by
Tanmay Ahuja
| Apr 17, 2025
Updated on - 02 Feb 2026
Nirgundi, or Vitex negundo, is a natural herb valued for its healing, pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. If you experience joint pain, headaches, menstrual discomfort or respiratory issues, Nirgundi may offer relief. Widely used in traditional Indian medicine, it provides antioxidant and therapeutic benefits.
This blog explains the health advantages of Nirgundi, how to use it safely at home and practical ways to include it in your wellness routine so you can support your health naturally.
Nutritional and medicinal properties of nirgundi
Nirgundi contains a variety of natural compounds that support overall health. Its roots and leaves are rich in essential oils, tannins, alkaloids and flavonoids, which give the plant its medicinal strength.
These bioactive compounds provide multiple benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects to reduce irritation and swelling, analgesic properties for pain relief, hormonal balancing support for women’s health, antifungal and antibacterial protection, anti-asthmatic effects to ease breathing and antioxidant activity to combat harmful free radicals.
Nurgundi for pain and inflammation relief
One of the primary uses of Nirgundi is that it can lower inflammation and pain. Many people usually apply the Nirgundi oil on painful areas, muscles and even joints to get relief from various conditions.
- Helps with joint pain: This plant is used for issues like general stiffness, knee pain and even arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory compounds can help reduce swelling around the joints. Massaging the areas with some warm Nirgundi oil can enhance blood flow and provide soothing relief.
- Useful for muscle pain: When you experience muscle soreness, sprain or strain after a workout or work, Nirgundi can help relax the muscles. A warm compress made from the Nirgundi leaves or gently massaging the oil can offer instant comfort.
- Gives relief from headaches: Applying the paste of crushed Nirgundi leaves on the forehead can relieve migraines and headaches. This traditional home remedy can reduce tension and stress effectively.
- Supports nerve pain: Some individuals also use Nirgundi to relieve nerve-related pain. Its calming effect on the nervous system may lower discomfort.
Benefits of nirgundi for respiratory health
Nirgundi is highly valued for improving respiratory health. It’s commonly used for managing breathing problems, cough and cold.
1. Clears congestion
Nirgundi leaves act as a natural decongestant. Boiling the leaves in water produces steam that helps open blocked nasal passages. The vapour reduces mucus, making breathing easier.
2. Helpful in asthma
Traditionally, Nirgundi leaves support individuals with asthma. Their anti-inflammatory and anti-asthmatic properties help relax airway muscles, easing breathing difficulties.
3. Lowers cough and throat irritation
Nirgundi leaves can be prepared as a herbal tea or simple kada. Drinking this warm decoction soothes irritation, mild throat infections and cough.
Respiratory issues become more common with age. While Nirgundi leaf decoctions and steam support easier breathing, elderly parents still need proper medical coverage for severe conditions. Choosing a health insurance plan, such as senior citizen health insurance, ensures timely treatment without financial stress.
Nirgundi and women’s health benefits
Nirgundi has a long history of supporting women’s health. Its natural ability to balance hormones makes it highly beneficial. It can help relieve menstrual pain, as its anti-inflammatory effects reduce period cramps and lower abdominal discomfort.
Drinking a mild Nirgundi leaf tea or applying warm Nirgundi oil on the lower abdomen may provide relief. Nirgundi is also believed to help with PMS symptoms. Many women experience mood swings, bloating and headaches before their periods, and Nirgundi may help calm the mind, reduce stress and balance hormone levels, easing these symptoms.
Traditional healers often suggest Nirgundi supplements to regulate irregular periods, as it supports healthy hormonal activity and helps maintain a regular monthly cycle. Nirgundi leaves are also sometimes used externally to support breast health; applying them as a warm poultice can help reduce breast pain or tenderness.
How to use nirgundi: Oil, leaves and supplement
Nirgundi can be used in many forms, depending on the health problem.
- Oil: This is one of the most well-known forms of Nirgundi. You can take a small amount of warm Nirgundi oil and gently apply it to the affected areas, leaving it on. It is commonly used for swelling, headaches, muscle pain and joint pain.
- Leaves: Nirgundi leaves can be used fresh or dried. For a decoction or kada, boil the leaves in water and drink the warm liquid to support digestion or relieve cold and cough. For steam inhalation, add the leaves to hot water and inhale the vapour. A paste made by crushing fresh leaves can be applied to the forehead or painful areas for instant relief.
- Powder: The powder is made from dried roots or leaves and is usually taken with warm honey or water. It supports respiratory and digestive health. Always follow the recommended dosage.
- Supplements: Nirgundi is also available in tablet or capsule form. These are commonly used for menstrual problems, hormonal balance and long-term pain management. They should be taken only as advised by a physician or health professional.
Possible side effects and precautions of nirgundi
While Nirgundi is natural, it may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may develop skin irritation when using the oil, so it is recommended to do a patch test before applying. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is best to avoid Nirgundi unless advised by a doctor.
Individuals with hormone-related health issues should consult a physician before taking Nirgundi internally.
Nirgundi in ayurvedic and modern medicine
Nirgundi holds an important place in both Ayurveda and modern medicine due to its diverse therapeutic properties. In Ayurveda, it is traditionally used to ease joint discomfort, balance the body’s natural systems and support respiratory health.
Modern research has highlighted its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help explain its effectiveness in overall wellness, wound care and pain relief.
Together, these perspectives show that Nirgundi is a natural herb with strong traditional roots and growing scientific support.
Conclusion
Nirgundi is a versatile herb that supports women’s hormonal balance, respiratory health and joint comfort. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties make it a valuable addition to daily wellness through teas, leaves, oil or supplements. While natural remedies help, emergencies can still occur. Protect your health with the right insurance; fill out the form on this page to get personalised health insurance advice and ensure timely care for you and your loved ones.
FAQs
1. Is it possible to use Nirgundi oil regularly?
Yes, you can use the oil regularly in small amounts for pain relief or massage, unless you have sensitive skin.
2. Is Nirgundi safe to drink in the form of tea?
Nirgundi kada or tea should be consumed in moderation. You should begin with small amounts to check how the body reacts.
3. Is it possible for children to use this herb?
It’s better to see Nirgundi for children only after having proper medical advice.
4. Can Nirgundi help with weight loss?
This does not stand out as a direct weight-loss herb, but its digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits might support overall wellness.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.