Tragia involucrata L. also commonly known as Indian stinging nettle, is a perennial evergreen climbing herb having scattered stinging hair, elongate and slender stem. Leaves are simple, alternated, and twining. Leaves are not cordate at the base and are acute in uppermost. Flowers are shortly pedicellate, male flowers are many in the upper part and female flowers are few in the lower part. Flowers form in racemes in leaf axils. Fruit is a 3 lobed capsule that encompasses of smooth and globose seeds. The plant is native to outer Himalayan ranges eastwards to Assam, southwards to Travancore, throughout warmer regions of India.
Tragia involucrata roots extracted in methanol extract glared significant wound-healing effect. The tribal or non-tribal people of Andhra Pradesh used Tragia involucrate to manage asthma. The roots are used to control skin diseases by Kani tribals in the Kouthalai region of Tirunelveli hills and the Tamil Nadu state of India. Roots possess larvicidal and oviposition deterrence activity. The present studies are conducted to figure out the antibacterial potential of the plant in various gradient extracts.
Traditional uses
- The plant is used for treating skin eruption, cephalgia, and diabetes.
- The tea prepared from leaves is helpful to treat intestinal worms.
- The plant is also helpful for treating malaria, fever, and urinary tract infections.
- Apply the root paste to eliminate guinea worms and leprosy.
- Use the root decoction to provide relief from bronchitis and attendant fever.
- In the Western Ghats of India, Malayali tribes use the plant for treating wounds and skin infections.
- Leaves are used as a cure for headaches and roots are used to treat fever.
- Root paste is used to eliminate worms.
- The mixture of paste with Ocimum sanctum leaf juice is used for treating venereal and skin diseases.
- Rub the fruit extracts on the head for treating baldness.
- Leaves extract is used for treating rheumatic disorders and scurvy.
- It is helpful for treating stomach disorders.
- It is helpful in arthritis and allergic rhinitis.
- Apply the leaves juice on the scalp to promote hair growth and reduce dandruff.
- It is effective for urination problems.
- Use the leaves extract on the skin for rheumatic disorders.
Precautions
- When the skin comes in contact with plant, it causes itching.
- It is better to consult the health practitioner before treating health problems.
- With an experience of allergic reactions, consult the doctor immediately.
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