Ushir, commonly known as Khus in Hindi and Vetiver in English, is a highly aromatic and medicinal grass native to India. Its botanical name is Vetiveria zizanioides, and it belongs to the Poaceae family. The roots of this plant are the most valuable part, known for their therapeutic cooling properties, making Ushir a revered herb in Ayurveda, especially during hot summer months.
Synonyms and Traditional Names
In Sanskrit, Ushir is known by names like Sugandhimula (fragrant root) and Shitalamula (cooling root). Across India, it's also called Vettiver (Tamil), Vettivēru (Telugu), Ramacham (Malayalam), Lavancha (Kannada), Vala (Marathi), Lalaai (Gujarati), Khaskhas (Bengali), and Khusboo wala jadd (Urdu).
1. Nervous System (Manasika & Majja Dhatu)
- Acts as a natural nervine tonic
- Reduces stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue
- Promotes restful sleep and emotional balance
- Used in aromatherapy to soothe the mind
2. Circulatory System (Rakta Vaha Srotas)
- Acts as a blood purifier
- Manages high Pitta symptoms like skin rashes, heat, and inflammation
- Helpful in bleeding disorders and burning sensations
3. Digestive System (Annavaha Srotas)
- Relieves hyperacidity and gastric irritation
- Mildly improves digestion without overheating
- Commonly added to summer drinks and sherbet
4. Skin and Hair (Twacha)
- Antibacterial and antifungal
- Treats acne, prickly heat, and allergies
- Used in skincare products and herbal baths
5. Urinary System (Mutravaha Srotas)
- Diuretic properties flush out toxins
- Alleviates burning urination and UTI symptoms
- Balances internal heat
6. Respiratory System (Pranavaha Srotas)
- Soothes respiratory passages irritated by heat
- Used in vapors to cool and clear breathing
7. Reproductive System (Shukra & Artava Dhatu)
- Reduces inflammation and Pitta-related heat in reproductive health
- Helps balance hormonal and menstrual issues
8. Immune System (Ojas & Rasayana)
- Enhances vitality by supporting ojas
- Aids in detoxification and boosts resilience
Common Forms and Uses of Ushir
1. Ushir Taila (Vetiver Oil)
- Used for body and head massage
- Calms the nervous system and cools the body
- Improves skin tone and texture
2. Ushir Kwath (Decoction)
- Taken to lower body heat and support digestion
- Used in fevers, burning urination, and dehydration
3. Ushir Tablets or Capsules
- Convenient for daily use to manage Pitta conditions
- Helps in skin disorders, acidity, and internal cleansing
4. Usheerasava/Ushirasava
- A fermented tonic useful in urinary disorders and bleeding conditions
- Enhances digestion while cooling the body
5. Ushir Churna (Powder)
- Consumed internally or applied as a face pack
- Promotes detox and skin purification
6. Ushir Infused Water
- Traditional summer drink to stay cool and hydrated
- Prevents heat stroke and supports urinary cleansing
Conclusion
Ushir is more than just a fragrant herb—it’s a holistic healer that brings calm, coolness, and clarity. Whether through oils, decoctions, or simple drinking water, integrating Ushir into daily life is a natural way to balance excess Pitta, soothe the senses, and support the body’s innate detox functions. In Ayurveda, it is a seasonal essential and a timeless remedy for today’s heat-related health challenges.
