A note on Desmostachya bipinnata (Kusha): Pavitra grass of Vedic rituals used in Homa & Tarpana

Kusha (Desmostachya bipinnata (L.) Stapf) occupies a singular place at the intersection of South Asian ecology, culture, and medicine. Present review presented botanical description, distribution, ritual semiotics, ethnomedicinal knowledge and other significance of kusha with attention to its roles in Homa (fire oblations) and Tarpana (ancestral libations). Authors have outlined the historical sources and ritual praxis, summarize reported pharmacological leads and traditional formulations, discussed quality and sustainability considerations, and propose future research works connecting phytochemistry, conservation, and community livelihoods.