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Herbs & Cultures
Image of Spanish cherry

Asia · Herb · № 526

Mimusops elengi

Region
Asia
Origin
Asia (South and Southeast Asia), Oceania
Sanskrit
Bakula
Other names
Spaanse kers
Traditions
Ayurveda
1 traditionImage: Wibowo Djatmiko ( Wie146 ) · CC BY-SA 3.0

Herb · Asia

Spanish cherry

Mimusops elengi

Traditionally attributed effects: expels worms, antihistamine, astringent, aromatic, strengthens the heart, tonic, fever-reducing; for catarrh of the bladder and urethra, fever, gum and tooth diseases, leucoderma, heart disease, snake bites, chronic dysentery.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Bark decoction 56–112 ml; flower powder 1–2 g; bark decoction as a mouthwash; root paste with vinegar or water externally.

Use in traditions

Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Bakula. The fragrant star-shaped flowers are strung into garlands in India and keep their scent after drying. The bark and twigs are used as a mouthwash and toothbrush for bleeding gums.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Ayurvedic materia medica

Attributed effects

Expels worms, antihistamine, astringent, aromatic, strengthens the heart, tonic, fever-reducing; for catarrh of the bladder and urethra, fever, gum and tooth diseases, leucoderma, heart disease, snake bites, chronic dysentery; increases fertility in women.

Preparation and amount

Bark decoction 56–112 ml; flower powder 1–2 g; bark decoction as a mouthwash; root paste with vinegar or water externally.