In the traditional system, it was used both in its fresh and dry form. It is also mentioned in literature pertaining to Arabian and Persian medicines. It was known to heal ulcers and sores. Dioscorides mentions its use as a diuretic in the treatment of ulcers, as an emmenagogue and an ingredient in warm plasters. It was used as a perfume and an aromatic.

It grows throughout India.

It is a pestiferous perennial weed with dark green glabrous culms, arising from a system of underground tubers. The plant has an elaborate underground system consisting of tubers, rhizomes and roots. The tubers are white and succulent when young, and hard and black when mature.

Cyperine is the major constituent in the plant.

No adverse effect was reported on use of this volatile compound as medicine.

It is used in Ayurveda as a tonic, diuretic, emmenogogue, diaphoretic, and stimulant.

1. Azerb Med. Zh., 1966, 43, 12; Izv Akad Nauk Az SSR Ser Biol Nauk, 1964, (4), 98; Indian J Med. Res., 1971, 59, 76.