Scientific name: Pluchea lanceolata
Family name: Asteraceae
Rasna is a perennial herb that grows extensively in the Indo-Gangetic plains situated in North West India, reaching a height of up to 30 – 60 cm. The stem and branches are of a terete plant physiology i.e. cylindrical with a tapering form in some parts, with a slender frame having pubescent i.e. soft hairy filaments. The leaves are 2 – 6 cm in length, oblong, with a fine silky surface and tiny hair-like projections on both sides. The flowers of the Rasna plant are in a wide set of colours, ranging from white, yellow to purple and lilac, with 1 – 2 shallow lobes.
Chemical constituents:
The stem and leaves of the plant contain moretenol, neolupenol, hexacosanoic and tetracosanoic acid, triacontanol, stigmasterol and beta- sitosterol –D- glucoside.
Properties:
Rasna is an effective herb for managing cough and cold due to its Ushna(hot) nature and Kapha balancing property.
Rasa :Tikta,
Guna : Guru,
Vipaka :Katu,
Virya :Usna,
Karma :Kaphavatahara, Amapacana.
Benefits:
1)Alleviates Rheumatic Pain-Rheumatoid arthritis is defined as Amavata in Ayurveda, due to accumulation of Ama toxins and aggravation of Vata dosha in the body. The leaf extracts of rasna possess marvellous anti-inflammatory qualities to effectively dispel pain and improve mobility of shoulder, hip, knee, elbow and wrist joints.
2)Treats Cough And Cold-Laden with plant-based compounds that showcase strong Ushna i.e. heat-inducing nature and Kapha dosha balancing qualities, rasna is useful in resolving respiratory issues of cough, cold, wheezing, bronchitis, asthma. Furthermore, by decongesting the nasal and throat passages, rasna leaf extracts are valuable in eliminating excess phlegm from the lungs and upper respiratory tract, regulating body temperature and treating fever and sinusitis
3)Uplifts Kidney Functions-Rasna is bestowed with a plethora of powerful antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress and thwart harmful free radicals from the renal tissues. In this manner, rasna is an amazing natural remedy for augmenting kidney wellness and safeguarding renal functions for optimal detoxification of the system.
4)Pacifies Muscle Spasms-The leaf extracts of rasna contain vast reserves of antispasmodic components. These plant-based residues work to relax smooth muscles, loosen constricted tissues and enable flexible muscular functions. Moreover, rasna is also imbued with analgesic properties to considerably lower pain, soreness and inflammation in muscles.
Is Rasna safe?
Yes it is a safe dravya for health but should consumed not in excess.
Contraindication: Pregnant ladies and breastfeeding ladies should avoid the use of rasna.