Callicarpa – All You Need To Know

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Genus Callicarpa comprises 40 or more species, and many are reported for different biological potentials. Callicarpa tomentosa, a commonly found plant in various parts of the Indian subcontinent, is used for several purposes in ethnomedicine by tribal population.

Scientific Research:

Extracts from about fourteen species in this genus have been evaluated for biological activities, including antibacterial, antifungal, anti-insect growth, cytotoxic, and phytotoxic activity. In addition to amino acids, simple carbohydrates  and lipids, benzenoids, flavonoids, numerous diterpenes, phytosterols, sesquiterpenes, phenylpropanoids, and triterpenes occur in or isolated from the genus Callicarpa.

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Traditional Uses:

In Ayurveda literature, Priyangu is described as cooling, refrigerant, deodorant, and antipyretic.

Callicarpa tomentosa tones up the digestive system, checks excessive perspiration and helps to disinfect intestines. It is also used to control diarrhea and reduces the burning sensation during fever.

Specific Uses Include:

• Leaves, when applied on joints, relieves rheumatic pain
• Oil from the root is aromatic and are natural mosquito repellants
• Juice extract from the roots of Callicarpatomentosa and resin from the bark of Terminalia elliptica (common name – asna, saj or Indian laurel) cure stomach ache
• Callicarpaamericana (common name- American beautyberry) root treats skin cancer
• The bark of Callicarparubella treats tumours of the large intestine
• Callicarpa leaves have antiseptic properties; the paste of leaves, when topically applied, treats boils and eczema
• Applying leaf paste with coconut oil locally three times a day for five days will heal fresh wounds
• Callicarpa flowers treat nervous system disorders and haemorrhage

Edited by love4wellness