Introduction
Turnera ulmifolia Linn. is a plant that belongs to the Turneraceae family. It can be found in West Bengal, Orissa, and the coast of Peninsular India. Its English names include West Indian Holly and Sagerose, while it is known as Bhinjir in Maharashtra. This herb is commonly used in traditional medicine for various ailments such as indigestion, biliousness, chest ailments, and rheumatism.
Chemical Constituents
The fresh plant of Turnera ulmifolia contains cyanohydrin glucosides, specifically deidaclin and tetraphyllin. Additionally, the seeds of the plant contain vernolic, malvalic, and octanoic acids, which are unusual fatty acids not commonly found in other seeds. Another related species, Turnera diffusa var. aphrodisiaca, commonly known as Damiana, is native to the Gulf of Mexico and Southern California.
Medicinal Uses
In India, it is used by homeopathic practitioners as a tonic and sex restorative, as well as for treating premature ejaculation.
It is worth noting that Turnera diffusa Willd. has been classified as an unapproved herb by the German Commission E. However, the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia recognizes its thymoleptic activity, which means it has properties that can uplift one’s mood.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Turnera ulmifolia Linn., also known as West Indian Holly and Sagerose, is a plant with various medicinal uses. It can be used to treat indigestion, biliousness, chest ailments, and rheumatism. Its related species, Turnera diffusa var. aphrodisiaca, is used as a tonic and sex restorative in India. Both plants have unique chemical compositions that contribute to their medicinal properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What family does Turnera ulmifolia Linn. belong to?
Turnera ulmifolia Linn. belongs to the Turneraceae family.
Where can Turnera ulmifolia Linn. be found?
Turnera ulmifolia Linn. can be found in West Bengal, Orissa, and the coast of Peninsular India.
What are the English names for Turnera ulmifolia Linn.?
The English names for Turnera ulmifolia Linn. are West Indian Holly and Sagerose.
What is Turnera ulmifolia Linn. known as in Maharashtra?
Turnera ulmifolia Linn. is known as Bhinjir in Maharashtra.
What are some common uses of Turnera ulmifolia Linn. in traditional medicine?
Some common uses of Turnera ulmifolia Linn. in traditional medicine include treating indigestion, biliousness, chest ailments, and rheumatism.
What compounds can be found in the fresh plant of Turnera ulmifolia?
The fresh plant of Turnera ulmifolia contains cyanohydrin glucosides, specifically deidaclin and tetraphyllin.
What unusual fatty acids can be found in the seeds of Turnera ulmifolia?
The seeds of Turnera ulmifolia contain vernolic, malvalic, and octanoic acids.
Where is Turnera diffusa var. aphrodisiaca native to?
Turnera diffusa var. aphrodisiaca is native to the Gulf of Mexico and Southern California.
How is Turnera diffusa var. aphrodisiaca used in India?
Turnera diffusa var. aphrodisiaca is used by homeopathic practitioners in India as a tonic and sex restorative.
How is Turnera diffusa Willd. classified by the German Commission E?
Turnera diffusa Willd. is classified as an unapproved herb by the German Commission E.
What activities does the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia attribute to Turnera diffusa Willd.?
The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia recognizes the thymoleptic activity of Turnera diffusa Willd., meaning it has properties that can uplift one’s mood.
What are some potential medicinal uses of Turnera ulmifolia Linn.?
Some potential medicinal uses of Turnera ulmifolia Linn. include relieving indigestion, improving bile production, treating chest ailments, and alleviating rheumatism symptoms.
Does Turnera ulmifolia Linn. have any side effects?
There are no known side effects of using Turnera ulmifolia Linn., but it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy.
Can Turnera ulmifolia Linn. be used as a natural remedy for indigestion?
Yes, Turnera ulmifolia Linn. is commonly used as a natural remedy for indigestion.
How can Turnera ulmifolia Linn. be prepared for medicinal use?
Turnera ulmifolia Linn. can be prepared for medicinal use by boiling the leaves or flowers to make a tea, or by extracting the active compounds for use in tinctures or supplements.
Are there any known drug interactions with Turnera ulmifolia Linn.?
There are no known drug interactions with Turnera ulmifolia Linn., but it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional if you are taking any medications.
Can Turnera ulmifolia Linn. be used to improve overall digestion?
Yes, Turnera ulmifolia Linn. is believed to have digestive properties and can help improve overall digestion.
Can Turnera ulmifolia Linn. be used to relieve chest congestion?
Yes, Turnera ulmifolia Linn. is traditionally used to help relieve chest congestion and respiratory ailments.
Is Turnera ulmifolia Linn. safe to use during pregnancy?
It is not recommended to use Turnera ulmifolia Linn. during pregnancy, as its safety has not been established for pregnant women.
