What is paederia foetida (gandha prasarini) ?
If you’ve ever struggled with stiff joints, nerve weakness, or painful swelling, Ayurveda has a special remedy waiting for you: Gandha Prasarini (Paederia foetida). This climbing plant, often recognized by its strong smell, has been valued in classical Ayurvedic texts for centuries. Today, researchers are also turning their attention to this humble vine for its anti-inflammatory and nerve-protective benefits.
Latin Name: Paederia foetida
Vernacular Names:
- Hindi: Gandha prasarini or parasan
- Bengali: Gandhabhaduliya
- Tamil: Pinarisangai, Mudiyar, Kundal
- Telugu: Takkeda, Sarivel
- Kannada: Hesarani, prasarini bail
- Malayalam: Tala nili
- Marathi: Hiranvel
- Gujarati: Gandhana, prasarini
- Punjabi: Prasarini
- English : Chinese flower
Sanskrit Names:
Gandhadhadhya, Balya,
Rajabala – Best herb for imparting strength
Prasarini – Use of this herb gives flexibility to the limbs
Sarani – It spreads too a long distance
Gandh Prasarni
Benefits & Ayurvedic Properties of Paederia foetida (Gandhaprasarini)
The plants are available in large quantities as a weed in Gujarat, Karnataka, Assam, Tamilnadu, Kerala and West Bengal.
Ras
- Tikta (Bitter)
Veerya ( Potency)
- Ushna (Hot)
Vipaak ( Post-digestive effect)
- Katu (Pungent)
Guna ( Qualities)
- Guru (Heavy)
- Sara
Dosha Effect
Balances: Vata and Kapha dosha.
Classical Categorization
In Bhavprakash nighantu – It is categorized as Guduchaydi varga. paederia foetida is described as helpful in relieving joint pain, paralysis and muscular stiffness.
In Charak samhita, it is mentioned in Vatavyadhi chikitsa that is in treatment of Vata disorders.
Health Benefits of paederia foetida
Joint pain and Arthritis
The Vata balancing nature of paederia foetida (gandhaprasarini) benefits in reducing swelling and pain in conditions such as
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Sciatica
- Back and neck pain
Neurological problems
Functions of brain and nerves is controlled by Vata dosha. Whenever vata dosha is out of balance it leads to neurological problems. Paederia foetida is Vata balancing in nature and because of this paederia foetida benefits in neurological problems such as
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Epilepsy
- Paralysis
- Parkinson
Rich in antioxidants
Paederia foetida benefits in fighting various skin problems, digestive problems, fatigue and other because of its rich antioxidant properties.
Actions (Karma) of Gandhaprasarini in Ayurveda
Vrushya – aphrodisiac
Balakrut – improves strength and immunity
Sandhanakrut – useful in wound and bone healing
Useful in Vata disorders
How to use Paederia foetida
Paederia foetida can be consumed in various forms, including:
- Decoction (Kashay): To make the decoction you need 2 cup water and 1 teaspoon of powder of paederia foetida(gandhaprasarini). Now add this powder in 2 cup of water and boil till one cup is left. Then filter it, your decoction is ready.
- Dosage : 20 to 30 ml two times a day.
- Gandhaprasarini powder: 1-2 teaspoon two times daily .
- Fresh Juice : 10 to 20 ml two times daily with water.
- Part Used : Root leaves
What are the side effects of Paederia foetida (Gandhaprasarini)
Like any other Ayurvedic herb devdaru is having many health benefits . However , it may have some side effects as well They include
Allergic Rashes
If someone is sensitive to paederia foetida (gandhaprasarini) they may see skin rashes or redness and ithcing. In this condition it is advisable to discontinue the use .
Precautions
During breast feeding avoid consuming Paederia foetida
Avoid consuming Gandhaprasarini during pregnancy due to lack of research on safety during pregnancy.
Always use gandhaprasarini in recommended dosage to avoid potential side effects such as nausea and bloating. It is better to ask Ayurveda doctor about dose and suitability for your body type.
If you have pre existing medical conditions or taking any medications, consult a doctor before using paederia foetida This ensures that there are no harmful interactions or contraindications.
Don’t use paederia foetida ( gandhaprasarini) continuosly for long period of time . Take break to allow your body to respond appropriately. Also when we use any herb continuosly ,then the body becomes use to it and it don’t respond to it.
Store paederia foetida in cool and dark place to maintain its potency and prevent it from contamination. Proper storage helps in retaining its therapeutic value.
Home Remedies of Paederia
Gandhaprasrini Decoction for pain relief
To make decoction you will following ingredients:
Gandhaprasarini leaves – 5 to 10
Shunti ( dry ginger) – 2 gms
Cummin seed ( jeera) – 2 gms
Water – 4 cups
How to make the decoction:
Boil all ingredients together in 4 cups of water until reduced to 1 cup. Strain and drink warm.
It is traditionally used an as effective remedy to relieve joint pain, stiffness and swelling on joints.
Prasarini oil massage for neuralgia pain
To make the you need following ingredients:
Gandhaprasarini leaves & root – 50 gms
Sesame oil – 200ml
Water – 1liter
How to make the oil:
First make a decoction by boiling paederia foetida( gandhaprasarini) in 1liter of water till it is reduced to 250ml. Now add sesame oil into the decoction and boil it till water evaporates and oil is left behind. This is prasarini oil.
The oil helps to relieve stiffness and pain by improving the blood circulation and calms the Vata dosha.
Frequently asked question
1.Can this herb be used while taking homeopathic medicine ?
Yes. This herb does not react with homeopathic medicine.
2.Can this herb/medicine be continued while taking supplements like multivitamin, omega 3, spirulina ?
Yes .Generally this herb goes well with most dietary supplement. However if you are taking more than one product per day please consult your doctor for opinion.
3. With western/modern medicine
Seek your doctors advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicine. Some ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine.
When taking ayurvedic medicine or herb with modern medicine it is best to keep one hour gap in between both the medicine.
4. How long does gandhaprasarini take to start showing benefits ?
It depend on any existing disease, overall health, your prakriti ( genetic make up) all these factors plays a role in how quickly paederia foetida powder benefits are seen.
5.Can it be used in people with diabetes?
Yes. But always keep watch on your sugar levels. This herb can lower your blood sugar levels. Do not stop your diabetes medicine once you start taking this herb/medicine. Keep in touch with your ayurvedic doctor. They will guide you in this respect.
6.Are there any diet restriction( Pathya) while taking this seeds ?
No .There are no such restriction while taking this product. However if you have been advised with any specific diet based on disease, you should continue to follow it.
Ayurvedic medicine that contains gandhaprasarini
Paederia foetida is the main ingredients in following medicines
Prasarini Thailam -used in arthritis, sciatica etc.
Maha Narayan Oil – widely used pain relieving massage oil
Marma Gulika– used in disorders of heart, kidney etc.
Conclusion
Gandha Prasarini is more than just a traditional remedy — it’s a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern science. From relieving painful joints to supporting nerve health, this herb proves why Ayurveda’s time-tested knowledge remains so relevant today. With ongoing research validating its benefits, Gandha Prasarini is finding a new place in holistic wellness worldwide.
If you’re exploring natural ways to support joint and nerve health, this herb deserves a closer look — but remember, guidance from a healthcare professional is always key.
Please consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
This Article is written by Dr. Ashutosh Tiwari B.A.M.S, PGDCR Director of Risha’s Health And Ayurvedaa Solutions.He is having more than 20 years of experience in field of Ayurvedic medicine.
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Disclaimer :The content provided here is for informational purpose only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek medical advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concern you may have regarding a medical conditions.
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