Leucas aspera

Leucas aspera plant

Leucas aspera at Kadavoor

Leucas aspera at Gandipet, Hyderabad, AP W2 IMG 9054

Leucas aspera, commonly known as Thumbai, is a species of flowering plant in the Lamiaceae family. It is native to South Asia and is widely distributed in India, Sri Lanka, and other neighboring countries. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine.

Description

Leucas aspera is an annual, branched herb that grows up to 15-60 cm in height. The stems are quadrangular and covered with fine hairs. The leaves are simple, opposite, and linear-lanceolate, measuring about 2-5 cm in length. The flowers are white, small, and arranged in dense, terminal or axillary whorls. The plant blooms throughout the year, especially during the rainy season.

Habitat

Leucas aspera is commonly found in open fields, roadsides, and waste places. It thrives in well-drained soils and can grow in a variety of climatic conditions, from tropical to subtropical regions.

Uses

The plant is widely used in traditional medicine for its various therapeutic properties. It is known to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. The leaves and flowers are used to treat fever, cough, cold, and headache. The juice of the leaves is applied to wounds and insect bites for its healing properties.

Cultivation

Leucas aspera is propagated by seeds. It requires minimal care and can grow in a variety of soil types. The plant prefers sunny locations and moderate watering.

Related Species

Leucas aspera is closely related to other species in the Leucas genus, such as:

• Leucas cephalotes
• Leucas lavandulifolia
• Leucas zeylanica

See Also

• Lamiaceae
• Ayurveda
• Medicinal plants