Myconia Crenata

 

Myconia Crenata 

Dr.N.K.MANOHARAN

It is a ubiquitous plant in our climate. It is mostly seen along the shores of river, road etc. Myconia crenata is a plant of the Melastomataceae family, and its scientific name is native to Brazil. While it is traditionally used in folk medicine, scientific research on its health benefits is somewhat limited. But here are some common things to share. Miconia crenata is a densely branched shrub that usually grows between half a meter and three meters tall, but sometimes grows up to 5 meters tall depending on the habitat. Miconia crenata, commonly known as soapbush, clydemia, or Coster's curse, is native to tropical America from Mexico, as well as from Mexico to Paraguay and the Caribbean, where it thrives in predominantly humid tropical habitats. "Coaster's curse" is the name commonly used for plants that grow as noxious weeds in places like Hawaii. It was brought to Fiji in the late 1800s by a coffee planter named William Parr, who shared its seeds with the locals. It is a weed commonly found in moist grasslands, orchards, roadsides, wet open woodlands, riparian zones, banks of waterways, forest edges, and rainforests. The plant is able to survive wildfires, landslides, and wind that destroy orchards, pastures, and native plants in dense thickets and can grow and spread very quickly. Its branches are large, stiff, and covered with brown or reddish hairs. The simple leaves are arranged oppositely. The leaves are sparsely covered with hairs above, while the underside is more densely hairy. It also has five different veins that run almost parallel from the base of the leaf to its tip, and it grows in dry and humid tropical climates even at altitudes of up to 1200 meters. It is a versatile genus of medicinal plants widely used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, pain, inflammatory diseases, and many other ailments. thrips, Liothrips uricii, and miconia from Trinidad. Crenata is used to biologically control Myconia crenata has been nominated as the 100th "world's worst" invasive plant for reducing pregnancy disturbances in mammals and is listed as a noxious weed in Queensland, Australia, and Hawaii. Some studies suggest that Myconia crenata may have anti-inflammatory properties. In traditional medicine, it is used for inflammatory conditions. Likewise, plants in general contain compounds with antioxidant properties, and Miconia crenata is no exception. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in the body, thereby reducing oxidative stress. But in traditional Brazilian medicine, Miconia crenata is used for a variety of purposes, including as a remedy for digestive problems, respiratory problems, and inflammatory conditions.

This plant contains phytochemicals like flavonoids and tannins. These compounds are often associated with various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Although there is some interest in the health benefits of Miconia crenata, it is true that research reports on this plant are relatively limited.

The safety and effectiveness of Miconia crenata for medicinal purposes can vary, and it is critical to consult a healthcare professional before using it as a treatment.

Some findings can be used as anti-bacteria agents as anti-tacterial agents of Miconia charine and extracts, anti macrian, anti oshrabal, anti opidant, antioxidant, anti oshympension, bacterial invasion, bacterial infections, and anticipatory charges, toxicity, skin infections, heart and stomach burns. It is used in many traditional medicines for treatment.

Copper Leaf (Acalypha wilkesiana)

 

Copper Leaf

 (Acalypha wilkesiana)

Dr.N.K.MANOHARAN

So, it is a plant that does not pay much attention and grows without any care or consideration in any corner of our yard, but if you look closely, you can see that this is a very beautiful plant. Its scientific name is copper leaf. In Malayalam, it is called Thamrapatri, copper leaf, Jacob’s coat. Today's video is about this plant with very beautiful leaves. Hello everyone, I am Dr. Manoharan Leaftech Medilife. Acalypha wilkesiana, commonly known as copperleaf or Jacob's coat, is a tropical shrub in the Euphorbiaceae family. Native to the South Pacific, the plant is widely cultivated for its vibrant, colourful leaves, making it a popular plant for ornamental gardens and landscapes in tropical and subtropical regions. One of the notable features of Acalypha wilkesiana is its striking and variegated leaves. The leaves are large and oval in shape and come in a variety of colours, including green, red, orange, and yellow. This combination of colours will add beauty to any garden. In terms of growth, Acalypha wilkesiana typically grows as a medium-to-large shrub, growing to heights of 3 to 10 feet, depending on the specific species and growing conditions. While the plant is grown primarily for its leaves, it also produces inconspicuous and small flowers. However, the flowers are not particularly showy, and the plant is grown mainly for its colourful leaves. While Acalypha wilkesiana is primarily cultivated for ornamental purposes, some parts of the plant also have some traditional medicinal uses. It should be noted that the following health benefits are based on traditional uses; further scientific research is needed to validate these claims, so please do not take them as hearsay.

Some traditional medicinal systems suggest that extracts from Acalypha wilkesiana may have anti-inflammatory properties. Although more research is needed, these properties may be beneficial in managing inflammatory conditions. Some communities used the leaves of the plant for their wound-healing properties. Crushed or powdered leaves are applied topically to facilitate wound healing. Some studies conducted on Acalypha wilkesiana extracts for their antimicrobial properties indicate that some compounds present in the plant have antibacterial and antifungal activities. The plant contains compounds with antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help neutralise free radicals in the body, which can contribute to overall health and well-being. It is important to exercise caution when using any plant for medicinal purposes. Although some traditional uses exist, the efficacy and safety of Acalypha wilkesiana for therapeutic applications have not been well established by scientific research. Before using it for medicinal purposes, it is advisable to consult a health professional. Acalypha wilkesiana is primarily grown for its ornamental properties, and although the plant has some traditional medicinal uses, more research is needed to confirm its health benefits. It is important to always exercise caution and seek professional advice before using any plant for medicinal purposes.

Caribbean Star Apple (Milk fruit)

 

Caribbean Star Apple

Dr.N.K.MANOHARAN

            The Caribbean star apple is a fruit from a tropical tree with a unique shape and a sweet and aromatic taste. It is a fruit tree native to the Caribbean, Central America, the West Indies, and parts of South America, whose scientific name is Chrysophyllum kineto. It is commonly known by a variety of names, including kaimito, star apple, golden leaf tree, purple star apple, and milk fruit. A tree from the Sapotaceae or Sapodilla family, this tree is commonly cultivated for its edible fruit, the fruit of which is the size and shape of an apple and is known as the star apple after its star-shaped core. The surface of the fruit is firm and smooth. The skin and flesh, sweet and savoury, vary in colour from white to purple. The tree is about seven and a half to fifteen metres tall and has purplish white flowers. Depending on the variety, the colour can range from green to purple. When cut, its fruit exudes a milky, sweet, translucent colour. This pulp can be white, lavender, or purple in colour. As such, a star-shaped pattern is seen in its centre, and this pattern gives the fruit the name star apple. Caribbean star apples have a flavour and aroma almost reminiscent of vanilla. The texture of the pulp is smooth and creamy, which adds to the overall appeal of the fruit. Apart from having good nutritional properties, these fruits are also a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, as well as being rich in fibre. They also contain various antioxidants. These are all important health benefits of this fruit, but it should be noted that some individuals may be allergic to the latex present in it. As with any new food, it's best to eat it in moderation, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.

Its fresh fruits can be added to fruit salads as a snack, or used in desserts and refreshing drinks. The seeds of the Caribbean star apple are not commonly eaten due to their bitterness. It also has cultural significance in areas where Caribbean star apples are grown and is often featured in local folklore. Also, the wood of the tree is used for many construction projects. Because of this, its wood is also of commercial importance. This tree prefers well-drained soil and needs regular watering. Caribbean star apple trees thrive in tropical and subtropical climates. It is also a good fruit tree that can survive in different types of soil. Two types of seedlings are available in our nurseries. It will start bearing fruit within two and a half to three years of planting. In this way, it is better to shake this tree well to pollinate it when it is full of flowers.