Amaranthus gangeticus Linn. (MARISA)

Marisa is mentioned in the saka varga by caraka (Su.27/98).  Vagbhata quoted marsa in A.H.Su./93).  This must be a variety of tanduliyaka as quoted in the nighantus.  Therefore, susruta might have considered it as tandulasahvaya (S.S.Ut.45/31).  Amaranthus gangeticus Linn Linn. Is identified as marisa.  Bhavamisra quoted two varieties of marisa viz., sveta (white) and rakta (red) varieties.  These two are A. bltum Linn. and A. gangeticus Linn respectively.

Botanical Description – It is a herb with grows to a height of 20 80 cm. Stem decumbent, branching, completely glabrous, finely striated. Leaves entire ovate constricted at tip, in general with brown markings. Leaves are small (5 15 mm) petiolate rounded, rhomboidal with notch on edge and awn often whitish or reddish on lamina, margin sometimes undulate. Flowers grouped in vertical axils, in false terminal spikes. Unisex, apetalous, spiciform. Bracteoles pointed whitish and membranous. Fruit elliptical, large, compressed, slightly wrinkled, pilate in length, irregularly dehiscent. Perianth 4 5 pieces. Leaf sheath 1 2 mm, dark brown to black, shiny.