Cyclea barbata: New medicinal plant record from South India
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Cyclea barbata miers (menispermaceae): a new record of a medicinal plant from south india
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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K.S. Manilal, T. Sabu
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Cyclea barbata miers (menispermaceae): a new record of a medicinal plant from south india
Year: 1985
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Cyclea barbata Miers, a climbing shrub belonging to the Menispermaceae family, is reported for the first time in South India, specifically from the Silent Valley forests in Kerala. Previously documented in regions such as Malaysia, Java, Burma, and Assam in India, this medicinal plant is known for its applications in treating stomach ailments and as a preventive measure against fevers, particularly in traditional Java medicine. This paper provides an overview of the plant's nomenclature, description, and medicinal significance based on the authors' findings during their study of the local flora.
Medicinal Importance of Cyclea barbata
The medicinal value of Cyclea barbata holds significant relevance, especially in Java where it is traditionally used to prepare a jelly-like substance from its leaves, serving as a remedy for stomach issues. Additionally, a brew made from its dried roots is utilized as a prophylactic against fever. The plant exhibits distinct characteristics that facilitate identification, including its deltoid-ovate leaves with acutely acuminate tips and unique floral structures. Such attributes, alongside its distribution across various regions, underscore the importance of documenting and preserving this species, as well as understanding its applications in traditional medicine.
Conclusion
The discovery of Cyclea barbata in the Silent Valley of Kerala enriches the understanding of South India's botanical diversity and underscores the significance of traditional medicinal plants. The authors' research contributes valuable knowledge regarding the plant's morphology, habitat, and potential healing properties, affirming the need for further exploration of indigenous flora in the region. Through continued investigation and conservation efforts, the medicinal applications of Cyclea barbata and similar species can be better understood and preserved for future generations.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Cyclea barbata and where was it discovered?
Cyclea barbata Miers is a medicinal plant reported for the first time from South India. It was discovered in the Silent Valley forests of Kerala.
How is Cyclea barbata used in traditional medicine?
In Java, the leaves of Cyclea barbata are used to prepare a jelly for stomach ailments. Additionally, a brew from its dried roots serves as a fever prophylactic.
What distinguishes Cyclea barbata from Cyclea peltata?
Cyclea barbata can be easily distinguished by its deltoid-ovate leaves with an acutely acuminate apex and long inflorescences featuring dense capitates flowers, differing from Cyclea peltata.
What kind of support was provided for this research?
This research was conducted under the Silent Valley Flora Project, which is supported by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Cyclea barbata: New medicinal plant record from South India”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to a systematic body of knowledge based on observation and experimentation. In this context, it relates to the study of Cyclea barbata, emphasizing the importance of identifying and cataloging medicinal plants, as well as understanding their ecological roles and potential applications in healthcare and local traditions.
2) Sabu (Sābū, Sābu):
Sabu is one of the authors associated with the research on Cyclea barbata, reflecting the collaborative nature of scientific study. His contributions help validate the discovery and documentation of this medicinal plant in South India, thus enriching the botanical and medicinal knowledge available to researchers and practitioners.
3) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the practices and applications aimed at promoting health and curing illnesses. The discussion of Cyclea barbata highlights its traditional medicinal uses in Java, where it is employed for stomach issues and fever prevention, illustrating the intersection of botany and healthcare in local cultures.
4) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants, critical for understanding plant biology, taxonomy, and ecology. The research on Cyclea barbata highlights its morphological characteristics and classification within the Menispermaceae family, emphasizing the significance of botany in discovering new species and their potential medicinal properties.