|
18.
MADHUCA INDICA
Eng.=
Indian butter tree; Ind. = Madhua
Habitat
and Description
Madhuca
is a large deciduous tree growing to a height of 20 metres.
It has small, dull white flowers and brown seeds that are rich in
butter-like fat. Fruits are
greenish with a height of 2.5 to 5 cm.
It is native to central India.
It contains glucoside saponin in leaves; seeds contain fatty oil
51-55% , useful for soap making .
Parts
used : Bark,
leaves, flowers, seeds
Actions
: Anti-arthritis,
astringent, sedative, emollient, galactagogue, laxative, tonic.
Therapeutic
uses
·
In
Arthritis and related disorders
A
decoction of the bark can be given internally in arthritic problems.
The oil extracted from the seeds can also be applied externally to
bring relief to the patients suffering from sprain and swellings.
It is highly beneficial in osteoarthritis.
·
Other
uses
Bark
decoction is good for itches, bleeding gums, ulcer, leprosy and skin
diseases, internally useful in diabetes.
Leaves are applied on burns and scalds.
Flowers posses some antibacterial property and are useful in cold
and cough. Seeds promote flow
of milk. Seed oil is good for
skin diseases. Oil extracted
from seeds helps in relieving chronic constipation.
Mode
of Administration and Dosage
Prepare
decoction of the bark an drink two cups daily.
Paste of the leaves can be applied on the skin.
Flowers can be used in powder form.
Oil extracted from the seeds is used both externally and
internally. Ayurvedic preparations are Kutajarista and kanakasav.
Precaution
It
is relatively safe.
|
