Acacia Acacia concinna (WIlld.) DC.

SOAP POD Rou guo jin he huan Scientific names Common names Acacia concinna (WIlld.) DC. Acacia (Tag.) Acacia hooperiana Miq. Shikakai plant (Engl.) Acacia sinuata (Lour.) Merr. Soap acacia (Engl.) Acacia philippinarum Benth. Soap pod (Engl.) Acacia poilanei Gagnep. Soap pod wattle (Engl.) Acacia polycephala DC. Soap nut (Engl.) Acacia quisumbingii Merr. Soap nut acacia (Engl.) Acacia rugata Ham. Rou guo jin he huan (Chin.) Mimosa concinna Willd. Mimosa rugata Ham. Teng jin he huan (Chin.) Acacia is a name shared by many species of Philippine plants, both scientific and common names: (1) Acacia concinna, acacia, a prickly shrub found in La Union, Benguet, and Ilocos Sur provinces of northern Luzon (2) Albizzia lebbect, acaci, langil, mimosa (3) Samanea saman, rain tree, acacia, for Acacia concinna (4) Acacia farnesiana, aroma (5) Acacia glauca, ipil-ipil (6) Acacia niopo, kupang, and (7) Acacia crassicarpa. Other vernacular names ASSAMESE: Amsikira, Kachuai, Pasoi tenga, Suse lewa. BENGALI: Ban ritha, Ritha, Riitha. BURMESE: Hpak-ha Sum-hkawn, Kin-mun, Kinmun-gyin. CHINESE: Xiao he huan. FRENCH: Chikakai, Piquant sappan, Sappan. GERMAN: Shikekai-Baum. GUJARATI: Shikakai. HINDI: Cikakai, Hikakai, Kochi, Righa, Ritha, Saatalaa, Shika, Shikakai. JAPANESE: Akashia konshina. MALAYALAM: Carmalanta, Carmalantala, Chikaka, Chinikka. MARATHI: Shikakai, Reetah. ORIYA: Vimala. RUSSIAN: Akatsiia konsinna, Saptala, Shikakay. SANSKRIT: Bahuphenarasa, Bhuriphena, Carmasava, Charmakansa, Charmakasa, Phenila, Saptala. TAMIL: Cikkay, Ciyakkay, Shika, Shikakai, Shikai, Shikaikkay. TELUGU: Chikaya, Gogu, Shiikaya, Siikaya. THAI: Sohm bpaawy, Som poy, Som kon. Botany Acacia concinna is a scandent, prickly shrub reaching a height of 4 to 5 meters. Branches are gray and armed with short, sharp prickles. Leaves are pinnately compound, 15 to 25 centimeters long, and with 8 to 10 pairs of pinnae. Rachis has one gland near the base, and one of two near the apex. Leaflets number 20 to 32 pairs on each pinnae, are linear-oblong, 8 to 10 millimeters in length, with a pointed tip and subtruncate base. Midrib is oblique. Panicles are terminal, in the upper axils, and ample. Heads are

yellow, about 1 centimeter in diameter. Pods are straight, somewhat fleshy, flat, 7 to 10 centimeters long, and about 2 centimeters wide. Distribution - In Benguet, La Union, and Ilocos Sur Provinces in Luzon, in thickets at low and medium altitudes. - Also occurs in India to southern China and Malaya. Constituents - Soft parts of the dried berries contain 5% saponin. - Pods have yielded several saponins including kinmoonosides A-C, triterpenoidal prosapogenols names concinnosides A, B, C, D and E with four glycosides, acaciaside, julibroside A1, albiziasaponin C and their aglycone, acacic acid lactone. - Phytochemical screening of the plant yielded flavanoids, saponins, terpenoids and tannins. Properties Pod is acid, bitter, and singularly pungent; considered deobstruent, astringent and detergent. Parts used Fruit. Uses Folkloric Pods used as deobstruent in cases of jaundice and other biliary derangements. Decoction of pods used for biliousness and as purgative. Fruit pods, leaves and bark are dried, powdered and made into paste to make a hair cleanser. In India, decoction of pods used for washing the hair to promote hair growth and remove dandruff. In Thailand, dried pods use as laxative, antidandruff, antitussive and for skin diseases. Others Cosmetic: Ingredient in many cosmetic products.

Studies Antidermatophytic: Study pod extracts showed antidermatophytic activity against Trichophyton rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, T. violaceum, Microsporum nanum and Epidermophyton floccosum. Immunological Adjuvant Activity / Vaccine Adjuvant: Study of methanolic fractions showed Th1 and Th2 helper cell activity. At dose of 40 ug it can be used as a vaccine adjuvant to increase immune responses. Hepatoprotective: An ethanolic extract of pods of Acacia concinna showed significant protective activity in a CCl4-induced liver damage model. Antifungal : Study of extracts was done against 35 isolates of dermatophytes and isolates of C. albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans and Penicillium marneffei. Results showed antifungal effectiveness. Antibacterial: The benzene, methanol and aqueous extracts of fresh pods of A. concinna showed maximum activity against K. pneumonia, B. subtilis, E. coli. Contraceptive: Study in female rats fed with fraction of AE of Acacia concinna showed arrest in the diestrus stage, reduction in pregnancy and implantation, depletion in FSH, LH and estrogen levels. Results showed the acerone fraction of aqueous extract of Acacia concinna can be used as herbal contraceptive without any undersirable side effect. New Cytotoxic Saponins /: Study yielded three saponins, kinmoonosides A-C together with a monoterpenoids from a methanolic extract. The three kinmoonosides showed significant cytotoxicity against human HT-11080 fibrosarcoma cells. Volatile Compounds: Study for volatile compounds yielded fatty acids as main constituents, such as palmitic and linoleic acid with rather high amount of furfural and 5-methyl-2-furfural. Esters identified were methyl salicylate, methyl palmitate, isopropyl palmitate, and linalool oxide. The compounds may contribute to the aroma of Som Poy, Insecticidal / Ovicidal: Study evaluated the larvicidal and ovicidal activity of extracts of seeds and leaves of Acacia concinna and seeds and flowers of Butea monosperma against Hyblaea puera. Results showed the methanol extract of seeds and EA extract of seeds and leaves were most effective of all extracts with a 100% egg hatch inhibition.

Availability Wild-crafted. Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) Antidermatophytic Activity of Acacia concinna / V. Natarajan and S. Natarajan/ Global Journal of Pharmacology 3 (1): 06-07, 2009 (2) Acacia concinna herb Shikakai pods use in medicine / (3) Hepatoprotective Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Pods of Acacia concinna / Kumar Tataji Setti et al / INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENt / June 2011 IssueJune 2011 / Volume - 3/Issue - 04 (4) In vitro Effectiveness of Acacia concinna Extract against Dermatomycotic Pathogens / Mansuang Wuthiudomiert and Omboon Vallisuta / Pharmacognosy Journal / DOI: 10.5530/pj.2011.19.13 (5) Immunological adjuvant activities of saponin extracts from the pods of Acacia concinna / Ratiya Kukhetpitakwong, Chariya Hahnvajanawong et al / International Immunopharmacology, Volume 6, Issue 11, November 2006, Pages 1729-1735 / doi:10.1016/j.intimp.2006.08.004 (6) Screening of Secondary Metabolites and Antibacterial Activity of Acacia concinna / S S Todar, V V Chavan and A S Kulkami / Research Journal of Microbiology, 2010, Vol 5, No10, Pp 974 - 979. (7) CONTRACEPTIVE EFFECTS OF SAPONINS FROM ACACIA CONCINNA DC . / DR. DURAGKAR NANDAKISHORE JEEVANRAO, DR. GORE SHUBHANG et al / (8) Kinmoonosides A-C, Three New Cytotoxic Saponins from the Fruits of Acacia concinna, a Medicinal Plant Collected in Myanmar / Yasuhiro Tezuka, Kazuyuki Honda, Arjun H. Banskota, Maung Maung Thet, and Shigetoshi Kadota / (9) Acacia sinuata (Lour.) Merr. / Catalogue of Life, China (10) Sorting Acacia names / Maintained by: Michel H. Porcher, / MULTILINGUAL MULTISCRIPT PLANT NAME DATABASE / The University of Melbourne, Australia / Copyright 1997 - 2000 The University of Melbourne. (11) Volatile Compounds from "Som Poy" (Acacia concinna DC.) / Punchavee Sombatsiri and Griangsak Chairote / Acta Hort. 679, ISHS 2005 (12) Insecticidal Activity of the Phyto-extracts Derived from Different parts of the trees of Fabaceae family against Hyblaea puera Cramer (Lepidoptera: Hyblaeidae) / B. Deepa and O.K. Remadevi / Biological Forum An International Journal, 3(2): 1-8(2011)

Achuete Bixa orellana Linn. LIPSTICK PLANT Yan zhi mu Scientific names Common names Bixa acuminata Poir. Achiti (Ilk.) Bixa americana Boj. Achote (Tag.) Bixa katagensis Delpierre Achoete (Tagb.) Bixa odorata Ruiz. & Pav.. Atchuete (Tag., Sbl., Bik., P. Bis., Ilk.) Bixa orellana Linn. Achwete (Tag.) Bixa platycarpa Ruiz. & Pav. Asoti (Ibn.) Bixa purpurea Sweet. Asiute (Sbl.) Bixa tinctoria Salisb. Apatut (Gad.) Bixa upatensis Ram. Asuete (Tag.) Hong mu (Chin.) Asuite (Ilk.) Asuti (Tag.) Atseuete (Tag.) Atsuite (Ilk.) Chanang (Sul.) Chotes (S. L. Bis.) Janang (Sul.) Sotis (C. Bis.) Annatto (Engl.) Lipstick plant (Engl.) Yan zhi mu (Chin.) Other vernacular names BENGALI: Latka CHINESE: Yan zhi shu DANISH: Annatobusken, Orleantr, Smrfarvetr. DUTCH: Anatto, Rocou, Annotto, Achiote, Orleaan ESTONIA: Annatopsa, Vrvibiksa. FINNISH: Annaatto. FRENCH: Annato, Atole, Rocou, Rocouyer, Roucou, Roucouyer GERMAN: Anattosamen, Annattosamen, Anattostrauch, Orleansbaum, Orleansamen, Orleanstrauch. HINDI: Lathwa, Latkana, Sindhuri. HUNGARIAN: Bjoul , Orlenfa, Ruku. ITALIAN: Annatto, Anotto . JAPANESE: Achiote, Anatoo, Anatto, Beni no ki KHMER: Chm' puu, Chm' puu chrluk'. KOREAN: A chi o te, A na to, Bik sa sok. LAOTIAN: Kh'am, Satii, Smz phuu. MALAY: Jarak belanda, Kunyit jawa, Kesumba (Indonesia), Kesumba kling (Indonesia). MARATHI: Sendrii NEPALESE: Sindur, Sindure. MARATHI: Sendrii PORTUGESE: Aafroa do Brasil, Anato, Annato, Uruc, Uruc da mata, Urucum. RUSSIAN: Achiote, Biksa, Pomadnoe derevo.

SERBIAN: Orlean-drvo SPANISH: Achihuite, Achiote, Achiote caspi, Achote, Bija, Bijol, Pumacua SUNDANESE: GALUGA SWEDISH: Annattobuske. TAMIL: Jabra, Kongaram, Sappira. THAI: Kam st, Kham faet, Kham ngae, Kham ngo, Kham thai. VIETNAMESE: Di nhum, Ht iu mu. Gen Info Next to caramel, annatto is the world's most important natural colorant yielding yellow to red colors. There is global commercial production of the seed, estimated in 1990 at 10,000 tons per year; Brazil being the largest exported.

Botany Atsuete is a tree reaching 4 to 6 meters. Leaves are entire, alternate with long petioles, ovate, 8 to 20 centimeters long, 5 to 12 centimeters wide, with a broad and heart-shaped base, and a pointed tip. The flowers are white or pinkish, 4 to 6 centimeters diameter, 4 to 6 centimeters in diameter on terminal panicles. Fruits are spiny capsules, ovoid or rounded, reddish brown, about 4 centimeters long, and covered with long, slender and soft spines. Fruit dry and split open in two parts exposing many small red seeds covered with a dye-yielding red pulp.

Distribution - Planted in and about towns throughout the Philippines. - Native of tropical America. - Pantropic. - Widely cultivated and naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions throughout the rest of the world. Constituents - Phytochemical screening yielded carbohydrates, steroids, alkaloids, proteins, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolics, tannins and glycosides.

- Bixa orellana seeds are the only natural source of bixin, a carotenoid widely used in food industry as colourant. - Seed contains a fatty oil with palmitin, a little stearin, and phytosterol. - Study of carotenoid pigments in the seeds identified bixin, norbixin, -carotene, cryptoxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin and methyl bixin. Properties

- Root-bark is antiperiodic and antipyretic. - Aphrodisiac and detoxifier. - Leaves are diuretic, antipyretic, purgative. - Seeds are slightly astringent. - Fine powder covering the seed is hemostatic and stomachic. - The pulp (annatto) surrounding the seeds is astringent and slightly purgative. Parts utilized Leaves, bark and seeds. Uses Culinary Seeds used locally for coloring food. Coloring matter used for commercially coloring butter. Folkloric For small burns: Wash the leaves with soap and water. Boil 10 leaves in 5 glasses of water; cool. Soak the burn area for 10 minutes, once a day. The pulp of the seeds, immediately applied to, prevents blistering and scarring. Pulp also used to treat bleeding, dysentery, gonorrhea, constipation and fever. The seeds, ground and boiled, also used for burns. Mixed with coconut, is applied to the throat. Decoction of bark used for febrile catarrh. Fresh seeds when moistened produce a reddish colored juice that is applied to red rashes. The seeds are used as antidote for cassava and J. urcas poisoning. Fine powder that covers the seeds is used as hemostatic, and internally as stomachic. In French Guiana, infusion of leaves used as purgative in dysentery. Leaves used as febrifuge in Cambodia. Decoction of leaves used as gargle for sore throat. Seed oil used for leprosy. The achuete dye used with lime for the treatment of erysipelas. Also used for wound healing, regulation of heavy menses, and thinning hair.

 The leaf, bruised with the head of a "walis-tingting" (broom made from frond ribs of the coconut leaves), mixed with warm coconut oil is applied on the forehead for headaches. An infusion of the leaves used as purgative. Poultice of leaves are diuretic and used for treatment of gonorrhea Mucilage produced from infusion of fresh branches used a emollient in the Antilles.. Leaves for snake bites. Extract of leaves, barks and roots used as antidote for poisoning from Manihot esculenta, J. curcas, and Hura crepitans. Decoction of leaves for nausea and vomiting. In traditional Peruvian medicine, used to treat heartburn and stomach distress caused by spicy foods; also, as a vaginal antiseptic and cicatrizant. In Uruguay seeds are ground and boiled and used on burns. In West Indian folk medicine, used for diabetes mellitus. In Guatemala used for treatment of gonorrhea. Female aphrodisiac in the Amazonia. Others Dye: The main product from B. orellana is an organic dye present in the seed coat called "annatto," lipid-soluble and widely used in the food industry for its red to orange-yellow colours (cheese, butter, oils, margarine, ice-cream, pastries). Next to caramel, it is the world's second most important food colorant. Besides providing an attractive color to meat and other dishes, it also imparts a subtle and distinctive flavour. In the cosmetic industry it finds use in hair, nail and soap products, and also in the many of the household products floor wax, shoe polish, russet leather, wood stains. Wood: Lightweight, not durable. The fibrous bark used to make ropes and twine.

Studies Antimicrobial / Antifungal: (1) The study screened plants extracts - including Bixa orellana for antimicrobial activity and MIC. B orellana showed low MIC against against E coli and a better MIC against

B cereus. Results showed that Bixa orellana, Justicia secunda and Piper pulchrum could be potential sources of new antimicrobial agents. (2) Study of organic extract of BO showed to possess a narrow spectrum of antimicrobial activity, effective only against Gram+ bacteria used in the study. (3) Leaf extract showed significant inhibition against all tested bacteria and fungus. Antibacterial / Antioxidant / Antidiarrheal / Neuropharmacolic / Anticonvulsant/ Gastrointestinal Motility Effect: Preliminary pharmacologic studies on the methanol extracts of BO leaves showed statistical decrease in locomotor activity, anticonvulsant effect, analgesic and antidiarrheal effect and a delay i gastrointestinal motility. It also showed radical scavenging properties and antibacterial activity against agents of diarrhea and dysentery. Hypoglycemic / Antidiabetic: (1) Study of BO oil seed suspension of the red seed coat showed it to be a potent hypoglycemic agent. Extract study showed hypoglycemia in both normal and streptozotocin diabetic dogs. (2) Annatto extract was found to decrease blood glucose in fasting normoglycemic and streptozocin-induced diabetic dogs. The activity was attributed to the stimulation of peripheral utilization of glucose. (3) Methanol extracts of B. orellana and L. acutangula showed significantly hypoglycemic activities in Swiss Webster mice. (4) Study on C-peptide STZ-induced diabetic dogs showed a glucose lowering effect probably through stimulation of peripheral utilization of glucose. Milk-based pigment: Study showed B orellana seeds can be used as a pigment in making milk-based paint. Anti-Gonorrheal: In a study of 46 plants popularly used in Guatemala for the treatment of gonorrhea, B orellana bark was one of the most active plants that inhibited strains of freshly isolated N gonorrhea. Antibacterial / Anti-Staphylococcal Activity: Study showed crude ethanolic extracts from leaves of B orellana and bark of Alstonia macrophylla showed potential antibacterial effect against S aureus. Aldose Reductase Inhibition: Study of hot water extracts of B orellana, C morifolim and I batatas showed potent inhibitory activity towards lens aldose reductase. Phytochemicals yielded isoscutellarein from B orellana as its potent inhibitor. No Effect on BPH Symptoms: Study on patients with BPH presenting with moderate lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) did not show any benefit from BO compared to placebo. Bioactive Sesquiterpene: Study of extract of air-dried leaves yielded ishwarane, phytol, polyprenol, and a mix of stigmasterol and sitosterol. Results of the prophylactic assay demonstrated anti-toxic property. Acid writhing testing demonstrated minimal analgesic activity. Radioprotective: Study evaluated the radioprotective effect of a hydroalcoholic extract of seeds of B. orellana on chromosome aberration in cells of bone marrow in irradiated mice. Pretreatment resulted in significant reduction in aberrant metaphases. Results suggest B. orellana may be used as radioprotective in humans. Microwave Facilitated Bixin Extraction / Antioxidant Activity: Bixa orellana seeds are the only natural source of bixin, a carotenoid colourant. Microwave assisted extraction was shown to be the most effective extraction procedure for isolation of bixin. MAE is green technology, superior to conventional extraction methods. Hypolipidemic Effect: Study of aqueous extract of seeds showed a hypolipidemic effect with reversal of hypertriglyceridemia induced by Triton, fructose and ethanol. Diuretic Effect / Leaf: Various extracts of dried leaf powder were investigated for diuretic activity in Wistar rats. A methanolic extract showed significant diuretic activity by increasing total urine output and increased excretion of sodium potassium and chloride. Results were compared to standard drug furosemide. Cardioprotective Effect / Leaf: Study evaluated the cardioprotective activity of an ethanol extract against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in Swiss albino rats. A dose-dependent protective effect was observed. All parameters and markers were significantly reversed upon treatment with the extract and were comparable to a-tocopherol, together with histopath changes.

 Anti-Leishmaniasis: Study of B. orellana extract in experimentally infected BALB/c mice showed significant activity against promastigote and amastigote forms of L. amazonensis. Anti-Inflammatory: Study showed pretreatment with aqueous extract of B. orellano caused significant dose-dependent inhibitory activity against inflammatory models, the bradyknin-induced hind paw edema model and bradikinin-induced increased peritoneal vascular permeability.. The antiinflammatory effect may be due to its antibradykinin activity related to a reduction of nitrous oxide production. Availability Wild-crafted. Small scale local cultivation for condiment and food colorant. Worldwide production of annatto seeds for commercial and home use.

Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) Bixa orellana L. / Heather Newman (2) Screening for antimicrobial activity of ten medicinal plants used in Colombian folkloric medicine: a possible alternative in the treatment of non-nosocomial infections / Rojas JJ, Ochoa VJ, Ocampo SA, Muoz JF / BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2006, 6:2 / doi:10.1186/1472-68826-2 (3) Bixa orellana: Dyes and Tannins / DataBaseProtaOrg (4) Achiote, Bixa orellana / Peru Herbals (5) Preliminary pharmacological screening of Bixa orellana L. leaves / Journal of Ethnopharmacology Vol 108, Issue 2, 24 November 2006, Pages 264-271/ doi:10.1016/j.jep.2006.05.008 (6) The hypoglycaemic effect of annatto (bixa orellana) / West Indian med. j;40(suppl.1):62, Apr. 1991. (7) Study of the carotenoid pigments of Bixa orellana L. Seeds by thin layer chromatography / A S L Tirimanna et al / Microchimica Acta Volume 76, Numbers 1-2 / January, 1981 / DOI 10.1007/BF01197299/ (8) Bixa orellana L. annatto / BIXACEAE : (9) Bixa Orellana Linn. Seeds (Atchuete) as Potential Source of Paint Pigment / (10) Antimicrobial Activity of Annatto (Bixa orellana) Extract / O N Irobi et al /

Summary Pharmaceutical Biology 1996, Vol. 34, No. 2, Pages 87-90 (11) Antigonorrhoeal activity of plants used in Guatemala for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases / Armando Caceres et al / Journal of Ethnopharmacology Volume 48, Issue 2, October 1995, Pages 85-8 / doi:10.1016/0378-8741(95)01288-O (12) ANTIBACTERIAL EFFECT OF CRUDE ALCOHOLIC AND AQUEOUS EXTRACTS OF SIX MEDICINAL PLANTS AGAINST STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS AND ESCHERICHIA COLI / Metta Ongsakul et al / J Health Res 2009, 23(3):153-156 (13) Hypoglycaemic activity of Bixa orellana extract in the dog / Russell K R M et al / Methods Find Exp Clin Pharmacol 2008-May; vol 30 (issue 4) : pp 301-5 (14) Bixa orellana L. / Catalogue of Life, China (15) Sorting Bixa names / Maintained by: Michel H. Porcher, / MULTILINGUAL MULTISCRIPT PLANT NAME DATABASE (16) Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study of Bixa Orellana in Patients with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Associated To Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia / Luis Zegarra, Abraham Vaisberg, Cesar loza, Roxana L. Aguirre, Miguel Campos, Irma Fernandez, Oscar Talla, Leon Villegas / International Braz J Urol Vol. 33 (4): 493-501, July - August, 2007 (17) A bioactive sesquiterpene from Bixa orellana / Dennis D. Raga, Rafael A. Espiritu, Chien-Chang Shen, Consolacion Y. Ragasa / J Nat Med (2011) 65:206211DOI 10.1007/s11418-010-0459-9 (18) Analgesic and Hypoglycemic Activities of Bixa orellana, Kyllinga monocephala and Luffa acutangula / Jusal P. Quanico, Evangeline C. Amor, and Grace G. Perez / Philippine Journal of Science, 137 (1): 69-76, June 2008 (19) Protective effect of Bixa orellana L. against radiation induced chromosomal aberration in Swiss albino mice / M.S. Karchuli, Ganesh N / International Journal of Phytomedicine 1(2009) 18-21 (20) Effects of Bixa orellana L. Seeds on Hyperlipidemia / Ferreira, J. M., Sousa, D. F., Dantas, M. B., Fonseca, S. G. C., Menezes, D. B., Martins, A. M. C. and de Queiroz, M. G. R. (2012) / Phytother. Res./ doi: 10.1002/ptr.4675

(21) Microwave facilitated extraction of Bixin from Bixa orellana and it's in-vitro antioxidant activity / Soumya Vasu*, Venkatesh Palaniyappan, Hari Prasath Kothandam, Shrishailappa Badami / Der Pharmacia Lettre, 2010, 2 (2): 479485 (22) Effects of Bixa orellana L. Seeds on Hyperlipidemia / Jamile M. Ferreira, Daniel F. Sousa, Mariana B. Dantas, Said G. C. Fonseca, Dalgimar B. Menezes, Alice M. C. Martins*, Maria Goretti R. de Queiroz / Phytotherapy Research / DOI: 10.1002/ptr.4675 (23) Hypoglycaemic activity of Bixa orellana extract in the dog. / Russell KR, Omoruyi FO, Pascoe KO, Morrison EY. / Methods Find Exp Clin Pharmacol. 2008 May;30(4):301-5. (24) Diuretic Activity of Bixa orellana Linn. Leaf Extracts / B Radhika, Nasreen Begum, K Srisailam and V M Reddy / Indian Journ of Natural Products and Resources, Vol 1, No 3, Sept 2010, pp 353-355. (25) Cardioprotective activity of Bixa orellana L. on isoproterenol induced myocardial necrosis in rats / Kuppusamy Asokkumar*, Puliyath Jagannath, Muthusamy Umamaheswari, Thirumalaisamy Sivashanmugam, Varadharajan Subhadradevi, Arumugam Madeswaran / Journal of Pharmacy Research, Vol 5, No 4 (2012) (26) Leaf and Seed extracts of Bixa orellana L. exert anti-microbial activity against bacterial pathogens / Tamil Selvi A., Dinesh M. G., Satyan R. S., Chandrasekaran B. and Rose C. / Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 01 (09); 2011: 116-120 (27) Effect of Bixa orellana against Leishmania amazonensis. / Garca M, Monzote L, Montalvo AM, Scull R. / Forsch Komplementmed. 2011;18(6):351-3. Epub 2011 Dec 9. / Med Princ Pract. 2011;20(2):142-6. Epub 2011 Jan 20. (28) Bixa orellana leaves extract inhibits bradykinin-induced inflammation through suppression of nitric oxide production. / Yoke Keong Y, Arifah AK, Sukardi S, Roslida AH, Somchit MN, Zuraini A. / Med Princ Pract. 2011;20(2):142-6. Epub 2011 Jan 20. (29) Separation of norbixin from Bixa orellana / Ponchami Sharma, M.M. Bora*, Samiran Borthakur, P.G. Rao, N.N. Dutta / DOI: 10.1002/ep.10615

Adelfa Nerium indicum Mill. SOUTH SEA ROSE Ou zhou jia zhu tao Scientific names Common names Nerium indicum Mill. Adelfa (Span., Tag.) Nerium oleander Blanco Baladre (Tag.) Nerium odorum Soland. Ceylon Tree (Engl.) Jia zhu tao (Chin.) Dog bane (Engl.) Oleander (Engl.) Rose bay (Engl.) South sea rose (Engl.) Ou zhou jia zhu tao (Chin.) Other vernacular names AFRIKAANS: Selonsroos ARABIC: Defla, Difla FRENCH: Laurier rose, Oleandre GERMAN: Oleander ITALIAN: Oleandrio JAPANESE: Kyochiku-to PORTUGUESE: Loendro SPANISH: Adelfa, Balandre, Laurel rosa, Pasua. Botany Adelfa is an erect, smooth shrub, 1.5 to 3 meters high with a cream-colored, sticky, resinous juice. Leaves are in whorls of 3 or 4, linear-lanceolate, 10 to15 centimeters long, with numerous horizontal nerves. Flowers are showy, sweet-scented, single or double, 4 to 5 centimeters in diameter, white, pink, or red, borne on terminal inflorescences (cymes). Fruit is cylindric, paired, with deep linear striations, 15 to 20 centimeters long. Seeds are numerous and compressed, with a tuft of fine, shining, white and grayish, silky hairs. Distribution - Throughout the Philippines in cultivation. - Nowhere established. - Introduced by the Spaniards. - Native of subtropical or tropical Asia. - Now pantropic.

Constituents - Phytochemical screening has yielded cardiac glycosides, pregnanes, terpenes flavonoids, etc. - Study yielded glycoside, oleadrin; tannin; volatile oil, 0.25%. - Yielded two principles: neriin and oleandrin, glucosides with properties similar to digitalin. - The seeds yield fat 17.4%, phytosterin and l-strophanthin. - Bark contains toxic glycosides: rosaginin and nerlin, volatile oil, fixed oil. - Nerium odorum's bark yielded two toxic bitter principlesneriodorin and neriodorein. Another toxic principle is karabin. Both karabin and neriodorin are probably resins, rather than glucosides. - Roots yield a yellow, poisonous resin, tannic acid, wax, and sugar, but no alkaloid or volatile poison. - Study isolated 14 compounds: a new pregnane, 14,16-dihydroxy-3-oxo--lactone-pregn-4-en-21-oic acid (16,17), and thirteen known cardiac glycosides:oleandrin, oleandrigenin, neriosid, nerigoside,16,17-didehydrosomalin, oleaside A, adynerin, odoroside-A , 3-hydroxy-5-carda8,14,20,(22)-trienolid, odoroside H, deacetyloandrin, adynerigenin,3-hydroxy-5-8,14-epoxy-card20(22)-enolid. - Study of roots yielded carbohydrates, proteins, steroids, flavanoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds.

Properties - Leaves and flowers are considered cardiotonic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emetic and expectorant. - Whole plant believed to have anticancer, antiinflammatory, antibacterial, sedating, and anthelmintic effects. - The pharmacologic actions of of neriin and oleandrin resemble those of digitalis glucosides. In human beings, toxicity manifests as nausea, vomiting, colic, decreased appetite, dizziness, drowsiness, bradycardia and irregular heart beats, pupillary dilation, and sometimes unconsciousness attributed to digitalis poisoning. - Reported biologic activities to include anti-inflammatory, sedative, antibacterial, cardiac, anti-neoplastic and anthelmintic.

Parts used and preparation Bark and leaves. Uses Folkloric - Herpes zoster (skin): Crush leaves, mix with oil and apply on lesions. Do not apply on raw surface. Milky juice of the plant is irritating. Caution: Not to be taken internally. - Herpes simplex: Mix 1 cup of chopped leaves and bark with 2 tablespoons of oil. Apply to lesions 3 times daily.

- Ringworm: Chop a foot long branch and mix with 1 cup chopped fresh young leaves. Mix the juice with 5 drops of fresh coconut oil. Apply 3 times daily. - Snake bites: Pound 10 leaves and a piece of branch. Apply poultice to the wound. - Root used, locally and internally, by women in western and southern India and in the central Malay Peninsula for suicide and for procuring criminal abortion. - Past of bark of the roots is applied externally for ringworm. - Used in leprosy, skin eruptions, and boils. - In the Punjab and Cashmere areas, roots are used for asthma. - Leaves used in the treatment of malaria and dysmenorrhea; also used as abortifacient. - Roots, made into paste with water, used for hemorrhoids. - Leaves and bark used externally for eczema, snake bites and as insecticide; internally, used for epilepsy. - Dried leaves used as sternutatory. - Infusion of leaves and fruit used a cardiac regulator. - In Morocco, fresh leaves applied to tumors to hasten suppuration. - In traditional Chinese medicine, the flowers and leaves have been used to stimulate the cardiac muscles, relieve pain and eliminate blood stasis. Studies - Molluscicidal activity of Nerium indicum bark: The study showed the bark of Nerium indicum as an important source of botanical molluscicide and is an effective insecticide against Blatta orientalis. Glycosides, steroids and terpenoids were also isolated from Nerium indicum. Primary Metabolites: Study on the quantification of primary metabolites in N. indicum yielded carbohydrates, proteins, phenols, lipids, etc. N. indicum's stem contains higher levels of phenol which has immuno-modulating, anti-tumour and antibacterial activities. Tincture Cardiovascular Effect: Tincture Karveer is a potent cardiotonic drug which is also purported to relieve symptoms of Cor pulmonale as a bronchodilator and cough sedative. The tincture is considered safe and helpful, and promising for the treatment of CHF in humans. Neuroprotective: Study of isolated polysaccharides from the flowers of N. indicum (J6) showed potential as a neuroprotective agent against neuronal death in Alzheimer's disease through a mechanism that may primarily rely on inactivation of the JNK signaling pathway. Polysaccharides / Nerve Growth Factor-like Effect: Study of polysaccharides J1 (a rhamnogalacturonan) and J2 (a xyloglucan) from the whole flowers of N. indicum were tested on the proliferation and differentiation of PC12 pheochromocytoma cells and found to have nerve growth factor-life effect. Analgesic: Study of extract of flowers and roots of N. indicum showed promising antinociceptive activity mediated through the prostaglandin pathways with analgesic principles interfering with the biosynthesis of prostaglandins. Larvicidal: Study of larvicidal lethality of extracts of lattices of N indicum and E royleana on Culex quinquefasciatus showed significant delay in embryonic development of Culex larvae. Antimicrobial / Antifungal: In a study of the ethanolic extracts of dried leaves of N. indicum and Martynia annua, N indicum showed significant antibacterial and antifungal activity compared to M. annua. Anti-Angiogenesis: Study yielded three oligosaccharides. Bioactivity angiogenesis testing showed two of the oligosaccharides significantly inhibited the HMEC-1 cell tube formation. Cytotoxicity / Anticancer: Most of the compounds isolated from the leaves of N. indicum exhibited strong cytotoxicity against HeLa cell. Odoroside-A exhibited the strongest cytotoxicity. Molluscicidal: Study of different bark preparations showed varying degrees of time- and dosedependent molluscicidal activity.

 Anti-Ulcer: Study of a methanol extract against pylorus-induced gastric ulcer and indomethacininduced ulcer in rats showed significant antiulcer activity in all models with significant reduction of gastric volume, free acidity, and ulcer index. Results suggest an antisecretory effect. Anti-Diabetic: Study investigated the antidiabetic activity of a leaf extract in alloxan-induced diabetic albino rats. Results showed significant antidiabetic activity. The antihyperglycemic action of the extracts may be due to improvement of the glycemic control mechanisms. CNS Effects / Sedative / Hypnotic : Study on behavior pattern in mice showed fractions of leaves extract induced sedation at low dose and hypnosis at high doses. Fractions also showed significant decrease in locomotion counts, decrease in motor performances and enhancement of hexobarbital sleeping time. Effects are possibly through GABA-ergic modifications. Anti-HIV / Anticancer: In a small clinical trial (20 patients in a DB, placebo controlled study) in a Johannesburg AIDS clinic evaluating the effectiveness of supplements ingredients (Nerium oleander and Sutherlandia frutescens) against HIV results showed significant improvement with an increase in CD4 count while the placebo group declined. Hepatoprotective: A methanolic plant extract showed remarkable hepatoprotective activity against carbon-tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Toxicity Studies: (1) Study evaluated the toxic effects of a crude watery extract in male adult guinea pigs. The lowest nonlethal dose was 300 mg/kbw and doses of 450 to 900 caused varying frequency of mortality. The LD50 is 540 mg/kbw. (2) Study reported clinical, ECG, and pathologic findings in goats consistent with those reported in sheep and cattle. Main signs were related to the gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. Study concludes goat is susceptible to oleander toxicosis just like other domestic ruminants. However, the unpalatable nature of the plant and the selective feeding habit of the goat, make poisoning in this species infrequent. Antitumor / Anticancer: Study evaluated the cell killing effects of Anvirzel, an extract of oleander, and Oleandrin, a derivative compound, on human, canine, and murine tumor cells. Both Anvirzel and Oleandrine were able to induce cell killing in human cancer cells, but not in murine cancer cells. The cellkilling potential of Oleandrin was greater than that of Anvirzel. Results conclude both act in a speciesspecific manner. Availability Wild-crafted. Extracts, supplements in the cybermarket.

Adlabong
Lobelia nicotianaefolia Heyne
WILD TOBACCO

Scientific names Lobelia nicotianaefolia Heyne

Common names Adlabong (Ig.) Balyongyong (Bon.) Balinyungyung (Bon.) Katlabung (Ig.)

Kanyuong (Ig.) Lugog-lugog (Bon.) Subasob (Bon.) Asthma weed (Engl.) Indian tobacco (Engl.) Wild tobacco (Engl.) Botany Adlabong is a tall, erect, much branched, somewhat hairy herb growing from 1.5 to 3 meters in height. Leaves, resembling those of tobacco, are narrowly obovate-lanceolate, the lower ones being 30 cm in length and 5 cm in width, while the upper ones gradually become smaller; all are smooth or nearly so above and hairy or smooth beneath. Flowers are large, white and borne on terminal compound inflorescences. The calyx-tube is smooth or hairy, with linear teeth about 1.2 cm long. Corolla is 2 to 3 cm long, and smooth or hairy. Capsules are 2-celled, somewhat rounded, and about 1.5 cm in diameter. Seeds are numerous, very small, ellipsoid, and compressed.

Distribution - In damp thickets and ravines, at altitudes of 1,200 to 2,300 meters. - Occurs in Bontoc, Ifugao, Benguet, Lepanto Subprovinces; and the Zambales Province in Luzon. - Also occurs in India. Constituents - Two alkaloids have been isolated, one of them identified as lobeliin. The lobeline content of L. nicotianaefolia is higher (1-1.8%) compared of L. inflata (0.3-0.4%). - Also contains volatile oil, resin, gum and fixed oil. - Seeds contain an acro-narcotic poison; in India, often preferred to Datura as poison, when a rapid effect if desired. - Yields lobeline, l-lelobanidine and lobelanidine. Properties - Dry herb, when handled, is extremely acrid; the dust irritating the throat and nostril like tobacco. - Lobelia used medicinally as expectorant, emetic, anti-asthmatic, stimulant, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic and nervine. Parts used Leaves, seeds. Uses Folkloric - In India, infusion of leaves used as antispasmodic and expectorant. - Roots used in treatment of eye diseases. - Flower decoction used for asthma. - Root paste applied on dog bites. - Used for treatment of bronchitis, asthma, insect and scorpion bites. - Also used to induce nausea and vomiting. - In Ayurveda, plant is used for sciatica and back pain. - Leaves used to facilitate wound healing. Studies Antibacterial: In a study of extracts of six commonly available medicinal plants tested for their antibacterial activity against five different diarrheagenic bacterial ( B cereus, S aureus, E coli, Salmonella enteritidis and L

monocytogenes), the crude aqueous leaf extract and crude ethanolic leaf extract of L. nicotinaefolia showed the highest antimicrobial activity. Lobeline: Studies suggest lobeline and its analogues may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of psychostimulant abuse. Non-competitive inhibition of VMAT2 may be the mechanism in the treatment of drug abuse. Besides substance abuse disorder, Lobeline has also been used in the pharmacotherapy of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Antiepileptic / Lobeline: Study investigated the anticonvulsant activity of the lobeline isolated from Lobelia nicotianaefolia in chemoconvulsant-induced seizures in mice. Results showed isolated lobeline exhibited potent anticonvulsant activity against PTZ induced seizures probably through enhancement of GABA release. Availability Wild-crafted. Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) A REVIEW ON HERBAL ANTIOXIDANTS / Panchawat S, Rathore K S, Sisodia S S / International Journal of PharmTech Research / CODEN (USA): IJPRIF ISSN : 0974-4304 / Vol.2, No.1, pp 232-239, Jan-Mar 2010 (2) Antibacterial Potency and Synergistic Effect of Certain Plant Extracts Against Food-Borne Diarrheagenic Bacteria / Natchimuthu Karmegam et al / International Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences / Original Research Paper / (3) Costus speciosus (Koeing.) J. E. Sm., Lobelia nicotianaefolia Roth. And Urginea indica Kunth- the Important Ethnomedicinal Plants from the Western Ghats / A. S. Wabale, M. N. Kharde, K. J. Salunke and A. S. Petkar* / ASIAN J. EXP. BIOL. SCI. VOl 2 (1) 2011 (4) Antiepileptic activity of lobeline isolated from the leaf of Lobelia nicotianaefolia and its effect on brain GABA level in mice / Abrar M Tamboli, Rukhsana A Rub, Pinaki Ghosh, SL Bodhankar Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine (2012)537-542 537/

African lily
Agapanthus africanus Linn. Common names
African lily (Engl.) Lily-of-the-Nile (Engl.)

Botany
Herb with thick rhizomes. Leaves are basal, 2-ranked, linear-lanceolate, up to 50 cm long and 5 cm wide. Flowers are in umbels, 12- to 30-flowered, usually bright blue-violet, crowded at the end of a long stalk,

Distribution
Usually cultivated for ornamental pot plants in the Philippines.

Parts utilized
Rhizomes, leaves and roots.

Constituents and Characteristics

Cardiac, stomachic, uterotonic. oxytoxic, pectoral, expectorant, aperient, purgative, nephritic. Saponins and sapogenins of the furostane and spirostane type, including agapanthegenin and steroid spirostan sapogenins. Anthycyanin gives the colors to the flowers. Different Agapanthus species are sued for similar medicinal purposes.

Toxicology
Leaf may cause mouth pain and ulcerations. May be irritating to the eyes and skin. Suspected but unproven hemolytic effects.

Uses
Folkloric No reported folkloric medicinal use in the Philippines. A plant of fertility and pregnancy used by South African traditional healers as phytomedicine to treat ailments related to pregnancy and to facilitate labor. Orally or rectally, as a decoction, to ensure an easy delivery and a healthy child. It may facilitate expulsion of the placenta and augment uterine contractions. Roots worn as necklace for easy childbirth and fertility. Decoction used in washing newborn babies; also, an infant tonic. Considered an aphrodisiac, used for impotency and barrenness. Leaves used around wrists to bring down fever.

Studies
Oxytocic: Studies have shown that the aequeous extract of Agapanthus africanus leaves causes smooth muscle contractions in the uterine and ileal studies. On isolated rat uterus, the leaf extract exhibited agonist effects on the uterine muscarinic receptors and promoted synthesis of prostaglandins in the estrogenized rat uterus. The study provided a pharmacologic explanation for the ethnic use of A. africanus as herbal oxytocic in prolonged labor. Antifungal: Ethanolic extract of A. Africanus rhizomes showed significant antifungal activity against human pathogensTrycchophyton mentagrophytes and Sporothrix schenekii.

Availability
Ornamental cultivation.

Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1)

Pharmacological effects of Agapanthus africanus on the isolated rat uterus / D J H Veale et al / Journal of Ethnopharmacology Vol 66, Issue 3, September 1999, Pages 257-262 / doi:10.1016/S0378-8741(98)00224-4 (2) Toxicology and constituents / A Herb Monograph on Agapanthus africanus (3) Antifungal activity of Agapanthus africanus extractives / doi:10.1016/j.fitote.2007.12.004 / Fitoterapia Vol 79, Issue 4, June 2008, Pages 298-300 (4) Steroidal saponins from the rhizomes of Agapanthus africanus (Linn) / Indian journal of chem / 2007, vol. 46, no7, pp. 1154-1158

Agoho
Casuarina equisetifolia Linn.
IRON WOOD

Ma wei shu Scientific names Casuarina equisetifolia Linn. Casuarina litorea L. var. litorea Casuarina litorea Rumpheus ex Stickman Mu ma huang (Chin.)n Common names Ago (Ibn., Neg.) Agoho (Tag., Ilk., Bis., Bik.) Agoo (Pang., Ilk., Kuy.) Agoko (Pang.) Ago-o (Ilk.) Agoso (Pang., Tag.) Ague (Ibn.) Alaut (Bon.) Antong (Is.) Aroo (Ilk.) Aroho (Ilk., Ting.) Ayo (Bis.) Karo (Ilk.) Mahohok (Mbo.) Malabohok (Bis.) Maribuhok (Bis.) Iron wood (Engl.) Australian beefwood (Engl.)

Beach she-oak (Engl.) Horsetail casuarina (Engl.) Whistling pine (Engl.) Ma wei shu (Chin.) Other vernacular names CHINESE: Duan zhi mu ma huang, bo gu shu FIJI: Noko noko FRENCH: Bois de fer, filao, pin d'Australie GERMAN: Eisenholz, strandkasuarine PORTUGESE: Pinheiro-da-Australia SPANISH: Taraje Botany Agoho is a large, evergreen tree, tall and straight, up to 20 meters high. Crown is narrowly pyramidal, resembling some of the conifers in appearance. Bark is brown and rough. Branchlets are very slender, about 20 centimeters long, mostly deciduous, composed of many joints. Internodes are about 1 centimeter long, somewhat 6- or 8-angled. Flowers are unisexual. Staminate spikes are slender, 1 to 3 centimeters long. Cones are usually ellipsoid, 1 to 2 centimeters long, composed of about 12 rows of achenes enclosed in the hardened bracts. Distribution - Throughout the Philippines along sandy seashores, extending inland in open sandy valleys along streams. - Sometimes growing at altitudes as high as 800 meters. - Cultivated in Manila and large towns as an ornamental foliage tree or hedge plant. - Also planted to check erosion.

- Also occurs in Tropics of the Old World from Africa to Polynesia, near the sea. - Now pantropic in cultivation.

Constituents - Plant yielded kaempferol, quercetin, alicylic acids, amino acids, taraxarol, lupenone, lupeol, gallic acid, -sitosterol, catechin, and gallo-catechin. - Phytochemical screening yielded alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, carbohydrates, tannins, phenols, gums, and mucilage. - Bark yields 18% tannin. - Tannins from the bark were catechin, ellagic acid, and gallic acid. - Leaf and fruit yielded flavonoid and lupeol. - Coloring matter is casuarin. Properties - Resembles a pine tree in appearance. - Considered antidiarrheal, anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal. - Bark considered astringent, emmenagogue, ecbolic and tonic. - Phytosterols from leaves considered antibacterial, hypoglycemic, antifungal, mollusicidal, cytotoxic.

- Seeds considered anthelmintic, antispasmodic and antidiabetic. Parts used Bark, leaves. Uses Folkloric - Infusionn of branches used as diuretic. - Leaves used for colic. - Bark used as astringent. - Bark decoction used as emmenagogue; in large doses, an ecbolic. - Used for stomach aches, diarrhea, dysentery and nervous disorders. - Decoction of bark used for hemoptysis. - Used for cough, asthma, and diabetes. In India and Malaya, bark used for diarrhea and dysentery; also used for beriberi. - In Malaya and Sarawak, decoction of twigs used in making a lotion for swellings. - In Malaya, powdered bark used for pimples. - In Macassar, decoction of bark used for colic. - In Samoa, bark infusion used for coughs, asthma, and diabetes. - Infusion of bark used as tonic; decoction used for chronic diarrhea and dysentery. Others - Wood used for fuel; making poles and rafters.

- Tannin fromm the bark used for tanning and dyeing. Studies Antibacterial: (1) In a study of seven medicinal plants investigated for antibacterial and toxic activities, C. equisetifolia exhibited strong activity against S aureus, B subtilis and S sonnei. (2) Casuarina equisetifolia was one of 12 medicinal plants studied for antibacterial activity against B subtilis, S epidermis, Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes, P vulgaris and S typhimurium. Hepatoprotective: C. equisetifolia was one for four medicinal plants that showed dose-dependent protection against carbon tetrachloride induced hepatocellular injury in rats. Antidiabetic / Hypolipidemic: Study of ethanolic extract showed reduced blood sugar in STZ-induced diabetic rats. There was also a significant reduction in total cholesterol, LDL, VLDL, with an improvement in HDL cholesterol. Antioxidant / Antimicrobial / Anti-Aggregating Properties: Study showed the condensed tannins extracted from C. equisetifolia exhibited considerable DPPH radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power. Extracts also showed moderate hemolytic action and potent antimicrobial effect on Bacillus proteus, B. subtilis, K. pneumonia, and Aspergillus fumigatus. Antiasthmatic: Study of ethanol extract of bark showed significant dosedependent antiasthmatic activity in various in vitro and in vivo animal models.. Availability Wild-crafted. Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) In vitro Antibacterial Screening and Toxicity Study of Some Different Medicinal Plants / Rajib Ahsan et al / World Journal of Agricultural Sciences 5 (5):617621,2009. (2) Hepatoprotective Activity of Methanol Extract of Some Medicinal Plants Against Carbon Tetrachloride Induced Hepatotoxicity in Albino Rats / Rajib Ahsan et al / Global Journal of Pharmacology, 3 (3): 116-122, 2009 (3) Casuarina equisetifolia L. / Catalogue of Life, China (4) Casuarina equisetifolia (tree) / Global Invasive Species Database

(5) Isolation and Characterization of Phytoconstituents from Casuarina equisetifolia (Casuarinaceae) / A N Aher, S C Pal, S K Yadav, U K Patil and S Bhattacharya / Asian Journal of Chemistry Vol. 22, No. 5 (2010), 3429-3434 (6) ANTIDIABETIC AND ANTIHYPERLIPIDEMIC ACTIVITY OF BARK OF CASUARINA EQUISETIFOLIA ON STREPTOZOTOCIN INDUCED DIABETIC RATS / N. Sriram / International Journal of Pharmacy Review & Research (7) PHARMACOLOGICAL STUDIES: ANTIMICROBIAL, ANTIOXIDANT AND ANTIAGGREGANT ACTIVITIES OF COASTAL SHE OAK (Casuarina equisetifolia) / S. Gurudeeban, K. Satyavani, T. Ramanathan* and T. Balasubramanian / (8) Antioxidant Activity of Isolated Phytoconstituents from Casuarina equisetifolia Frost (Casuarinaceae) / A.N. Aher, S.C. Pal, S.K. Yadav, U.K. Patil and S. Bhattacharya / Journal of Plant Sciences, 4: 15-20. / DOI: 10.3923/jps.2009.15.20 (9) ANTIASTHMATIC ACTIVITY OF BARK OFCasuarina equisetifolia L. (Casuarinaceae) / *Sk. Karimulla, B. Pavan Kumar / Intern Journ of Experimental Pharmacology, Vol 1, No 1|, Jan Jun 2011, 1-3

Ahito
Tagetes erecta L.
MARIGOLD

Scientific names
Tagetes erecta Linn. Tagetes major Gaertn.

Common names
Ahito (Ilk.) Amarillo (Span., Tag.) African marigold (Engl.) Aztec marigold (Engl.) French marigold (Engl.) Marigold (Engl.)

Some compilations list Tagetes erecta and Tagetes patula as synonyms. Quisumbing's and other compilations list them as separate species. Both share the common name marigold and amarillo.

Other vernacular names

HINDI: Genda MANIPURI: Sanarei MARATHI: Jhenduphool KONKANI: Gondiphool. KANNADA: Chenna mallige

Botany
Ahito is an ornamental plant, a rather coarse, erect, glabrous branched, rank-smelling annual herb, 0.4 to 1 meter high. Leaves are 4 to 11 centimeters long, very deeply pinnatifid, with lanceolate lobes, coarsely and sharply toothed, 1 to 2.5 centimeters long. Heads are solitary, 2.5 to 3.5 centimeters long, 2 to 4 centimeters in diameter, longpeduncled, with the peduncle thickened upward. Involucre is green. Flowers are pale to deep yellow. Ray flowers are 1-seriate, female, the ligule entire or 2-toothed, short or long. Disk flowers are perfect, regular, tubular limb usually somewhat enlarged, 5-fid. Fruits are achenes, linear, narrowed below, compressed or angled, 6 to 7 millimeters long.

Distribution
- Ornamental cultivation throughout most of Philippines, - Spontaneous and naturalized in some localities. - Flowering all year. - Now planted in all warm countries.

Parts utilized
Flower and leaves.

Constituents
Marigold is the richest and purest source of lutein. Phytochemical studies isolated flavonoids, carotenoids, xanthophylls and polyketides. with antimutagenic, phytotoric, nutritional, anticarcinogenic and ophthalmologic agents. (Link) Study of stems and flowers characterized: -caryophyllene, terpinolene, (E)ocimenone, -ocimene, piperitenone and Z-ocimene, and limonene. Flowers contain a volatile oil and a yellow coloring-matter, quercetagetin.

Properties
- Considered anthelmintic, aromatic, digestive, ophthalmic, sedative, stomachic, tonic, carminative, emmenagogue. - Roots considered laxative.

Uses
Edibility / Culinary Petals of some varieties are edible; used in salads and for flavor and color. Yellow dye from the flower used as saffron substitute for food coloring and flavor. Condiment. Folkloric A plant of medicinal use since prehistoric times. Used for anemia. irregular menstruation, abdominal pain during menstrual period, rheumatic muscular and bone pain. Leaves applied to boils and carbuncles; juice used for earaches. Internally, used for indigestion, colic, severe constipation, coughs and dysentery. Externally, used for sores, ulcers, eczema, sore eyes and rheumatism. Decoction of flowers used for colds, conjunctivitis, mumps, sore eyes. Decoction preparation for coughs: Boil a handful of the herb in a liter of water and drink a glass 3x daily. In India, juice of the flowers occasionally used as blood purifier and as remedy for piles. Infusion or decoction of plant used for colds, rheumatic pains, bronchitis.

 In Brazil, infusion of leaves and flowers used as vermifuge. In Mexico, decoction of flowers and leaves used as diuretic and carminative. In Aztecs used for carbuncles and eye infections. In Brazil and Mexico, used for joint pains and muscle spasms. Also, used for allergic contact dermatitis. Elsewhere, used in folk medicine for eye diseases, colds, coughs, conjunctivitis, hemorrhoids and ulcers. Others Insecticide, repellent. The Aztecs used it for ceremonial purposes.

Studies
Antioxidant / Analgesic effect: A study showed pronounced antioxidant potential in Aztec marigold flowers and dose-dependent analgesic effect in keeping with its folkloric medicinal use as antiinflammatory and analgesic Wound Healing Activity: Ethanolic extract of Tagetes erecta leaves was evaluated on adult albino rats. Results showed significant wound healing activity, comparable to the nitrofurazone control. The study supports the wound healing properties of the leaves as claimed in folkloric literature. Carotenoid / Nutritional Supplement: Flower extract was found to contain biologically useful lutein compounds and studied for use as nutritional supplement and as poultry food colorant. Keratolytic / Anti-verrucae / Podiatric Use: Its use for plantar hyperkeratosis was first described in the early 80s. Marigold paste has been used for painful hyperkeratotic lesions in the UK. Studies yielded tagetone, d-limonene, acimene, linalyl-acetate, linalol, and other terpenes. Tagetone acts as catalyst in inhibiting the production and transmission of keratinocytes. Marigold also showed benefit in the treatment of topical verrucae. Study shows promised for continued investigation for use of marigold therapy for various podiatric conditions. Larvicidal: Study of T patula essential oil on fourth instar larvae of mosquito species showed greatest activity against A aegypti, followed by An. stephansi and C quinquefasciatus. Results were compared to synthetic insecticide, malathion. Toxicological Study: Study showed the chloroform extract of T erecta had no toxic effects and validates its traditional use in indigenous systems of medicine. Essential Oil: Study of essential oils of T erecta yielded piperitone (50.7%), piperitenone, (E)--ocimene from the leaf oil and 1,8-cineole (23.1%), a-pinene, aterpineol, piperitone and sabinene from the flower oil. Antinociceptive / Anti-Inflammatory: Study of T. erecta alcoholic extracts showed significant antinociceptive activity and significant anti-inflammatory activity comparable to the Diclofenac sodium. Insecticidal: Study of crude extracts and fractions of flower of T erecta was tested for insecticidal activity against stored product insect pest, Trilobium castaneum. The chloroform extract showed highest toxicity against both larvae and adults of T castaneum. Essential Oil / Antioxidant / Camphor and Methyleugenol: Study of essential oil for antioxidant activity using a DPPD assay, free radical scavenging activity and oxidation

of deoxyribose assay. Analysis yielded 18 components; b-caryophyllene, limonene, methyleugenol, (E)-ocimene, piperetone, piperitenone and ?-terpinolene were the main components. Results demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, less than atocopherol. The activity was attributed to the presence of camphor and methyleugenol, both naturally occurring in a variety of herbs and spices. Antioxidant / Flowers: An ethanolic extract of flowers was studied for antioxidant activity. Phytochemical yielded alkaloids, flavonoids, proteins, steroids, and tannins. Results showed antioxidant activity in all in vitro assays -- DPPH, reducing power, and superoxide radical scavenging activity , with better reducing power than standard ascorbic acid. Antidiabetic: Study of hydroalcoholic extract in peritoneally streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats showed increased glucose levels after 30 minutes, and hypoglycemia only after 120 minutes. Antihyperlipidemic Effect: Study of hydroalcoholic extract in induced hyperlipidemic showed a significant decrease in all hyperlipidemic parameters. Lovastatin was sued as standard. Antimicrobial: Study of various extracts evaluated the antimicrobial activity of T. erecta and T. pistula flowers. Methanol extract of T. erecta was found to have better inhibitory activity than cold and hot aqueous extracts. Results showed the extracts of both species possess potential broad spectrum antibacterial activity. Antibacterial: Study showed the leaf and flower of T. erecta to show a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. The flower extract showed significant activity against S. lutea, E. coli, B. circulence.

Availability
Ornamental cultivation. Wild-crafted. Extracts and other products in the cybermarket.

Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) Tagetes erecta: Plants for A Future (2) Studies on the antioxidant and analgesic activities of Aztec marigold (Tagetes erecta) flowers / Samra Bashir, Anwar H. Gilani / Phytotherapy Research Volume 22 Issue 12, Pages 1692 - 1694 / DOI 10.1002/ptr.2550 (3) Wound Healing Activity of Tagetes erecta Linn Leaves / T. Ghosh, A. Bose, K. Dash and. K. Maity / 2.Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata / (4) Carotenoid Composition of Marigold (Tagetes erecta) Flower Extract Used as Nutritional Supplement / W Leigh Hadden et al / J. Agric. Food Chem., 1999,

47 (10), pp 41894194 / DOI: 10.1021/jf990096k (5) The essential oil of Tagetes erecta L. occurring in Iran / Flavour and fragrance journal / ISSN 0882-5734 (6) The Use of Marigold Therapy for Podiatric Skin Conditions / Robert A Hadfield BS et al / The Foot & Ankle Journal 1 (7): 1 / doi: 10.3827/faoj.2008.0107.0001 (7) TOXICOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF CHLOROFORM FRACTION OF FLOWER OF TAGETES ERECTA L. ON RATS / Farjana Nikkon et al / INT.J.DRUG DEV & RES., SEP-DEC 2009;1(1):161-165 (8) Essential Oil from the Leaves and Flowers of "African Marigold," Tagetes erecta L. / Ogunwande Isiaka A et al / Journal of Essential Oil Research: JEOR, Jul/Aug 2006 (9) Evaluation of Anti-nociceptive and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Tagetes erecta Linn Leaves / Sandipan Chatterjee et al / Arch Pharm Sci & Res Vol 1 No 2 207 - 211 October 2009 (10) Insecticidal Activity of Flower of Tagetes erecta L. against Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) / Farjana Nikkon et al / Research Journal of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, 5(5): 748-753, 2009 (11) ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF TAGETES ERECTA ESSENTIAL OIL / ROSA MARTHA PREZ GUTIRREZ, HELIODORO HERNNDEZ LUNA, SERGIO HERNNDEZ GARRIDO / J. Chil. Chem. Soc., 51, N 2 (2006) , pags: 883886 (12) I N-VITRO ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY STUDIES OF THE FLOWERS OF TAGETES ERECTA L. (COMPOSITAE) / BASAVARAJ V CHIVDE et al / International Journal of Pharma and Bio Sciences, Vol 2, No 3, July-Sept 2011| (13) Antidiabetic potential of Tagetes erecta whole plant in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats / Raghuveer Rodda*, Abeesh Kota, Sreeja K, Raju Ch, Valya N / Journal of Pharmacy Research, Vol 4, No 11 (2011) (14) Antihyperlipidemic effect of Tagetes erecta in cholesterol fed hyperlipidemic rats / Rodda Raghuveer * et al / Der Pharmacia Lettre, 2011: 3 (5) 266-270

(15) In Vitro Anti Bacterial Potential of Different Extracts of Tagetes Erecta and Tagetes Patula / Reena Jain, Nidhi Katare, Vijay Kumar, Amit Kumar Samanta, Swati Goswami and C.K. Shrotri / Journal of Natural Sciences, Vol.2, No.5, 2012 (16) Evaluation of antibacterial activity of different parts of Tagetes erecta / Preeti Verma* and Archana Verma / INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY & LIFE SCIENCES, 3(6): June 2012 (17) Marigold orange / Flowers of India /

Alabong
Pilea microphylla Linn.
ARTILLERY PLANT

Xiao ye leng shui hua Scientific names

Pilea muscosa Lindl.. Parietaria microphylla Lindl. Pilea microphylla (Linn.) Liebm.

Common names
Alabong (Ig.) Isang-dakot-na-bigas (Tag.) Artillery plant (Engl.) Military fern (Engl.) Gunpowder plant (Engl.) Xiao ye leng shui hua (Chin.)

Other vernacular names

CHINESE: Tou ming cao, Xiao ye leng shui ma. INDONESIA: Katumpangan, Akar nasi, Jalu-jalu bobudo. VIETNAM: Ph[as]o b[oo]ng, L[aw]n t[aw]n.

Botany
Alabong is a small,soft, smooth herb, 10 centimeters or less in height. Stems are slender, angular, green with a tint of purple, and angular. Leaves occur in two rows, petioled, somewhat elliptical in shape, 2 to 5 millimeters in length. Flowers are very small and crowded in small inflorescences (cymes) which are greenish or tinged with red and less than 1 millimeter in length.

Distribution
- In and about towns, on damp walls, etc., throughout the Philippines. - Native of tropical America. - Now found in most tropical countries.

Properties
- Considered diuretic.

Parts utilized
Entire plant.

Uses
Folkloric - Entire plant infusion is used as a diuretic. - Used for diarrhea and asthma. - In the Antilles, sweetened decoction of roots used as diuretic. - In Jamaica, entire plant used for women in labour; used for infertility and inflammation. (4) - In Brazil, used as a diuretic. - In Guatemala, used for urinary problems. - In Jamaican and Chinese medicine, used for diabetes. - In western Panama, stem decoction drunk for diarrhea.

Studies
Antioxidant / Radioprotective: An ethanolic extract of Pilea microphylla was found inhibit iron-induced lipid peroxidation. In screening for in vivo radioprotection in Swiss albino mice, it showed 80% protection. The fraction also protected livers of irradiated mice from depletion of endogenous antioxidant enzymes, provided general protection to the intestine from acute radiation effects. (1) Non-Phenolic Antioxidant Activity: Results indicated that the antioxidant activity was not correlated with phenolic content and suggests that non-phenolic compounds may be responsible for the free radical scavenging activity. (2) Antibacterial: Study found PM active against Staphylococcus aureus. In one study, P. microphylla exhibited a variety of antimicrobial activity against pathogenic microorganisms. The majority of crude extracts were active against Gram-positive bacteria such as B. cereus, B. subtilis, and methicillin-resistant Staph aureus. Antioxidant: Screening study demonstrated P. microphylla contained different levels of total phenolic, total flavonoid and possessed diverse antioxidant properties. It was most potent when subjected to detailed free radical scavenging. Antioxidant / Antimicrobial / Toxicity Testing: In a testing of 9 extracts, the methanol extract showed the highest antioxidant activity. A chloroform extract showed highest total phenolic contents. An extract showed antibacterial activity against Gram+ and Gram- bacteria without antifungal and antiyeast activity. A hexane extract showed no toxicity against brine shrimp. (5) Antidiabetic: Screening in alloxan-induced diabetic rats showed that Pilea microphylla had beneficial benefits on blood glucose levels in normal and diabetic rats and also demonstrated significant protection from other metabolic aberrations cause by alloxan. (6) Antidiabetic: Study evaluated the antidiabetic potential of a flavonoid rich fraction in C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice. Study yielded flavonoids quercetin (reported DPP-IV inhibitor), rutin, chlorogenic acid (reported lipid lowering property) along with others (luteolin-7-Oglucoside, apigenin- 7-O-glucoside, isorhoifolin). An overall antidiabetic effect could be the result of a combination of several constituents acting in concert. (9) Radioprotective / Cytoprotective / Antigenotoxicity: Study compared the cytoprotective and antigenotoxic activity of the polyphenolic fraction with its active polyphenolic constituents against g-radiation in V79 cells. Results showed

radioprotection probably from a synergistic effect of the phytochemicals present in the herbal extract rather than any single component. (10) Phenolic Compounds and Prevention of Radiation-Induced DNA Damage / Antioxidant: Study yielded six phenolic compounds: (1) quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (2) 3O-caffeoylquinic acid (3) luteolin-7-O-glucoside (4) apigenin-7-O-rutinoside (5) apigenin7-O-@b-d-glucopyranoside and (6) quercetin. Pre-treatment with compounds 1-3 and 6 in V79 cells attenuated radiation-induced formation of reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, cytotoxicity and DNA damage, correlating the antioxidant activity of polyphenols with their radioprotective effects. (11)

Availability
Wildcrafted. Occasionally cultivated as a dish garden plant or cover plant.

Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) Antioxidant and radioprotective effect of the active fraction of Pilea microphylla (L.) ethanolic extract / K.R. Prabhakara, V.P. Veerapura et al / Chemico-Biological Interactions Volume 165, Issue 1, 5 January 2007, Pages 22-32 / doi:10.1016/j.cbi.2006.10.007 (2) Antioxidant Activity and Total Phenolic Content of Some Medicinal Plants in Urticaceae Family / Amir Modorresi Chahardehi et al / Journal of Applied Biological Sciences 3(2): 25-29, 2009 (3) Creole Remedies of Trinidad and Tobago / Cheryl Lans (4) Ethnomedicines used in Trinidad and Tobago for reproductive problems / Cheryl Lans / J Ethnobiol Ethnomedicine. 2007; 3: 13. / doi: 10.1186/17464269-3-13. (5) Antioxidant, Antimicrobial Activity and Toxicity Test of Pilea microphylla / Amir Modarresi Chahardehi, Darah Ibrahim, Shaida Fariza / Int J Microbiol. 2010; 2010: 826830. / doi: 10.1155/2010/826830 (6) ANTIDIABETIC ACTIVITY OF PILEA MICROPHYLLA IN ALLOXAN INDUCED DIABETIC RATS / Pradeep S, Sini S, and Rajasekharan S / (7) Pilea microphylla (L.) Liebm. / Chinese names / Catalogue of Life, China (8)

Pilea microphylla / Vernacular names / GLOBinMED (9) Flavonoid rich fraction of Pilea microphylla (L.) attenuates metabolic abnormalities and improves pancreatic function in C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice / Bansal, P and Paul, P and Shankar, G and Munjal, D and Nayak, PG and Priyadarsini, KI and Unnikrishnan, MK / Biomedicine & Preventive Nutrition, 2011, pp. 268-272. (10) Polyphenolic fraction of Pilea microphylla (L.) protects Chinese hamster lung fibroblasts against -radiation-induced cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. / Paul P, Bansal P, Nayak PG, Pannakal ST, Priyadarsini KI, Unnikrishnan MK / Environmental toxicology and pharmacology 33:1 2012 Jan pg 107-19 (11) Phenolic compounds isolated from Pilea microphylla prevent radiationinduced cellular DNA damage / Bansal, Paul, Nayak, Pannakal, Zou, Laatsch, Priyadarsini, and Unnikrishnan / Acta Pharm Sin B 1(4):10 (2011)

Alagau-gubat
Mulauin-aso Premna integrifolia Blanco
HEADACHE TREE

San xu xiu huang jing Scientific names

Premna integrifolia Blanco Premna nauseosa Blanco Premna latifolia Roxb. Premna leucostoma Naves Premna mucronata Schauer Premna timoriana Hallier Premna serratifolia L.

Common names
Agrau (Ilk.) Alagau-gubat (Tag.) Ananghit (Tag.) Anghit (Tag.) Angsuan (Bik.) Ansuan (Bik.) Areu (Sbl.0 Malamulauin (Tag.) Mulauin-aso (Tag.) Headache tree (Engl.) San xu xiu huang jing

(Chin.)
Alagau is a shared common name for: (1) Magilik, alagau (P. Bis.), Premna cumingiana (2) Alagau-gubat, Premna nauseosa and (3) Alagau, Premna odorata. Mulawin-aso is a local name phonetically shared by: (1) Talungud, mulawin-aso, Gmelina elliptica, and (2) Alagaugubat, mulauin-aso,Premna integrifolia.

Quisumbing's compilation lists Premna integrifolia Blanco as a separate specie from Premna serratifolia Blanco. Other compilations list them as synonymous species.

Botany
Alagau-gubat is a shrub or small tree reaching a height of 10 meters, slightly hairy to nearly smooth. Leaves are elliptic-ovate to oblong-ovate, 6 to 10 centimeters long, 3 to 6 centimeters wide, pointed at the tip and pointed or rounded at the base. Flowers are small, greenish or greenish white, numerous, borne on terminal inflorescences (cymes), and up to 5 centimeters long and 6 centimeters wide. Calyx is green, equally 4-toothed and 1 to 1.5 centimeters long. Corolla is 4 millimeters long and hairy inside. Stamens are white and exserted. Fruit is rounded, fleshy, dark purple, 4 to 5 millimeters long.

Distribution
- Found In secondary forests at low altitudes in Cagayan, Ilocos Sur, Isabela, La Union, Pangasinan, Zambales, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Bulacan, Bataan, Rizal, Batangas, Laguna, Quezon, and Camarines Provinces in Luzon. - Indigenous to East Africa, India, Bangladesh, Japan, Chine, Taiwan, Papua New Guinea, Australia, Polynesia and Melanesia.

Properties
- Leaves have a rank odor when crushed. - Used as cardiotonic, antibiotic, anticoagulant, stomachic, carminative, hepatoprotective, galactagogue, laxative. - Premnine and ganiarine have sympathomimetic actions.

Constituents
- Stem bark contains three alkaloids: premnine, ganiarine, ganikarine. - Phytochemical screening yielded flavonoids, steroids, alkaloids, glycosides and phenolic compounds.

Parts used
Leaves, bark.

Uses
Folkloric - Leaves sometimes used as a "gaga" component, substitute forPiper betle with seeds of Areca catechu. - Leaves used for variety of stomach ailments. - Root bark used for fevers, liver complaints, rheumatism, neuralgia. - In Myanmar, roots and stem bark used as laxative, carminative and stomachic. Decoction of whole plant used for fevers, rheumatism and neuralgia. - In Ayurveda, roots are incorporated in many formulations. - Leaves eaten to increase breast milk production. Others - Nga-nga: Leaves are reportedly used as substitute for Piper betle for chewing with seeds of Areca catechu. - Wood: Used for making simple instruments: handles, oars, etc. - Bark: Used for rope or cordage.

Studies
Antibacterial: The alcoholic extract of the root bark showed good antibacterial activity against gram-positive organisms in a preliminary screening. Immunomodulatory Activity: The roots of both plants of C. phlomidis and Premna integrifolia are incorporated in many valued Ayurvedic formulations. In a study evaluating the roots for immunomodulatory potential, both roots showed immunoprophylactic effect with C phlomidis showing higher response to specific immune activity. In no specific immune activity, both roots showed equal response. The effect of Premna integrifolia Linn. (Verbenaceae) on blood glucose in streptozotocin induced type 1 and type 2 diabetic rats. Hypoglycemic activity: In a study of 30 hypoglycemic plants from indigenous folk

medicines, Premna integrifolia was one of 24 samples (14th) that showed significant blood glucose lowering activity. Premnazole / Anti-Inflammatory Activity: Premnazole, an isoxazole alkaloid from Premna integrifolia and Gmelina arborea exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity in rats, comparable to that of phenylbutazone. Cardiac Stimulant Activity: PS contains alkaloids and iridoid glycoside. Study suggests that the ethanol extract produced a cardiotonic effect and the aqueous extract produced a -adrenergic effect. Cardioprotective: Study confirmed the cardioprotective effect of an ethanol extract of Premna serratifolia on isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats. The effect was attributed to phytoconstituents, viz., iridoid glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. Hepatoprotective / Cytotoxic Activity: Study showed the alcoholic extract with significant hepatoprotective activity evidenced by decrease of serum enzymes, bilirubin and lipid peroxidation, comparable to drug silymarin. It also exhibited significant in-vitro cytotoxic activity. Results showed the alcoholic extract not only as an effective hepatoprotective agent, but with also significant antitumor activity. Antiparasitic Activity: In a study of 18 medicinal plants in New Caledonia evaluated in vitro against several parasites, Scaevola balansae and Premna serratifolia were the most active against Leishmania donovani. Anti-Arthritic: Study of ethanol extract of wood of Premna serratifolia exhibited significant anti-arthritic activity against adjuvant-induced arthritis. The activity was attributed to the presence of phytoconstituents such as iridoid glycosides, alkaloids, phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Antioxidant: Study showed effective free radical scavenging activity, reducing power, and nitric oxide scavenging activity. The antioxidant properties were concentration dependent, with the ethanol extract showing the highest activity. Preliminary screening yielded flavonoids, steroids, alkaloids, glycosides and phenolic compounds.

Availability
Wild-crafted.

Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) Antibiotic substance from the root bark of Premna Integrifolia / K K Kurup and P A Kurup / Naturwissenschaften Volume 51, Number 20 / January, 1964 / DOI 10.1007/BF00633107 (2) Evaluation of Immunomodulatory Activity of Clerodendrum phlomidis and Premna integrifolia Root / R H Gokani et al / Intl Jour of Pharma 3 (4):352356, 2007 / DOI: 10.3923/ijp.2007.352.356 (3) The effect of Premna integrifolia Linn. (Verbenaceae) on blood glucose in

streptozotocin induced type 1 and type 2 diabetic rats. (4) Comparative evaluation of hypoglycaemic activity of some Indian medicinal plants in alloxan diabetic rats / Ajit Kar et al / Journal of Ethnopharmacology Volume 84, Issue 1, January 2003, Pages 105-108 / doi:10.1016/S03788741(02)00144-7 (5) Myanmar Medicinal Plant Database (6) Cardiac stimulant activity of bark and wood of Premna serratifolia / Rekha Rajendran et al / Bangladesh J Pharmacol 2008; 3: 107-113 (7) A Review of Pharmacology of Phytochemicals from Indian Medicinal Plants / Samir Malhotra et al / The Internet Journal of Alternative Medicine 2007 Volume 5 Number 1 (8) Evaluation of Hepatoprotective and In-vitro Cytotoxic Activity of Leaves of Premna serratifolia Linn / R Vadivu et al / J. Sci. Res. 1 (1), 145-152 (2009) (9) Antiparasitic activity of some New Caledonian medicinal plants / Julie Desrivot et al / Journal of Ethnopharmacology Volume 112, Issue 1, 30 May 2007, Pages 7-12 / doi:10.1016/j.jep.2007.01.02 (10) Anti-Arthritic Activity of Premna serratifolia Linn., Wood against Adjuvant Induced Arthritis / Rekha Rajendran and Ekambaram Krishnakumar / AJMB : Archive : April-June 2010, Volume 2, Issue 2 (11) Cardioprotective effect of ethanol extract of stem-bark and stem-wood of Premna serratifolia Lin., (Verbenaceae) / Rekha Rajendran and N. Saleem Basha / Research J. Pharm. and Tech. 1(4): Oct.-Dec. 2008 (12) Evaluationn of in vitro antioxidant activity of stem-bark and wood of Premna serratifolia Linn. / Rekha Rajendran, N Saleem Basha and S Ruby / Research J. Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry 2009; 1(1):11-14 (13) Premna integrifolia / Myanmar Medicinal Plant Database

Alagaw
Premna odorata Blanco
FRAGRANT PREMNA

Other scientific names

Premna curranii H. Lam. (Gad.) Premna oblongata Miq, Premna pubescens Blume Premna serratiflolia Blanco (Mag.) Premna vestita Schauer (Ibn.)

Common names
Abgau (P. Bis.) Adgau (P. Bis., Bik.) Duragau (Sub.) Adiyo (Tag.) Guachal (Ig.) Aggau (C. Bis.) Alagau (Tag., Ilk.) Alagaw (Tag.) Pumuhat tangli (Pang.) Anobran (Ilk.) Saliargao (C. Bis.) Argau (P, Bis.) Tibanggen (Bon.) Atigi

Lagau Lassi

Alagau is a shared common name for: (1) Magilik, alagau (P. Bis.), Premna cumingiana (2) Alagaugubat, Premna nauseosa and (3) Alagau, Premna odorata. Quisumbing's compilation lists Premna integrifolia Blanco as a separate specie from Premna serratifolia L. Other compilations list them as synonymous species. Some compilations list Premna serratifolia Linn.as separate species from P. serratifolia Blanco.

Botany
Alagau is a small hairy tree, 3 to 8 meters high. Leaves are ovate to broadly ovate, 10 to 20 centimeters long, with broad, rounded, or somewhat heart-shaped base, and pointed tips. Under surface of the blade is usually covered with short hairs, aromatic when crushed. Flowers are greenish-white or nearly white, 4 to 5 millimeters long and borne on terminal inflorescences (cymes) 8 to 20 centimeters in diameter. Fruit is fleshy, dark purple, rounded, about 5 millimeters in diameter.

Distribution
- Common In thickets and secondary forests at low altitudes from the Batan Islands and northern Luzon to Mindanao, in most islands and provinces. - Reported in Nepal, India to Myanmar, China, Taiwan, Indo-China, Thailand, Japan, Malaysia and Australia.

Constituents
- Leaves do not contain alkaloid, tannin, saponin or cyanogenetic substance. - Leaves yield 0.02 percent yellowish-green essential oil with a characteristic scent. - Study isolated two iridoid glycosides: 2- and 3-caffeoyl-6--lrhamnopyranosylcatalpol respectively. - Study isolated ten 10-O-acylated derivatives of catalpol and asystasioside E from a 1butanol-soluble fraction of a methanol extract of leaves. - Study isolated acyclic monoterpenediol diesters, premnaodorosides A, B, and C, together with phenethyl alcohol glycosid4es, verbscoside, isoacteoside, bioside (decaffeoylverbascoside) and cistanoside F.

Properties
Sudorific, pectoral, carminative.

Parts utilized
Leaves and flowering tops, fresh or dried.

Uses
Culinary Young leaves used in the cooking of "paksiw" and "bopis." Folkloric In the Philippines, sugared decoction of leaves with a little "calamansi" as tea helps loosen up phlegm and effective for coughs. Decoction of fresh leaves used for vaginal irrigation. Decoction of leaves for fever and colds, cough and bronchitis, fever blisters of the lips and stomachaches. "Kochoi," a local patent preparation, is claimed to benefit tuberculosis. Decoction of leaves used for flatulence (gas pains) in adults; in children, crushed leaves mixed with a little coconut or sesame oil are applied to the abdomen. Crushed leaves applied to forehead and temples for headaches. Leaf decoction has been used for tuberculosis. Roots are chewed and the saliva swallowed for cardiac troubles. Infusion of leaves is carminative. Decoction of roots, leaves, flowers, and fruits used as sudorific, pectoral, and carminative. Decoction of shoots used as parasiticide. Decoction of leaves used for bathing infants; also used as treatment for beriberi. Extract of leaves for cleaning wounds and for ticks and fleas. Leaves applied over the bladder facilitates urination. New Decoction of leaves and flowering tops used as vaginal wash or douche; antiseptic properties make it useful for cleansing and incorporation with bath-care products.

 Pito-pito: Leaves are one of the seven ingredients of the popular herbal Filipino tea blend alagaw, banaba, bayabas, pandan, manga, anis and cilantro. (See: Pito-Pito)

Studies
Collagen Network / Acetoside: Study of methanol extract of leaves of Premna odorata exhibited a promotion of collagen network formation by M cells and isolated acetoside, an phenylethanoid with a variety of biological activities. Acetoside may contribute to wound healing. Anti-Viral Activity: Study of 61 medicinal plants in Malaysia showed P odorata was 1 of 11 plants to show selective activity against vesicular stomatitis (VSV) viruses. In-vitro Photo-Cytotoxic Activity: A study of 155 extracts from 93 species of plants in Malaysia screened for in vitro photo-cytotoxic activity using a human leukemia cell lin, P odorata was one of 29 plantsthat was able to reduce in vitro cell viability by more than 50% when exposed to broad spectrum light. Hepatoprotective / Cytotoxic Activity: Study showed the alcoholic extract with significant hepatoprotective activity evidenced by decrease of serum enzymes, bilirubin and lipid peroxidation, comparable to drug silymarin. It also exhibited significant in-vitro cytotoxic activity. Results showed the alcoholic extract not only as an effective hepatoprotective agent, but with also significant antitumor activity. Antiparasitic Activity: In a study of 18 medicinal plants in New Caledonia evaluated in vitro against several parasites, Scaevola balansae and Premna serratifolia were the most active against Leishmania donovani. E. Coli Inhibitory Activity: Various extracts were tested against E. Coli. A 100% ethanol bark extract showed activity against E. coli, while aqueous extract concentrations were inactive against E. coli. However, the inhibitory activity could not compete with ciprofloxacin. Diosmetin / Acacetin: Study of leaves isolated diosmetin and acacetin. Diometin has been commercially available as the glycoside diosmin, used as a vasotonic agent for the treatment of varicose veins, hemorrhoids and other venous diseases.

Availability
Wild-crafted.

Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) A Collagen Network Formation Effector from Leaves of Premna subscandens / September 1999 / Hirokazu SUDO, Kaori KIJIMA et al / Chem. Pharm. Bull. 47(9) 13411343 (1999) (2) Antiviral and Cytotoxic Activities of Som.e Plants Used in Malaysian Indigenous Medicine / Ali, Abdul Manaf and Mackeen et al / Pertanika J. Trop. Agric. Sci., 19 (2/3). pp. 129-136. (3)

Systematic analysis of in vitro photo-cytotoxic activity in extracts from terrestrial plants in Peninsula Malaysia for photodynamic therapy / Cheng Yi Ong et al / Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology Volume 96, Issue 3, 4 September 2009, Pages 216-222 / doi:10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2009.06.009 (4) Evaluation of Hepatoprotective and In-vitro Cytotoxic Activity of Leaves of Premna serratifolia Linn / R Vadivu et al / J. Sci. Res. 1 (1), 145-152 (2009) (5) Antiparasitic activity of some New Caledonian medicinal plants / Julie Desrivot et al / Journal of Ethnopharmacology Volume 112, Issue 1, 30 May 2007, Pages 7-12 / doi:10.1016/j.jep.2007.01.02 (6) Two iridoid glycoside caffeoyl esters from Premna odorata / Hideaki Otsuka, Naoko Kubo, Kazuo Yamasaki, William G. Padolina / Phytochemistry, Volume 28, Issue 2, 1989, Pages 513515 (7) Inhibitory Effect of Alagaw (Premna Odorata) Bark Aqueous and Ethanol Extracts Against Escherichia coli In - Vitro / FAITH L. MALECDAN DAN JOHNSON E. MALIONES HESTER ORVEN K. MAYAPIT AISAREL JOY A. MENDOZA GEORGE D. MARRERO / (8) Isolation and characterization of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and chemopreventive flavones from Premna odorata Blanco / Lunesa C. Pinzon, Mylene M. Uy, Kung Hong Sze, Mingfu Wang and Ivan Keung Chu / Journal of Medicinal Plants Research Vol. 5(13), pp. 2729-2735, 4 July, 2011 (9) 10-O-acylated iridoid glucosides from leaves of Premna subscandens / Hirokazu Sudo, Toshinori Ide et al / Phytochemistry, Volume 46, Issue 7, December 1997, Pages 12311236 (10) Premnaodorosides A, B and C, iridoid glucoside diesters of an acyclic monoterpenediol from leaves of Premna odorata / Hideaki Otsuka, Naozumi Kashima, Tomoki Hayashi, Naoko Kubo, Kazuo Yamasaki, William G. Padolina / Phytochemistry, Volume 31, Issue 9, September 1992, Pages 31293133

Alambrillo
Adiantum capillus-veneris Linn.
MAIDENHAIR

Scientific names
Adiantum capillus-veneris Linn. Span) Adiantum philippense (Span., Tag.) Adiantum michelii Adiantum capillaris-veneris var. modestum (Underw.) Veneris capillus Shu tie xian jue (Chin.)

Common names
Alambrillo (C. Bis., Tag., Culantrillo de alambre Dudder grass (Engl.) Maidenhair (Engl.)

Other vernacular names

BRAZIL: Avenca. DANISH: Venushar. DUTCH: Europees venushaar.. FINNISH: Venuksenhiussaniainen.. FRENCH: Capillaire cheveux-de-Vnus, Capillaire de Montpellier, Cheveux de Vnus. GERMAN: Uenhaar, Frauenhaarfarn, Venushaarfarn. ITALIAN: Capelvenere comune. SPANISH: Dorandila, Culantrillo comun, Capilaria, Capilera, Culantrillo de pozo, Culantrillo de alambre.

Botany
Alambrillo is a slow-growing evergreen fern with a short, ascending, and scaly rhizome with spirally arranged, stipitate and compound leaves. Stipes are suberect and rather

slender, 10 to 20 centimeters long, polished and dark green. Fronds are bipinnate, with a short terminal pinna and numerous erect lateral ones on each side; the segments (pinnae) are 1 to 2.5 centimeters broad, the base being cuneate and the outer edge rounded. Sori are roundish, situated in the roundish sinuses of the crenations.

Distribution
- In the Philippines, found in Batan Island and Nueva Viscaya, Bontoc, Benguet, and Laguna Provinces in Luzon. - in shady, moist places. - Usually, flower-pot cultivation for ornamental purposes.

Constituents
- Phytochemical studies have shown triterpenes, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids and carotenoids. - Study isolated two new migrated hopane triterpenoids, the first example of oleanane compounds from Adiatrum ferns. - Study yielded two triterpenic compounds, Davallene 1 and Adipedatol 2, from the roots of Mexican Adiantum capillus-veneris.

Properties
- Emmenagogue, expectorant, aperitive, diuretic, astringent, febrifuge, emollient. - Antidandruff, antitussive, demulcent, depurative, emetic, galactagogue, laxative, stimulant and tonic.

Parts used
Leaves, rhizomes.

Uses
Culinary / Edibility - Leaves used for tea. Dried frons used for making tea. - Syrup made from plant makes a cooling summer drink. - Fronds used as garnish for sweet dishes.

Folkloric - In the Philippines fronds are used in the treatment of chest diseases. - Decoction of leaves (fronds) as tea for chest afflictions, colds, coughs, snoring. - Promotes appetite and digestive aid. Also, gently laxative. - Fronds used for cough and cold, also chewed for treatment of mouth blister. - Frond extract mixed with honey used as an eye ointment. - Decoction of rhizomes as tea for cough, respiratory problems, fevers, and abdominal colic. - Externally, for a variety of skin diseases and inflammatory conditions. - It is used as a postpartum tonic, in doses of two tablespoons every two hours. - Plant decoction used to regulate menstrual cycle disturbances. - In Iraq and Iran rhizomes are used as expectorant, and used for difficulty in breathing and to relieve spasms in whooping cough. - In Mexico, used as aperitive, diuretic, and emmenagogue. - Used as a lotion for falling hair and baldness. - In Peruvian Amazon, fronds as infusion or syrup used as diuretic, expectorant and emmenagogue. - In the Peruvian Andes, shamans and healers use a decoction of rhizome for alopecia, gallstones, and jaundice. - In the Brazilian Amazon, used as expectorant for bronchitis and coughs. In present day Brazilian herbal medicine, frond and leaf are used for hair loss, coughs, laryngitis, sore throat; to improve appetite and digestion, stimulate renal function, regulate menstruation, and facilitate childbirth. - In Pakistan, the plant is used for diabetes. - In India, fresh or dried leafy fronds are used as antidandruff, antitussive, demulcent, depurative, emetic, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, galactagogue, laxative, stimulant and tonic. Tea or syrup used for cough, throat affliction, and bronchitis. Also, as detoxicant in alcoholism and to expel worms. Externally, used as poultice for snake bites and bee stings. - In Ayurveda, Adiantum spp. used for colds, tumors of the liver and spleen skin diseases, bronchitis and inflammatory diseases.

Studies
Antimicrobial: (1) Study on the aerial part of Salsala rasmarinus and Adiantum capillus reported the presence of antimicrobial flavonoids. (2) In a study of Adiantum species, A capillus-veneris was next to A venustum in degree of activity as antimicrobial agent. ACV had very low MIV value against E coli. Antibacterial Activity of Essential Oils : A lemon yellow colored essential oil was

extracted from the leaves of AC which exhibited maximum inhibitory activity against S typhi; mild antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas species, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes. Antidiabetic / Metal Content: Study focused on the hypoglycemic effects and metal contents of plants. Iron and chromium were found in all anti-diabetic herbs, including A capillus. Water soluble lead was high in A. capillus. The water extracts of plants were found to be better hypoglycemics than the acid digested part with its higher metal content. Study concluded that the metal content did not have any particular relation to the antidiabetic effect of the herbs. Antimicrobial / Phenolic Content: Study of methanolic extracts of Adiantum spp. showed Adiantum capillus-veneris activity against E. coli, activity probably due to its high phenolic content. Anti-Fungal: The water extracts and extracted phenols from gametophytes and sporophytes of two ferns A capillus-veneris and Adiantum lunulatum were tested for antifungal activities against Aspergillus niger and Rhizopus stolonifer. Activity was found higher in the gametophytes and ACV was found a better antifungal than AL. Anti-Inflammatory / Antinociceptive: Study investigated the anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activities of a crude ethanolic extract and various fractions of Adiantum capillus-veneris in a carrageenan-induced hind paw edema model. Results showed significant analgesic activity comparable to ibuprofen. An anti-inflammatory effect appeared to be due to inhibition of NO release and decrease of TNF-a level. Antimicrobial / Functional Compounds: An EtOAc fraction exhibited broad spectrum antimicrobial activities against all tested microorganisms, especially Candida albicans. Phytochemical study showed the fraction to yield the highest total flavones, total phenolic contents, and characterized various compounds. Observed bioactivities were attributed partly to phenolic acids and flavonoids, especially 3-p-coumaroylquinic acid and kaempferol 3-O-glucoside. Antioxidant / Phytochemicals: Study yielded phenolics and terpenoids (2.73%). fats and waxes (0.20%), alkaloids (0.53%). quaternary and N-oxides (26.33%). and fiber (67.23%). Of ten elements, Ca and K were found at major levels. Results showed the leaves to possess free radical scavenging molecules, with potential use as source of natural antioxidants and nutrients. Antioxidant / Phytochemicals: Study showed crude flavonoids to possess potent antioxidant properties, and presents as a potential source of antioxidants for the medical and food fields.

Availability
Wild-crafted. Cultivated

Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) n vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Salsola rosmarinus and Adiantum capillusveneris / Muhanned J. Mahmoud et al / Pharmaceutical Biology, Vol 27, Issue

1 March 1989 , pages 14 - 16 / DOI: 10.3109/13880208909053930 / (2) Antibacterial Activity of Essential Oils from the Leaves of Adiantum capillus veneris Linn. / Victor, B., and Maridass, M., and Ramesh, U., and Prabhu, J.M.A., (2003) Malaysian Journal of Science, 22 (1). pp. 65-66. ISSN 13943065 (3) STUDY OF BIOLOGICALLY IMPORTANT METALS LIKE IRON AND CHROMIUM IN ADIANTUM CAPILLUS VENERIS (A PLANT LARGELY USED FOR DIABETES) / Thesis / Nasreen Fatima / 2004 / Pakistan Research Repository (4) Antimicrobial activity of some important Adiantum species used traditionally in indigenous systems of medicine / Meenakshi Singh et al / doi:10.1016/j.jep.2007.09.018 / Journal of Ethnopharmacology Vol 115, Issue 2, 17 January 2008, Pages 327-329 (5) Fern Constituents: Triterpenoids from Adiantum capillus-veneris. / Nakane T et al / Chem Pharm Bull. Vol 50, No 9, pp 1273-1275 (6) Antimicrobial activity of some important Adiantum species used traditionally in indigenous systems of medicine / Singh Meenakshi et al / Journal of ethnopharmacology 2008, vol. 115, no2, pp. 327-32 (7) Antifungal Activity of the Crude Extracts and Extracted Phenols from Gametophytes and Sporophytes of Two Species of Adiantum / Piyali Guha et al / Taiwania, 50(4): 272-283, 2005 (8) Ethnobotanical Studies of Some Important Ferns / Kamini Srivastava / Ethnobotanical Leaflets 11: 164-172. 2007. (9) AVENCA (Adiantum capillus-veneris) / Tropical Plant Database (10) Adiantum capillus-veneris Diels. / Chinese name / Catalogue of Life, China (11) Anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activities of ethanolic extract and its various fractions from Adiantum capillus veneris Linn. / Haider S, Nazreen S, Alam MM, Gupta A, Hamid H, Alam MS. / J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Dec 8;138(3):741-7. Epub 2011 Oct 15. (12) Screening for Bioactive Compounds from Adiantum capillusveneris L. /

QIANYING YUAN, JIANPING WANG AND JINLAN RUAN / J.Chem.Soc.Pak., Vol. 34, No. 1, 2012 / J.Chem.Soc.Pak., Vol. 34, No. 1, 2012 207 (13) Adiantum capillus-veneris - L. / Plants For A Future (14) Evaluation of phytochemicals, antioxidant activity and elemental content of Adiantum capillus veneris leaves / N. S. Rajurkar* and Kunda Gaikwad / Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research, 2012, 4(1):365-374 (15) In vitro and in vivo studies of antioxidant activities of flavonoids from Adiantum capillus-veneris L. / Ming-Zhu Jiang, Hui Yan1, Yan Wen and Xiang-Mei Li / African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology Vol. 5(18), pp. 2079-2085, 15 November, 2011 (16) Sorting Adiantum names / Maintained by: Michel H. Porcher / MULTILINGUAL MULTISCRIPT PLANT NAME DATABASE (17) Ethnomedicinal uses of Pteridophytes of Kumaun Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India / Kanchan Upreti, Jeewan S Jalal, Lalit M Tewari et al / Journal of American Science 2009; 5(4): 167-170.

Anabo
Abroma augusta Linn.
DEVIL'S COTTON

Scientific names Abroma augusta Linn. Abroma fastuosa Jacq. Abroma obliqua Presl Abroma mollis DC. Ambroma communis Blanco Ambroma alata Blanco Theobroma augusta Linn.

Common names Ambong (Tag.) Anabo (Ibn., Ilk., Tag., Bis., Ting.) Anabong (Bik.) Anibong (Tag.) Anabu (Pang.) Anafu (Is.) Bago (Bik.) Bodo-bodo (Ilk.) Labon (P. Bis.) Nabo (Ibn., C. Bis.) Negnegan (Iv.)

Pakalkal (Pamp.) Sayapo (Mag.) Sayapu (Mag.) Perennial Indian hemp (Engl.) Devil's cotton (Engl.) Botany Anabo is a shrub or small tree, growing 2 to 3 meters high. Branches and branchlets are downy. Leaves are alternate, ovate, 10 to 15 centimeters in length, 10 to 12 centimeters wide, with a pointed tip, heart-shaped base, and toothed margins. Flowers are bisexual, about 5 centimeters across, yellowish with purple bases. Fruit is a capsule, obpyramidal, about 3.5 centimeters in diameter, covered with irritating hairs, ultimately smooth, with five prominent angles or wings, which are 4 to 7 centimeters across. Seeds are subellipsoid, numerous and finely punctate. Distribution - Found from the Batan Islands and northern Luzon to Mindanao. - In thickets, waste places, and open secondary forests at low and medium altitudes. - Also reported from India to southern China to Malaya. Constituents - Root contains a fixed oil, resins, an alkaloid in minute quantity (0.01%), and water soluble bases. - Study of roots yielded some alkaloid bases, reducing sugars and some phytosterols. - Study reported a large amount of magnesium salts in combination with hydroxy acids, gums, resins and other organic residues.

Properties - The presence of magnesium salts with some hydroxy acids have made it valuable as a styptic for use in uterine hemorrhages. - Considered emmenagogue. Parts used Root, bark, sap. Uses Folkloric - Root used as efficient emmenagogue. - Infusion of fresh stems and leaves in cold water is a demulcent and used in gonorrhea. - In Ayurveda, used for chronic dysfunctional uterine bleeding. - In Bangladesh, leaves and stems used for menstrual disorders and diseases of the uterus; bark and roots for leucorrhea and menstrual problems. Also, used for stomachaches, diabetes, dermatitis, and whitish urinary discharge in men. - In India, used for dysmenorrhea. - In Indonesia, used for scabies. - Fresh viscid sap is useful in congestive and neuralgic varieties of dysmenorrhea. Used as a regulator of menstrual flow and as uterine tonic.

Others - Fiber: Bast fiber is silky and valued for its strength. In the Philippines, used for making rope, twine, fish-lines, pouches, etc. A favorite clothes-line material because it does not stain. Studies Hypoglycemic / Hypolipidemic: Study of aqueous extract of Abroma augusta on alloxan diabetic rats showed both hypoglycemic effects with gradual and significant fall in fasting glucose and improvement in glucose tolerance. It also showed lowering of total and LDL cholesterol. Combined Herbal Effects / Hypoglycemic / Hypolipidemic / Antioxidant: Study showed on the hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects of Curcuma longa and Abroma augusta constituents on STZ-induced diabetic rats showed that the combination of herbal extracts showed better efficacy as compared to individual herbal plant extracts used. Anti-Diabetic / Comparative Study: A comparative study was made on the antidiabetic activities of methanolic extracts of Abroma augusta and seeds of Syzygium cumini in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Results showed significant reduction of glucose level. The activity was attributed to inhibition of free radical generation and tissue damage induced by alloxan or potentiation of insulin effect. Comparatively, SC was more efficacious than AA. Availability Wild-crafted. Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) Preliminary studies on the hypoglycaemic effect ofAbroma augusta in alloxan diabetic rats / Halim Eshrat, M. Ali Hussain, Kaiser Jamil and Mala Rao / INDIAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY Volume 16, Number 1, 77-80, DOI: 10.1007/BF02867572 (2) HYPOGLYCEMIC, HYPOLIPIDEMIC AND ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF COMBINATION OF CURCUMIN FROM CURCUMA LONGA, Linn, AND PARTIALLY PURIFIED PRODUCT FROM ABROMA AUGUSTA, Linn. IN STREPTOZOTOCIN INDUCED DIABETES / Halim Eshrat M. Ali Hussain / Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry, 2002, 17 (2) 33-43 (3) Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment / Dr. A. A. Mundewad /

(4) Traditional Use of Medicinal Plants in Bangladesh to Treat Urinary Tract / Shahadat Hossan Abu Hanif, Bipasha Agarwala et al / www.ethnobotanyjournal.org/vol8/i1547-3465-08-061.pdf (5) Comparative study of antidiabetic effect of Abroma augusta and Syzygium cumini on alloxan induced diabetic rat / Laizuman Nahar, Farhana Alam Ripa et al / Agric. Biol. J. N. Am., 2010, 1(6): 1268-1272

Apanang-gubat
Eupatorium japonicum Thunb.
JAPANESE THOROUGH-WORT

Chen gan cao Scientific names Eupatorium japonicum Thunb. E. chinense simplicifolium (Makino) Kitm.Thunb. Eupatorium fortunei Turcz. (Engl.) Eupatorium stoecdosum Hance. Common names Apanang-gubat (Tag.) Japanese boneset (Engl.) Japanese thorough-wort Chen gan cao (Chin.) Bai tou po (Chin.)

Botany Apanang-gubat is an erect, leafy branched, smooth herb, 60 to 90 meters high. Leaves are fragrant, up to 19 centimeters long, divided quite to the base into three segments - the upper leaves subtending the branches of the inflorescence being deeply divided. Segments are elliptic-lanceolate or elliptic-ovate, up to 13 centimeters long, pointed at both ends, and toothed at the margins. Inflorescence is terminal, measuring up to 14 centimeters across.

Flowering heads are 3 to 4 millimeters across. Flowers are white and fragrant. Distribution - In thickets at low altitudes in the Batan Islands. - Occurs in Japan to China and Taiwan. Parts used - Yields essential oil thymol. Properties - Considered anodyne, antibacterial, antidandruff, antiviral. - Carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, nervine. - Leaves and stems considered vermifuge. Parts used Leaves, roots. Uses Folkloric - Leaves used as diuretic and anthelmintic. - Also used as tea for indigestion. - In China, used for diseases of the women. - Root is beneficial to the circulation and restorative to women after parturition. - Herb soaked in oil is applied to the hair as treatment for dandruff. Studies Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids: (1) Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids. This class of hepatotoxic and tumorigenic compounds have been detected in herbal plants and dietary supplements. (2) Study on the pyrrolizidine alkaloid composition of three Chinese herbs (E. cannabinum, E. japonicum and Crotolaria assamica) yielded viridiflorine, cynaustraline, amabiline, supinine, echinatine, rinderine and isomers of these alkaloids were found in the Eupatorium species. Hepatotoxicity: Study concludes the alkaloid in Eupatorium species is metabolized to "pyrrole" and an N-oxide metabolite in the liver, but the hepatotoxicity is much lower when compared to that caused by Crotolaria. Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids / Hepatotoxic ands Tumorigenic: Studies have indicated that pyrrolizidine alkaloids induce tumores via a genotoxic mechanism mediated by 6,7-dihydro-7-hydroxy-1-hydroxymethyl-5H-pyrrolizine(DHP)-derived DNA adduct formation. Ovicide and Larval Growth Inhibitor: In a study with test insects

Drosophila melanogaster, an ovicide identified as coumarin and a larval growth inhibitor, a new sesquiterpene lactone called euponin, were isolated from leaf extracts. Antibacterial / Volatile Oils: Study of volatile oils showed significant antibacterial activities against Micrococcus tetragenus, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis. Availability Wild-crafted. Extracts and supplements in the cybermarket.

Apostola
Cassia nodosa Buch.-Ham. ex Roxb.
PALAWAN CHERRY

Zhao wa jue ming Scientific names Cassia nodosa Buch.-Ham. ex Roxb. Cassia bacillus Gaertn. Common names Ankohan (Tag.) Apostola (Tag.) Palawan cherry (Engl.) Pink shower (Engl.) Pink-and-white shower (Engl.) Zhao wa jue ming (Chin.)

Philippine compilations list Cassia javanica (appleblossom shower, tindalo) as a separate species from Cassia nodos (apostola, pink-and-white shower). Some compilations list them as synonymous species, with a sharing of common names. The botanical demarcations seem unclear. Cassia nodosa is very similar to Cassia javanica, differing mostly from the latter in the absence of spines on the trunk and branches.

Other vernacular names CHINESE: Jie guo juo ming, Fen hua shan bian dou. THAI: Chaiya phruek, Kanla phruek, Kanlapa phruek.

Botany Apostola is an unarmed tree, attaining a height of 10 meters or taller. Leaves are about 30 centimeters long, divided into 5 to 12 pairs of oblong to elliptic-ovate leaflets, with acute tip. Leaves shed before flowering starts. Flowers are clustered, pale pink at first, become brigh pink, fading to white with age. Fruit is cylindrical, 40 to 60 centimeters long, 0.5 to 1 centimeter wide, green when young, becoming black as it ripens. Seeds are numerous alon the entire length of the fruit.

Cassia nodosa is very similar to Cassia javanica, differing mostly from the latter in the absence of spines on the trunk and branches.

Distribution - Introduced. - Garden cultivation. - Indigenous in the Eastern Himalayas to the Malay Peninsula.

Constituents - In a study for primary metabolites, pods yielded the highest amount of soluble sugars, lipid phenols, DNA, and chlorophyl; the leaves, ascorbic acid, proteins, RNA and carotenoids; a in stems, starch. (4) - Leaves yielded a new chromone, 5,4'-dihydroxy-7-methyl 3-benzyl chromone, along with

three known flavonoid compounds as unsubstituted flavone, kaempferol-3-o-rhamnoside an quercetin-3-o-arabinoside.(7) Properties - Hypoglycemic, antifertility. Parts used Leaves, flowers.

Uses Folkloric - No reported folkloric medicinal use in the Philippines. - Closely related and/or considered synonymous to Tindalo (Cassia javanica), folkloric uses are shared.

Studies Hypoglycemic: Study investigated the hypoglycemic effect of C. nodosa leaves on norma and STZ-induced diabetic rats. Unlike acute, subacute treatment showed highly significant reduction of blood glucose (40.29%) compared to standard drug gibenclamide (63.51%). (3 Nodososide: Study isolated a new anthraquinone glycoside, nodososide, from the alcoholic extract. Hydrolysis of the compound yielded d-glucose and an aglycone, nodosin. (5) Antifertility / Kaempferol-7-O-glucoside: Study isolated flavonoids from C. nodosa and evaluated it for antifertility activity. Study yielded a new flavonoid kaempferol-7-O-glucoside which when fed to rats reduced fertility in male rats by 95%, with significant reduction of sperm concentration of testes and epididymisdes, with reduced motility of cauda epididyma sperm. (6) Antioxidant: Study evaluated the methanolic extracts of leaves of seven Egyptian Cassia species using the DPPH scavenging activity method. Cassia nodosa was 3rd in antioxidant potency. Antimicrobial / Kaempferol-7-O-Glucoside: Study isolated flavonoids from different par of C. nodosa and evaluated for antimicrobial activity. Flowers yielded the highest levels of flavonoids, with higher levels of total quercetin and kaempferol(F+B) and kaempferol-7-Oglucoside. Quercetin was highly effective against E. coli, A. flabvus, A. niger. F. moniliforme and R. bataticola. Availability Wild-crafted.

Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) Cassia javanica L. (accepted name) / Chinese names / Catalogue of Life, China (2) Sorting Cassia names / Authorised by Prof. Snow Barlow / Maintained by: Michel H. Porcher / MULTILINGUAL MULTISCRIPT PLANT NAME DATABASE / Copyright 1997 - 2000 The University of Melbourne. (3) Evaluation of hypoglycaemic activity of Cassia nodosa leaves in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats / Kumavat, Urmila C.; Shimpi, Shraddha N.; Jagdale, Sandesh P. / nternational Journal of Green Pharmacy;JanMar2012, Vol. 6 Issue 1, p9 (4) BIOCHEMICAL ESTIMATION OF PRIMARY METABOLITES OF CASSIA NODOSA BUNCH. / Ankita Yadav et al / Journal: International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Vol 3; No 9; 2012. (5) CHEMICAL AND SPECTRAL STUDIES OF NODOSOSIDE A NEW ANTHRAQUINONE GLYCOSIDE FROM THE FLOWERS OF CASSIA NODOSA / S. A. I. Rizvi, P. C. Gupta, R. K. Kau / Planta Med 1971; 19(1): 222-233 / DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1099635l (6) Antifertility activity of kaempferol-7-O-glucoside isolate from Cassia nodosa Bunch. / Daulat Singh; K. sharma, S.; Shekhawat, M. S.; Yadav, K. K.; Sharma, R. A.; Yadav, R. K. / Electronic Journal of Environmental, Agricultural and Food Chemistry 2012 Vol. 11 No. 5 pp. 477-492 (7) A new chromone from Cassia nodosa. / R Kumar, M Ilyas, M Parveen, Shafiullah / J. Asian Nat Prod Res: 8(7), pp 595-598. (8) Antioxidant properties of methanolic extracts of the leaves of seven Egyptian Cassia species / EZZAT EL-SAYED ABDEL-LATEEF2 et al / Acta Pharm. 60 (2010) 361367 / 10.2478/v10007-010-0030-y (9) Isolation and Quantification of Kaempferol-7-O-Glucoside and their Antimicrobial Screening of Cassia nodosa Bunch / Daulat Singh, Santosh K. Sharma, H.C.Gupta & Ram Avatar Sharma / Asian Journal of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Research, Issue 3 (Vol. 1) 2011

Asoka
Saraca indica L.
ASOKA TREE

Wu you hua Scientific names Saraca indica L. Saraca asoca (Roxb.) W. J. de Wilde Jonesia asoca Roxb. Common names Asoka (Tag., Engl.) Asoka tree (Engl.) Ashok tree (Engl.) Mayuju (Japanese) Sorrowless tree (Engl.) Wu you hua (Chin.)

Gen info Asoka tree is considered sacred throughout India, frequently found in royal gardens and planted close to temples. It is a recurrent element in Indian art and mythology, with a Yakshi holding the branch of a flowering Ashok tree. It is also considered a sacred tree in Hinduism, worshipped in Chaitra, the first month of the Hindu calendar. Botany Asoka is usually a small tree growing up to 10 meters high, slow-growing when young. Leaves are alternate, and even-pinnate, with 3 to 6 pairs of leaflets. Leaflets are oblong or oblonglanceolate, often blunt , up to 22 centimeters long. Flowers are fragrant at night, orange red or red, depending on age. Corymbs are 18 centimeters across. Pod is up to 25 centimeters long. Distribution - Introduced to the Philippines. - Native to Southeast Asia. - Cultivated in India to the Malay Peninsula.

Constituents - Study isolated two flavonoids, two tannins (ellagic acid, catechin, quercetin and quercitrin) and 3,4-dihydroxy-benzaldehyde and 3,7,11,15-tetramethyl hexadecen-1-ol compounds. - Bark contains an estrogenic compound, ergosterol. Properties

- Considered feminine-specific. - Considered astringent, uterine sedative. - Bark is considered bitter, astringent, refrigerant, anthelmintic, styptic, stomachic, constipating, febrifuge, and demulcent.

Parts used Bark, seeds, flowers. Uses Folkloric - No reported folkloric medicinal use in the Philippines.

- Bark used in menorrhagia due to fibroids, leucorrhea and internally bleeding. - Used for dysmenorrhea. - Leaf juice, mixed with cumin seeds,, used for stomachaches. - Bark, seeds, and flowers used in Ayurveda and Unani systems of medicine. Early Indian Materia Medica, 1500 AD, mentions the plant as a uterine tonic used for menstrual disorde - Flowers used for cervical adenitis, biliousness, syphilis, hyperdipsia, hemorrhagic dysentery, hemorrhoids, and scabies. - In India, bark used as uterine sedative. - In Pakistan, used for excessive uterine bleeding. - Also used for depression. - Used for internal bleeding, hemorrhoids, hemorrhagic dysentery. - Bark extract used for menorrhagia. - Juice of flowers used as coolant against biliousness. - Bark used as astringent and uterine sedative. - Used as tonic; also used for rheumatism, skin diseases, and urinary disorders. Studies Lead Decontamination: Study explored the effectiveness of S. indica leaf powder a surplus low value agricultural waste in removing Pb (lead) ions from aqueous solution. Results showed that Saraca indica leaf powder can easily be envisaged as a new, vibrant low cost biosorbent for metal clean up operations. Larvicidal: Petroleum ether extract of leaves and chloroform extract of bark were effective against the larvae of C. quinquefasciatus. Antibacterial: (1) In-vitro study evaluated the ethanolic and methanolic extracts for antibacterial activity against E coli and S aureus. Although the extracts were inferior to the chloramphenicol control, they exhibited antibacterial activity even at low concentrations. (2) Various extracts of stem bark were tested for antibacterial and antifungal activities. A methanolic extract showed strongest activity against

both bacteria and fungi. Estrogen Stimulatory Effect: Study has shown stimulatory effect on ovarian tissue and may produce an estrogen-like effect that enhances the repair of endometrium and stops bleeding. Oxytoxic Effect: Study showed an oxytoxic effect in rat and human isolated uterine preparations. estrogen-like effect that enhances the repair of endometrium and stops bleeding. Hypoglycemic Effect: Study of methanolic bark extracts of Saraca indica showed reduction of glucose levels in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Anthelmintic: Ethanolic and methanolic extracts of S. indica exhibited dose-dependent anthelmintic property. Both extracts were more potent than the control. The presence of alkaloids, glycosides, terpenoids, tannins and flavonoids may be the responsible phytochemicals for the anthelmintic activity. Analgesic: Extracts exhibited a dose-dependent analgesic activity. Significant activity wa noted in the tail immersion method, with highest activity after 90 minutes like that of the standard drug. Availability Wild-crafted. Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) Sorting Saraca names / MULTILINGUAL MULTISCRIPT PLANT NAME DATABASE / Porcher Michel H. et al. 1995 - 2020 (2) Saraca indica leaf powder for decontamination of Pb: removal, recovery, adsorbent characterization and equilibrium modeling / P Goyal, P Sharma, S Srivastava, M M Srivastava / International Journal of Enviornmental Science and Technology, Vol. 5, No. 1, Winter 2008, pp. 27-34 (3) Larvicidal activity of Saraca indica, Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, and Clitoria ternatea extracts against three mosquito vector species / Nisha Mathew, M. G. Anitha, T. S. L. Bala, S. M. Sivakumar, R. Narmadha and M. Kalyanasundaram / PARASITOLOGY RESEARCH, Volume 104, Number 5, 1017-1025, DOI: 10.1007/s00436-008-1284-x (4) ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY STUDY OF SARACA INDICA LEAVES EXTRACT / Sarojini Nayak / International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research and Development, May 2011, Vol 3, No 3. (5) Phytochemical and Phytopharmacological Studines on Saraca indica,

Capparis decidua, and Lotus garcinii / Ghulam Sarwar / Thesis / 2002 (6) Antimicrobial properties of the stem bark of Saraca indica (Caesalpiniaceae) / R. SHILPAKALA SAINATH, J. PRATHIBA, R. MALATHI / European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 2009; 13: 371-374 (7) Hypoglycemic activity of saraca indica Linn barks. / Preethi. F, Jennifer Fernandes, Pricilla. K / Journal of Pharmacy Research, Vol 3, No 3 (2010) (8) Saraca asoca / Wikipedia (9) Analgesic Activity of Various Leaf Extracts of Saraca indica Linn / Angad Verma, Goutam Kr. Jana Raja, Chakraborty et al / Der Pharmacia Lettre, 2010, 2(3): 352-357

Aurorang-gubat
Ipomoea digitata Linn.
WILD YAM ROOT

Qian jin teng Scientific names Ipomoea digitata Linn. Ipomoea paniculata R. Br. Ipomoea mauritiana Jacquin Convovulus paniculatus Linn. Batatas paniculatus Choisy Common names Aurorang gubat (Tag.) Bulakan (Tag.) Kamkamote (Ilk.) Malakamote (Tag.) Finger-leaf morning glory (Engl.) Wild yam root (Engl.) Vidari (Sanskrit) Qian jin tent (Chin.)

Botany Aurorang-gubat is a large, smooth, perennial climber rising from stout, somewhat fleshy roots. Leaves are on long petioles, rounded in outline, and heart-shaped at the base. Lobes are 5 to 7, usually lanceolate, 5 to 15 centimeters

long, often reaching nearly to the base. Flowers are 3 to 5, on a stalk in the leaf axil. Sepals are ovate, concave, and 1 centimeter long. Corolla is pink, purple, broadly bell-shaped, smooth and about 6 centimeters long. Capsules are ovoid, 1 centimeter long or less. Note: The species is similar to the common "aurora" (Ipomoea cairica), differing only in its much larger leaves and flowers. Distribution - In La Union, Bulacan, Bataan, and Rizal Provinces in Luzon; and in Culion, Coron, and Mindanao, In thickets along the seashore and along streams at low altitudes. - Sometimes cultivated for its flowers and its shade. - Pantropic. Constituents - The fresh tuber, collected when the vine has died, contains resins with properties similar to Jalap resins as regards color reactions, etc. - Resin yields a sugar and starch. - Phytochemical study showed the presence of fixed oil, carbohydrate, tannins, phenolic compound, alkaloids, saponins, sterols, flavonoids in an acetone alcohol and aqueous extract. - Study identified beta-sitosterol and taraxerol. - Study of leaves and stems yielded six organic acids, isobutyric, (5)-2methylbutyric, tiglic, n-decanoic, n-dodedcanoic, and cinnamic acids, and two glycosidic acids, quamoclinic acid A and operculinic acid. A new resin glycoside, digitatajalapin 1 was isolated from the jalapin fraction, with three known resin glycosides. Properties - Considered purgative, aphrodisiac. - In traditional Indian medicine, considered nervine, diuretic, tonic, spermatogenic, anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac, lactagogue. Parts used Roots. Uses Edibility - In India, tubers are eaten raw.

Folkloric - In India, the bitter, tuberous roots are used as tonic, alterative, aphrodisiac and demulcent. - In the Konkan region of India, root is peeled, cut in small pieces, and dried for use as aphrodisiac. - Used for uterine pain, sexual debility, infertility, lactation, infertility, hepatosplenomegaly, gastric ulcer, ulcerative colitis. - As galactagogue, powdered root-stock, given with wine. - Powdered roots used as a cholagogue for splenic and liver enlargement. - Powdered tuber with honey used for high blood pressure and heart disease. - Powdered sun-dried root, boiled in sugar and butter, promotes weight gain and moderates menstrual discharge. - In West Bengal, India, raw tubers are eaten as astringent and to treat blood dysentery. Juice of tubers given with one glass of cow milk for seven days to increase lactation. Sun-dried root powder, boiled in sugar and butter is used to promote weight gain and to moderate menstrual discharge. Tubers are used for general debility, spermatorrhea, fever, bronchitis, scorpion stings and menorrhagia. - Confection made of powdered root, equal parts of wheat flour and barley, milk, ghee, sugar and honey is used as a restorative for emaciated and debilitated children. - As an aphrodisiac, powdered root is macerated in its own juice and administered with honey and clarified butter. Others - Herbal combo to prevent premature ejaculation: One of 8 ingredients in a herbal preparation for premature ejaculation, low sperm count, erectile dysfunction. Studies Paniculatin / Glycoside / Various pharmacologic Effect: Study isolated a glycoside, paniculatin, from the tubers of Ipomoea digitata. Pharmacologic effects included elevation of blood pressure, stimulant effect on the myocardium and respiration, a vasoconstrictor and bronchoconstrictor effect, and a spasmogenic effect on the gut, and an oxytoxic activity. Phytochemicals / Secondary Products / Antibacterial: Study isolated Bsitosterol, t-cinnamic acid, an unknown coumarin, a lignan-type resin glycoside from the tuberous roots of Ipomoea digitata. One of the compounds showed significant antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and E coli. Tablet Formulation / Anti-Diabetic: Study of antidiabetic activity of tablet formulation of root extract showed statistically significant anti-diabetic activity

and suggests promise for future research. Antihypertensive / Cardiovascular Benefits / Hypolipidemic: Tuber powder was evaluated for antihypertensive potential and lipid effect in a single blinded, placebo controlled study. Results showed decrease in systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure, increased fibrinolytic activity and total antioxidant status with a significant reduction in total cholesterol, LDL and atherogenic index. Resin Glycosides: A jalapin fraction yielded a new resin glycoside, digitatajalapin 1, with three known resin glycosides. Availability Wild-crafted. Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) Ipomoea digitata / Vidari / Wild Yam Root (2) Pharmacological effects of paniculatina glycoside isolated from ipomoea digitata linn / M A Matin, J P Tewari et al / Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, / Volume 58, Issue 6, pages 757759, June 1969 / DOI: 10.1002/jps.2600580625 / Publ OnLine 7 Sept 2006 (3) Isolation of secondary products from Ipomoea digitata a medicinally important plant / D Madhavi, B Rama Rao et al / Current Trends in Biotechnology and Pharmacy (4) FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL TABLETS CONTAINING IPOMOEA DIGITATA LINN. EXTRACT / Margret Chandira, B Jayak / Volume 3, Issue 1, July August 2010; Article 022 (5) Resin glycosides from the leaves and stems of Ipomoea digitata / Masateru Ono, Hitoshi Fukuda et al / JOURNAL OF NATURAL MEDICINES, Volume 63, Number 2, 176-180, DOI: 10.1007/s11418-008-0309-1 (6) Ipomoea mauritiana / Catalogue of Life, China 2010 (7) Therapeutic validation of Ipomoea digitata tuber (Ksheervidari) for its effect on cardio-vascular risk parameters / Jain Vartika, Verma SK & Katewa SS / Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge Vol.10 (4), October 2011, pp. 617623

(8) Herbal combo boosts sperm count, prevents premature ejaculation / Guardian. Lagos. Nigeria. 13.10.13 (9) Resin glycosides from the leaves and stems of Ipomoea digitata / Masateru Ono, Hitoshi Fukuda, Hiroko Murata and Kazumoto Miyahara / JOURNAL OF NATURAL MEDICINES, Volume 63, Number 2, 176-180, DOI: 10.1007/s11418-008-0309-1

Baino
Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.
SACRED LOTUS

Lien Ou Scientific names

Nymphaea nelumbo Linn. Nelumbo caspica Eichw. Nelumbo indica Pers. Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. Nelumbium speciosum Willd. Nelumbium nelumbo Druce. Nelumbium turbinatum Blanco Nelumbium transversum Presl

Common names
Baino (Tag.) Ligaling (Ibn.) Lotus (Engl.) Saua (Mag.) Sukau (Ilk.) Egyptian lotus (Engl.) East Indian lotus (Engl.) Oriental lotus (Engl.) Sacred lotus (Engl.) Sacred water lily (Engl.) Lien ou (Chinese)

Other vernacular names

ARABIC: Nilufer, Uss-ul-nilufer. BENGALI: Kombol, Komal, Pudmapudu, Padama. BURMESE: Padung ma. CHINESE: Lian, Lian hua, Fu qu, He hua, Fu rong. FRENCH: Fve d'Egypte, Lotus des Indes, Lotus du Nil, Lotus indien, Lotus Magnolia, Lotus sacr, Lotus sacr de l'Inde. GERMAN: Indischer Lotus, Indischer Lotusblume.

HINDI: Kamal, Kanwal. ITALIAN: Fior di loto, Loto. JAPANESE: Hasu, Renkon. KOREAN: Yon puri (root). MALAY: Bunga telpok, Seroja, Teratai. MALAYALAM: Tamara. NEPALESE: Kamal, Raato kamal, Raato thuulo kamal. PERSIAN: Nilufer. PORTUGUESE: Flor-de-ltus, Ltus-da-ndia, Ltus-do-Egito, Ltus-egpcio, Ltus-sagrado. SANSKRIT: Padma, Pankaj, Pankaja, Kamala, Kanval, Svetakamala. SINHALESE: Nelum. SPANISH: Loto sagrado, Rosa del Nilo, Raiz de lotus (root). TAMIL: Tamarai, Sivapputamarai. TELUGU: Kalung, Tamara. THAI: Bua luang. URDU: Nilufer

Gen info
The Lotus is revered as India's most sacred plant. Like the rose in the west, it is a symbol of love and compassion. As a medicinal herb, it has been used in the Orient for over 1,500 years.

Botany
Lotus is a perennial, aquatic herb with creeping rootstocks. Leaves are raised above the water, large, rounded, peltate, and 50 to 90 centimeters wide. Flowers are attractive, pink, red, or white, and 15 to 25 centimeters in diameter, standing out of the water. Flower has about 20 pink petals, 7 to 15 centimeters in length. Center of the flower is a large structure shaped like an inverted cone, on top of which are located ovules which later become seeds. Around the inverted cone are numerous yellow stamens. Mature fruit is formed by the enlargement of the spongy, cone-shaped structure in the center of the flower. Rich carpel (fruit and seed in one) is about 13 millimeters long, with a black, bony and smooth pericarp.

Distribution
- Abundant in marshes and shallow lakes, from northern Luzon to Mindanao. - Cultivated as pond ornamentals. - Probably prehistoric introduction to the Philippines. - Native of Asia.

Constituents
- Nelumbine is present in dried seeds, cotyledons and young leaves. - Seed contains flavonoids and alkaloids.

- Dried seeds contain nelumbine, protein 15.9%, carbohydrates 70%, ash 3.9%, vitamin C2 and CuO 0.59%. - Rhizomes contain starch 9.7%, ash 1.1%, vitamin C1, asparagin 2%, protein 1.7%, and fat 0.1%. - Study of stamen extract isolated kaempferol, kaempferol 3-O-D-glucopyranose, sitosterol 3-O-Dglucopyranoside and 2 flavanoids. - A methanol extract of leaves yielded five norsesquiterpenes, four flavonoids, two triterpenes and one alkaloid: (E)-3-hydroxymegastigm-7-en-9-one, (3S,5R,6S,7E)- megastigma-7-ene-3,5,6,9-tetrol, dendranthemoside B, icariside B2, sedumoside F1, luteolin, quercetin 3-O--D-glucuronide, quercetin 3O--D-glucoside, isorhamnetin 3-O-rutinoside, alphitolic acid, maslinic acid, and N-methylasimilobine. (See study below) (26)

Properties
- Considered astringent, cardiotonic, febrifuge, hypotensive, resolvent, stomachic, styptics, tonic, and vasodilator. - Used as astringent, cardiotonic, immunomodulator, antiviral, antitumor. - Seeds are demulcent and nutritive. - Filaments and flowers are cooling, sedative, astringent, bitter, refrigerant, and expectorant. - Roots are mucilaginous, demulcent, and emmenagogue; considered by some as aphrodisiac. - Leaves are antifebrile and antihemorrhagic.

Parts utilized
Whole plant.

Uses
Edibility / Nutrition Lotus is a food plant. The unripe seeds are eaten boiled, raw, or roasted; the ripe seeds, boiled or roasted. The rhizomes, sliced, are eaten raw or cooked. The petioles, without the rough outer layer, and the leaves are boiled and eaten. In Indo-China, pollen and stamens are used to perfume tea. Roasted seed used as coffee substitute. Folkloric Roots, rhizomes, and flowers are used as astringent. The leaves and seeds are used in poultices. Flowers, filaments and juice of flower-stalks are used in diarrhea, cholera, liver complaints, and fevers. A syrup made from the flowers used in coughs, to check hemorrhages in bleeding piles, menorrhagia and dysentery. Stamens are used for bleeding piles and parturition. Nodes of the rhizome used to stop bleeding. Astringent petals used for syphilis. Seeds used in leprosy and skin diseases; for spermatorrhea and erotic dreams. Roots and young leaves used for piles. The milky juice of leaves and flower stalks used in diarrhea. Leaves used as deterrent for skin maladies. Decoction of seeds used in dysentery and as diuretic. Pounded leaves applied to the body for high fevers, mucous membranes and skin irritation, and over

the forehead for headaches. Embryo used in China and Malay for fevers, cholera, hemoptysis, and spermatorrhea. Rhizome root used as rejuvenating tonic. Receptacle/flower stalk used in Chinese medicine to stop internal bleeding caused by gastric ulcers; menorrhagia or parturient hemorrhage. Joints of rootstock used as hemostatic for hemoptysis, postpartum hemorrhages, hematuria and bloody stools. Decoction of flowers used for premature ejaculation. Decoction of floral receptacle used for abdominal cramps, bloody discharges. Flower stalk used for bleeding gastric ulcers, excessive menses, post-partum hemorrhages. Paste of root starch used for ringworm and other skin ailments. There is folkloric use in the treatment of cancer. In Chhattisgarh, India, the oil prepared from the roots is applied to the genitals to increase retention time. The Malays use the astringent petals for syphilis. In Java petals used for diarrhea and vomiting. In Japan, the leaf of NN has been used for home remedy of the summer heat syndrome. In China, leaf used to treat obesity, also as vermifuge and antihemorrhagic; plant juice used in dysentery.

Studies
Antioxidant / Seeds: Study of Nelumbo nucifera seeds yielded alkaloids, saponins, phenolics and carbohydrates with significant antioxidant activity. (4) Antioxidant / Leaves: Study showed the antioxidant capacity of lotus leaves is partially attributed to its flavonoids. Memory / Learning: Study in Wistar rats showed N. nucifera rhizome extract may improve learning and memory with enhancing neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. (5) Diabetes / Aldose Reductase Inhibition: Aldose reductase is the principal enzyme in the polyol pathway critical in the

pathogenesis of diabetes. A methanol extract study showed an aldose reductase inhibitory activity. (6) Antipyretic: Ethanol extract study of NN showed dose-dependent antipyretic effect comparable to that of paracetamol, a standard antipyretic agent. (7) Antipyretic / Seeds: Study revealed seeds of red and white type of lotus (Nolumbo nucifera) is effective in reducing body temperature in yeast-induced pyrexia in rats. (17) Diuretic: A methanol extract study on the rhizomes of NN exhibited dose-dependent diuresis, with significant increase in natriuretic and chloruretic activity. (9) Hypoglycemic / Hypolipidemic: A methanol extract study evaluated the flavonoids from NN and showed significant reduction of fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels with an increase in HDL cholesterol suggesting future studies on its use for diabetes mellitus. (8) Antiobesity: Nelumbo nucifera leaf extract study in mice was shown to impair digestion, inhibit absorption of lipids and carbohydrate4s, accelerate lipid metabolism and upregulate energy expenditure all beneficial for the suppression of obesity. (10) Antiinflammatory: Supplementation with Lotus Plumule significantly inhibited the production of proinflammatory cytokine TNF-a and increased anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. (11) Hypoglycemic / Antidiabetic: Oral administration of ethanolic extract of rhizomes of NN markedly reduced the blood sugar of normal, glucose-fed hyperglycemic and STZ-induced diabetic rats. The extract exhibited 73% and 67% activity of tolbutamide in normal and diabetic rats, respectively. (12) Anti-Estrogenic: Nelumbo nucifera has anti-estrogenic effects without altering the general physiology of female rats. (13) Psychopharmacologic Effects: Methanolic extract of NN was found to cause reduction in spontaneous activity, decreased exploratory behavior, reduction in muscle relaxant activity and potentiation of pentobarbitone induced sleeping time. (14) Cytoprotective / Antioxidant: Study confirms the cytoprotective and antioxidant activity of N nucifera and Aegle marmelos by stabilization of plasma membrane and modulation of antioxidant systems against stress induced by heavy metals in Cyprinus carpio. (15) Antimicrobial / Essential Oil: Study of Nelumbo nucifera pollen essential oil show inhibitory effect on growth of food borne pathogenic bacteria in low concentration suggesting the possibility for use as food preservation additive. (16) Antioxidative / Anti-Tyrosinase Activity: Study isolated kaempferol, kaempferol 3-O-Dglucopyranose, sitosterol 3-O-D-glucopyranoside and 2 flavanoids. A stamen extract showed antioxidative activity twice that of green tea and anti-tyrosinase activity at the same level as that of a mulberry extract. (19) Acute and Subchronic Oral Toxicity Study: The oral lethal dose of N. nucifera stamens extract in male and female rats is in excess of 5000 mg/kg and the no-observed-adverse-effect level of the extract is considered to be 200 mg/kg/day. (20) Antidiabetic: Study evaluated the powdered sun-dried flowers and its aqueous and alcoholic extracts for use in the treatment of diabetes. Results showed significant hypoglycemia in fasting albino rabbits, in an effect comparable to tolbutamide. (23) Detoxifying Effect for Heavy Metals: Study evaluated the efficacy of Nelumbo nucifera and Aegle marmelos on common carp exposed to sublethal concentrations of combined heavy metals under laboratory conditions. Results showed N. nucifera and A. marmelos provide a detoxification mechanism for heavy metals in common carp. (24) Analgesic / Seeds: Study assessed the analgesic effect of red and white lotus seeds in albino rats using the tail flick method. Both seed extracts exhibited considerable analgesic effect in the acute pain model, less than the effect of Diclofenac group. (25)

 Phytochemical Analysis / Cytotoxicity against Human Cancer Cell Lines : A methanol extract of leaves yielded five norsesquiterpenes, four flavonoids, two triterpenes and one alkaloid. Compounds 6 and 10-12 exhibited considerable cytotoxicity against four human cancer cell lines in vitro using a SRB bioassay. (26) Phytoremediation: Lotus was evaluated for remediation of trace elements focusing on manganese (Mn, organic compounds and filtering aquaculture waste water. Results showed lotus to be an effective phyto-remediator of nutrient run-off and suspended solids from waste water from intense aquaculture systems. (27) Antidiabetic: Study evaluated a hydroalcoholic extract of N. nucifera on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat. Results showed a significant reduction in blood glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides. (28) Antibacterial / Antioxidant: Study of extract of white flower of N. nucifera exhibited strong antibacterial and potent antioxidant activity when compared to the pink flowers. The activity was attributed to the presence of rich phytochemical constituents. (29) Antioxidant / Flowers: Study evaluated the antioxidant effect of flowers in isolated oxidatively stressed rat kidney. Results showed N. nucifera flowers exhibited decreased oxidative stress with increase in antioxidants and maintenance of marker enzymes in normal levels. (30) Atopic Dermatitis / Inhibitory Effect: Study evaluated the effect of N. nucifera leaf on the AD (atopic dermatitis) -like skin lesion induced by repeated DNCB epicutaneous skin application. Results showed suppression of clinical severity score, scratching behavior, and blood IgE levels, together with histopathologic reduction of epidermal thickening and mast cell degranulation.

Availability
Wildcrafted. Cultivated.

Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) Nelumbo nucifera - Gaertn. / Sacred Water Lotus / PlantsForAFuture (2) DK: Complete Guide to Medicinal Herbs. Penelope Ody (3) Research Note - Pankaj Oudhia / Botanical.com (4) Antioxidant activity of Nelumbo nucifera (sacred lotus) seeds / Sujay Rai et al / Journal of Ethnopharmacology / Vol 104, Issue 3, 6 April 2006, Pages 322327 / doi:10.1016/j.jep.2005.09.025 (5) Novel effects of Nelumbo nucifera rhizome extract on memory and neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus of the rat hippocampus / Neuroscience Letters / Vol 443, Issue 2, 3 October 2008, Pages 104-107 / doi:10.1016/j.neulet.2008.07.020 (6) Rat lens aldose reductase inhibitory constituents of Nelumbo nucifera

stamens / PTR. Phytotherapy research / 2006, vol. 20, no10, pp. 825-830 / (7) Evaluation of antipyretic potential of Nelumbo nucifera stalk extract. / Sinha S; Mukherjee P K; Mukherjee K; Pal M; Mandal S C; Saha B P/ Phytotherapy research : PTR 2000;14(4):272-4 (8) Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of flavonoids from lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn) leaf in diabetic mice /Taoying Zhou, Denghong Luo et al / Journal of Medicinal Plants Research Vol. 3(4), pp. 290-293, April, 2009 (9) Diuretic activity of extract of the rhizomes of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (Fam. Nymphaeaceae) / PTR. Phytotherapy research / 1996, vol. 10, no5, pp. 424425 (10) Anti-obesity effect of Nelumbo nucifera leaves extract in mice and rats./ Journal of Ethnopharmacology / 2006vol.106(no.2) (11) Suppressive Effects of Lotus Plumule (Nelumbo nucifera Geartn.) Supplementation on LPS-Induced Systemic Inflammation in a BALB/c Mouse Model / JIN-YUARN LIN, ANN-RU WU et al / Journal of Food and Drug Analysis, Vol. 14, No. 3, 2006, Pages 273-278 (12) Effect of Nelumbo nucifera rhizome extract on blood sugar level in rats / Pulok K Mukherjee et al / Journal of Ethnopharmacology Volume 58, Issue 3, November 1997, Pages 207-213 / 016/S0378-8741(97)00107-4 (13) Effect of Nelumbo nucifera seeds on the reproductive organs of female rats / Anju Mutreja et al / Iranian Journal of Reproductive Medicine Vol.6. No.1. pp: 7-11, Winter 2008 (14) Studies on psychopharmacological effects of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. rhizome extract / Pulok K Mukherjee et al / Journal of Ethnopharmacology Volume 54, Issues 2-3, November 1996, Pages 63-67 / doi:10.1016/S03788741(96)01455-9 (15) Cytoprotective effect of Nelumbo nucifera and Aegle marmelos in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) exposed to heavy metals / R Vinodhini and M Narayanan / Intl Journ of Integrative Biology Vol 7, No 2, 124, 2009. (16) Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oil from Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. Pollen / Sittiwet, C / Int. J. Pharmacol., 5: 98-100. / DOI: 10.3923/ijp.2009.98.100

(17) Antipyretic activity of seeds from Red and White type of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) in Albino rat / P K Deepa et al / Veterinary World, Vol.2(6): 213-214 (18) Antioxidative Effect and Active Components from Leaves of Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) / Hong-Yu Lin et al / J. Agric. Food Chem., 2009, 57 (15), pp 6623 6629 / DOI: 10.1021/jf900950z (19) DISCOVERY OF ANTIOXIDATIVE AND ANTI-TYROSINASE ACTIVITIES OF NELUMBO NUCIFERA GAERTN. (SACRED LOTUS) STAMEN / Sombat Wanauppathamkul, Suppisak Chaturonratsamee et al / (20) Acute and subchronic oral toxicity studies of Nelumbo nucifera stamens extract in rats / Kunanusorn P, Panthong A et al / J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Apr 12;134(3):789-95. Epub 2011 Feb 1 (21) Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (accepted name) / Chinese names / Catalogue of Life, China (22) Sorting Nelumbo names / Maintained by: Michel H. Porcher / MULTILINGUAL MULTISCRIPT PLANT NAME DATABASE / A Work in Progress. School of Agriculture and Food Systems. Faculty of Land & Food Resources. The University of Melbourne. Australia / Copyright 1997 - 2000 The University of Melbourne. (23) Anti-diabetic effect of Nelumbo nucifera (Gaertn): Part I preliminary studies in rabbits / J. C. Huralikuppi, A. B. Christopher, P. M. Stephen / Phytotherapy Research, Vol 5, No 2, pp 5458, April 1991/ DOI: 10.1002/ptr.2650050203 (24) Detoxifying effect of Nelumbo nucifera and Aegle marmelos on hematological parameters of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) / Rajamanickam Vinodhini / Interdiscip. Toxicol. 2010; Vol. 3(4): 127131. doi: 10.2478/v10102-010-00529 (25) Evaluation of Analgesic Activity of Lotus seeds (Nelumbo nucifera) in Albino Rats / Vikrama Chakravarthi.P. and Gopakumar.N* / Veterinary World, Vol.2(9):355-357 RESEARCH (26) Phytochemical Constituents of Nelumbo nucifera / Ki Hyun Kim, Sang Wook Chang, Shi Yong Ryu, Sang Un Choi, and Kang Ro Lee / Natural Product Sciences 15(2) : 90-95 (2009)

(27) Evaluation of Sacred Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) as an Alternative Crop for Phyto-remediation / Warner Steve Orozco Obando / Dissertation / May 2012 (28) Effect of Hydro Alcoholic Extract of Nelumbo nucifera(G) on STZ induced Diabetic Rats / P.Manimekalai*, V.Krishnaraju, C.Davidraj, B.Ssudhakar, R.Dhanalakshmi, K.Kalpana / IJPWR VOL1 ISSUE 3 (Jun-Sep) 2010 (29) Antibacterial and Antioxidant potential of White and Pink Nelumbo Nucifera Gaertn Flowers / Brindha Venkatesh and Arthi Dorai / 2011 International Conference on Bioscience, Biochemistry and Bioinformatics / IPCBEE vol.5 (2011) (30) Antioxidant activity of Nelumbo nucifera (Gaertn) flowers in isolated perfused rat kidney / Gayathri Krishnamoorthy; David Raj Chellappan; Jipnomon Joseph; Dhevi Ravindhran; Mohamed M. Shabi; Subashini Uthrapathy; Victor G. Rajamanickam*; Govinda P. Dubey / Rev. bras. farmacogn. vol.19 no.1b Joo Pessoa Jan./Mar. 2009 / http://dx.doi.org/10.159 (31) Inhibitory Effect of Nelumbo nucifera (Gaertn.) on the Development of Atopic Dermatitis-Like Skin Lesions in NC/Nga Mice / Rajendra Karki, Myung-A Jung, Keuk-Jun Kim, and Dong-Wook Kim / Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Volume 2012 / doi:10.1155/2012/153568

Bakauan-babae
Rhizophora mucronata Lam.
STILT MANGROVE

Scientific names Rhizophora mucronata Lam. Rhizophora longissima Blanco Rhizophora stylosa Griff.

Common names Bakau (Tagb., P. Bis., Sul., Mbo.) Bakauan (Tag., Bik., P. Bis., C. Bis., Mag.) Bakhau (C. Bis.) Bangkau (Tag.) Togog (Bis.) Bakauan-babae (Tag.)

Prop root mangrove (Engl.) Stilt mangrove (Engl.) Botany Bakauan-babae is a tree of the mangrove swamps growing up to 12 meters high, with numerous prop roots. Leaves are shining, oblong-elliptic, 8 to 16 centimeters long, 3.5 to 8 centimeters wide, and pointed at both ends. Cymes are axillary, 2.5 to 4 centimeters long, and bear 3 to 7 stalkless, white or cream-colored flowers. Fruit is ovoid, 3.5 to 5 centimeters long, pendulous, brown or olive colored, the persistent calyx-lobes are reflexed. Protruded radicle is green and cylindric, growing up 20 to 40 centimeters long before falling off the tree. Seeds often germinate while on the tree and crop as young plants into the mud below. Distribution - In mangrove swamps throughout the Philippines. - Reported in Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam; also in Australia, New Guinea, Madagascar.

Constituents - Bark yields tannin in variable amounts, 12.3 to 33.8 per cent. - Leaves contain 9.13 % tannin; unripe fruit, 12 per cent; ripe fruit, 4.21 percent. - Study of stems and twigs of the mangrove plant Rhizophora stylosa yielded a new acetylated flavanol, 3,7-O-diacetyl ()-epicatechin and seven known flavanol derivatives, ()-epicatechin, 3-Oacetyl ()-epicatechin, 3,3,4,5,7-O- pentaacetyl ()-epicatechin, (+)-afzelechin, (+)-catechi cinchonain Ib, and proanthocyanidin B2. Properties - Considered astringent, antiseptic, febrifuge. - In Queensland, the honey which the native bees collect from the flowers is reported to be

poisonous, probably endowed with some deleterious principle. Parts used and preparation Bark, leaves.

Uses Folkloric - Bark used for hematuria. - Bark also used for diabetes, angina, boils, fungal infections. - Leaves and bark used as antiseptic; used for diarrhea, dysentery, fever, malaria and leprosy. - Old leaves used as decoction at childbirth. - Leaves also prescribed for fever. - In India, bark used for diabetes. - In Thailand, bark decoction used as astringent for diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting; also as antiseptic. Others - Useful as both wood and fuel. - Makes an excellent charcoal. - Tar can be made from the wood. - Bark used for tanning and dyeing.

Studies Anti-Diarrheal: Bark extracts showed inhibition of castor oil-induced diarrhea and a very significant percentage inhibition of charcoal meal in mice. Results support the anti-diarrhea activity of Rhizophora mucronata bark. Anti-HIV: Study extracted a polysaccharide from the bark of R. mucronata. Assessment in an in vitro culture system suggested the RM polysaccharide inhibited early steps of the viru life cycle especially virus adsorption to the cell. Radical Scavenging Activity: Study of stems and twigs of the mangrove plant Rhizopho stylosa yielded a new acetylated flavanol, 3,7-O-diacetyl ()-epicatechin and seven known flavanol derivatives. Seven of the 8 compounds exhibited radical scavenging activity comparable to the BHT control. The antioxidant activity was attributed to flavanol derivative Availability Wild-crafted. Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1)

Evaluation of Anti-diarrhea activity of Rhizophora mucronata bark extracts / Amit Kumar Das, RM Rohini M et al / The Internet Journal of Alternative Medicine ISSN: 1540-2584 (2) In Vitro Anti-Human Immunodeficiency Virus Activity of Polysaccharide from Rhizophora mucronata Poir. / Mariappan Premanathan et al / Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry Vol. 63 (1999) , No. 7 pp.1187-1191 (3) Flavanol Derivatives from Rhizophora stylosa and Their DPPH Radical Scavenging Activity / Dong-Li Li, Xiao-Ming Li, Ze-Yu Peng et al / Molecules 2007, 12, 1163-1169

Balaniu
Andropogon tortilis (Presl) Merr.
CITRONELLA GRASS

Ya xiang mao Scientific names Andropogon tortilis (Presl) Merr. Andropogon hamatulus Hook. & Arn. Andropogon nardus Rolfe Anthistiria tortilis Presl Cymbopogon hamatulus (Nees ex Hook. & Arn) Cymbopogon nardus (L.) Rendel Cymbopogon tortilis (Presl) A. Camus Niu qiao xiang mao (Chin.) Other vernacular names CHINESE: Kuo hua cao. JAPANESE: Ogarukaya, Okarukaya. Common names Balaniu (Bon.) Citronella grass (Engl.) Ye xiang mao (Chin.)

Botany Balaniu is an erect, stout, leafy and fairly tall grass, 50 to 100 centimeters in height. Leaves are long and narrow, 30 to 50 centimeters long, 6 to 12 millimeters wide. Panicle is large, often supra-decompound; the branches are loosely or closely packed, erect at length, often drooping. Spathes are laxly or closely imbricate, 1 to 2centimeters long, with spikes provide with 4 to 5 pairs of spikelets, sessile, awned. Distribution - In many parts of Luzon, In open grasslands at low and medium altitudes. - Also occurs from Japan southwards through Taiwan and southeast China. - Cultivated in India, Ceylon and other tropical countries for its essential oil.

Constituents - Culm and leaves yield a small quantity of extractable aromatic oil. - When the grass is distilled, yields a pale-yellow oil with a strong odor, known commerciall as citronella oil. - Oil reportedly contains an aldehyde, a terpene, an isomer of borneol (citronellol), acetic an valeric acids. - The local variety tortilis yields an oil used locally to perfume soap. If studied, it is expected to yield citronella oil. - Major constituents of essential oil are: citronella 31.6, neral 28.6, citronellol 10.6, elemicine 7.3, geranyl acetate 4.6, elemol 3.7, limonene 3.2, and isopulegol 2.7%.

Properties - Oil is considered antispasmodic, carminative, repellent, stimulant. - Considered astringent, rubefacient, antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal. Parts used Oil.

Uses Folkloric - Used as antispasmodic, carminative and stimulant. - In India, the oil is used as external application for rheumatism and is also used to stimulate hair growth. - Used for muscle pain and neuralgia. Others Oil: Although uncertain if the variety tortilis yields citronella oil, the oil distilled from this variety is used locally to perfume soap. Also used in tea preparations and as flavoring. Insecticide: Ointment made from the oil used as protection against mosquito bites. Oil use in making insect repellent in sprays and candles. Fodder: Grass provides fodder and pasture for livestock. Paper: Stem and leaves can be source of paper material.

Studies Fungistatic / Atmospheric Preservative: Study evaluated 37 essential oils for potential use as atmospheric preservatives. Cymbopogon nardus var. narudus was one of the most active essential oils. By micro-atmosphere method, C. nardus and C. martinii were the mos fungistatic. Antifungal: Study of C. nardus (citronella oil) showed antifungal activity, suppressing the growth of several species of Aspergillus, Penicillium and Eurotium. Availability Wild-crafted.

Additional Sources and Suggested Readings (1) Cymbopogon tortilis (J.Presl) A.Camus / The Plant List (2) The William Gardener Collection of Chinese Medicinal Plants / William Gardener FLS, manuscripts computerised by: Anthony C. Dweck FLS from old papers donated by Linda Fellows and given back to the world on 22nd. April 1995. (3) The antifungal activity of essential oils as determined by different screening methods / Delespaul, Q.; Billerbeck, V. G. de; Roques, C. G et al / Journal of Essential Oil Research 2000 Vol. 12 No. 2 pp. 256-266 (4) Cymbopogon tortilis (J. Presl) A. Camus / Chinese names / Catalogue of Life, China (5) Sorting Cymbopogon names / Maintained by: Michel H. Porcher, / MULTILINGUAL MULTISCRIPT PLANT NAME DATABASE / Copyright 1997 - 2000 The University of Melbourne.