Indian Ipecac
As a country with a rich biodiversity, Sri Lanka has much to add to its flora and fauna. While many of the plant species are unknown and grow in the wild they are not used commercially for medication or other purposes. Among these plants, some were originally grown in neigbouring India and other countries before they were introduced to Sri Lanka. Moodu binnuga or Indian Ipecac is one of them which originates from the Himalayan regions but could be found in various parts of Sri Lanka as well. Hence this week let’s discuss about Indian Ipecac in detail.
DESCRIPTION
Indian Ipecac is a small, branched, velvety climbing herb with a yellowish sap. It grows in tropical climates. The leaves are heart-shaped at the base, and are thick and velvety and smooth when young. The leaves and roots are used medicinally. Flowers are small and come in greenish-yellow shades. Flowering occurs from August to December. The fruit is a follicle. The plant is best used to treat bronchial asthma, inflammation and bronchitis.
MEDICINAL USES
◆ Tumours: Indian Ipecac has an anti-tumour nature which prevents the formation or growth of tumours. It also inhibits the growth of cancer cells.
◆ Anti-asthmatic: Indian Ipecac is another plant which provides relief from asthma and associated symptoms.
◆ Stomach and intestinal disorders: The plant is known to have an antispasmodic attribute which is essential in relieving spasms of involuntary muscles in the stomach and intestines.
◆ Fever: Indian Ipecac is known to relieve one from conditions such as fever.
◆ Diuretic: This herbal remedy can increase the flow of urine while taking good care of the kidneys.
◆ Rheumatoid arthritis: Indian Ipecac is known to be a good herbal treatment for arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
HOME REMEDIES
◆ Antidote: Prepare a decoction with Indian Ipecac leaves and roots and apply on toxic bite. You may also consume this decoction as well.
◆ Respiratory diseases: Make a decoction with 50g of Indian Ipecac leaves and 30g of Cumin seeds and consume two grams of the mixture twice a day.
◆ Cough: Chew five or six fresh Indian Ipecac leaves daily in the morning on an empty stomach and immediately drink one glass of lukewarm water.
◆ Whooping cough: Mix quarter teaspoon of Indian Ipecac leaf paste with one teaspoon of honey and consume it.
◆ Cold: Make a decoction out of two Indian Ipecac leaves, basil leaves, cloves, ginger and one cup of water. Strain and drink it. Snake bite: Consume Indian Ipecac roots for two days.
FACTS ABOUT INDIAN IPECAC
◆ Scientific name : Tylophora indica
◆ Family name : Asclepiadaceae
◆ Local name : Moodu binnuga
◆ Native countries : India, Sri Lanka