Scientific Name – Calotropis procera
Family – Apocynaceae
Calotropis procera is locally known as Aak or Madar in Hindi, milk weed in English.
It is a large shrub or small tree native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including India. Here are some key botanical features:
It can reach up to 4-6 meters in height.
The leaves are simple, opposite, and ovate in shape, with a smooth surface and a pale green color.
The flowers are striking and fragrant, arranged in clusters. They have a distinctive star-like shape with five petals, and they are typically purple or white.
The plant produces large, woody follicles that contain numerous seeds with a silky, cotton-like material attached, aiding in wind dispersal.
Chemical Constituents :
Ark contains various chemical constituents, including alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, resins, and latex. Some of the key bioactive compounds include calotropin, calotoxin, uscharin, and calactin.
Properties:
Ayurvedic
Rasa (Taste): Bitter (Tikta) and Astringent (Kashaya)
Guna (Quality): Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha), and Sharp (Tikshna)
Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)
Vipak (Post-digestive Effect): Katu (Pungent).
Pharmacological Actions –
Calotropis procera has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for its various pharmacological actions, including:
Anti-inflammatory: It has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used topically for skin conditions.
Analgesic: It help relieve pain when applied externally.
Antipyretic: It have a fever-reducing effect.
Anthelmintic: It has been used traditionally to expel intestinal worms.
Wound Healing: Its latex has been used for wound healing and as a poultice.
Antiasthmatic: Some traditional remedies involve the use of Calotropis procera for asthma and respiratory conditions, although caution is needed due to its toxicity.
Benefits:
1.Calotropis procera has been used in traditional medicine for a wide range of ailments, but it should be used with caution, as it contains toxic compounds that can be harmful if not properly processed.
2.The latex from the plant has been used for its potential wound-healing properties.
3.In Ayurvedic medicine, it has been employed for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, making it useful for conditions involving pain and inflammation.
4.The plant has been explored for its potential antipyretic properties in folk medicine.
5.Please note that while Calotropis procera has traditional uses in Ayurveda and other traditional healing systems, it should be used under the guidance of a qualified practitioner, as it can be toxic if not prepared and administered correctly. Always exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies .