Malabar nightshade

The Scientific name of Malabar nightshade: Basella Alba

Name of Malabar nightshade in different languages:

English: Vine spinach, red vine spinach, climbing spinach, creeping spinach, buffalo spinach, Indian spinach and Ceylon spinach.

Sanskrit: Apoedika, Potaki

Malayalam: Vallicheera-വള്ളിച്ചീര, Vashalacheera-വഷളച്ചീര.

Useful plant parts: Leaf, stem

Plant description:

It is a perennial, fast-growing vine, reaching 10 m in length, stems are thick, purplish, and semi-succulent, leaves are simple, alternately arranged and single, heart-shaped, and have a mucilaginous texture, apex is tapered, soft and slippery, about 6 to 10 cm long and 4 to 6 cm broad, fruits are green, turns black when ripe, normally contain 3 seeds in the fruits.

Leaf Arrangement

Shape-Cordate	Margin-Entire	Venation-Reticulated

Chemical content: ß-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, Vitamin A, C.

Ayurveda medicinal uses of Malabar Nightshade

1. nd support liver-related conditions.
2. Urinary Disorders: It is used in cases of urinary disorders and may help in maintaining urinary tract health.
3. Skin Conditions: Malabar Nightshade is applied topically or taken internally for certain skin conditions.
4. Wound Healing: It may be used topically to assist in the healing of wounds and injuries.
5. Fever Management: It is believed to have properties that may help in reducing fever.
6. Rheumatic Conditions: It may be used to alleviate symptoms of rheumatic conditions like joint pain and inflammation.
7. Blood Sugar Management: Some formulations may be used to help regulate blood sugar levels.

It’s important to note that while Malabar Nightshade has a long history of traditional use, individual experiences and outcomes may vary. Consulting a qualified healthcare practitioner, particularly one with expertise in Ayurveda, is advisable before using this or any other herbal remedy, especially if you have specific health concerns or conditions. Additionally, ensure that any product you use is obtained from a reputable source and prepared according to proper Ayurvedic practices.

It is  one of the ingredients in the Ayurveda medicines like:-

• Avipathichoornam
• Eladichoornam
• Karpooradichoornam
• SudarsanaChoornam