Plumbago indica L. (= P. rosea L.)

DeFilipps, Robert A. & Krupnick, Gary A., 2018, The medicinal plants of Myanmar, PhytoKeys 102, pp. 1-341 : 139-140

Plumbago indica L. (= P. rosea L.)

Names.

Myanmar: kant-choke-ni, kangyok. English: fire plant, rosy leadwort, scarlet leadwort.

Range.

Southeast Asia. Found growing all over Myanmar except in the hot and very cold regions; grows naturally but can be also found cultivated in hedges for use as a medicinal plant.

Uses.

The five parts (root, stem, leaf, flower, and fruit) are used. The plant has a sharp hot taste and is considered good for digestion and strength. The entire plant is known for slowing aging and supporting longevity. The crushed whole plant is used topically for eye ailments, scabies, and leucoderma. Root: Used as an expectorant, also promotes well-being, appetite, and weight gain. The root is used to treat leprosy, venereal disease, and menstrual disorders. A mixture of crushed roots and mild oil is applied topically to alleviate joint soreness and partial paralysis. The root is also used in medicines for digestive disorders, anemia, throat cancer, bloating, edema, and skin disorders.

Notes.

The medicinal uses of this species in India are discussed in Jain and DeFilipps (1991). Medicinal uses of this species in China are discussed in Duke and Ayensu (1985).

References.

Agricultural Corporation (1980), Forest Department (1999).