Varuna, Gokshura and Punarnava are three classical Ayurvedic herbs traditionally used to support the urinary system, and they often appear together in men's prostate and bladder formulas. The research on them is real but early: most studies are in animals or the laboratory, with only a handful of small human trials. This guide explains what each herb is, how Ayurveda uses it, what the evidence does and does not show, and how to use these herbs safely alongside medical care.
Key takeaways
- Varuna (Crataeva nurvala) is a bark traditionally used in Ayurveda for urinary stones and bladder health; its evidence is mainly from animal studies.
- Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) is a fruit used as a traditional diuretic; a 2017 review notes that clinical trials of it are scarce.
- Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) is traditionally used for swelling and urinary complaints; research on it is mostly preclinical.
- No study has shown that these herbs shrink an enlarged prostate or replace medical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
- Anyone taking blood pressure medicines, diuretics, blood thinners or diabetes medicines, or living with kidney disease, should speak to a doctor before using urinary herbs.
What are Varuna, Gokshura and Punarnava?
They are three plants described in classical Ayurvedic texts for the mutravaha srotas, the channels that form and carry urine. Each has a slightly different traditional role, which is why Ayurvedic practitioners often combine them.
| Herb | Botanical name | Part used | Traditional Ayurvedic role | Strength of modern evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Varuna | Crataeva nurvala (also spelled Crateva nurvala) | Stem bark | Urinary stones (ashmari), bladder comfort | Animal studies; one small human trial of a three-herb blend |
| Gokshura | Tribulus terrestris | Fruit (sometimes root) | Diuretic, urinary wellness, rasayana (rejuvenation) | Laboratory and animal studies; few clinical trials |
| Punarnava | Boerhavia diffusa (also spelled Boerhaavia) | Root or whole plant | Swelling (shotha), urinary and kidney complaints | Mostly preclinical; very limited human data |
| Shilajit (often added) | Mineral pitch (asphaltum), not a plant | Purified resin | Rasayana for strength and vitality | Laboratory and animal studies; small human studies |
In Ayurveda, these herbs are rarely used for one symptom in isolation. They sit within a wider plan that includes diet, fluid habits, daily routine and attention to digestion. That context matters when reading any claims about them.
How Ayurveda explains urinary health
Classical texts describe a group of urinary disorders, including Mutrakrichha (difficult or painful urination) and Mutraghata (obstructed or reduced flow), and a separate condition, Ashmari, for stones. Healthy urination is linked to Apana Vayu, the downward-moving aspect of Vata dosha that governs elimination. Vata is thought to rise naturally with age, with irregular routines, cold, dry food and suppressed urges, which is why Ayurvedic advice for older men focuses so much on warmth, regularity and not holding urine.
Within this framework, Varuna is thought to keep the urinary channels clear, Gokshura to support the flow and comfort of urine, and Punarnava to manage excess fluid. These are traditional explanations rather than proven mechanisms, but they help explain why the three herbs so often appear together.
What is Varuna (Crataeva nurvala) used for?
Varuna is best known in Ayurveda as a herb for ashmari (urinary stones) and for keeping the urinary tract comfortable. Classical texts list it among the main remedies for urinary stones, alongside Pashanabheda, Kulattha (horse gram) and Gokshura1.
What the research shows
In a 2010 experimental study, 18 rats had glass beads placed in the bladder to trigger stone formation; nine received a Varuna decoction and nine received water for 90 days. Stones formed in about 22% of treated rats compared with about 56% of the control group, and treated rats produced more urine1. That is encouraging, but it is a small animal study, one rat died in each group, and results in rats often do not carry over to people.
The main human evidence involves a combination product. A 2018 phase 2 randomised, double-blind trial gave 150 adults (59% women, average age about 63) with overactive bladder symptoms either a blend of Crataeva nurvala, Equisetum arvense (horsetail) and Lindera aggregata or a placebo for 8 weeks. The herbal group reported fewer daytime toilet trips and fewer night-time trips than the placebo group, with no significant side effects leading to withdrawal2. Because three herbs were given together, the trial cannot tell us what Varuna does on its own, and the authors called for longer-term research.
What it does not show
There is no good-quality human trial showing that Varuna changes prostate size or BPH outcomes. It is best described as a traditional urinary herb with promising early research.
Is Gokshura good for the prostate?
Gokshura is traditionally used for urinary wellness and as a mild diuretic, which is why it is a common ingredient in men's prostate formulas. However, there is no strong human evidence that Gokshura improves prostate health or BPH, and a 2017 scientific review described clinical trials of Tribulus terrestris as scarce3.
Traditional use
The name Gokshura refers to the spiny fruit, which resembles a cow's hoof. Its fruit is listed as a diuretic in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia and has been used for diuretic purposes in South Asian folk medicine3. In Ayurveda it is considered a rasayana for the urinary and reproductive systems and is a key ingredient in classical preparations such as Gokshuradi Guggulu.
What the research shows
Most studies are laboratory or animal work. A purified protein from the plant reduced calcium oxalate crystal formation in the test tube, and some animal work suggests a protective effect against stone formation, while one small clinical study reported changes in urinary citrate and oxalate after use3. None of this tells us about prostate size or symptoms. The review also notes that the popular belief that the plant raises testosterone is not well supported3.
Safety notes
A US Department of Defense supplement-safety resource reports that short-term studies of up to 3 months found few side effects, mainly stomach cramps and nausea, but that a few cases of serious liver and kidney damage have been reported in people taking supplements containing Tribulus, and that its long-term safety is not fully understood4. That is a good reason to use Gokshura only in sensible amounts, from a reputable maker, and with your doctor's knowledge if you have liver or kidney problems.
So, is Gokshura for prostate health worth considering? As part of a traditional formula, used alongside medical advice, it is reasonable. As a substitute for seeing a doctor about prostate symptoms, it is not.
What does Punarnava do for urinary health?
Punarnava is traditionally used to reduce fluid retention and support urinary and kidney function. Its Sanskrit name means "one that renews the body", reflecting its place as a rejuvenating herb5.
Traditional use
Ethnomedical records describe its use for swelling of the legs, fluid in the abdomen (ascites), jaundice, and urinary and kidney complaints5. In Ayurveda it is often paired with Gokshura and Varuna for urinary support, and with digestive herbs in formulas for swelling.
What the research shows
A 2023 review in Frontiers in Chemistry found that most evidence on Punarnava is preclinical. Rat studies suggest effects on blood pressure and protection of the kidneys from certain drug-induced damage, and one rodent study reported improved prostate tissue structure in a noradrenaline-induced model5; this tells us nothing about prostate size in men. The human data are sparse: in a small trial in people with diabetic kidney disease, six months of Punarnava reduced protein in the urine only to a statistically insignificant level, while a standard medicine produced a significant fall5.
The review's authors note that few toxicity studies exist, so safety data are limited, and one rat study suggested an anti-fertility effect in females at high doses5. Punarnava is therefore not suitable during pregnancy or when trying to conceive.
Why are these herbs combined, and where does Shilajit fit?
Ayurveda prefers combinations (yogas) because herbs are thought to work best in balance: one supports flow, another supports the tissue, and a rasayana supports overall strength. In urinary formulas, Varuna and Gokshura are considered to work on the urinary tract, Punarnava on fluid balance, and Shilajit as a general rasayana.
Shilajit is a mineral-rich resin that seeps from rocks, mainly in the Himalayas, formed over centuries from decomposed plant matter. Its main active fraction is fulvic acid, and most research on it is laboratory or animal work, with the authors of a 2012 review calling for more clinical trials6. Raw Shilajit can contain impurities, so only purified, tested Shilajit should be used. You can read more about it in our article on the benefits of Shilajit capsules.
Some classical formulas also include Vanga Bhasma (a classical processed tin preparation), a traditional preparation used in Ayurvedic pharmacy. We mention it here only because it is part of the formula below.
Where Purely Yours Prost Plus fits
Prost Plus combines the three herbs in this article, Varuna, Gokshura and Punarnava, with Shilajit and the classical ingredient Vanga Bhasma. It is designed to support healthy prostate function and everyday urinary comfort. It is not intended for kidney or bladder stones. The suggested use is 1 capsule twice a day, 10 minutes before breakfast and dinner, with lukewarm water; a pack holds 60 capsules, and the formula contains no steroids or hormones.
Prost Plus is not a treatment for BPH or any prostate or urinary condition, and it is not a replacement for a medical check-up or prescribed medicines. If you take blood thinners, blood pressure, diuretic or diabetes medicines, or have kidney or liver disease, speak to your doctor first. Our team can also help through a free consultation, and the full men's wellness collection is here.
What forms do these herbs come in?
Varuna, Gokshura and Punarnava are available as powders (churna), decoctions (kashaya), fermented liquids (asava and arishta), tablets and capsules. Each form has trade-offs in taste, convenience and consistency of dose.
- Churna (powder): the most traditional form, usually mixed with warm water. It is inexpensive but the dose can vary from spoon to spoon, and some people find the taste difficult.
- Kashaya (decoction): the herb is boiled in water and reduced. This is how Varuna was given in the animal study described above1, and it is common in Ayurvedic clinics, but it is time-consuming to prepare at home.
- Asava and arishta: classical fermented preparations such as Punarnavasava contain a small amount of self-generated alcohol, which some people prefer to avoid.
- Capsules and tablets: convenient and easier to dose consistently, which is why most modern formulas use them. Check the label for the amount of each herb, the manufacturer and the batch details.
Whatever the form, follow the dose on the label or from your Ayurvedic practitioner, take it at the same times each day, and do not combine several products containing the same herbs. If you already take a multi-herb formula, adding a separate Gokshura or Punarnava product can double the amount without you realising.
Are Varuna, Gokshura and Punarnava safe to take?
For most healthy adults, these herbs are generally used without problems in traditional amounts, but formal safety data are limited and they are not suitable for everyone. Because Gokshura and Punarnava are traditionally used as diuretics, they deserve extra care if you already take medicines that affect fluid, blood pressure or the kidneys.
Check with your doctor first if you
- take blood pressure medicines or diuretics (water tablets), as combining diuretic herbs with them may affect fluid and salt balance
- take blood thinners, diabetes medicines, lithium or medicines for heart rhythm
- have kidney disease, liver disease or a history of kidney stones
- are scheduled for surgery or a procedure
- are a woman who is pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive (these formulas are designed for men)
Quality matters
Choose products from GMP-certified manufacturers that list each ingredient, use purified Shilajit, and follow the dose on the label. More is not better with herbs, and the reports of liver and kidney injury with some Tribulus supplements are a reminder to stay within recommended amounts4.
How should you use urinary herbs alongside medical care?
Use them as support, not as a substitute for diagnosis. Urinary symptoms in men over 40 can come from BPH, infection, prostatitis, diabetes, medicines or, less often, cancer, and only a doctor can tell these apart7.
- Get a diagnosis first. See a doctor about new urinary symptoms before trying any supplement. Our guide to prostate health after 40 explains what to expect.
- Tell your doctor everything you take. Include Ayurvedic and herbal products on your medicine list.
- Keep the basics in place. Fluid timing, less caffeine and alcohol, fibre and activity remain the foundation. See our tips on waking at night to urinate and foods for prostate health.
- Give it a fair, monitored trial. Note your symptoms in a simple diary and review them with your doctor rather than adding more products.
- Stop and seek advice if you notice any side effects, such as stomach upset, rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or unusual tiredness.
When to see a doctor
- You cannot pass urine, or pass only drops despite a full, painful bladder: get urgent care.
- Blood in your urine, or urine that looks pink, red, brown or very cloudy.
- Pain or burning when urinating, or pain in the lower back, side, groin or pelvis.
- Fever, chills or vomiting along with urinary symptoms.
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine or unusual tiredness while taking any herbal product.
- Symptoms that are new, sudden or getting worse, or unexplained weight loss or bone pain.
The bottom line
Varuna, Gokshura and Punarnava have a long history in Ayurveda for urinary wellness, and early research is interesting, but it is mostly in animals and does not show that they shrink the prostate or replace medical care. Used in sensible amounts, from a trusted source and with your doctor in the loop, they can be one part of a wider plan for everyday urinary comfort.
Frequently asked questions
Is Gokshura good for the prostate?
Gokshura is traditionally used in Ayurveda for urinary wellness and as a mild diuretic, so it often appears in prostate formulas. However, good human trials are scarce, and there is no strong evidence that it shrinks an enlarged prostate. It can be used as support alongside medical care, not as a substitute for diagnosis.
What is Varuna used for in Ayurveda?
Varuna, the bark of Crataeva nurvala, is used in Ayurveda mainly for urinary stones and bladder comfort. Animal studies suggest it may reduce stone formation, and one small trial of a three-herb blend containing it reported fewer toilet trips in adults with overactive bladder. Larger human studies of Varuna alone are still needed.
What are the benefits of Punarnava?
Punarnava is traditionally used to reduce fluid retention and support urinary and kidney function. Most modern evidence comes from animal and laboratory studies, with very little human data. It should be avoided in pregnancy or when trying to conceive, and people with kidney disease should use it only with their doctor's approval.
Can I take Gokshura and Punarnava with blood pressure medicine?
Speak to your doctor first. Both herbs are traditionally used as diuretics, and combining them with blood pressure medicines or water tablets may affect fluid and salt balance. Your doctor can check whether they are suitable for you and whether any of your medicines need monitoring while you take them.
Are Ayurvedic urinary herbs safe for long-term use?
Long-term safety data for Varuna, Gokshura and Punarnava are limited. Short-term studies of Tribulus reported mostly mild stomach upset, but rare cases of liver and kidney injury have been linked to some Tribulus supplements. Use quality products at label doses, review them regularly with your doctor and stop if side effects appear.
Sources
- AYU (PMC): Agarwal S et al., Urolithic property of Varuna (Crataeva nurvala): an experimental study (2010)
- BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Schoendorfer N et al., Urox (Crataeva nurvala, Equisetum arvense, Lindera aggregata) for overactive bladder, phase 2 randomised trial (2018)
- Chemistry Central Journal (PMC): Zhu W et al., A review of traditional pharmacological uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of Tribulus terrestris (2017)
- Operation Supplement Safety (US Department of Defense): Tribulus terrestris as an ingredient in dietary supplements (2024)
- Frontiers in Chemistry: Das S et al., Ethnomedicinal values of Boerhaavia diffusa L. as a panacea against multiple human ailments (2023)
- International Journal of Alzheimer's Disease: Carrasco-Gallardo C et al., Shilajit: a natural phytocomplex with potential procognitive activity (2012)
- NIDDK (US National Institutes of Health): Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)
