Action The cytotoxic dimeric alkaloids, present in Madagascar Periwinkle, Catharanthus rose us L. Don, Vincea rosea L., and used for the treatment of certain type of cancer, have not been found in V major.
Catharanthus rose us (Madagascar Periwinkle) : cytostatic, anti-neoplastic, slows down growth of cells by supressing immune response. Vinblastine and Vincristine are said to prolong remission of leukaemia to more than five years. These chemotherapeutic agents are toxic to the nervous system. Vinblastine is also used for breast cancer and Hodgkin’s disease.
Vinca major L. Pich. (Greater Pen winkle): astringent, anti-haemorrhagic; used for menorrhagia and leucorrhoea. Contains indole alkaloids including reserpinine and serpentine; tannins.
Vinca minor Linn. (Lesser Periwinkle): astringent; circulatory stimulant. Leaves—stomachic and bitter. Root— hypotensive. Used for gastric catarrh, chronic dyspepsia, flatulence; also for headache, dizziness, behaviours disorders. A homoeopathic tincture is given for internal haemorrhages.
Cayratia carnosa (Wall.) Gagnep.
Synonym C. trfolia (L.) Domin. Vitis carnosa Wall.
Vtrifolia Linn.
Family Vitaceae.
Habitat Throughout the warmer parts of India, from Jammu and Rajasthan to Assam and up to 300 m.
Ayurvedic Gandira.
Siddha/Tamil Tumans.
Action Leaves, seeds, roots— astringent, applied to ulcers and boils. Leaves—diaphoretic (recommended in high fever). Root- given in anaemic conditions. Aerial parts—CNS active, hypothermic. The stems, leaves and roots contain hydrocyanic acid. Presence of delphinidin and cyanidin is reported in the leaves.
Cayratia pedata (Wall.) Gagnep. Synonym Vitispedata Vahl ex Wall. Family Vitaceae.
Habitat Bihar, West Bengal and Assam, up to 900 m.
Ayurvedic Godhaapadi. Siddha/Tamil Kattuppirandai. Action Leaves—astringent and refrigerant (used for ulcers, diarrhoea, uterine and other fluxes).
Aerial parts—diuretic, sp asmolytic.
Cedrela toona Roxb.
Synonym Toona ciliata M. Roem.
Cedrus deodara (Roxb.) Loud. 133
Family Meliaceae.
