Desmostachya bipinnata


Desmostachya bipinnata, commonly known in English by the names halfa grass, big cordgrass, and salt reed-grass, is an Old World perennial grass, long known and used in human history.

Distribution

Desmostachya bipinnata is native to northeast and west tropical, and northern Africa ; and countries in the Middle East, and temperate and tropical Asia.

Uses

Medicinal

In folk medicine, Desmostachya bipinnata has been used variously to treat dysentery and menorrhagia, and as a diuretic.
for japa.

Religious

Desmostachya bipinnata has long been used in various traditions as a very sacred plant. According to early Buddhist accounts, it was the material used by Buddha for his meditation seat when he attained enlightenment. The plant was mentioned in the Rig Veda for use in sacred ceremonies and also as a seat for priests and the gods. Kusha grass is specifically recommended by Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita as part of the ideal seat for meditation.

Other

In arid regions, Desmostachya bipinnata has been used as fodder for livestock.

Weed information

In agriculture, Desmostachya bipinnata is a weed commonly found in wheat crops.