A note on Desmostachya bipinnata (Kusha): Pavitra grass of Vedic rituals used in Homa & Tarpana
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Kusha (Desmostachya bipinnata (L.) Stapf) occupies a singular place at the intersection of South Asian ecology, culture, and medicine. Present review presented botanical description, distribution, ritual semiotics, ethnomedicinal knowledge and other significance of kusha with attention to its roles in Homa (fire oblations) and Tarpana (ancestral libations). Authors have outlined the historical sources and ritual praxis, summarize reported pharmacological leads and traditional formulations, discussed quality and sustainability considerations, and propose future research works connecting phytochemistry, conservation, and community livelihoods.
Authors: Verma, Rajesh Kumar, Kshirsagar, Jyoti Jagannath, Samal, Tapan Kumar, Dehar, Parminder Singh, Mishra, Sweta, Majhi, Saraswati
Institution: Ambika Prasad Research Foundation
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7082441922
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