Cynodon Dactylon
Cynodon Dactylon (L.) - other names: Bermuda Grass, Bamboo Grass, Bahama Grass, Devil's Grass, Couch Grass, Scutch Gras, Wire Grass, Indian Doab, Durva Grass, Dubo, Doob, Doobi, Dog's Tooth Grass, Arugampul, Grama, Panicum dactylon, Capriola dactylon
A common variety of grass, a devil to some and a sacred plant to others. But is it an aphrodisiac?
Cynodon Dactylon is a type of grass that is native to many regions in north and east Africa, southern Europe, Asia and Australia. It is considered one of the most difficult weeds to control and it competes vigorously with crops. For this reason it has earned the nickname "Devil's Grass" and is categorized as an invasive species in several places. [1]
Cynodon Dactylon.
(US. Gov. public domain image via wikipedia)
Ironically, the plant has an opposite reputation among the herbalists of southern India, by whom it is categorized as a "Holy herb" or "Wonder herb" on account of its many applications in herbalism. [2] C. dactylon is in common use among Indian herbalists and is described by one authority on Indian traditional medicine to hold "a reputed position in all systems of medicine in India". [3]
Although a great nuisance to crop producers and gardeners, C. dactylon is a useful turf for sports fields - especially in dry places - owing to its fast growing and tough nature. It is also used as animal fodder and as an erosion control plant. Its toughness and ability to help hold soil together is assisted by the growth of an extensive mat of roots, which in extremely dry conditions can reach up to 2 metres deep. The grass grows along the ground and forms new roots wherever it touches down. [1]
Is Cynodon Dactylon an Aphrodisiac?
According to the ancient Unani (Graeco-Arabic) system of medicine, aphrodisiac is one of the many medicinal qualities ascribed to Cynodon dactylon. [4] [5]
The plant has traditional use as an aphrodisiac by the traditional healers of Chhattisgarh (a state in central India), in conjunction with other herbs such as Desmostactya bipinnata, Vetivert and Semal (Bombax ceiba) However it is stated that such use is not mentioned in reference works. [3]
C. dactylon has found itself at the center of some scientific research - and is mentioned in 323 studies appearing on Pubmed in 2012. A number of these studies investigate the many potential medicinal uses of the plant.
Only one paper is seen which speaks directly to aphrodisiac investigators: A 2011 paper from the Department of Pharmacology, Shree H. N. Shukla Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, India; reporting that "treatment of rats under stress with methanolic extract of C. dactylon has shown a promising effect in overcoming stress-induced sexual dysfunction". The paper noted benefits in several parameters, including sexual performance, sperm concentration and its effect on accessory sexual organs; concluding that the active components of C. dactylon showed "potent aphrodisiac and male fertility activity." [6] The abstract does not note which part of the plant was used to make the extract.
Another point of note is that in herbalism, Cynodon dactylon has been said to be very effective in cases of enlarged prostate. This condition can be a cause of sexual dysfunction and one might venture that an herb that assists the prostate might therefore possibly act as a restorative of sexual function. [7]
Other studies found anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, diuretic , Central Nervous System depressant, antidiabetic and DNA protective effects associated with Cynodon dactylon.
Accoring to one source, molecules present in the plant have been stated to include Flavones, tricin, C-glycosides, a flavonoid containing a sulfate (leaf), six phenolic phytotoxins, syringic acid, ferulic acid, P-coumaric acid and vanillic acid. (plant). [7] Another source states that sitosterol, carotene, vitamin C, cartone, palmitic acid, triterpenoides and the alkaloids ergonovine and ergonovinine are present. [2]
Cynodon Dactylon - Conclusion
One scientific study is not enough to ascertain aphrodisiac effects for Cynodon dactylon. Although it would appear that C. dactylon has an ancient tradition of use as an aphrodisiac / tonic in India, much scientific work would need to be done for this claim to be vindicated and widely accepted by the mainstream. We can conclude that this is a plant with possible aphrodisiac potential that has yet to be fully scientifically investigated.
As Cynodon dactylon is in a way "the opposite" of an endangered species, being invasive in some places, it may of environmental benefit if the plant were found to be a safe aphrodisiac - because a number ofother aphrodisiacs, such as Tongkat ali, are endangered by overharvesting and any relief on their demand may be beneficial for the future of their species.
Cynodon Dactylon is listed in the AHPA's "Herbs of Commerce", the standard reference work for herbal supplements in the USA; meaning that it falls within the general guidelines for use as a herbal supplement / supplement ingredient in the USA. [17]
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Sources:
[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cynodon_dactylon
[2] http://mooligai.com/bermuda-grass-arugampul-dhub-cynodon_dactylon/
[3] http://botanical.com/site/column_poudhia/111_doobi.html
[4] http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/CropFactSheets/doob.html
[5] http://www.herbalcureindia.com/herbs/durva.htm
[6] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21607051
[7] http://vishlaagrotech.com/Prostate.pdf
[17] "Herbs of Commerce" (AHPA) (2000 edition) - Michael McGuffin, John T. Kartesz, Albert Y Leung, Arthur O. Tucker p.53
Note - the information on this website is NOT medical or legal advice, is not a substitute for medical consultation, has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure any disease. Please seek advice from a medical professional if you have symptoms, are concerned about your health, or before using supplements or aphrodisiac products.
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