Vrddhi is one among the astavarga and jivaniya dravyas. Though its identification is doubtful, it is noticed that some Habenaria species are being used as vrddhi. Bhavamisra recommended varahikanda as its substitute. Rddhi and vrddhi together are known as rddhi dvaya. The former is believed to be H. edgiworthi while the later is believed to be H. intermedia.
Botanical description – A terrestrial leafy herb, upto 50 cm high; with undivided or lobed tubers; leaves 3-5, flat, ovate-oblong, acuminate, with sheathing base; flowers spicate or racemose, greenish white, 1-6 in an inflorescence; sepals green; petals white; fruit is capsule, ellipsoid or oblong, sometimes beaked.
Part used – tubers
Uses – Root is used as tonic, alterative, aphrodisiac etc.
Note : H. foliosa Reichb is used medicinally by the Zulus.
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