In the Atharva Veda, one will find that the Dharba (Kusha), it’s scientific name, Desmotachya bipinnata, was born when Lord Vishnu incarnated as Kurma, the cosmic tortoise, supported Mandara mountain. As the mountain spined, several hairs got wiped off the dorsal side of the tortoise.  These hairs washed onto to dry land and transformed to dharba grass.  When the amritha (nectar of immortality) was formed due to the churning and distributed among the Gods, some of the amritha (nectar) fell on the grass and sanctified it permeating the dharba grass with healing properties.

Dharba has unique properties that helps to protect from toxic radiation and negative energies.  During eclipse, the wavelength and intensity of light radiations available on earth is altered.  This leads to uncontrolled growth of micro-organisms in food products and is not fit for consumption.  Thus, dharba is used to protect these food products.  Also, it has healing properties and is used in Ayurvedic medicine.

The dharba grass is used during auspicious as well as inauspicious rituals. This protects the people praying from negative spiritual influences.  A bundle of darbha grass are placed against the Kalasam, which holds water, to invoke Devas for worship. This bundle creates a channel to the realm of the Devas while shielding from negative influences.

Dharbha has the highest value in conducting the phonetic vibrations through its tip.  During Homa, dharba is placed on all four sides of the fire to help block all negative radiations.  It is known that dharba is not cultivated but grows naturally.