Health Benefits of Paragis

 

Paragis Grass

What Is Paragis Grass

Paragis grass is a wild perennial herb belonging to the Poaceae (grass) family. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions across Asia, Africa, and parts of South America. It thrives along roadsides, garden edges, and cracks in pavements, which is why most people dismiss it as a weed

8 Research Backed Paragis Benefits

1.  Supports Kidney Health and Prevents Kidney Stones

One of the most well studied paragis benefits is its effect on kidney health. A phytochemical study published in the World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research (2024) found that the ethanolic extract of Eleusine indica showed significant diuretic and anti-urolithiatic (kidney stone dissolving) properties in animal models. The extract helped reduce calcium oxalate crystal formation and improved markers of kidney function including serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels.

The natural diuretic properties of paragis grass promote urine production, helping flush toxins from the kidneys and urinary tract. This makes it a potential herbal support for people dealing with urinary tract infections or early stage kidney stone formation.

2. Reduces Inflammation and Pain

A 2025 study published in the Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Research tested Eleusine indica methanolic extract on animal models and found that it demonstrated significant analgesic activity, reducing pain response by 55.57% at a dose of 500 mg/kg. This approached the standard drug’s 73% inhibition rate, suggesting meaningful pain relief potential.

Earlier research in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2015) showed that paragis extract reduced paw edema in rats by over 40%, comparable to standard anti-inflammatory drugs. The anti-inflammatory properties come from its flavonoid content, particularly vitexin and isovitexin, which inhibit COX-2 enzymes involved in inflammation.

3. Contains Powerful Antioxidants

A study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine confirmed that Eleusine indica possesses strong antioxidant properties, with its methanolic extract showing the highest free radical scavenging activity. The researchers found a strong correlation between the plant’s total phenolic content and its antioxidant capacity.

These antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, which is linked to aging, chronic inflammation, and various diseases. Regular consumption of paragis tea may contribute to overall cellular health and disease prevention.

4. May Help Regulate Blood Sugar

Pre-clinical research has shown that paragis grass has antidiabetic properties. The bioactive compounds in the plant may help reduce glucose absorption and improve insulin function. A review in the Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry (2021) listed antidiabetic activity as one of the confirmed pharmacological properties of Eleusine indica based on multiple animal studies.

While this is promising, it is important to note that no large scale human clinical trials have been conducted yet. Paragis should not replace prescribed diabetes medication.

5. Protects Liver Health

Eleusine indica has demonstrated hepatoprotective effects in animal studies. Research showed that the plant’s extracts helped protect liver tissue from damage caused by carbon tetrachloride (a common liver toxin used in studies) and reduced oxidative stress in hepatic cells. The flavonoids in paragis grass appear to be responsible for this protective effect by reducing lipid peroxidation in liver tissues

6. Supports Digestive Health

Traditional healers across Asia have used paragis grass for digestive problems including constipation, bloating, and stomach infections. The plant’s natural fiber content supports gut health and promotes regular bowel movements. Its antimicrobial properties may also help fight harmful bacteria in the digestive system, though clinical evidence in humans remains limited.

7. May Help Lower Blood Pressure

Research has shown that ethanolic and chloroform extracts of Eleusine indica possess anti-hypertensive properties. In experimental studies, the extracts significantly inhibited hypertension in animal models. The plant’s natural diuretic effect also contributes to blood pressure reduction by helping the body eliminate excess sodium and water.

8. Has Antibacterial Properties

A study from Universiti Putra Malaysia found that the hexane extract of Eleusine indica showed strong antibacterial activity against several dangerous bacteria, including MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), B. subtilis, P. aeruginosa, and S. choleraesuis. This makes paragis grass a potential natural antibacterial agent, though more research is needed to determine effective human dosages.

How to prepare Paragis Tea. 

Paragis Tea Recipe: Take a handful of fresh paragis grass leaves and wash them thoroughly under clean running water. Boil 2 cups of water in a pot. Add the washed leaves to the boiling water. Let it simmer on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain the leaves and let the tea cool slightly. Drink warm, 1 to 2 cups per day.