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The Materia Medica of the Hindus, compiled from Sanskrit Medical Works c5.s28: Nat. Order Cyperaceæ

The Materia Medica of the Hindus, compiled from Sanskrit Medical Works c5.s28

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Nat. Order Cyperaceæ

Cyperus Rotundus, Linn.

c5.s28.t1.1

Sans. मुस्तक, Mustaka. Vern. Muthá, Beng. Mothá, Hind.

Cyperus Pertenuis, Roxb.

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Sans. नागरमुस्तक, Nágaramustaka, Vern. Nágarmuthá, Beng. Hind.

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THE tubers of these two species of Cyperus are much used in Hindu medicine. Cyperus rotundus is the most common variety and is used internally. Its tubers are about the size of a pigeon's egg and of a dark brown colour externally; internally white, and fragrant. Those growing in moist soil are preferred for use. The root of *Cyperus pertenuis* is somewhat tuberous with many dark coloured villous fibres. It grows in low wet places and is chiefly used in the preparation of medicated oils. The properties of both are said to be identical. They are considered diaphoretic, astringent, stomachic and useful in fever, diarrhœa and dyspepsia. The tubers of *Cyperus rotundus* are extensively used as an aromatic adjunct to numerous compound medicines.

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∗ The Cyperus pertenuis of Roxburgh can hardly be maintained as a species; it is a variety of the C. rotundus of Linnæus. G. K.

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*Shaḍaṅga pániya.*¹ Take of the tubers of *Cyperus rotundus*, red sandal wood, root of *Andropogon muricatus*, (*usira*), *Oldenlandia herbacea*, (*parpata*), *Pavonia odorata* (*bálá*) and dry ginger each one drachm, water two seers; boil down to one seer. This decoction is given as a drink for appeasing thirst and relieving heat of body in fever. It may be taken *ad libitum*.

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¹ षडङ्गपानीयम् । मुस्तपर्पटकोशीर चन्दनोदीच्यनागरैः । मृतश्रृतं जले दद्यात् पिपासाज्वरशान्तये । चक्रः ।

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