Cocculus hirsutus (Menispermaceae) Hirsute Moonseed

Cocculus hirsutus (Broom Creeper)

1. Taxonomic insights

Species: Cocculus hirsutus

Family: Menispermaceae

Genus: Cocculus

The Menispermaceae family, known as the "moonseed" family, is characterized by climbing shrubs and contains many alkaloid-rich plants used in traditional medicine across the tropics.

Related Herbs from the same family:

• Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi/Amrita): A premier Rasayana (rejuvenative) and immunomodulator, used for fever, diabetes, and general debility.

• Cissampelos pareira (Patha/Laghu Patha): A key herb for digestive and urinary disorders, and female reproductive health.

• Stephania glabra (Raj Patha): Used in traditional medicine for respiratory and digestive issues.

2. Common Names:

Scientific Name: Cocculus hirsutus | English: Broom Creeper, Hirsute Moonseed | Sanskrit: Patalagaruda, Dirghavalli, Vatsadani | Hindi: Farid Buti, Jamtikor, Jaljamni | Tamil: Kattukodi, Pattaikanni | Telugu: Dusari Teega, Chitramulam | Kannada: Bheemana Balli, Hagga | Malayalam: Kattukkodi | Marathi: Vasanvel, Vakeri | Bengali: Kukurjihwa | Arabic: Habbul Gharab | French: Cocculus hirsu | Spanish: Cóculo hirsuto |

3. Medicinal Uses:Antipyretic (fever-reducing), Anti-inflammatory, Antidiabetic, Galactagogue, Demulcent, Diuretic, Blood Purifier, Anthelmintic (deworming).

Medicinal Parts:The leaves and stems (vine) are the primary parts used medicinally.

• Leaves: Most commonly used for poultices, decoctions, and juices.

• Stems/Vine: Used in decoctions and powders.

4. Phytochemicals specific to the plant and their action.

Isoquinoline Alkaloids (Coclaurine, Hirsutine): These are the primary bioactive compounds. Coclaurine exhibits Antihypertensive and Anti-inflammatory effects. Hirsutine is studied for its Antimalarial and Antipyretic properties.

Phenols and Flavonoids (Quercetin): Provide significant Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory activity, supporting the plant's role in reducing oxidative stress.

Triterpenoids and Sterols (β-Sitosterol): Contribute to Anti-inflammatory and potential Hypoglycemic effects.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical uses covering the Medicinal uses.

Jwara (Fever) & Vishama Jwara (Intermittent Fevers/Malaria)

Formulation: Leaf decoction (Kashayam).

Preparation & Use: A decoction made from the leaves is consumed to treat various types of fevers, including malarial fevers, and to reduce body temperature.

Reasoning: The alkaloids, particularly hirsutine, have demonstrated antipyretic and antimalarial activity, helping to break the fever cycle and combat parasitic infection.

Stanyajanana (Galactagogue) & Stanyakshaya (Low Milk Supply)

Formulation: Leaf juice or vegetable preparation.

Preparation & Use: The fresh leaves are cooked as a vegetable or the juice is administered to nursing mothers to stimulate and increase the flow of breast milk.

Reasoning: The plant is considered nutritive and demulcent, believed to support the channels (srotas) responsible for milk production and improve the quality and quantity of milk.

Kushtha (Skin Diseases) & Vrana (Wounds)

Formulation: Leaf paste or juice for external application.

Preparation & Use: The fresh leaves are crushed into a paste or their juice is applied topically to treat eczema, boils, wounds, and skin ulcers. It is also used for washing skin affected by itch or scabies.

Reasoning: The anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and blood-purifying properties help cleanse the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

Mutrakrichra (Dysuria) & Shotha (Edema)

Formulation: Stem or leaf decoction.

Preparation & Use: A decoction of the stems or leaves is consumed as a diuretic to relieve painful urination and to reduce swelling (edema) in the body.

Reasoning: The diuretic action helps flush out excess fluids and toxins through the urine, reducing water retention and pressure on the urinary tract.

6. Healing recipes, Teas, Decoctions and Culinary use (if any):

The leaves are sometimes cooked as a green vegetable, especially in tribal and rural communities, primarily for its medicinal benefits.

Fever-Reducing Decoction

Purpose: To manage fever and body aches.

Preparation & Use:

• Take a handful of fresh or dried Cocculus hirsutus leaves.

• Boil in 2 cups of water until it reduces to 1 cup.

• Strain and drink 30 ml of this decoction twice a day after meals until the fever subsides.

Galactagogue Leaf Curry

Purpose: To support lactation.

Preparation & Use:

• Clean and chop tender leaves.

• Cook with lentils (dal) or sauté with onions, garlic, and cumin seeds as a simple curry.

• Consume as part of a regular meal during lactation.

Topical Leaf Paste for Boils & Eczema

Purpose: To soothe skin inflammation and infections.

Preparation & Use:

• Grind a handful of fresh leaves with a little water or turmeric powder to make a fine paste.

• Apply a thick layer to the affected area. Leave on for 20-30 minutes before washing off. Repeat twice daily.

7. Disclaimer:

Cocculus hirsutus is used traditionally but should be used with caution. Its alkaloid content means dosage is important. It is not recommended for pregnant women due to its potential effects on smooth muscle. Use during lactation should be moderate and under guidance. Individuals with low blood pressure should be cautious due to its potential antihypertensive alkaloids. Always consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider before starting any new herbal regimen. This information is for educational purposes only.

8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

• Indian Materia Medica by Dr. K.M. Nadkarni

• Wealth of India (Raw Materials) by CSIR

• Dravyaguna Vijnana (Vol. II) by Dr. J.L.N. Sastry

• Ethnobotany of India Volumes

9. Further study: Plants that might interest you due to similar medicinal properties

1. Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi)

• Species: Tinospora cordifolia | Family: Menispermaceae | Genus: Tinospora

• Similarities: As a close relative in the same family, Guduchi is also a potent antipyretic and immunomodulator. While Guduchi is more focused on deep immune support and detoxification, C. hirsutus shares the fever-reducing and anti-inflammatory profile, often used in folk medicine as a local alternative.

2. Ficus benghalensis (Banyan) - Young Aerial Roots

• Species: Ficus benghalensis | Family: Moraceae | Genus: Ficus

• Similarities: The young aerial roots of the Banyan tree are also used as a potent galactagogue in Ayurveda (Stanyajanana). Both plants are used to promote milk secretion, though their other properties differ significantly.

3. Leucas aspera (Thumbai/Dronapushpi)

• Species: Leucas aspera | Family: Lamiaceae | Genus: Leucas

• Similarities: Both are used extensively in traditional medicine for antipyretic purposes (to reduce fever) and for treating skin diseases. They are common ingredients in folk remedies for colds, fevers, and topical applications for boils and itching.

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