Aerva lanata
Synopsis of Aerva lanata
History
Aerva lanata, commonly known as mountain knotgrass or polpala, is a revered herb in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda, Siddha, and folk remedies across Asia and Africa. Historically, its roots, leaves, and flowers have been used for centuries to address a variety of health conditions, attesting to its longstanding value in natural healing.
One of the most celebrated uses of Aerva lanata is in the treatment of urinary tract ailments. It is renowned as a potent diuretic and has been traditionally administered to promote urine flow, dissolve kidney and bladder stones, and alleviate urinary discomfort. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties have made it a go-to remedy for urinary tract infections and gravel. Additionally, in some cultures, decoctions of the plant are given to support liver health, manage diabetes, and treat respiratory conditions such as coughs and asthma.
Aerva lanata is often used in synergistic herbal combinations, enhancing the effects of other botanicals. In Ayurveda, it is a key component of polyherbal formulations like “Pashanabheda,” which literally means “stone breaker,” targeting kidney stones. When blended with herbs such as Tribulus terrestris and Boerhavia diffusa, it contributes to comprehensive renal and urinary care. Its gentle yet effective action makes it suitable for regular use, and it is frequently included in wellness teas and tonics.
Overall, Aerva lanata’s remarkable contributions to traditional medicine underscore its enduring significance. Its integration into modern nutritional and herbal products continues to support holistic health, making it a valuable ally in natural wellness.
Traditional and scientific validation
Aerva lanata, commonly known as mountain knotgrass, has a long-standing history in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda and folk remedies across Asia and Africa. Traditionally, its leaves, roots, and flowers have been employed for their purported diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and lithotriptic (stone-dissolving) properties, especially in managing kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and various inflammatory conditions.
Scientifically, a growing body of preclinical research supports some of these traditional claims. Animal studies and in vitro experiments have demonstrated that extracts of Aerva lanata possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities. Several studies have particularly focused on its role in supporting renal health, indicating that it may help inhibit the formation of kidney stones and promote their dissolution, likely due to its phytochemical content such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins.
Limited clinical studies have also investigated its efficacy. For example, small-scale human trials have observed reductions in urinary stone size and symptomatic relief in participants using Aerva lanata extracts. However, these studies are preliminary, with modest sample sizes and variable methodologies, highlighting the need for larger, well-designed clinical trials to confirm these effects and establish safety profiles.
Despite the need for further research, the historical and emerging scientific data suggest that Aerva lanata holds promise as a valuable ingredient in nutritional products, particularly for supporting urinary tract health. Its traditional uses and initial scientific findings make it a positive addition to modern nutritional formulations, although ongoing research will further clarify its efficacy and optimal applications.
Aerva lanata is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Afterbirth Pain (Traditional)
Amenorrhea (Traditional)
Anal Fistula or Fissure (Traditional)
Anemia (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bedwetting (Traditional)
Bladder Infection (Traditional)
Boils (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Chest Pain (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (with fever) (Traditional)
Colic (adults) (Traditional)
Colic (children) (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Traditional)
Cough (dry) (Traditional)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Cough (spastic) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Dysmenorrhea (Traditional)
Dyspepsia (Traditional)
Ear Infection or Earache (Traditional)
Eczema (Traditional)
Edema (Traditional)
Eye Infections (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gall Stones (Traditional)
Gas and Bloating (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Glands (swollen lymph) (Traditional)
Gonorrhea (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Headache (sinus) (Traditional)
Headache (tension) (Traditional)
Hemorrhoids (Traditional)
Hepatitis (Traditional)
Infection (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Jaundice (adults) (Traditional)
Jaundice (infants) (Traditional)
Kidney Stones (Scientific)
Leucorrhea (Traditional)
Menstrual Irregularity (Traditional)
Nephritis (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
PMS (general) (Traditional)
Skin (infections) (Traditional)
Urinary Tract Infections (Traditional)
Urination (burning or painful) (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Aerva lanata is used to support these body systems
Bladder (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
