The Scientific name of White leadwort: is Plumbago zeylanica
Name of White leadwort in different languages:-
English: Plumbago, White leadwort, Ceylon Leadwort, Doctorbush
Sanskrit: Chitrak
Hindi: चित्रक Chitrak
Malayalam: Vellakoduveli വെള്ള കൊടുവേലി, Thubakoduveli തുമ്പക്കൊടുവേലി
Plant description of White leadwort:-
Plumbago zeylanica White leadwort or Chitrak is a shrub that spreads with stems, and grows up to 2.5 m long. The leaves are dark green, ovate; grow up to 12 cm long and 5 cm broad. The flowers are borne in a stalk, sized 6 to 25 cm long, and hairs with a sticky coating. Many small dark purple-coloured seeds contain capsules 4 to 5 mm long.
Leaf Arrangement
| Shape-Elliptic |
Margin-Entire |
Venation-pinnate |
 |
 |
 |
Useful plant parts of White leadwort:
Root
Medicinal uses:
Antimicrobial, Antiseptic properties, Antimicrobial, larvicidal (kill larvae of Aedes aegypti without any damage to fishes).
Ayurvedic uses of white leadwort:
- Digestive Disorders: White leadwort is believed to have digestive properties. It is used in Ayurveda to treat conditions like indigestion, flatulence, and abdominal pain.
- Respiratory Disorders: It is used in respiratory conditions like cough, asthma, and bronchitis. The root is often used in remedies for these purposes.
- Rheumatism and Arthritis: White leadwort is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and is used to alleviate symptoms associated with rheumatism and arthritis.
- Wound Healing: In Ayurvedic medicine, white leadwort is used externally as a paste or poultice to help heal wounds and injuries. It is believed to have antimicrobial properties that can aid in preventing infections.
- Skin Conditions: Due to its potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is used in the treatment of certain skin disorders. However, it should be used cautiously as it contains certain compounds that can be toxic if ingested or applied improperly.
- Fever and Infections: It is used as an antipyretic (fever-reducing) agent and is believed to have properties that help in fighting infections.
- Hemorrhoids: White leadwort is used in some Ayurvedic formulations to alleviate the discomfort associated with hemorrhoids.
- Menstrual Disorders: Some traditional Ayurvedic remedies use white leadwort for managing menstrual irregularities and associated discomfort.
- Anti-inflammatory: It is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and is used in conditions where inflammation is a prominent feature.
- Nervine Tonic: In some traditional formulations, it is used as a nervine tonic, which means it is thought to have a calming or strengthening effect on the nervous system.
It is important to note that while white leadwort has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, it contains certain compounds that can be toxic if not used properly. The use of white leadwort in any form should be under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional who is knowledgeable about traditional herbal medicine.
As with any herbal remedy, it’s crucial to exercise caution and consult a healthcare practitioner before using it, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Chemical content:
Hexane, Methanol
How to prepare medicines:
Plant extracts mix in water to kill larvae of Aedes aegypti
White leadwort is one of the ingredients in Ayurveda medicines like-
