shows significant activity against diptheria bacteria; aqueous extract of the dried bark showed anti-inflammatory activ Unan
Deodaar.
134 Ceiba pentandra (Linn.) Gaertn.
ity against acute and chronic inflammations. Aqueous extract of the bark is found effective in reducing sugar content of diabetic patient’s urine and blood to normal levels.
Dosage Heartwood—3—6 g powder. (API Vol. IV.)
Ceiba pentandra (Linn.) Gaertn.
Synonym Eriodendron anafractuosum DC.
Family Bombacaceae.
Habitat West and South India.
Often found planted around villages
and temples.
English Kapok, White Silk Cotton.
Ayurvedic Kuuta-Shaalmali, Shveta Shaalmali.
Siddha/Tamil lelavum (Tamil).
Action Gum—laxative, astringent, demulcent (given in painful micturition). Unripe fruit—astringent. Root—diuretic, antidiabetic, antispasmodic (used in dysentery). Flowers—laxative; used in lochiorrhoea. Unripe pods—used in vertigo and migraine. Seed oil— used in rheumatism.
The plant contains linarin (acacetin 7-rutinoside). Seeds contain fattyacids, diglycerides and phospholipids. Leaves are considered a good source of iron and calcium. Stem-bark extract—antimicrobial.
Celastrus paniculatus Wilid.
Habitat Sub-Himalayan tract up to 2,000 m and South Indian hills.
English Staff tree, Intellect tree.
Ayurvedic Jyotishmati, Paaraavatpadi. Kangunikaa, Kanguni, Vegaa, Maalkaanguni, Svarnalatikaa, Kaakaandaki, Katuveekaa.
Unani Maalkangani.
Siddha/Tamil Vaaluluvai.
Action Seeds—nervine and
brain tonic, diaphoretic, febrifugal, emetic. Seed-oil—used for treating mental depression, hysteria and for improving memory; also used for scabies, eczema, wounds, rheumatic pains, paralysis. A decoction
