English: Barleria
Sanskrit: Chulli
Malayalam: Karachulli-കാരച്ചുള്ളി, Chulli-ചുള്ളി
It is found in the Western Ghats, deciduous forests, and in plains, and is distributed in dry places of Malabar and Travancore, Deccan, and Coimbatore, a very prickly small shrub; branches hairy. Leaves are broadly elliptic, obtuse, mucronate, hairy beneath, deciduous scabrid pubescent above; petioles hardly any, bracteoles simple spines, usually long. The flowers are pink, axillary sessile, two outer sepals large ovate sub-spinose, denticulate, and softly hairy. Corolla purple, fruits are capsule four seeded, propagations through stem cutting. Flowering and fruiting is from November to April
Useful plant parts:
Leaf and Root
Medicinal uses:
To treat coughing and inflammations.
In Ayurveda, Barleria (commonly known as Vajradanti or Sahachara) is valued for its medicinal properties. Here are some of its traditional uses:
1. Oral Health: Barleria is used in Ayurvedic toothpaste and powders for its astringent and antimicrobial properties. It helps in maintaining oral hygiene, preventing dental issues like gingivitis, and strengthening gums.
2. Anti-Inflammatory: The plant is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which make it beneficial in managing conditions involving inflammation, such as arthritis and joint pain.
3. Digestive Health: Barleria is used to alleviate digestive disorders. It helps in improving appetite, aiding digestion, and relieving symptoms like bloating and indigestion.
4. Respiratory Health: It is employed to treat respiratory issues like cough, cold, and bronchitis due to its expectorant properties. It helps in clearing mucus from the respiratory tract.
5. Skin Disorders: Barleria is used in various formulations to treat skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Its antimicrobial properties aid in wound healing.
6. Urinary Disorders: It is used in Ayurvedic remedies to support urinary health, especially in conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney stones.
7. Anti-Microbial: Barleria exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can be helpful in preventing and managing infections.
8. Anti-Diabetic: Some studies suggest that Barleria may have properties that can assist in managing blood sugar levels, making it potentially beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
It’s important to note that while Barleria has been traditionally used in Ayurveda for various purposes, individual results may vary. It is recommended to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare professional before using Barleria or any other herbal remedy for specific health concerns.
Chemical content:
Acetylcholinesterase, Iridoid glycosides
Medicinal properties:
Anti-inflammatory, Anti-microbial
Learn more:
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1874390008001109
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