined with other herbs in the Traditions of Tao formulas:
Feminine Desire, which helps increase a woman’s libido.
Regenerating Cream, which nurtures the skin cells, minimizing the appearance of aging and scarring and improving skin quality.
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