Other names for Woolly Grass

bai mao gen (imperata cylindrica) dried root liquid extract
imperata cogon grass
imperata cylindrica rhizome extract, dry
imperata cylindrica root extract, dry
lalang grass extract
lalang grass (imperata cylindrica) dried rhizome liquid extract
lalang grass rhizome extract, dry
white grass extract
white grass (imperata cylindrica) dried rhizome liquid extract
white grass rhizome extract, dry

Synopsis of Woolly Grass

History

Woolly Grass (often referring to species such as Imperata cylindrica or similar grasses) has a rich history of medicinal use across various traditional healing systems. For centuries, indigenous communities in Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe have valued Woolly Grass for its soothing, restorative, and detoxifying properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, its rhizomes, commonly called “Bai Mao Gen,” have been utilized to clear heat, promote urination, and stop bleeding, making it a popular remedy for urinary tract infections, nosebleeds, and hematuria. In Ayurveda and folk medicine, Woolly Grass has been employed as a diuretic, fever reducer, and tonic for digestive health.

Woolly Grass is often included in herbal combinations, where it harmonizes with other botanicals to enhance overall efficacy. In multi-herb formulas, it is paired with cooling herbs to combat inflammation, or with gentle tonics to support the kidneys and liver. Its mild flavor and synergistic action make it a valuable component in herbal teas, decoctions, and powders aimed at promoting urinary health, cooling the body, and supporting recovery from illness. Many practitioners appreciate Woolly Grass for its gentle yet effective action, minimal side effects, and its ability to amplify the benefits of other herbs.

The enduring use of Woolly Grass in both traditional and modern nutritional products is a testament to its positive contributions to wellness. Its versatility, safety, and compatibility with other remedies underscore its continued relevance in holistic health practices.

Traditional and scientific validation

Woolly Grass (Imperata cylindrica), sometimes referred to as cogon grass, has a long history of use in traditional medicine across Asia, particularly in Chinese and Southeast Asian herbal practices. It has been valued for its purported diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and hemostatic properties. Traditionally, the rhizomes of Woolly Grass have been utilized to support urinary tract health, manage bleeding disorders, and alleviate fever and inflammation.

From a scientific standpoint, preliminary studies have begun to investigate the bioactive compounds present in Woolly Grass, such as flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic acids. Laboratory and animal studies suggest that extracts from this plant may exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities, which could underlie some of its traditional uses. For instance, some in vitro studies have demonstrated the plant’s potential to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and to scavenge free radicals, indicating possible benefits in supporting immune function and reducing oxidative stress.

However, rigorous clinical trials in humans are limited, and most of the available evidence is preclinical. While these early findings are promising, more comprehensive research is needed to validate its efficacy and safety in nutritional products for human consumption. Nonetheless, the longstanding traditional use and emerging scientific interest in Woolly Grass highlight its potential as a functional ingredient, warranting further exploration in the context of modern health and nutrition.

This ingredient is used for these health conditions

None

Woolly Grass is used to support these body systems

Respiratory System (Traditional)

Products containing Woolly Grass

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.