Bermuda Grass Benefits: Discover the Incredible Health Benefits of Couch Grass

Bermuda Grass, scientifically known as Cynodon dactylon, is a humble yet powerful herb that has been revered for centuries in Ayurveda, Siddha, and traditional medicine systems. Commonly known as Durva Grass in Hindi, Arugampul in Tamil, and Garikagaddi in Telugu, this grass is not just a weed but a treasure trove of health benefits. Let’s dive into the amazing Bermuda Grass benefits and how you can incorporate it into your daily life for better health and well-being.

What is Bermuda Grass?

Bermuda grass is a commonly found grass species, often seen along roadsides, in fields, cricket grounds, football fields, and golf courses. This creeping plant grows between 10 to 40 cm (4 to 16 inches) in height and has short, flat leaves. The spikelets appear in four or five slender spikes at the tips of the upright stems. The plant spreads extensively through creeping stolons and rhizomes, both above and below the ground, which helps it form a dense turf. Bermuda grass is a hardy plant that thrives in tropical climates and is highly drought-resistant. It is able to grow in extreme conditions, which is why it is widely available in regions such as India, Africa, and North America. The plant is recognized for its greyish-green, sword-like leaves and has been used for over a thousand years in traditional medicine due to its remarkable medicinal properties.

Other Names:

Cynodon dactylon, commonly known as Bermuda grass, is a widely spread grass species found around the world. Native to regions like Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia, it has spread to the Americas and other areas. Despite its name, Bermuda grass is not native to Bermuda and is actually an invasive species there, where it’s called crab grass. In India and Bangladesh, it’s known as Durba Grass, and in Pakistan, it’s called Dubo. Other names include Couch Grass in Australia and New Zealand, Bahama Grass in the Bahamas, Wiregrass in the United States, and Grama Grass in South Africa. Known for its drought resistance, it is commonly used in lawns, sports fields, and even in religious practices.

Scientific Classification of Cynodon dactylon:

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Clade: Tracheophytes
• Clade: Angiosperms
• Clade: Monocots
• Order: Poales
• Family: Poaceae
• Subfamily: Chloridoideae
• Genus: Cynodon
• Species: C. dactylon
• Binomial name: Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.

Nutritional Profile of Bermuda Grass

Bermuda Grass is packed with essential nutrients, including:

• Calcium
• Phosphorous
• Potassium
• Manganese
• Protein
• Enzymes
• Flavonoids
• Alkaloids

These nutrients make it a powerhouse of health benefits, from boosting immunity to detoxifying the body.

How to Prepare Bermuda Grass Juice (Couch/Carb Grass)

To enjoy the Bermuda Grass benefits, you can easily prepare its juice at home:

1. Take half a cup of fresh Bermuda Grass and soak it in water for 5-10 minutes.
2. Rinse well and blend it with half a cup of boiled water.
3. Dilute the juice by adding 100 ml of boiled water.
4. Add a dash of lemon juice, salt, or honey for taste.
5. Consume 50 ml of this juice twice daily for optimal health benefits.

Bermuda Grass Benefits

1. Potent Alkalizer

Bermuda Grass juice is a natural alkalizer that helps balance the body’s pH levels. It reduces acidity, treats acidosis, and soothes internal inflammation. For instant relief from acidity, mix 3 teaspoons of Bermuda Grass juice in a glass of water and drink it on an empty stomach.

2. Detoxifies the Body

One of the most celebrated Bermuda Grass benefits is its detoxifying property. The high chlorophyll content in Bermuda Grass juice helps cleanse the liver, purify the blood, and flush out toxins from the body.

3. Improves Skin Health

Bermuda Grass juice is a natural remedy for skin ailments like eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections. Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties heal rashes, itching, and wounds. Applying Bermuda Grass juice mixed with turmeric can treat fungal infections and protect the skin from UV damage.

4. Boosts Immunity

Bermuda Grass contains Cynodon Dactylon Protein Fractions (CDPF), which strengthen the immune system. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, it fights free radicals, reduces inflammation, and prevents chronic diseases.

5. Regulates Blood Sugar

Studies have shown that bermuda juice has hypoglycemic effects, making it effective in managing blood sugar levels. Drinking this juice regularly can help stabilize glucose levels and prevent diabetes-related complications.

6. Acts as a Diuretic

Bermuda Grass juice is a natural diuretic that helps treat kidney stones and urinary tract infections. It flushes out toxins, reduces water retention, and promotes kidney health.

7. Enhances Dental Health

The flavonoids in Bermuda Grass help prevent mouth ulcers, bleeding gums, and bad breath. Regular consumption of Bermuda Grass juice strengthens teeth and freshens breath.

8. Remedies Menstrual Problems

Bermuda Grass juice is a herbal remedy for menstrual issues like irregular cycles, heavy bleeding, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Drinking Bermuda Grass /Arugampul juice with honey can help regulate menstrual flow and treat menorrhagia.

Stopping Bleeding and Healing Wounds with Bermuda Grass:

If someone is working in the field or in a place far from a doctor, and they get injured, it may take a long time to reach medical help. In such cases, the soft part of Bermuda grass (including the leaves and stem) can be chewed or mashed and applied to the wound. This helps stop the bleeding quickly and promotes faster healing. This method is commonly used by people in rural areas of India and Bangladesh, and they have found it to be very effective.

Uses and Environmental Benefits of Bermuda Grass

1. In Sports Fields

• Bermuda grass is ideal for cricket, football, golf, tennis, and other sports fields because it grows quickly, forms a dense turf, and can withstand heavy foot traffic.
• It thrives in tropical and warm climates, making it a popular choice in stadiums worldwide.

2. In Lawns and Landscaping

• It is widely used in parks, gardens, home lawns, school campuses, and office spaces because of its lush green and beautiful appearance.
• Requires minimal maintenance and spreads quickly, making it a preferred choice for landscaping.
• Open spaces covered with Bermuda grass look aesthetically pleasing and enhance natural beauty.

3. As Animal Feed

• Bermuda grass is highly nutritious for cattle, goats, and sheep.
• It helps in digestion and increases milk production in dairy animals.
• Studies show that feeding cows a higher amount of this grass regularly leads to better health and increased milk yield.

4. Soil Erosion Control and Land Conservation

• The deep roots of Bermuda grass help strengthen the soil and prevent erosion.
• It is planted along roadsides, riverbanks, slopes, and embankments to prevent soil from washing away.
• It can grow in dry and infertile soil, making it useful for land conservation.

5. Environmental Benefits

• Reduces climate change impact – Absorbs carbon dioxide from the air and stores carbon, helping to lower global warming.
• Retains soil moisture – Helps the soil stay hydrated, maintaining fertility even in dry areas.
• Improves air quality – Traps dust and pollutants, making the air cleaner.
• Controls temperature – Reduces the “Urban Heat Island Effect” in cities, helping to keep the environment cooler.

6. Easy to Grow and Sell

• Bermuda grass grows quickly and spreads naturally through its roots and runners, making it easy to cultivate.
• It can be planted in gardens, backyards, and empty spaces to create a green and useful ground cover.
• This grass has a good market demand and is often sold as turf rolls, seeds, or fresh-cut grass for lawns, sports fields, and cattle feed.
• Farmers and gardeners can grow and sell Bermuda grass as an additional source of income.

Bermuda grass is not just an ordinary grass; it plays a vital role in agriculture, livestock farming, environmental protection, and even as a profitable business opportunity.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

In India, Bermuda Grass (Durva Grass) holds great spiritual importance. It is considered sacred and is often offered to Lord Ganesha during religious ceremonies. Its medicinal properties have been celebrated in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine for centuries.

Bermuda Grass Cultivation

Bermuda Grass is a fast-growing, resilient grass widely used for lawns, sports fields, animal fodder, and soil conservation. It thrives in warm climates and requires minimal maintenance.

1. Suitable Conditions for Bermuda Grass Cultivation

Bermuda Grass grows best in tropical and subtropical regions. It spreads quickly with adequate sunlight and warm temperatures.

Ideal Climate

• Best growth occurs between 18-35°C.
• Requires full sunlight; grows slowly in shaded areas.
• Drought-resistant, but regular watering promotes faster growth.

Suitable Soil

• Thrives in loamy or sandy-loam soil.
• Grows best in soil with a pH of 5.5-7.5.
• Requires good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

2. Methods of Growing Bermuda Grass

Bermuda Grass can be grown using seeds, sprigs, or rhizomes.

(A) Growing from Seeds

1. Land Preparation: Till the soil and remove weeds.
2. Seed Sowing: Spread 10-15 grams of seeds per square meter and cover them lightly with soil (0.5 cm depth).
3. Watering: Water daily for the first two weeks.
4. Fertilization: Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer after 15 days for faster growth.
5. First Mowing: Cut the grass after 4-6 weeks for even growth.

(B) Growing from Sprigs or Rhizomes

1. Land Preparation: Clear weeds and loosen the soil.
2. Planting: Place sprigs or rhizomes 15-20 cm apart in moist soil.
3. Watering: New shoots will emerge in 2-3 weeks; water occasionally.
4. Regular Mowing: Trim every 3-4 weeks to encourage thick growth.

3. Maintenance & Care

Watering

• Summer: Water once or twice per week.
• Rainy Season: Reduce watering as natural rainfall is sufficient.

Fertilization

• Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 6-8 weeks.
• Organic compost every 3 months improves density and color.

Weed Control

• Regularly remove weeds.
• Trim overgrown areas to maintain a uniform look.

Pest & Disease Control

• Fungal Infections: Ensure good drainage.
• Insects: Use neem oil or organic pesticides if needed.

4. Economic Potential of Bermuda Grass Farming

Selling & Market Demand

Bermuda Grass is easy to sell as it has multiple uses:

• For Lawns: Sold per square foot or square meter.
• As Animal Fodder: Supplied to local markets or farms.
• For Land Conservation Projects: Used in government and private projects.

Profitability

• Low Maintenance Costs: Requires minimal fertilizers and water.
• Year-Round Growth: Ensures continuous income.
• High Demand: Used globally for various purposes.

Conclusion

The Bermuda Grass benefits are truly remarkable, making it a must-have in your daily health routine. From detoxifying the body to boosting immunity and improving skin health, Arugampul juice is a natural remedy for numerous ailments. Embrace the power of this wonder herb and experience its healing properties for a healthier, more energetic life.

Disclaimer:

The content provided here is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before trying any new remedy, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are on medication.

Reference Link

1.Classification

2. Benifits

3 Cultivation

Research:

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Bermuda grass has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation and pain, making it beneficial for conditions like arthritis.

Reference: Singh, R. P., & Padmavathi, B. (2010). Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity of Cynodon dactylon. Journal of Ethnopharmacology.

2. Diuretic Effects: It acts as a natural diuretic, helping to improve kidney function and flush out toxins from the body.

• Reference: Parekh, J., & Chanda, S. (2007). Diuretic activity of Cynodon dactylon. Journal of Ethnopharmacology.

3. Blood Purification: Bermuda grass is known to purify the blood and help regulate blood sugar levels.

• Reference: Kumar, A., & Singh, V. (2012). Blood purifying properties of Cynodon dactylon. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research.

4. Antioxidant Properties: It contains antioxidants that combat free radicals, protecting cells from damage and supporting overall health.

• Reference: Rajesh, V., & Perumal, P. (2014). Antioxidant activity of Cynodon dactylon. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research.

5. Digestive Aid: Bermuda grass aids digestion and improves gastrointestinal health.

• Reference: Sharma, R., & Sharma, A. (2011). Digestive properties of Cynodon dactylon. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine.

6. Drought Resistance: Bermuda grass is highly drought-tolerant, making it ideal for arid and semi-arid regions.

• Reference: Zhang, J., Unruh, J. B., & Kenworthy, K. E. (2017). Drought resistance of bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.) genotypes. Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science.

7. Soil Erosion Control: Its dense root system helps prevent soil erosion and stabilizes the soil structure.

• Reference: Burton, G. W. (1954). Coastal bermudagrass. Advances in Agronomy.

8. Turf and Lawn Management: Bermuda grass is widely used for lawns and sports fields due to its durability and low maintenance requirements.

• Reference: Trenholm, L. E., Unruh, J. B., & Cisar, J. L. (2001). Managing bermudagrass turf: Selection, construction, and maintenance. University of Florida IFAS Extension.

9. Livestock Forage: It serves as a nutritious forage for livestock, supporting animal health and productivity.

• Reference: Hanna, W. W., & Anderson, W. F. (2008). Development and impact of vegetative hybrids in bermudagrass. Crop Science.

10. Biodiversity Support: Bermuda grass provides habitat and food for various species, contributing to ecological balance.

• Reference: Taliaferro, C. M. (1995). Diversity and vulnerability of Bermuda turfgrass species. Crop Science.