MEDICINAL PLANTS
Ageratum conyzoides Mexican ageratum Asteraceae
It forms clumps of foliage with fluffy flowers Propagate by spring-sown seed.
Medical use: A. conyzoides is widely utilized in traditional medicine by various cultures worldwide, although applications vary by region. In Central Africa it is used to treat pneumonia, but the most common use is to cure wounds and burns ). Traditional communities in India use this species as a bacteriocide, antidysenteric, and antilithic, and in Asia, South America, and Africa, aqueous extract of this plant is used as a bacteriocide. In Cameroon and Congo, traditional use is to treat fever, rheumatism, headache, and colic .
In Reunion, the whole plant is used as an antidysenteric . The use of this species in traditional medicine is extensive in Brazil. Aqueous extracts of leaves or whole plants have been used to treat colic, colds and fevers, diarrhea, rheumatism, spasms, or as a tonic. A. conyzoides has quick and effective action in burn wounds and is recommended by Brazilian Drugs Central as an antirheumatic .
Alstonia scholaris Devil Tree, Pulai Apocynaceae
The tree has a furrowed trunk, oblong stalked leaves up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide, dispersed in four to six whorls round the stem, their upper side glossy, under side white, nerves running at right angles to the mid-rib. The bark is almost odourless and very bitter, in commerce it is found in irregular fragments 1/8 to 1/2 inch thick, texture spongy, fracture coarse and short, outside layer rough uneven fissured brownish grey and sometimes blackish spots; inside layer bright buff, transverse section shows a number of small medullary rays in inner layer.
Constituents:It contains three alkaloids, Ditamine, Echitamine or Ditaine, and Echitenines, and several fatty and resinous substances- the second is the strongest base and resembles ammonia in chemical characters.
Medicinal Action and Uses:The bark is used in homoeopathy for its tonic bitter and astringent properties; it is particularly useful for chronic diarrhoea and dysentry.
Constituents:It contains three alkaloids, Ditamine, Echitamine or Ditaine, and Echitenines, and several fatty and resinous substances- the second is the strongest base and resembles ammonia in chemical characters.
Medicinal Action and Uses:The bark is used in homoeopathy for its tonic bitter and astringent properties; it is particularly useful for chronic diarrhoea and dysentry.
Amaranthus spinosus Bayam duri Amaranthaceae
Annual growing to 0.6m, and is frost tender. The flowers are monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and are pollinated by Wind. The plant is self-fertile.
Edible Uses Leaves; Seed. Leaves and stems - raw or cooked as a spinach
Seed - cooked. Very small but easy to harvest and very nutritious.
Medicinal Uses:The seed is used as a poultice for broken bones.
The plant is astringent, diaphoretic, diuretic, emollient and febrifuge. It is used internally in the treatment of internal bleeding, diarrhoea and excessive menstruation.]. It is also used in the treatment of snake bites. Externally, it is used to treat ulcerated mouths, vaginal discharges, nosebleeds and wounds. The plant can be used fresh or it can also be harvested when coming into flower and dried for later use.
The root is emmenagogue and galactogogue. It is used in the treatment of menorrhagia, gonorrhoea, eczema and colic.
Edible Uses Leaves; Seed. Leaves and stems - raw or cooked as a spinach
Seed - cooked. Very small but easy to harvest and very nutritious.
Medicinal Uses:The seed is used as a poultice for broken bones.
The plant is astringent, diaphoretic, diuretic, emollient and febrifuge. It is used internally in the treatment of internal bleeding, diarrhoea and excessive menstruation.]. It is also used in the treatment of snake bites. Externally, it is used to treat ulcerated mouths, vaginal discharges, nosebleeds and wounds. The plant can be used fresh or it can also be harvested when coming into flower and dried for later use.
The root is emmenagogue and galactogogue. It is used in the treatment of menorrhagia, gonorrhoea, eczema and colic.
Andrographis paniculata King of bitters, Hempidu Bumi Acanthaceae
It grows erect to a height of 30-110 cm in moist shady places with glabrous leaves and white flowers with rose-purple spots on the petals. Stem dark green, 0.3 - 1.0 m in height, 2 - 6 mm in diameter, quadrangular with longitudinal furrows and wings on the angles of the younger parts, slightly enlarged at the nodes; leaves glabrous, up to 8.0 cm long and 2.5 cm broad, lanceolate, pinnate; flowers small, in lax spreading axillary and terminal racemes or panicles; capsules linear-oblong, acute at both ends, 1.9 cm x 0.3 cm; seeds
Medicinal Properties: The plant is bitter, acrid, cooling, laxative, vulnerary, antipyretic, antiperiodic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, depurative, soporific, anthelmintic, digestive and useful in hyperdispsia, buring sensation, wounds, ulcers, chronic fever, malarial and intermittent fevers, inflammations, cough, bronchitis, skin diseases, leprosy, colic, flatulence, diarrhoea, dysentery, haemorrhoids etc. Kalmegh is also a reputed Homoeopathic drug. In Bengal (India), household medicine known as "Alui" is prepared from fresh leaves and is given to children suffering from stomach complaints. Recent experimental finding indicated that Kalmegh is having antityphoid and antibiotic properties. It has been proved to be hepatopratective drug.numerous, sub quadrate, yellowish brown.
Medicinal Properties: The plant is bitter, acrid, cooling, laxative, vulnerary, antipyretic, antiperiodic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, depurative, soporific, anthelmintic, digestive and useful in hyperdispsia, buring sensation, wounds, ulcers, chronic fever, malarial and intermittent fevers, inflammations, cough, bronchitis, skin diseases, leprosy, colic, flatulence, diarrhoea, dysentery, haemorrhoids etc. Kalmegh is also a reputed Homoeopathic drug. In Bengal (India), household medicine known as "Alui" is prepared from fresh leaves and is given to children suffering from stomach complaints. Recent experimental finding indicated that Kalmegh is having antityphoid and antibiotic properties. It has been proved to be hepatopratective drug.numerous, sub quadrate, yellowish brown.
Artemisia vulgaris Mugwort Asteraceae
It is a tall herbaceous perennial plant with a woody root. The leaves are 5-20 cm long, dark green, pinnate, with dense white tomentose hairs on the underside. The erect stem often has a red-purplish tinge. The rather small flowers (5 mm long) are radially symmetrical with many yellow or dark red petals. The narrow and numerous capitula (flower heads) spread out in racemose panicles. It flowers from July to September.
Herbal Medicine
The plant contains ethereal oils (such as cineole, or wormwood oil, and thujone), flavonoids, triterpenes, and coumarin derivatives. Chewing some leaves will kill the fatigue and stimulate the nervous system.
Medical use: Mugwort is used in the practice of traditional Chinese medicine in a pulverized, aged, and recompounded form called moxa. The British RCT yielded results that indicate that moxibustion of mugwort was indeed effective at increasing the cephalic positioning of fetuses who were in a breech position before the intervention. Since it also causes uterine contractions, it has been used to cause abortion. It also plays a role in Asian traditional medicine as a method of correcting breech presentation. This method is termed moxibustion. A study of 260 Chinese women at 33 weeks of pregnancy demonstrated cephalic version within two weeks in 75% of fetuses carried by patients who were treated with moxibustion, as opposed to 48% in the control group.
Herbal Medicine
The plant contains ethereal oils (such as cineole, or wormwood oil, and thujone), flavonoids, triterpenes, and coumarin derivatives. Chewing some leaves will kill the fatigue and stimulate the nervous system.
Medical use: Mugwort is used in the practice of traditional Chinese medicine in a pulverized, aged, and recompounded form called moxa. The British RCT yielded results that indicate that moxibustion of mugwort was indeed effective at increasing the cephalic positioning of fetuses who were in a breech position before the intervention. Since it also causes uterine contractions, it has been used to cause abortion. It also plays a role in Asian traditional medicine as a method of correcting breech presentation. This method is termed moxibustion. A study of 260 Chinese women at 33 weeks of pregnancy demonstrated cephalic version within two weeks in 75% of fetuses carried by patients who were treated with moxibustion, as opposed to 48% in the control group.
Blumea balsamifera Sambong Nyawa Asteraceae
Softly hairy, half woody, strongly aromatic shrub, . Simple, alternate, broadly elongated leaves, 7-20 cm long, with toothed margin and appendaged or divided base. Loose yellow flower head scattered along much-branched leafy panicles. Two types of discoid flowers: peripheral ones tiny, more numerous, with tubular corolla; central flowers few, large with campanulate corolla. Anther cells tailed at base. Fruit (achene) dry, 1-seeded, 10-ribbed, hairy at top.
Properties:Vulnerary, antidiarrhetic, antigastralgic, expectorant, stomachic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, astringent, anthelmintic.
Propagation by cuttings and layering.
Parts utilized:Leaves (fresh or dried). Mature, healthy, fully expanded leaves are harvested while senescent leaves are discarded. Air-dry until they crumble when crushed with the fingers. Store in amber colored bottles in a cool, dry place. Medical use:Leaves as poultice for abscesses. Decoction of roots and leaves for fevers and cystitis. Applied while hot over the sinuses. Used for wounds and cuts. Fresh juice of leaves to wounds and cuts.
Poultice of leaves to forehead for headaches. Tea is used for colds and as an expectorant; likewise, has antispasmodic and antidiarrheal benefits.
Properties:Vulnerary, antidiarrhetic, antigastralgic, expectorant, stomachic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, astringent, anthelmintic.
Propagation by cuttings and layering.
Parts utilized:Leaves (fresh or dried). Mature, healthy, fully expanded leaves are harvested while senescent leaves are discarded. Air-dry until they crumble when crushed with the fingers. Store in amber colored bottles in a cool, dry place. Medical use:Leaves as poultice for abscesses. Decoction of roots and leaves for fevers and cystitis. Applied while hot over the sinuses. Used for wounds and cuts. Fresh juice of leaves to wounds and cuts.
Poultice of leaves to forehead for headaches. Tea is used for colds and as an expectorant; likewise, has antispasmodic and antidiarrheal benefits.
Caesalpinia sappan Sappanwood, Kayu sepang Leguminosae
Sappanwood or Sapanwood (Caesalpinia sappan, Japanese: Soboku) is a sort of redwood found in tropical Southeast Asia. It was first called "brezel wood" in Europe.
This plant has many uses. It possesses medicinal abilities as an anti-bacterial and for its anti-coagulant properties. It also produces a valued type of reddish dye, used for dying cotton products.
Sappanwood used to be one of the main sources of trade during the 17th century between Japan and its Southeast Asia neighbors (especially Siam) onboard Red Seal Ships.
Medical use:Decoction of the wood and bark as astringent and as a cure for tuberculosis, diarrhea and dysentery. It is also recommended for menstrual disorders and as a general blood tonic. The seeds are a sedative.Wood against dengue, syphilis and cataract; used as depurative.
This plant has many uses. It possesses medicinal abilities as an anti-bacterial and for its anti-coagulant properties. It also produces a valued type of reddish dye, used for dying cotton products.
Sappanwood used to be one of the main sources of trade during the 17th century between Japan and its Southeast Asia neighbors (especially Siam) onboard Red Seal Ships.
Medical use:Decoction of the wood and bark as astringent and as a cure for tuberculosis, diarrhea and dysentery. It is also recommended for menstrual disorders and as a general blood tonic. The seeds are a sedative.Wood against dengue, syphilis and cataract; used as depurative.
Cassia alata Gelenggang Leguminosa
Traditional medicinal uses: Leaves or sap are used to treat fungal infections such as ringworm. They contain a fungicide, chrysophanic acid. Because of its anti-fungal properties, it is a common ingredient in soaps, shampoos and lotions in the Philippines. The effectiveness of this plant against skin diseases is confirmed by modern scientific studies.
Other chemicals contained in the plant includes saponin which acts as a laxative and expels intestinal parasites. In Africa, the boiled leaves are used to treat high-blood pressure. In South America, besides skin diseases, it is also used to treat a wide range of ailments from stomach problems, fever, asthma to snake bite and venereal diseases (syphilis, gonorrhoea).
Role in the habitat: It is the food plant of some butterflies. The plant recruits ant bodyguards against these caterpillars. It has "extrafloral nectaries" near the base of the leaves, that produce sweet nectar to attract ants.
Other chemicals contained in the plant includes saponin which acts as a laxative and expels intestinal parasites. In Africa, the boiled leaves are used to treat high-blood pressure. In South America, besides skin diseases, it is also used to treat a wide range of ailments from stomach problems, fever, asthma to snake bite and venereal diseases (syphilis, gonorrhoea).
Role in the habitat: It is the food plant of some butterflies. The plant recruits ant bodyguards against these caterpillars. It has "extrafloral nectaries" near the base of the leaves, that produce sweet nectar to attract ants.
Centella asiatica Penanga Umbelliferae
Leaves.
Leaves - raw or cooked. Used in salads and in curries. Cooked as a vegetable. An aromatic flavour. Medicinal Uses
Adaptogen; Antiinflammatory; Cardiac; Depurative; Diuretic; Febrifuge; Hypotensive; Nervine; Sedative; Skin; Tonic.
It is a useful tonic and cleansing herb for skin problems and digestive disorders. In India it is chiefly valued as a revitalizing herb that strengthens nervous function and memory. The whole plant is alterative, cardio-depressant, hypotensive, weakly sedative and tonic. It is a rejuvenating diuretic herb that clears toxins, reduces inflammations and fevers, improves healing and immunity, improves the memory and has a balancing effect on the nervous system. It has been suggested that regular use of the herb can rejuvenate the nervous system and it therefore deserves attention as a possible cure for a wide range of nervous disorders including multiple sclerosis[K]. Recent research has shown that gotu kola reduces scarring, improves circulatory problems in the lower limbs and speeds the healing process[238]. It is used internally in the treatment of wounds, chronic skin conditions (including leprosy), venereal diseases, malaria, varicose veins, ulcers, nervous disorders and senility. Caution should be observed since excess doses cause headaches and transient unconsciousness. Externally, the herb is applied to wounds, haemorrhoids and rheumatic joints. The plant can be harvested at any time of the year and is used fresh or dried. It is best used fresh.
Cosmetic.Extracts of the plant are added to cosmetic masks and creams to increase collagen and firm the skin.
Leaves - raw or cooked. Used in salads and in curries. Cooked as a vegetable. An aromatic flavour. Medicinal Uses
Adaptogen; Antiinflammatory; Cardiac; Depurative; Diuretic; Febrifuge; Hypotensive; Nervine; Sedative; Skin; Tonic.
It is a useful tonic and cleansing herb for skin problems and digestive disorders. In India it is chiefly valued as a revitalizing herb that strengthens nervous function and memory. The whole plant is alterative, cardio-depressant, hypotensive, weakly sedative and tonic. It is a rejuvenating diuretic herb that clears toxins, reduces inflammations and fevers, improves healing and immunity, improves the memory and has a balancing effect on the nervous system. It has been suggested that regular use of the herb can rejuvenate the nervous system and it therefore deserves attention as a possible cure for a wide range of nervous disorders including multiple sclerosis[K]. Recent research has shown that gotu kola reduces scarring, improves circulatory problems in the lower limbs and speeds the healing process[238]. It is used internally in the treatment of wounds, chronic skin conditions (including leprosy), venereal diseases, malaria, varicose veins, ulcers, nervous disorders and senility. Caution should be observed since excess doses cause headaches and transient unconsciousness. Externally, the herb is applied to wounds, haemorrhoids and rheumatic joints. The plant can be harvested at any time of the year and is used fresh or dried. It is best used fresh.
Cosmetic.Extracts of the plant are added to cosmetic masks and creams to increase collagen and firm the skin.
Cordyline fruticosa Andong Laxmanniaceae
Cordyline fruticosa (Ti plant, also known as the good luck plant), is an evergreen flowering plant in the family Laxmanniaceae, formerly treated in the family Agavaceae. It is native to tropical southeastern Asia, Papua New Guinea, northeastern Australia and across Polynesia to Hawaii. It is present in New Zealand, where it is thought to have been introduced from Polynesia by Māori.
It is a woody plant growing up to 4 m tall, with leaves 30-60 cm (rarely 75 cm) long and 5-10 cm wide at the top of a woody stem. It produces 40-60 cm long panicles of small scented yellowish to red flowers that mature into red berries.
Cultivation and uses
The ti plant is most closely associated with Polynesia, where the ti plant proved to be very versatile, especially for its large leaves. Ti leaves were woven into roof thatch, clothing (especially dance dress), and other items. Its starchy rhizomes were eaten as food (very sweet when the plant gets older) and used medicinally,the boiled roots were brewed into a potent liquor known as 'okolehao. The large, sweet starchy roots were baked and eaten as a dessert. This versatile plant also had many medicinal uses, either alone or as a wrapping for other herbs needing to be steamed or boiled. The ti leaves were wrapped around warm stones to serve as hot packs, used in poultices and applied to fevered brows. A drink from boiled green ti leaves were used to aid nerve and muscle relaxation. Steam from boiled young shoots and leaves made an effective decongestant. The pleasantly fragrant flowers were also used for asthma and its leaves were used to wrap food and other items.
It is a woody plant growing up to 4 m tall, with leaves 30-60 cm (rarely 75 cm) long and 5-10 cm wide at the top of a woody stem. It produces 40-60 cm long panicles of small scented yellowish to red flowers that mature into red berries.
Cultivation and uses
The ti plant is most closely associated with Polynesia, where the ti plant proved to be very versatile, especially for its large leaves. Ti leaves were woven into roof thatch, clothing (especially dance dress), and other items. Its starchy rhizomes were eaten as food (very sweet when the plant gets older) and used medicinally,the boiled roots were brewed into a potent liquor known as 'okolehao. The large, sweet starchy roots were baked and eaten as a dessert. This versatile plant also had many medicinal uses, either alone or as a wrapping for other herbs needing to be steamed or boiled. The ti leaves were wrapped around warm stones to serve as hot packs, used in poultices and applied to fevered brows. A drink from boiled green ti leaves were used to aid nerve and muscle relaxation. Steam from boiled young shoots and leaves made an effective decongestant. The pleasantly fragrant flowers were also used for asthma and its leaves were used to wrap food and other items.
Costus spesiosus Spiral ginger Zingiberacea
Of wide distribution in tropical Asia, this tall-growing species has short elliptic leaves running in a conspicuous spiral up the slender cane-like stems that are themselves gently twisted into a spiral, and up to 8 ft (2.4 m) tall.
The large flowerheads consist of tightly overlapping green bracts tinged reddish, and white, sometimes pinkish flowers with yellow centers and petals like silky crepe, emerging one or two at a time over much of the year.
Flowering colors: Green, Pink, Red, White, Yellow
Position: Semi-Shaded
Cultivation: Grow in humus-rich soil in a well-lit position, but not direct sunlight. Propagate by division or from seed.
Plants grown indoors may be bothered by red spider mite.
Medical use :Rhizome serves as expectorant, contraception, laxative, diuretic, stimulant and aphrodisiac.Stem as poultice for fever and small pox.Use for hair washing. Low energy; rashes and sweaty skin. Rhizome decoction/drink as antipruritic.
The large flowerheads consist of tightly overlapping green bracts tinged reddish, and white, sometimes pinkish flowers with yellow centers and petals like silky crepe, emerging one or two at a time over much of the year.
Flowering colors: Green, Pink, Red, White, Yellow
Position: Semi-Shaded
Cultivation: Grow in humus-rich soil in a well-lit position, but not direct sunlight. Propagate by division or from seed.
Plants grown indoors may be bothered by red spider mite.
Medical use :Rhizome serves as expectorant, contraception, laxative, diuretic, stimulant and aphrodisiac.Stem as poultice for fever and small pox.Use for hair washing. Low energy; rashes and sweaty skin. Rhizome decoction/drink as antipruritic.
Crinum asiaticum Spider lily, Bakung Amaryllidaceae
The Crinum Lily grows on sandy seashores or in the back mangrove.
A very large lily, it grows from an underground bulb.
The lower leaves form a stout pseudo-stem from which the leaves emerge in a rosette.
The leaves can grow up to 2m long. The flowers are delightfully scented.
The fruit is a globe which turns shiny white when ripe then splits open
to reveal irregularly shaped seeds. The plant is poisonous.
Traditional medicinal uses: It is used as a poultice for aches, sores and chaps.
Crushed leaves are used to treat piles, mixed with honey and applied to wounds and abscesses.
Curcuma domestica Turmeric, Kunyit Zingiberacea
It is grown for its bright orange rhizomes, which apart from their mildly spicy flavor are valued as a food coloring, providing a substitute for the very expensive saffron. It is also used for dyeing cloth.
The broadly lance-shaped, bright green leaves can form large clumps up to about 3 ft (1 m) tall in hot areas. Short, dense spikes of pale yellow flowers are produced in summer.
The fresh or dried roots provide color and pungent fragrance to chutneys, pickles and curries; it is harvested when the foliage begins to dry off .
Harvest turmeric rhizomes when leaves show signs of dying back.
Medical use: Rhizome used as cholagogue, choleretic, stomachic and anti-inflammation. Known for its antiviral, antifungus, anticancer properties, commonly used in cosmetics, treatment for ezcema, itchiness, scable, wounds and for stomach upset in children.
The broadly lance-shaped, bright green leaves can form large clumps up to about 3 ft (1 m) tall in hot areas. Short, dense spikes of pale yellow flowers are produced in summer.
The fresh or dried roots provide color and pungent fragrance to chutneys, pickles and curries; it is harvested when the foliage begins to dry off .
Harvest turmeric rhizomes when leaves show signs of dying back.
Medical use: Rhizome used as cholagogue, choleretic, stomachic and anti-inflammation. Known for its antiviral, antifungus, anticancer properties, commonly used in cosmetics, treatment for ezcema, itchiness, scable, wounds and for stomach upset in children.
Curcuma xanthorrhiza Temulawak Zingiberaceae
Temulawak, originally from Indonesia, can grow up to 8 feet tall. The flower is yellow.
The large leaves stem from the root and the large rhizome of the plant contains herbal qualities.
Cultivation has spread to other countries including Surinam.
Java - turmeric is a mild spice used in several drinks to give these flavor and color (yellow); it is also used for seasoning.
It has an aromatic, pungent odor and a bitter taste.
Medicinal applications: Has liver protection properties. The active ingredients (anti-oxidant and anti-edemic) are the curcuminoids (e. q. curcumin), encourage bile and prevent the formation of gallstones.
It also has essential oils, cinnamaldehyde and starch / carbohydrate. The rhizomes have anti - viral and anti - inflammation properties (Hepatitis B and C). Used against acne (inhibits bacterial growth); normalize digestion. It increases breast milk production.
Decreases cholesterol levels in blood and liver.
The large leaves stem from the root and the large rhizome of the plant contains herbal qualities.
Cultivation has spread to other countries including Surinam.
Java - turmeric is a mild spice used in several drinks to give these flavor and color (yellow); it is also used for seasoning.
It has an aromatic, pungent odor and a bitter taste.
Medicinal applications: Has liver protection properties. The active ingredients (anti-oxidant and anti-edemic) are the curcuminoids (e. q. curcumin), encourage bile and prevent the formation of gallstones.
It also has essential oils, cinnamaldehyde and starch / carbohydrate. The rhizomes have anti - viral and anti - inflammation properties (Hepatitis B and C). Used against acne (inhibits bacterial growth); normalize digestion. It increases breast milk production.
Decreases cholesterol levels in blood and liver.
Cymbopogon citratus Lemon grass, Serai Poaceae
This valuable grass, believed to have originated in India, forms a dense clump of long, gray-green leaves reaching as much 6 ft (1.8 m) high, though mostly smaller.
It is rarely known to flower in cultivation, much less produce seed.
The crushed or bruised leaves have a strong lemon fragrance but are very tough and inedible; it is the fleshy white bases of the shoots that are used in Southeast Asian cooking, collected and used fresh.
The leaves can be used fresh or dried to make a herbal tea.
Cultivation: Their main requirement is a climate with a long summer growing season, and a well-drained, light-textured but fertile soil. Propagate from seed or by division of clumps.Medical use: Against mosquitoes; as shampoo, perfume; for headaches, rheumatism, urinary, and stomach problems. Anti-indigestion, anti-pyretic.
It is rarely known to flower in cultivation, much less produce seed.
The crushed or bruised leaves have a strong lemon fragrance but are very tough and inedible; it is the fleshy white bases of the shoots that are used in Southeast Asian cooking, collected and used fresh.
The leaves can be used fresh or dried to make a herbal tea.
Cultivation: Their main requirement is a climate with a long summer growing season, and a well-drained, light-textured but fertile soil. Propagate from seed or by division of clumps.Medical use: Against mosquitoes; as shampoo, perfume; for headaches, rheumatism, urinary, and stomach problems. Anti-indigestion, anti-pyretic.
Datura innoxia Devil's trumpet Solanaceae
It has pink or white flowers, the latter resembling those of Datura stramonium, but it is less poisonous, as its specific name suggests.
If grown as an annual it makes a bush a little under 3 ft (1 m) tall.
Other properties: Poisonous
Cultivation: They need full sun and fertile, moist but well-drained soil.
Propagate from seed.
Medical use : The whole plant, but especially the leaves and seed, is anaesthetic, anodyne, antiasthmatic, antispasmodic, antitussive, bronchodilator, hallucinogenic, hypnotic and mydriatic. It has a wide range of applications in India, including in the treatment of epilepsy, hysteria, insanity, heart diseases, fever with catarrh, diarrhoea, skin diseases etc. In China it is used in the treatment of asthma. Great caution is advised since excess doses cause hallucinations, severe intoxication and death. The toxic dose is very close to the medicinal dose so this plant should only be used under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. The plant contains the alkaloids hyoscyamine, hyoscine and atropine. Atropine dilates the pupils and is used in eye surgery. Total alkaloid content of the leaves is 0.426%, which is mainly atropine. The seeds contain 0.426% alkaloids, which is mainly hyoscyamine. The roots contain 0.35% hyoscyamine. An extract of the flowers is used as an anaesthetic - 3 - 5g applied orally produces a general anaesthesia within 5 minutes and lasting 5 - 6 hours.
If grown as an annual it makes a bush a little under 3 ft (1 m) tall.
Other properties: Poisonous
Cultivation: They need full sun and fertile, moist but well-drained soil.
Propagate from seed.
Medical use : The whole plant, but especially the leaves and seed, is anaesthetic, anodyne, antiasthmatic, antispasmodic, antitussive, bronchodilator, hallucinogenic, hypnotic and mydriatic. It has a wide range of applications in India, including in the treatment of epilepsy, hysteria, insanity, heart diseases, fever with catarrh, diarrhoea, skin diseases etc. In China it is used in the treatment of asthma. Great caution is advised since excess doses cause hallucinations, severe intoxication and death. The toxic dose is very close to the medicinal dose so this plant should only be used under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. The plant contains the alkaloids hyoscyamine, hyoscine and atropine. Atropine dilates the pupils and is used in eye surgery. Total alkaloid content of the leaves is 0.426%, which is mainly atropine. The seeds contain 0.426% alkaloids, which is mainly hyoscyamine. The roots contain 0.35% hyoscyamine. An extract of the flowers is used as an anaesthetic - 3 - 5g applied orally produces a general anaesthesia within 5 minutes and lasting 5 - 6 hours.
Foeniculum vulgare Sweet Fennel Apiacea
Florence fennel is an aromatic biennial with soft, feathery, almost hairlike foliage. The lacy, finely dissected leaves have swollen petioles (leaf stems) that clasp the main stalk to form an edible structure that is what is commonly referred to incorrectly as the bulb. The plant gets about 2 ft (0.6 m) tall in its first growing season. In the second season, Florence fennel produces flowering stems that stand a foot or so taller and support showy flat-topped umbels of little golden flowers. (An umbel is an umbrella shaped cluster of flowers in which the individual flower pedicels (flower stalks) radiate from a common point on the main stalk.) Fennel has an elongated root that resembles a carrot. All parts of Florence fennel have a sweet, licorice fragrance reminiscent of anise, tarragon and chervil.
Medical use: Fennel helps to release gas from the stomach and bowels and relieve its associated pain and cramping. It helps to clear phlegm from the lungs. It can act as a stimulant and diuretic which calms the nerves, improves appetite and digestion, and acts as an antispasmodic. It is helpful for nursing mothers as it promotes lactation and calms colic. Fennel helps regulate energy to the spleen, stomach, liver and kidneys and can be used topically for joint inflammation. The dried powder is said to keep fleas away from kennels and stables.
In the tropics it will grow 1800 mtrs above sealevel. A sweet herb used as an appetite suppressant and as an eyewash. Promotes function of the spleen, liver and kidneys, and also clears the lungs. Used for acid stomach. It relieves gas, gastrointestinal tract spasms, abdominal pain, and colon disorders. Effective in the treatment of gout, and good for the cancer patient after chemotherapy and radiation."
Medical use: Fennel helps to release gas from the stomach and bowels and relieve its associated pain and cramping. It helps to clear phlegm from the lungs. It can act as a stimulant and diuretic which calms the nerves, improves appetite and digestion, and acts as an antispasmodic. It is helpful for nursing mothers as it promotes lactation and calms colic. Fennel helps regulate energy to the spleen, stomach, liver and kidneys and can be used topically for joint inflammation. The dried powder is said to keep fleas away from kennels and stables.
In the tropics it will grow 1800 mtrs above sealevel. A sweet herb used as an appetite suppressant and as an eyewash. Promotes function of the spleen, liver and kidneys, and also clears the lungs. Used for acid stomach. It relieves gas, gastrointestinal tract spasms, abdominal pain, and colon disorders. Effective in the treatment of gout, and good for the cancer patient after chemotherapy and radiation."
Gloriosa superba Tiger's claws Liliaceae
This tropical species can climb to a height of 6–8 ft (1.4–2.4 m) under suitable conditions.
The brilliant red and gold flowers resemble tiger lilies in shape with reflexed, wavy edged petals and conspicuous stamens. ‘Rothschildiana’ has larger, pinkish red flowers with petals yellow-edged; ‘Simplex’ has similar but smaller flowers in deep orange and yellow.
Flowering colors: Orange, Pink, Red, Yellow
Position: Semi-Shaded
Cultivation:Plant the tubers in late spring in full sun and rich, well-drained soil, fertilizing as the stems begin to elongate. Protect from wind and provide support. Propagate from seed or dormant tubers.
Medical use: Root employed as tonic, antiperiodic, alterative and purgative.Counters ezcema., Against itchiness. and counters ringworm. It also cures scable.
The brilliant red and gold flowers resemble tiger lilies in shape with reflexed, wavy edged petals and conspicuous stamens. ‘Rothschildiana’ has larger, pinkish red flowers with petals yellow-edged; ‘Simplex’ has similar but smaller flowers in deep orange and yellow.
Flowering colors: Orange, Pink, Red, Yellow
Position: Semi-Shaded
Cultivation:Plant the tubers in late spring in full sun and rich, well-drained soil, fertilizing as the stems begin to elongate. Protect from wind and provide support. Propagate from seed or dormant tubers.
Medical use: Root employed as tonic, antiperiodic, alterative and purgative.Counters ezcema., Against itchiness. and counters ringworm. It also cures scable.
Graptophyllum pictum Caricature plant Acanthaceae
This species has an erect, open habit and reaches a height of 5 ft (1.5 m) with a spread of about 30 in (75 cm).
Its leaf coloration varies but typically it has mid-green, oval leaves with creamy central blotches. The tubular purplish red flowers are borne on terminal spikes in spring and summer.
TricolorÕ has cream and green leaves, heavily flushed pink especially when young; ÔPurpureum VariegatumÕ is similar but replaces the pink with purple-red.
Cultivation:Doing best in dappled shade and fertile, well-drained soil.
They respond well to gentle pruning to control their tendency to legginess.
Propagate from cuttings .
Medical use: Leaves used as diuretic and to treat ulcer, hemorrhoids, gallstone and liver disease.Against boils.
Its leaf coloration varies but typically it has mid-green, oval leaves with creamy central blotches. The tubular purplish red flowers are borne on terminal spikes in spring and summer.
TricolorÕ has cream and green leaves, heavily flushed pink especially when young; ÔPurpureum VariegatumÕ is similar but replaces the pink with purple-red.
Cultivation:Doing best in dappled shade and fertile, well-drained soil.
They respond well to gentle pruning to control their tendency to legginess.
Propagate from cuttings .
Medical use: Leaves used as diuretic and to treat ulcer, hemorrhoids, gallstone and liver disease.Against boils.
Lagerstroemia speciosa Queen's flower Lythraceae
This deciduous species from the humid jungles of India, Sri Lanka and Burma can reach a height of 80 ft (24 m) in the wild, with a single trunk and a spreading broad head. It has long, leathery leaves that turn copper red in fall (autumn) before dropping. Very showy panicles of large, rose-pink to lilac and lavender-purple flowers are borne from summer to fall. The bark is shed in irregular patches, giving the smooth gray trunk an attractive yellowish, mottled appearance.
Cultivation: They thrive in full sun in well-drained, humus-rich soil. They need shelter from strong summer winds, which will destroy the delicate flowers. Propagate from cuttings in summer or from seed in spring.
Medicinal applications: roots are used for stomach problems.
Tea of the leaves is used against diabetes mellitus and for weight loss.
The leaves are able to lower blood sugar due to, among other phytochemicals -, corosolic acid (triterpenoid glycoside).
It helps the body handling glucose and as such also effective in weight loss.
Cultivation: They thrive in full sun in well-drained, humus-rich soil. They need shelter from strong summer winds, which will destroy the delicate flowers. Propagate from cuttings in summer or from seed in spring.
Medicinal applications: roots are used for stomach problems.
Tea of the leaves is used against diabetes mellitus and for weight loss.
The leaves are able to lower blood sugar due to, among other phytochemicals -, corosolic acid (triterpenoid glycoside).
It helps the body handling glucose and as such also effective in weight loss.
Lantana camara Common lantana Verbenaceae
Reviled in warmer, wetter parts of the world for its rampant invasion of forests and pastures and poisoning of cattle, but valued as an ornamental especially in cooler or drier regions.
The weedy forms produce long scrambling canes and can mound up to 20 ft (6 m) even without trees to climb over, but garden forms are mostly rounded or spreading shrubs 6 ft (1.8 m) high.
Flowering colors: Cream, Orange, Pink, Red, White, Yellow
Cultivation: These plants prefer fertile, well-drained soil and full sun. Plants in containers should be top-dressed and watered well when in full growth, less at other times.
Medical use: The leaves are used to relieve itching. Other uses are against flu, colds, coughs, fevers, yellow fever, dysentery and jaundice.An infusion is used against scabies. The leaves are antiseptic and also used for cuts and ulcerate.The roots are used for gonorrhea.
The weedy forms produce long scrambling canes and can mound up to 20 ft (6 m) even without trees to climb over, but garden forms are mostly rounded or spreading shrubs 6 ft (1.8 m) high.
Flowering colors: Cream, Orange, Pink, Red, White, Yellow
Cultivation: These plants prefer fertile, well-drained soil and full sun. Plants in containers should be top-dressed and watered well when in full growth, less at other times.
Medical use: The leaves are used to relieve itching. Other uses are against flu, colds, coughs, fevers, yellow fever, dysentery and jaundice.An infusion is used against scabies. The leaves are antiseptic and also used for cuts and ulcerate.The roots are used for gonorrhea.
Melastoma malabathricum Senduduk Melastomaceae
Erect shrubs or small trees 1.5-5 m tall, branches and petioles densely covered with a mixture of short, appressed, laciniate scales 0.5-1 mm long and longer lanceolate scale 1.5-5 mm long. Leaves elliptic to elliptic-ovate, 4-11 cm long, 1.3-4 cm wide, 5 (-7)-nerved, upper surface strigose to scabrous, lower surface sericeous but with a mixture of scales on the nerves like those of young branches, margins entire, apex acute, base obtuse to rounded, petioles 5-12 mm long. Inflorescences 2-7-flowered, pedicels 10-12 mm long in fruit, bracts and bracteoles elliptic, lanceolate, or ovate, 1-2.2 cm long, 0.5-1.3 cm wide, early deciduous; hypanthium densely covered with imbricate, lanceolate, ciliolate scales; calyx 5-lobed, triangular-lanceolate, 0.7-2 cm long; petals usually 5, pink, 2.5-3.2 cm long, 1.5-2.3 cm wide; anthers of larger stamens 10-11 mm long; anthers of smaller stamens 8.5-10 Medical use: This plant enjoys a long tradition of use as a uterine tone for female health care; usually following childbirth to strengthen the womb and accelerate healing. Its flowers, seeds, even leaves are sweet and astringent, reduce white discharge, even diarrhoea and indigestion. Senduduk can also be applied externally to bruises, haemorrhoids and soreness of the leg.
Mimosa pudica Touch-me-not / Putri malu Fabaceae
A prostrate to semierect herb, 0.3 to 0.8 m tall, often forming a small compact bush about 0.6 m tall; branches glabrous or pubescent, heavily armed with broad-based, black-tipped recurved thorns. Leaves small, sensitive, bipinnate; leaflets about 16 pairs; petioles up to 4 cm long. Inflorescence of axillary headlike spikes, flowers pinkish, sessile. Pods usually in a dense cluster, 10 to 15 mm long and 4 mm wide, flat, segmented, somewhat constricted between the articulations, one-seeded segments.Propagated from seed. Seed will germinate in 14 to 21 days.
Medical use: It is said to have a bitter and astringent taste, and stops bleeding and speeds healing. It is used for diarrhea (athisaara), Amoebic dysentery (raktaatisaara), bleeding piles, gynecological disorders, skin diseases, bronchitis, diabetes weakness and impotence. Most commonly used is the root, but leaves, flowers, bark, and fruit can also be encountered.
Medical use: It is said to have a bitter and astringent taste, and stops bleeding and speeds healing. It is used for diarrhea (athisaara), Amoebic dysentery (raktaatisaara), bleeding piles, gynecological disorders, skin diseases, bronchitis, diabetes weakness and impotence. Most commonly used is the root, but leaves, flowers, bark, and fruit can also be encountered.
Moringa oleifera Drumstick Tree, Merunggai, Moringaceae
The tree itself is rather slender with drooping branches that grows to approximately 10 m in height; however, it normally is cut back annually to one meter or less, and allowed to regrow, so that pods and leaves remain within arms reach.
It is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree.Almost every part of the Moringa tree can be used for food, or has some other beneficial property. In the tropics it is used as foliage for livestock.The immature green pods, called “drumsticks” are probably the most valued and widely used part of the tree. The seeds are sometimes removed from more mature pods and eaten like peas or roasted like nuts. The flowers are edible when cooked, and are said to taste like mushrooms.
The leaves are highly nutritious, being a significant source of beta-carotene, Vitamin C, protein, iron and potassium. The leaves are cooked and used like spinach. In addition to being used fresh as a substitute for spinach, its leaves are commonly dried and crushed into a powder, and used in soups and sauces.The Moringa seeds yield 38–40% edible oil (called Ben oil, from the high concentration of behenic acid contained in the oil) that can be used in cooking, cosmetics, and lubrication.
Medical use: Almost all parts of the tree, in particular the leaves and root bark, have medicinal applications (e.g. as diureticum, rubefacient, disinfectant). Root decoction used to cleanse sore and ulcers, antiscourBlc and prescribed to delirious patients.Leaves as a poultice, purgative and for gonorrhea.Bark used as a rebufacient. Leaves, root and seed as analgesic, diuretic, stimulant, lactagog, expectorant, stomachic and emmenagogue; for rheumatism. Counters ringworm and enhances milk production.
It is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree.Almost every part of the Moringa tree can be used for food, or has some other beneficial property. In the tropics it is used as foliage for livestock.The immature green pods, called “drumsticks” are probably the most valued and widely used part of the tree. The seeds are sometimes removed from more mature pods and eaten like peas or roasted like nuts. The flowers are edible when cooked, and are said to taste like mushrooms.
The leaves are highly nutritious, being a significant source of beta-carotene, Vitamin C, protein, iron and potassium. The leaves are cooked and used like spinach. In addition to being used fresh as a substitute for spinach, its leaves are commonly dried and crushed into a powder, and used in soups and sauces.The Moringa seeds yield 38–40% edible oil (called Ben oil, from the high concentration of behenic acid contained in the oil) that can be used in cooking, cosmetics, and lubrication.
Medical use: Almost all parts of the tree, in particular the leaves and root bark, have medicinal applications (e.g. as diureticum, rubefacient, disinfectant). Root decoction used to cleanse sore and ulcers, antiscourBlc and prescribed to delirious patients.Leaves as a poultice, purgative and for gonorrhea.Bark used as a rebufacient. Leaves, root and seed as analgesic, diuretic, stimulant, lactagog, expectorant, stomachic and emmenagogue; for rheumatism. Counters ringworm and enhances milk production.
Morus alba White Mulberry Moraceae
The White Mulberry is a short-lived, fast-growing, small to medium sized tree to 15-20 m tall, On young, vigorous shoots, White Mulberry leaves may be up to 20 cm long, and deeply and intricately lobed, with the lobes rounded. The fruit is mild, unlike the much more intense flavour of the Red Mulberry and Black Mulberry. The fruit varies from white to pink in colour in many cultivated plants, but the natural fruit colour of the species in the wild is deep purple.
The flowers fire pollen into the air by rapidly releasing stored elastic energy in the stamen. The resulting movement is in excess of half the speed of sound, Cultivation and uses
The leaves are the preferred feedstock for silkworms.
Medical use: The fruit juice is used in folk remedies for tumors of the fauces. Reported to be antidotal, antiphlogistic, antitussive, antivinous, astringent, bactericide, diaphoretic, ditiretic, emollient, escharotic, expectorant, fungicide, laxative, nervine, purgative, refrigerant, restorative, sedative, tonic, and vermifuge, white mulberry is a folk remedy for aphtha, armache, asthma, bronchitis, bugbite, cachexia, cold, constipation, cough, debility, diarrhea, dropsy, dyspepsia, edema, epilepsy, fever, headache, hyperglycemia, hypertension, inflammation, insomnia, melancholy, menorrhagia, snakebite, sorethroat, stomatitis, tumors, vertigo, and wounds . Medicinally, fruits are laxative, refrigerant in fevers, and used locally as remedy for sore throat, dyspepsia, and melancholia. Roots and bark are purgative, anthelmintic, and astringent; leaves considered disphoretic and emollient; a decoction of leaves being used as a gargle for inflammation of throat.
The flowers fire pollen into the air by rapidly releasing stored elastic energy in the stamen. The resulting movement is in excess of half the speed of sound, Cultivation and uses
The leaves are the preferred feedstock for silkworms.
Medical use: The fruit juice is used in folk remedies for tumors of the fauces. Reported to be antidotal, antiphlogistic, antitussive, antivinous, astringent, bactericide, diaphoretic, ditiretic, emollient, escharotic, expectorant, fungicide, laxative, nervine, purgative, refrigerant, restorative, sedative, tonic, and vermifuge, white mulberry is a folk remedy for aphtha, armache, asthma, bronchitis, bugbite, cachexia, cold, constipation, cough, debility, diarrhea, dropsy, dyspepsia, edema, epilepsy, fever, headache, hyperglycemia, hypertension, inflammation, insomnia, melancholy, menorrhagia, snakebite, sorethroat, stomatitis, tumors, vertigo, and wounds . Medicinally, fruits are laxative, refrigerant in fevers, and used locally as remedy for sore throat, dyspepsia, and melancholia. Roots and bark are purgative, anthelmintic, and astringent; leaves considered disphoretic and emollient; a decoction of leaves being used as a gargle for inflammation of throat.
Nyctanthes arbortristis Tree of sorrow, Srigading Oleaceae
This exotic small tree or shrub has highly perfumed flowers. The sweet scented flowers are small, 1-2", attractive shape, with white corolla and an orange-red tube in center and bloom profusely, opening at night and casting off in the morning thus making a carpet of flowers. Used in Buddhist temples, for worship. The large attractive leaves are rough and hairy. Use well drained soil and fertilize once a month.
Medical use: Stem is used for relief of headache, leaf - cholecystagogue, flower - antipyretic, treatment of faintness and vertigo.
Flowers, Leaves, seeds,
The leaves are antibacterial, antiinflammatory and anthelmintic. Further, a dye extracted from the corolla tube is used to lend colour to Tussore Silk. The flowers are bitter astringent, opthalmic, stomachic and carminative. It is an expectorant, bitter and tonic, febrifuge, and mild purgative.
It is used in bilious and obstinate remittent fever, sciatica, and rheumatism. It is also very useful in constipation of children.
Medical use: Stem is used for relief of headache, leaf - cholecystagogue, flower - antipyretic, treatment of faintness and vertigo.
Flowers, Leaves, seeds,
The leaves are antibacterial, antiinflammatory and anthelmintic. Further, a dye extracted from the corolla tube is used to lend colour to Tussore Silk. The flowers are bitter astringent, opthalmic, stomachic and carminative. It is an expectorant, bitter and tonic, febrifuge, and mild purgative.
It is used in bilious and obstinate remittent fever, sciatica, and rheumatism. It is also very useful in constipation of children.
Ocimum sanctum Holy basil, Kemangi Lamiaceae
A tropical, much branched, annual herb, up to 18 inches tall; it grows into a low bush.
The tulsi or holy basil, considered sacred by the Hindus, has small leaves with a strong smell and purple flowers.
There are two varieties: a red - and a green one.
Red holy basil has a stronger smell.
This plant, originally from India considered sacred and used in Hindu prayer ceremonies.
Medical use: Leaves used as sedative, lactagog, diuretic, emmenagogue, carminative, laxative and antipyretic. Seed made into emollient while aerial part as expectorant and diaphoretic.
The tulsi or holy basil, considered sacred by the Hindus, has small leaves with a strong smell and purple flowers.
There are two varieties: a red - and a green one.
Red holy basil has a stronger smell.
This plant, originally from India considered sacred and used in Hindu prayer ceremonies.
Medical use: Leaves used as sedative, lactagog, diuretic, emmenagogue, carminative, laxative and antipyretic. Seed made into emollient while aerial part as expectorant and diaphoretic.
Orthosiphon aristatus Cat's whisker's, Misai kucing Labiatae
This short slightly woody plant has dark green leaves and tall sprays of flowers with long,
projecting stamens.
The most commonly seen form has white flowers but there is another form in wich the
flowers are pale lilac or pale purple. These plants may be grown in a pot or in a mixed border.
After flowering,the old inflorescences should be removed and when new shoots develop
they will produce another crop of flowers.
Young plants need a little pruning to encourage bushy growth.Propagation is by means of cuttings.
Medical use: Java Tea. This drug occurs in commerce in the form of small, oval, finely toothed, green leaves, rolled up like tea. Van Itallie has discovered in it a volatile oil and a crystalline glucoside, orthosiphonin, and potassium salts.It is said to be a powerful diuretic, and is highly recommended in nephritic colic, gravel, uric acid diathesis, and even ascites. Commonly used for diabetic sugar reduction.
projecting stamens.
The most commonly seen form has white flowers but there is another form in wich the
flowers are pale lilac or pale purple. These plants may be grown in a pot or in a mixed border.
After flowering,the old inflorescences should be removed and when new shoots develop
they will produce another crop of flowers.
Young plants need a little pruning to encourage bushy growth.Propagation is by means of cuttings.
Medical use: Java Tea. This drug occurs in commerce in the form of small, oval, finely toothed, green leaves, rolled up like tea. Van Itallie has discovered in it a volatile oil and a crystalline glucoside, orthosiphonin, and potassium salts.It is said to be a powerful diuretic, and is highly recommended in nephritic colic, gravel, uric acid diathesis, and even ascites. Commonly used for diabetic sugar reduction.
Phyllanthus Niruri Hurricane weed / Meniran Euphorbiaceae
Phyllanthus niruri is an annual, herb; height varies between 30–60 cm. Stem is angular with numerous distichous, elliptic-oblong leaves. Flowers are yellow and very numerous; monoecious with 1–3 staminate flowers and solitary pistillate flower borne axillary. Fruits capsule, very small, globose, smooth, seeds 3-gonous, longitudinally ribbed on the back. Seed to seed cycle occurs in two or four weeks.
Medical use:Its root, leaves, fruits, milky juice, and whole plants are used as medicine. It is considered acrid, cooling , alexipharmic and useful in thirst, bronchitis, leprosy, anemia, urinary discharge, anuria, biliousness, asthma, for hiccups, and as a diuretic.Herb is stomachic and good for sores and useful in chronic dysentery. Fruits useful for tubercular ulcers, wounds, sores, scabies and ring worm. The fresh root is believed to be an excellent remedy for jaundice. A poultice of the leaves with salt cures scabby affection and without salt applied on bruise and wounds. The milky juice is a good application to offensive sores. The bark yields a bitter principle phyllanthin. The infusion of the root and leaves is a good tonic and diuretic when taken cold in repeated doses. In many parts of India, it is commonly used for the treatment of snake bite.
Medical use:Its root, leaves, fruits, milky juice, and whole plants are used as medicine. It is considered acrid, cooling , alexipharmic and useful in thirst, bronchitis, leprosy, anemia, urinary discharge, anuria, biliousness, asthma, for hiccups, and as a diuretic.Herb is stomachic and good for sores and useful in chronic dysentery. Fruits useful for tubercular ulcers, wounds, sores, scabies and ring worm. The fresh root is believed to be an excellent remedy for jaundice. A poultice of the leaves with salt cures scabby affection and without salt applied on bruise and wounds. The milky juice is a good application to offensive sores. The bark yields a bitter principle phyllanthin. The infusion of the root and leaves is a good tonic and diuretic when taken cold in repeated doses. In many parts of India, it is commonly used for the treatment of snake bite.
Physalis angulata Cutleaf Ground Cherry Solanaceae
This is a common annual herb in Suriname with ovate to lanceolate leaves, growing up to 4 feet tall.
Some leaves are almost violet, with violet veins.
It produces small, orange edible fruits (berries) eaten by animal and human alike.
These berries contain numerous seeds and are enclosed in the outer layer.
The juice stem is angled and the ripe fruits are decorative.Eaten fresh it can also be used much like the tomato.
Medical use:It is used against kidney - and bladder diseases, jaundice, gout, diuretic, fever and rheumatism.The juice of the mulaca is used against earache.
Plantago major Broadleaf Plantain, Daun sendok Plantaginaceae
This plant does best in compacted soils, and hence is sometimes called "roadweed". It propagates primarily by seeds, which are held on the long, narrow spikes which rise well above the foliage.
It is wind-pollenated, and a cause of summer allergies when in flower.
Medical use: Crushed leaves can be applied directly to the skin to stop bleeding, bee stings and insect bites. Psyllium seeds are a bulk laxative.
Common plantain is a safe and effective treatment for bleeding, it quickly staunches blood flow and encourages the repair of damaged tissue.
The leaves are astringent, demulcent, deobstruent, depurative, diuretic, expectorant, haemostatic and refrigerant.Internally, they are used in the treatment of a wide range of complaints including diarrhoea, gastritis, peptic ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, haemorrhage, haemorrhoids, cystitis, bronchitis, catarrh, sinusitis, asthma and hay fever.They are used externally in treating skin inflammations, malignant ulcers, cuts, stings etc. The heated leaves are used as a wet dressing for wounds, swellings etc. The root is a remedy for the bite of rattlesnakes, it is used in equal portions with Marrubium vulgare. The seeds are used in the treatment of parasitic worms.
It is wind-pollenated, and a cause of summer allergies when in flower.
Medical use: Crushed leaves can be applied directly to the skin to stop bleeding, bee stings and insect bites. Psyllium seeds are a bulk laxative.
Common plantain is a safe and effective treatment for bleeding, it quickly staunches blood flow and encourages the repair of damaged tissue.
The leaves are astringent, demulcent, deobstruent, depurative, diuretic, expectorant, haemostatic and refrigerant.Internally, they are used in the treatment of a wide range of complaints including diarrhoea, gastritis, peptic ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, haemorrhage, haemorrhoids, cystitis, bronchitis, catarrh, sinusitis, asthma and hay fever.They are used externally in treating skin inflammations, malignant ulcers, cuts, stings etc. The heated leaves are used as a wet dressing for wounds, swellings etc. The root is a remedy for the bite of rattlesnakes, it is used in equal portions with Marrubium vulgare. The seeds are used in the treatment of parasitic worms.
Sambucus javanica Chinese elder, Sangitan Caprifoliaceae
A decidious shrub. . The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by Insects.
The plant prefers light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It requires moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.
Medical use:
Anodyne; Antiphlogistic; Depurative; Diuretic; Purgative; Skin.
The leaves and the root are used in the treatment of pain and numbness, bone diseases and rheumatic problems.
The fruit is depurative and purgative. A decoction of the fruit is used to treat injuries, skin diseases and swellings. A decoction of the whole plant is anodyne, depurative and diuretic.
The plant prefers light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It requires moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.
Medical use:
Anodyne; Antiphlogistic; Depurative; Diuretic; Purgative; Skin.
The leaves and the root are used in the treatment of pain and numbness, bone diseases and rheumatic problems.
The fruit is depurative and purgative. A decoction of the fruit is used to treat injuries, skin diseases and swellings. A decoction of the whole plant is anodyne, depurative and diuretic.
Santalum album Sandelwood, Kayu Cendana Santalaceae
The fragrant wood of this small tree to 15 ft (4.5 m) yields sandal oil. The leaves are elliptical, long, rather dryish in texture and paler underneath. Panicles of fragrant reddish flowers are followed by black cherry-sized fruit. Widely cultivated in Malaysia, this species is used for joss stick production. Asia. The perfumed white or yellow wood is widely used for making wooden jewellery and boxes.
Hardiness zone from 10 To 12
Cultivation: Grow in moist, well-drained soil in sun or part-shade; protect from midday sun in summer and water regularly. Propagate from seed.
Medical use: Wood and latex used as diuretic, astringent, antiemetic and febrifuge. Wood serves as poultice for acne.
Hardiness zone from 10 To 12
Cultivation: Grow in moist, well-drained soil in sun or part-shade; protect from midday sun in summer and water regularly. Propagate from seed.
Medical use: Wood and latex used as diuretic, astringent, antiemetic and febrifuge. Wood serves as poultice for acne.
Solanum indicum Indian Nightshade Solanaceae
Part Used : Roots, Berries
Uses : Roots are diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, stimulant. The root is used against bronchites, itch and for bodyaches, for asthma and to cure wounds while the seeds are used to treat toothache.
The berries are injurious to children but are often eaten by adults with impunity, especially when quite ripe as the poisonous principle is chiefly associated with all green parts.
Medical use: It is applied in medicine similarly to bittersweet but is more powerful and possesses greater narcotic properties.
The leaves are placed in the cradles of infants to promote sleep. It is useful in cutaneous disorders. Their juice has been used for ringworm, gout and earache and when mixed with vinegar, is considered to be good for gargle and mouthwash.
Uses : Roots are diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, stimulant. The root is used against bronchites, itch and for bodyaches, for asthma and to cure wounds while the seeds are used to treat toothache.
The berries are injurious to children but are often eaten by adults with impunity, especially when quite ripe as the poisonous principle is chiefly associated with all green parts.
Medical use: It is applied in medicine similarly to bittersweet but is more powerful and possesses greater narcotic properties.
The leaves are placed in the cradles of infants to promote sleep. It is useful in cutaneous disorders. Their juice has been used for ringworm, gout and earache and when mixed with vinegar, is considered to be good for gargle and mouthwash.
Solanum nigrum Black Nightshade Solanaceae
Used in preserves, jams and pies. A pleasant musky taste, somewhat like a tomato, but much less pleasant, it improves slightly after a frost. Only the fully ripe fruits should be used, the unripe fruits contain the toxin solanine. The fruit is about 9mm in diameter. Young leaves and new shoots - raw or cooked as a potherb or added to soups. This plant is cultivated as a leaf crop in some areas, but see the notes at the top of the page regarding possible toxicity.
Medicinal Uses
Antiperiodic; Antiphlogistic; Diaphoretic; Diuretic; Emollient; Febrifuge; Narcotic; Purgative; Sedative.
The whole plant is antiperiodic, antiphlogistic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emollient, febrifuge, narcotic, purgative and sedative. It is harvested in the autumn when both flowers and fruit are upon the plant, and is dried for later use. Use with caution, see notes above on toxicity. The leaves, stems and roots are used externally as a poultice, wash etc in the treatment of cancerous sores, boils, leucoderma and wounds. Extracts of the plant are analgesic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and vasodilator. The plant has been used in the manufacture of locally analgesic ointments and the juice of the fruit has been used as an analgesic for toothaches.
Medicinal Uses
Antiperiodic; Antiphlogistic; Diaphoretic; Diuretic; Emollient; Febrifuge; Narcotic; Purgative; Sedative.
The whole plant is antiperiodic, antiphlogistic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emollient, febrifuge, narcotic, purgative and sedative. It is harvested in the autumn when both flowers and fruit are upon the plant, and is dried for later use. Use with caution, see notes above on toxicity. The leaves, stems and roots are used externally as a poultice, wash etc in the treatment of cancerous sores, boils, leucoderma and wounds. Extracts of the plant are analgesic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and vasodilator. The plant has been used in the manufacture of locally analgesic ointments and the juice of the fruit has been used as an analgesic for toothaches.
Conditions of Use and Important Information: This information on the above herb is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects.
The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA. These supplements mentioned are not intended to cure, treat, diagnose or prevent disease. The contents of this website are for informational purposes only.
Kelab Rakan-Rakan Herba KK Sabah does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence.
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The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA. These supplements mentioned are not intended to cure, treat, diagnose or prevent disease. The contents of this website are for informational purposes only.
Kelab Rakan-Rakan Herba KK Sabah does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence.
Site design and webmaster : Ganesan. T Questions or concerns can be directed to the webmaster at [email protected]