What Is Garike Hullu in English, and How Is It Used in Traditional Medicine? - #12180
I’ve come across the term Garike Hullu and would like to know more about it. What is Garike Hullu in English, and how is it used in traditional medicine for various health conditions? From what I understand, Garike Hullu refers to Khus grass (Vetiveria zizanoides), which is used for its cooling, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties. How does it help treat conditions like fever, headaches, and digestive problems? How is Garike Hullu used in Ayurvedic and herbal medicine—should it be consumed as tea, applied as an oil, or used in poultices for external healing? What specific health benefits does Khus grass offer for skin health, stress reduction, and hydration? Lastly, are there any side effects or precautions to consider when using Garike Hullu (Khus grass), especially for people with sensitive skin or allergic reactions?
100% Anonymous
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Garike Hullu in Kannada refers to Khus grass (scientific name: Vetiveria zizanoides), a plant known for its cooling, soothing, and detoxifying properties. Khus grass is widely used in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda, for a variety of health conditions due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and calming effects. It is highly regarded for its ability to treat fever, headaches, and digestive issues. The cooling nature of Khus grass helps reduce body heat, which is especially beneficial during high fevers or hot weather, and it aids in balancing excess Pitta dosha. It is also effective in alleviating headaches and promoting better digestion by soothing the stomach.
In Ayurvedic and herbal medicine, Khus grass is used in several forms: it can be consumed as a tea made from the root, applied as an essential oil for its cooling effects, or used in poultices for external healing, particularly for inflamed or irritated skin. The roots are often distilled to produce a fragrant essential oil that is used both for its therapeutic properties and its calming aroma. The oil can be massaged into the skin for relaxation and to promote a cooling effect on the body.
Health benefits of Khus grass include its ability to improve skin health by moisturizing and cooling the skin, making it effective in treating conditions like rashes, sunburn, and irritation. It also has a natural stress-relieving quality, making it a popular choice in aromatherapy for calming anxiety and promoting restful sleep. Additionally, Khus grass helps to maintain hydration by cooling the body and preventing excessive heat loss, particularly in dry or hot climates.
While Khus grass is generally considered safe, there are a few precautions to keep in mind. For individuals with sensitive skin, it’s best to do a patch test before using the oil topically to ensure no adverse reaction occurs. Allergic reactions may occur in some people, so it is important to use it in moderation, particularly when using essential oils. As with any herbal remedy, it’s always advisable to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before using it, especially for those with pre-existing conditions or allergies.
Oh, you’ve mixed up a bit there; Garike Hullu is not the same as Khus grass. Garike Hullu actually refers to Bermuda grass, also known as Cynodon dactylon. It’s quite esteemed in Ayurveda for its cooling and soothing properties, and you’ll find it’s used in various traditional remedies.
Bermuda grass is often applied for treating conditions like fever, headaches, and digestive issues, due to its pitta-pacifying and kapha-balancing qualities. In fever, it’s used because it helps lower high body temperature. For headaches, its cooling nature offers relief by countering heat and inflammation.
For digestive problems, Garike Hullu’s high fiber content supports healthy digestion and encourages a smooth bowel movement. You can brew it as a tea—just steep a few fresh, clean blades in hot water for a few minutes, then strain and drink. This tea could be taken, say once or twice a day.
When it comes to skin health, Bermuda grass juice or paste works wonders. It hydrates, and soothes irritation. Some folks also use it in a face pack or poultice for inflammatory skin conditions. For stress reduction, it’s considered effective because, well, it gently calms the mind, especially when consumed as an infusion or in a bath.
However, always remember that this grass—like any herb—could cause reactions in some people. It’s a good idea to do a patch test if you’re applying it externally, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have sensitive skin or plant allergies. Ingesting large quantities is a no-go, as it might upset your stomach or interact with specific meds.
Overall, it’s cost-effective, but should be used with caution. Tailor its use to your unique constitution, and think about any existing conditions you have.

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.