Why does Hindus add “Darbha Grass” to every food during moon eclipse?

Electron microscopy of different grasses revealed stunning nano-patterns and hierarchical nano or micro structures in Darbha grass while they were absent in other grasses. 1/n

On studying the effect of various grasses on the microbial community of the curd, Darbha grass alone was found to attract enormous number of bacteria into the hierarchical surface features.

These are the bacteria responsible for fermentation of cow’s curd.

During eclipse, the wavelength and intensity of light radiations available on the earth’s surface is altered. Especially, the blue and ultraviolet radiations, which are known for their natural disinfecting property, are not available in sufficient quantities during eclipse.

This leads to uncontrolled growth of micro-organisms in food products during eclipse and the food products are not suitable for consumption. Darbha was thus used as a natural disinfectant on specific occasions, say researchers.

Further, the scientists say that Darbha could be used as a natural food preservative in place of harmful chemical preservatives and the artificial surfaces mimicking the hierarchical nano patterns on the surface of Darbha grass could find applications in health care as well.