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Justicia
( Justicia linnaeus )
Family
Acanthus
Synonyms
Justica blackii, justica cabrerae,
justica chlorostachys, justicia comata, justicia idogenes, justicia
pectoralis
Character
Antifungal, aromatic, purgative
Description
Several hundred species of the
justicia plant grow in the tropical rain forests of the world. Justicia is a
small shrub or herbal which has traditionally been harvested for its
aromatic oils. It produces delicate branchlets with narrow, triangular
leaves.
Phytochemistry
Chemical analysis reveals lignans
( naphthalide ), saponins, aromatic amides, kaempferol, salicylic acid and
aliphatic alcohol.
Traditional rain forest use
The leaves and roots of this
plant have been used by several Amazonian tribes for a variety of medicinal
purposes. The Makunas powder the root and mix it with lard to create a
topical ointment used for fungal skin conditions characterized by itching.
The Tikunas make leaf infusions to treat sinus ailments. The tea is also
used as a gargle. The powder is utilized by the Tikunas as a perfume and
insect repellent. The Kofan people used justicia decoction solutions over
their lower limbs to treat muscle tremors. The Andoke tribe values this
plant as one of its most curative and uses it to treat serious disease. One
of the more interesting uses is the placement of the whole plant in a cross
configuration on the chest and arms of children while they sleep to treat
convulsive disorders. When the "nele" has diagnosed that death is inevitable
for a child with a high fever, whole plant infusions are administered.
Modern medicinal applications
While more research is needed,
this particular herb has a long history of medicinal applications and
contains various chemical constituents which are pharmacologically active.
Recent studies discussing the alkaloid content of the acanthus family of
plants have emerged. Its ability to treat asthma and water retention have
been cited in medical literature.
Authentication
This family of plants has been
the subject of significant chemical analysis. The naphthalide lignans it
contains have been linked to its antidepressant properties. Specific
saponins have demonstrated the ability to treat male infertility.
Safety
No information is available |
