Boerhavia diffusa

Boerhavia diffusa is a species of flowering plant in the Nyctaginaceae family. It is commonly known as punarnava (meaning "renewer" in Sanskrit), red spiderling, spreading hogweed, or tarvine. Its leaves are green, its flowers are pink, and it bears fruit which is smooth and round. It is a widespread tropical and subtropical weed that has a long history of medicinal use in a variety of cultures.

Description

Boerhavia diffusa is a perennial creeping herb with a stout rootstock. It has a significant presence in Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. The plant has green, opposite, ovate leaves and bears pink flowers in elongated clusters. The fruit is a small, round capsule containing one seed.

Uses

Boerhavia diffusa has a long history of use in Ayurveda, a system of traditional medicine native to the Indian subcontinent. It is considered a powerful rasayana (rejuvenating) herb and is used in treatment of a variety of ailments including jaundice, hepatitis, asthma, and tuberculosis. The plant is also used in folk medicine in many cultures, and has been studied for its potential antioxidant, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

Cultivation

Boerhavia diffusa is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions, but prefers well-drained soil and full sun. It is drought-tolerant and can be propagated by seeds or cuttings.

Research

Research into the medicinal properties of Boerhavia diffusa is ongoing. Studies have suggested that the plant may have potential benefits in the treatment of kidney stones, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

See also

• List of Ayurvedic medicinal plants
• Traditional medicine