Acalypha Indica - Healing Traditions & Modern Medicine

Acalypha indica, commonly known by the names Indian Acalypha, Indian Mercury, or Three-Seeded Mercury, is a widespread tropical plant found all over the world.

Acalypha indica is a herbaceous annual with catkin-like inflorescences and cup-shaped involucres surrounding the little flowers. It is mostly recognized for its root's attractiveness to domestic cats, as well as its medical properties. The sanskrit name of Acalypha Indica is "Haritamanjari".

Here are some interesting facts about Acalypha Indica!

Habitat of Acalypha Indica

It is grown in disturbed areas such as wastelands, roadside canals, and wall fissures. It also thrives on rocky hillsides, forest margins, and riverbanks. It grows from sea level to 1350 metres altitude.

Acalypha Indica - Cat's Happiness plant

Acalypha indica has an interesting influence on the cat. The plant's roots contain substances comparable to catnip, which is a well-known cat attractant. When cats are exposed to these substances, they experience a brief period of happiness, which includes playful activity and rolling around the plant. This remarkable phenomena emphasizes the various relationships between plants and animals.

Acalypha Indica - Medicinal Uses

The plant has numerous traditional therapeutic uses. Crushed plants are used to treat skin parasites. Crushed Acalypha Indica leaf sap mixed with salt or a plant decoction is used to treat scabies and other skin diseases. A root infusion or decoction is used to treat asthma and cleanse the liver and kidneys. The decoction, which is prepared from roots of Haritamanjari, is also used to treat intestinal worms and stomach aches. The Acalypha Indica leaf sap is used as a tonic. An infusion containing Tylophora indica roots is used as a medication in cases of poisoning. Acalypha Indica Leaf powder is used to treat maggot-infested wounds. The Pharmacopoeia of India lists Acalypha indica as an antibacterial for the treatment of asthma and pneumonia. It was previously listed in the British Pharmacopeia.

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Side effects of Acalypha indica

• Bad blood: For folks with G6PD deficiency, Acalypha indica can mess up their red blood cells.

• Oxygen issues: Some things in the plant might make it hard for your blood to carry oxygen properly.

• Belly woes: In some cases, Acalypha indica might irritate your tummy.