Gloriosa superba L.

DeFilipps, Robert A. & Krupnick, Gary A., 2018, The medicinal plants of Myanmar, PhytoKeys 102, pp. 1-341 : 47-48

Gloriosa superba L.

Names.

Myanmar: hsee mee-tauk. English: climbing lily, flame lily, superb lily.

Range.

Tropical Africa and Asia. Grows naturally all over Myanmar, but more common in the temperate regions.

Conservation status.

Least Concern [LC] ( IUCN 2017).

Uses.

Bitter, astringent and sharp in taste with heating properties, this plant is used to control flatulence and phlegm, promote urine production, treat bladder conditions, poisoning, leprosy, hemorrhoids, bloating and lung problems. Leaf: Powdered leaves are applied to wounds and sores to kill germs and promote healing. They are also ingested with jaggery to expel roundworms and threadworms. Mixed with lime juice, the leaf powder is used as a swab for the inside of the ear or as drops for earaches and ear infections. Root: The tuber serves as an abortifacient, and is used to treat ulcers, leprosy, and piles. Washed thoroughly, the tubers are crushed together with water, and the resulting mixture is applied to the navel and over the uterus area to induce fast and easy labor in childbirth. Tuber paste is also applied to relieve bruises and inflammation. The liquid from powdered tubers soaked in water is ingested to cure gonorrhea. (Note: Because the tubers contain a powerful poison, they should be used only under the direction of experienced and able physicians).

Note.

The medicinal uses of this species in India are discussed in Jain and DeFilipps (1991).

References.

Nordal (1963), Agricultural Corporation (1980), Forest Department (1999).