Nirgundi,

Sindhuvάra.

Vern. Nisinda, Beng. Nisinda, Sάmbhalu, Hind.

Sanskrit writers mention two varieties of nirgundi. That with pale blue flowers is called sindhuvάra ( Vitex trifolia) and that with blue flowers is called nirgundi. The properties of both are said to be identical, but the latter is generally used in medicine. The root of Vitex Negundo is considered tonic, febrifuge and expectorant. The leaves are aromatic and regarded as tonic and vermifuge. Their juice is much used for soaking various metallic powders, before making the latter into pills.

A decoction of nirgundi leaves is given with the addition of long pepper in catarrhal fever with heaviness of head and dullness of hearing.1 A pillow stuffed with the leaves of nirgundi is placed under the head for relief of headache. The juice of the leaves is said to remove foetid discharges and worms from ulcers. An oil prepared with the juice of the leaves is applied to sinuses and scrofulous sores.2