Cyperus ~ Cyperus rotundus

Cyperus

Latin name: Cyperus rotundus

Family: Cyperaceae

Part used: rhizome

Habitat: throughout world

Main constituents: cyperine

Energetics: pungent, bitter, astringent, sl. sweet

Main herbal actions: carminative, stimulating, alterative, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, hypotensive

Minor herbal actions: external: emmenagogue, antihelmintic, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, vermifuge, demulcent, galactagogue

Main medicinal uses: depression, irregular mood swings, dysmenorrhea, PMS emotionality, menstrual pain, pre-menstrual congestion of blood and water, chronic diarrhea, malabsorption

Minor medicinal uses: palpitations, gastrointestinal yeast and candida, parasites, sluggish liver, indigestion, dysentery, loss of appetite, chronic fevers, gastritis, poor memory

Preparations: pwd: 6-12 g qd; decoction: 1 tsp/cup water tid

Contraindications: none known

Toxicity: none known

Sources: http://www.planetherbs.com/articles/emotions.html; http://www.herbies-herbs.com/pages/Ayuravedicherbsuses.html; http://www.himalayahealthcare.com/herbfinder/h_cyperus.htm; http://www.tcmbasics.com/materiamedica/rhizoma_cyperi.htm; http://www.medicineatyourfeet.com/cyperusrotundus.html