Crossandra infundibuliformis (Acanthaceae) Aboli

Crossandra infundibuliformis (Firecracker Flower)

1. Scientific name and Basic Taxonomic classification

Species: Crossandra infundibuliformis

Family: Acanthaceae

Genus: Crossandra

Related Herbs from the same family:

Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh/Bhunimba): A quintessential Ayurvedic herb for liver disorders, fever, and infections, known as the "King of Bitters."

Justicia adhatoda (Vasaka/Arusa): A premier herb for respiratory ailments like asthma, bronchitis, and cough, used for its bronchodilatory and expectorant properties.

Hemidesmus indicus (Indian Sarsaparilla/Anantmool): A classic blood purifier and cooling herb used for skin diseases, fever, and as a rejuvenative.

The Acanthaceae family is rich in medicinal plants, many of which are used for liver, respiratory, and skin conditions in Ayurveda.

2. Common names

Scientific Name: Crossandra infundibuliformis | English: Firecracker Flower | Sanskrit: Priyadarsha, Aboli | Hindi: Priyadarsha, Aboli | Tamil: Kanakambaram | Telugu: Kanakambaram | Kannada: Kanakambara | Malayalam: Kanakambaram | Marathi: Aboli | Bengali: Aboli | Sinhala: Kanakambara | Malay: Gendiri |

3. Medicinal Uses:

Astringent,Diuretic, Febrifuge (reduces fever), Tonic, Anti-inflammatory, Wound Healing.

Medicinal Parts:

The leaves,roots, and flowers are used in traditional medicine.

 

4. Phytochemicals specific to the plant and their action.

Flavonoids (Apigenin, Luteolin): These compounds provide Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory benefits.

Tannins: Contribute to the plant's Astringent and wound-healing properties.

Triterpenoid Saponins: Known for their Antimicrobial and Anti-inflammatory actions.

Alkaloids: May contribute to the plant's traditional use as a tonic and febrifuge.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical uses covering the Medicinal uses.

Vrana (Wounds) & Twak Vikara (Skin Disorders)

Formulation: Leaf paste.

Preparation & Use: Fresh leaves are crushed into a paste and applied topically on wounds, cuts, and skin eruptions to promote healing and prevent infection.

Reasoning: The astringent and antimicrobial properties help cleanse the wound and contract tissues.

Jwara (Fever)

Formulation: Root decoction.

Preparation & Use: A decoction of the roots is consumed to reduce fever, especially in traditional Siddha and folk medicine.

Reasoning: The root is believed to have febrifuge properties.

Shotha (Inflammation) & Daha (Burning Sensation)

Formulation: Flower or leaf paste.

Preparation & Use: The paste is applied to inflamed skin or areas with a burning sensation to provide relief.

Reasoning: The anti-inflammatory and cooling properties help pacify Pitta and reduce localized inflammation.

Keshya (Hair Tonic)

Formulation: Leaf extract.

Preparation & Use: The leaf extract is applied to the scalp to promote hair health and prevent dandruff.

Reasoning: Its astringent and antimicrobial nature may help maintain a healthy scalp environment.

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

Primarily used as an ornamental plant and in traditional medicine.

Priyadarsha Leaf Paste for Wounds

Purpose: To disinfect and heal minor cuts and wounds.

Preparation & Use:

· Take a handful of fresh, clean leaves.

· Grind them into a smooth paste.

· Apply directly to the affected area and cover with a clean cloth.

Root Decoction for Fever

Purpose: To support fever reduction.

Preparation & Use:

· Boil 5-10 grams of roots in 1.5 cups of water until it reduces to 1 cup.

· Strain and drink 1/2 cup twice a day.

Hair Rinse for Scalp Health

Purpose: To reduce dandruff and soothe the scalp.

Preparation & Use:

· Boil a handful of leaves in water for 10-15 minutes.

· Let it cool and use the water as a final rinse after shampooing.

7. Disclaimer:

Crossandra infundibuliformis is commonly used in traditional medicine, but scientific data on its safety and efficacy is limited. It is generally considered safe for topical use. Internal use should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. This information is for educational purposes only.

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

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

· Siddha Materia Medica

· Ethnobotanical Leaflets

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

1. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Shoe Flower/Japa)

* Species:Hibiscus rosa-sinensis | Family: Malvaceae | Genus: Hibiscus

* Similarities:Both are primarily ornamental plants with significant medicinal value for hair and skin. Hibiscus leaves and flowers are also used to make a paste for hair growth and as a natural conditioner.

2. Justicia adhatoda (Vasaka)

* Species:Justicia adhatoda | Family: Acanthaceae | Genus: Justicia

* Similarities:As a member of the same family, Vasaka shares the trait of being a widely used medicinal plant. While Vasaka is specific for respiration, it highlights the therapeutic potential within the Acanthaceae family.

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