Nirgundi
Sanskrit: Nirgundi
Vitex negundo
A hardy shrub whose aromatic leaves are used mainly externally in Indian household and classical traditions, especially in warm compresses and medicated oils for stiff, aching areas. In many villages the leaves are simply warmed and applied rather than taken internally. Internal use is a classical, practitioner-guided matter and is quite different from the familiar external use.
Also known as
Five-Leaved Chaste Tree
- hindi:
- Nirgundi
- tamil:
- Nochi
- marathi:
- Nirgudi
Parts used
- Leaves (primary, external use)
- Root in some classical formulations
Traditional overview
- Warmed leaves applied externally as a traditional poultice over stiff joints and muscles
- Leaves boiled in water for steam and traditional bath preparations
- A common ingredient in classical medicated oils used for external massage
- Leaves burnt or hung in some regional practices as an insect deterrent
Common traditional forms
- warm leaf poultice
- medicated oils for external use
- herbal steam and bath water
- classical internal formulations
Wellness tags
- joints
- muscles
- external wellness
Body focus
- joints
- muscles
- skin
Concerns
- occasional muscular discomfort
- external joint care
What to know before use
Stay with external use unless a practitioner directs otherwise. Patch test any oil, keep it away from broken skin and eyes, and never apply heat to a hot, red or swollen joint. Sudden severe joint swelling, fever or injury needs medical assessment.
Important cautions
External use is the traditional focus here. Patch test any oil or compress on a small area first, and keep it away from broken skin and the eyes. Internal use requires qualified practitioner guidance.
Who should avoid it
- People with sensitive or broken skin, for external use
- Anyone considering internal use without qualified guidance
- People with hormone-sensitive conditions
Medicine interactions
- Caution with sedative medicines
- Caution with hormone-related medicines
PregnancyAvoid internal use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Discuss external use with a practitioner.
ChildrenExternal use only for children, and only with practitioner advice.
Quality and buying guidance
For oils, check that Vitex negundo is actually listed and that the base oil is named, since many market oils are mostly mineral oil with fragrance. Fresh leaves should be strongly aromatic when crushed. Avoid internal preparations sold without a manufacturer licence.
Evidence note
This entry rests on traditional and household use recorded over generations, not on clinical trials. Treat it as cultural and educational information.
Related ingredients
Related remedies
Traditional wellness information only — not medical advice. Start small, and check with a qualified practitioner if you are pregnant, nursing, treating a child, or managing a medical condition.