Question 1

What is Typha angustifolia used for in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

In Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic tradition, Typha angustifolia is used primarily for its pollen and rhizome. The pollen is valued for its astringent and haemostatic properties, while the rhizome features in preparations targeting urinary and inflammatory conditions. It is formally catalogued among Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic medicinal plants.

Question 2

Where does Typha angustifolia grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The plant grows in shallow freshwater wetlands, including ancient irrigation tanks, river margins, and coastal lagoons across both the dry and wet zones of Sri Lanka. It tolerates slight salinity and often forms dense stands along disturbed or nutrient-rich water margins.

Question 3

How do I identify Typha angustifolia?

Accepted Answer

Typha angustifolia is recognised by its slender, strap-like leaves — typically less than one centimetre wide — and its brown, cylindrical flower spike with a visible gap between the male and female flower clusters. It usually grows between one and three metres tall in dense, colonial stands near water.

Question 4

Is Typha angustifolia the same as a cattail or bulrush?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Typha angustifolia is commonly called narrowleaf cattail or lesser bulrush in English. It is closely related to Typha latifolia (broadleaf cattail) but differs in having narrower leaves and a gap between the male and female sections of the flower spike.

Question 5

Is Typha angustifolia native to Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Typha angustifolia is a widespread species found across tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions of Asia, Europe, and the Americas. It is naturalised in Sri Lanka and found across a range of wetland habitats, though it is not strictly endemic to the island.

Question 6

Can Typha angustifolia become invasive?

Accepted Answer

In suitable conditions, Typha angustifolia can spread rapidly by both seed and rhizome, outcompeting native aquatic vegetation. In Sri Lanka's dry zone, it sometimes requires management to maintain the hydraulic function of ancient irrigation tanks and to protect wetland biodiversity.

Question 7

What scientific research has been done on Typha angustifolia?

Accepted Answer

Researchers have identified bioactive compounds in Typha angustifolia including flavonoids, polyphenols, and sterols, with preliminary studies examining antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. Comprehensive clinical evidence remains limited, and much of its use is still grounded in traditional ethnobotanical practice rather than modern clinical trials.