Saccharum munja Roxb. / Saccharum bengalense Retz./ Erianthus munja Jesw./ Bhadramunja

Abstract

Saccharum munja, commonly referred to as munj grass or sarkanda, is a perennial grass species belonging to the Poaceae family, widely found in arid regions and along riverbanks of the Indian subcontinent. It is characterised by its tall stature, silky panicles, and strong fibrous stems. It serves multiple purposes across ecological, medicinal, and economic domains. In Ayurveda, the plant is valued for its cooling, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in urinary disorders, bleeding conditions, and heat-related ailments. Its roots and tender shoots are traditionally employed to reduce excessive body heat, manage fever, and promote urinary tract health. Beyond medicinal applications, its durable fibers are used in weaving ropes, mats, and various rural handicrafts. The plant’s deep and extensive root system plays a crucial role in preventing soil erosion, particularly in sandy and riverbank environments. With its blend of therapeutic potential and environmental benefits, Saccharum munja continues to hold cultural and practical significance.

Introduction

Saccharum munja is a robust, tall-growing perennial grass species reaching up to seven feet in height, recognised for both its ornamental value and multifaceted utility. Its pale straw-colored leaf sheaths, adorned with silky hairs and greenish-brown panicles, contribute to its distinctive appearance. It thrives in dry regions as well as near water bodies, adapting well to diverse soil types. The plant has been deeply integrated into rural livelihoods, supplying raw material for traditional weaving, rope-making, and mat production due to its strength and durability. In Ayurveda, it is prescribed for conditions linked to aggravated Pitta dosha, including urinary tract issues, inflammatory disorders, and bleeding tendencies, owing to its natural cooling and diuretic effects. Its ecological importance lies in its ability to stabilise soil and prevent erosion, thereby supporting environmental sustainability. As a plant that unites traditional knowledge, healthcare applications, and ecological preservation, Saccharum munja remains a vital resource in both rural economies and herbal medicine.

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Clade: Tracheophytes
• Clade: Angiosperms
• Clade: Monocots
• Order: Poales
• Family: Poaceae
• Genus: Saccharum
• Species: Saccharum munja Roxb.

Synonyms

• Shar, Banh – Leaves are sharp like an arrow.
• Munja
• Vipuya
• Ikshvaku
• Sthoola Darbha
• Pitamaha
• Shara
• Bana
• Ikshu Kanda
• Itkata
• Sayaka
• Kshura
• Ishu Kanda
• Ikshura
• Kshurika Patra
• Vishikha
• Sumekhala – Attractive grass with an appealing appearance.
• Ikshuveshtaka – Plant bears resemblance to sugarcane (Ikshu)

Vernacular Names

• Hindi name – Sarapat, Munja, Kanda
• English name – Pin Red Grass
• Bengali name – Sher
• Gujarati name – Tirkans
• Marathi name – Tirkaande
• Punjabi name – Munja, Sarkanda
• Tamil name – Munjipal
• Telugu name – Mujugaddi
• Urdu name – Munju Sarkande

Habitat

The plant, commonly known as Kana, Sarkanda, and Moonja, is distributed across Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the northern and western regions of India. It is a large, tufted grass with limited fodder value, as cattle and buffalo consume only the tender new leaves, typically during periods of fodder scarcity. Its sturdy stems are traditionally utilised for making moorhas (woven stools) and chiks (bamboo or reed blinds). The species is native to Myanmar, Bangladesh, Nepal, Afghanistan, Pakistan, northern India, and Iran, and is also found in northeastern India, particularly in Assam within the Terai-Duar grasslands.

Morphology

Saccharum munja is a tall, robust, perennial, tufted grass belonging to the family Poaceae, well adapted to arid regions and riverbanks. It grows to a height of 1.5–2.5 meters, with thick and sturdy stems valued for making traditional items such as chiks and moorhas. The leaves are long, linear, and narrow, often exceeding 1 meter in length and 1–2 cm in width, with a silky base and hairy margins, especially near the apex. Leaf sheaths are smooth, pale straw-colored, and bear long white hairs along the margins. The inflorescence is a silky, greenish-brown panicle, bearing white flowers that have ornamental appeal. Its fibrous root system provides strong anchorage and aids in preventing soil erosion, allowing the plant to thrive in sandy and riverine habitats.

Classical Categorisation

• According to Bhavaprakash Nighantu – Guduchyadi Varga
• According to Dhanvantari Nighantu – Karaveeradi Varga
• According to Kaiyadeva Nighantu – Oushadhi Varga
• According to Raj Nighantu – Shalmalyadi Varga

Ancient Verses

According to the above shloka, Bhadramunja has a sweet and astringent taste, cold potency and aphrodisiac properties. It is effective in the management of burning sensation, excessive thirst, erysipelas (Visarpa), bleeding disorder, dysuria and eye diseases. It helps in balancing the three doshas.

Ayurvedic properties

• Taste (Rasa) – Sweet (Madhur), Astringent (Kashaya)
• Physical property (Guna) – Light (Laghu)
• Potency (Veerya) – Cold Potency (Sheet)
• Post-digestion effect (Vipaka) – Katu (Pungent)
• Effect on tridosha – Balance Vata, Pitta and Kapha dosha

Therapeutic properties

• Vrushya – Aphrodisiac; enhances vigour.
• Balya – Strengthens the body and boosts immunity when taken daily.
• Veeryakara – Improves both the quality and quantity of sperm and semen.
• Akshiroga – Eye disorders.
• Asra – Blood-related disorders such as abscesses, skin diseases, menorrhagia, and nasal bleeding.
• Daha – Burning sensations are seen in gastritis, neuropathy, and ocular discomfort.
• Trushna – Excessive thirst.
• Vastishoola – Urinary bladder pain and dysuria.
• Visarpa – Herpes.
• Kapharoga – Conditions caused by Kapha imbalance.
• Bhranti – Dizziness and mental confusion.
• Mada – Intoxication.

Systemic actions

Internal Uses

• Digestive System – Beneficial in excessive thirst and haemorrhoids.
• Circulatory System – Useful in bleeding disorders; acts as a natural blood purifier.
• Reproductive System – Functions as an aphrodisiac and promotes lactation.
• Excretory System – Indicated in dysuria; supports increased urine output.
• Tapakrama – Alleviates burning sensations.
• Netra – Supports eye health and is indicated in various ocular disorders.

Chemical composition

Major Structural Components

• Cellulose (≈58.2%)
• Lignin (≈20.5%)
• Pentosans (≈23.7%)

Ash Content (Inorganic fraction)

• 2–3%

Phytochemicals (from root powder studies)

• Phytosterols
• Flavonoids
• Terpenoid saponins
• Carbohydrates
• Tannins
• Glycosides
• Alkaloids
• Proteins

Minerals

• Chlorides
• Bicarbonates
• Phosphates

Phenolic Compounds

• Total phenolics
• Total flavonoids
• Total tannins

Bioenergy-related elements (as per biomass studies)

• Carbon
• Hydrogen
• Oxygen
• Nitrogen

Modern Overview

For Burning sensation and excessive thirst

The cooling action of Saccharum munja is mainly due to its rich composition of fibers and minerals that help balance body fluids and reduce heat. Cellulose, lignin, and pentosans retain water and provide soothing hydration, while minerals like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium restore electrolyte balance and reduce excessive thirst. Bicarbonates, phosphates, and sulphates further support pH balance, easing burning sensations in the body. The root decoction promotes gentle diuresis, helping flush out toxins and excess heat. Flavonoids and tannins add antioxidant and calming effects, reducing internal inflammation. Together, these actions make the plant highly valued in Ayurveda for relieving summer heat, thirst, and burning discomfort.

Wound Healing Activity

Saccharum munja (Munj grass) plays an important role in wound management due to its rich phytochemical composition. The presence of flavonoids provides strong antioxidant activity that reduces oxidative stress around the injured tissue, thus preventing further cellular damage and promoting faster healing. Tannins present in the plant offer antimicrobial and astringent actions that not only prevent infection but also help in contracting the wound, thereby supporting the natural healing process. Glycosides contribute to anti-inflammatory effects, which reduce swelling and pain, creating a favourable environment for tissue regeneration. Together, these compounds synergistically accelerate wound closure, protect against microbial invasion, and enhance the overall repair mechanism of the skin.

For Postpartum Care

In the context of postpartum care, Munj grass is traditionally used as incense in female recovery rooms due to its aromatic and therapeutic properties. When burned, it releases a mild fragrance infused with natural phytochemicals like flavonoids and tannins, which may help purify the air and provide antimicrobial benefits in the surroundings. This practice not only creates a soothing and hygienic atmosphere but also supports the emotional relaxation and mental well-being of the mother. The aromatic smoke is believed to cleanse the environment, reduce the risk of infections, and promote a calm state, which is especially important during the delicate postpartum period.

Diuretic Activity

Saccharum munja (Saccharum bengalense) exhibits notable diuretic properties due to the synergistic action of its bioactive compounds. Proanthocyanidins, present in the root bark and stems, support kidney function by enhancing antioxidant defence and protecting renal tissues from oxidative stress, thereby promoting healthy urine flow. Triterpenoids such as friedelin contribute by modulating renal activity and aiding in the excretion of excess fluids and salts from the body. Tannins and other phenolic compounds further enhance this effect by exerting mild astringent and antimicrobial actions, which help maintain urinary tract health. The high potassium content plays a direct role in regulating fluid balance and electrolyte stability, supporting normal cellular and renal processes essential for diuresis. Additionally, the presence of saponins and coumarins may facilitate improved circulation and filtration in the kidneys, while steroids and phenols contribute to anti-inflammatory and protective effects. Together, these compounds make Saccharum munja a natural agent for managing fluid retention, supporting urinary tract health, and promoting detoxification.

Hepatoprotective activity

Saccharum munja helps protect the liver mainly through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. Phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins neutralise free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and preventing liver cell damage. These compounds also promote liver health by stabilising cell membranes and supporting the regeneration of liver tissues. Its anti-inflammatory action lowers the risk of chronic liver injury caused by persistent inflammation. Minerals and sulphur compounds may further aid in detoxification by binding toxins and heavy metals for removal. Together, these actions help cleanse, protect, and strengthen the liver, making Saccharum munja beneficial in maintaining overall hepatic function.

Practical uses

• Cold infusion of the root of Shara (40–50 ml) is given to treat burning sensations of the body, thirst, and burning urination during summer.
• Root decoction (50–80 ml) of Saccharum munja is used in piles, burning sensation of the eyes due to sunlight exposure, and during fever.
• Root boiled in milk (50 ml) is administered to improve breast milk in lactating women and to enhance sperm count in men.
• Root decoction with rice gruel water is given in the treatment of leucorrhea.
• Stem and leaves (dried) are commercially used for making baskets, ropes, and similar items.
• It is indicated in leucorrhea, deficient lactation (Sthanyakshaya), sperm debility (Shukra Dourbalya), burning sensations (Daha), bleeding disorders (Rakta Pitta), piles (Arsas), erysipelas (Visarpa), blood disorders (Rakta Vikara), excessive thirst (Thrishna), blood vitiation (Rakta Dushti Janya Vikara), and blood purification (Rakta Shodhana).
• It acts as a Rasayana (rejuvenative) and Vajikarana (aphrodisiac), and is useful in Kasa (Cough), Pittaja Kasa (Cough due to Pitta dosha), and Akshiroga (eye disorders).
• The roots (Shara moola) are important ingredients in classical formulations like Brahma Rasayana, Brahmi Vati, Sukumara Ghrita, and Trina Panchamoola Ghrita.
• Its root is used for fumigation in the delivery room.

Part used

Roots

Dosage

• Root powder- 3-6 gms
• Decoction- 50-100 ml

Ayurvedic medicines

• Trinpanchmoola Kwath

Planet Ayurveda Medicines

• Reno Plan Syrup
• Stono Plan Syrup

Conclusion

Saccharum munja, a valuable grass species, holds significant importance both medicinally and economically. In Ayurveda, it is appreciated for its cooling, diuretic, and pitta-pacifying properties, being beneficial in conditions like burning sensations, urinary disorders, fever, and bleeding tendencies. Its roots and shoots are used in traditional remedies, while its strong fibrous stems are widely utilised in making ropes, mats, baskets, and other rural crafts. It is rich in bioactive compounds, and it offers therapeutic benefits while also contributing to sustainable livelihood practices. Thus, Saccharum munja stands as a versatile plant that bridges health, utility, and ecology, highlighting its enduring relevance in traditional medicine and daily life.

FAQs

1. Common name of Saccharum munja?

Answer – It is commonly known as Munja grass or Shara in Ayurveda.

2. What is the botanical name of Munja Grass?

Answer – The botanical name is Saccharum munja Roxb.

3. What is the family name of Saccharum munja?

Answer – It belongs to the family Poaceae (Gramineae).

4. What are the side effects of Munja Grass?

Answer – It is generally safe in traditional use, but excessive intake may cause excessive urination due to its diuretic effect.

5. What are the benefits of Saccharum munja?

Answer – It is beneficial in relieving burning sensations, excessive thirst, urinary disorders, piles, leucorrhea, and also acts as a coolant, diuretic, rejuvenative, and aphrodisiac.

6. What is the English name of Saccharum munja?

Answer – It is commonly referred to as Pin Red grass.

7. What are the uses of Saccharum munja?

Answer – Medicinally, it is used for urinary problems, bleeding disorders, leucorrhea, fever, and as a rasayana; commercially, its stems and leaves are used for making ropes, mats, and baskets.