Sunday, October 27, 2013

Sacred grass or Holy grass

Sacred grass or Holy grass:
In Hinduism every ritual is incomplete without using this sacred grass. It is commonly known as Durva,Kusha,King of Grasses,Bermuda Grass. It is one of favorite things for Lord Ganesha. Scientific Names of sacred grass are Cynodon dactylon, Desmostachya bipinnata,Eragrostis cynosuroides, Panicun dactylon and Imperata cylindrica. These grasses are included in all important rituals from ancient times. Ancients treat them as a symbol of rejuvenation, fertility, growth, expansion, reincarnation and hence overall success. This plant expands quickly, the root will search for the water, takes rebirth hence it is a strong survivor even tough conditions. That's why it was dedicated to Lord Ganesha (household god) not for the Lord Shiva (recluse god).

Cultural Beliefs:
Lord Vishnu taken form of sacred grass, Peepal tree and black stone due to curse of Vrindha(Wife of demon king Jalandhar).Sita devi placed this sacred grass between her and demon Ravan while making conversation.she also said to Ravan to never cross this grass blade.If he did this grass blade become a weapon to kill him.Lord Ganesha was praised as "Om Durva Priyaya Namaha". In navagraha homa this sacred grass is used to please Lord Ketu.

Another popular story is Lord Ganesha killed Fire Demon-Analasura(Son of God Yama) by swallowing him.The fire demon started to trouble Lord Ganesha stomach .By listening the words of Lord Shiva, All the gods brought sacred grass and kept on the stomach to cool his stomach from fire. Whenever we get bad dreams on the next morning if we place sacred grass in-front of Lord Ganesha by saying below phrases all the negative effects will be nullified.

Mantra:


Interesting Facts:
  • All the troubles related Lord Budha (who is one of nine planets according astrology) will turn to positive when we worship Lord Ganesha with this sacred grass.Memory power will rapidly increase when we worship him with this grass. Negative effects of Planet Rahu can be overcome by taking an extract of sacred grass(3-5 spoons) daily for 48days.
  • Some of old grandma tales say that, At the time of fighting between snake and mongoose (powerful enemies) when mongoose looses energy,Mangoose will go to sacred grass and roll over them to gain fresh energy. Many families give a glass of milk to children by dipping this grass in milk. Many religions use grass ring while doing religious ceremonies.According ancient texts holy grass can be used for 6 times when fresh grass is not available. While reusing, a specific number of gayatri mantra need to be recited. This grass needs to cut on the next day of the full moon. It should not be cut in any other day. By reciting below chants we need to receive this holy grass.

Scientific Reasons:
  • According to Ayurveda this sacred grass purifies Lungs and skin by flushing impurities from the body. This holy grass removes large amounts of toxins from body when we drink a small cup of juice on an empty stomach. Removes constipation, cures stammering. It also cures hypertension, all urinary problems and piles. It is powerful body detoxifier. It is used like a paste to eliminate skin diseases.
  • Research conducted by University of Allahabad found that this holy grass is Anti-Diabetic.
  • Holy grass will absorb various radiations in atmosphere. Ultra violet rays from the sun and negative radiations emit at the time of eclipse will be absorbed by this grass.That's why many Hindu families kept this sacred grass in homes at the time of eclipse.
  • It has the capability to control Magnetic path disturbances and purify the water.In many rituals Hindus dip this grass in water.And it has highest value to increase or vibrate the chants(sounds) through the tip.Hindus collect this grass in between the months of August-September of new moon and used throughout the year.
  • Dogs,Tigers chew this sacred grass and swallow the extract by splitting the pulp whenever they get stomach disturbances. This is the nature medication they follow to protect them from health problems.Due to its alkaline nature it keeps the body healthy.
  • It is unfailing nectar for all women menstrual problems. It improves sexual power and stamina.