Adenanthera pavonina L.

Adenanthera pavonina L.

Adenanthera pavonina is a medium-sized tree native to tropical Asia. It has pinnate leaves with several leaflets, and its flowers are typically small, pink to reddish in color. The tree produces long, flat pods containing seeds, which are commonly red in color. These seeds are often used as beads for jewelry and have a striking appearance.

• Scientific Name: Adenanthera pavonina L.
• Family: Leguminosae (Fabaceae)
• Subfamily: Mimosoideae
• Common Name: Red Bead Tree, Coral Tree, Peacock Flower Tree
• Malayalam Name: Manchadai, മഞ്ചാടി
• Tamil Name: அரங்காலை (Arangalai), ரத்தக்கொள்ளு (Rathakollu) Ani kundamani

Synonyms:
• Adenanthera pavonina has been referred to by various names in different regions and contexts:
o Mimosa pavonina L.
o Adenanthera stylosa Roxb.

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Medicinal Uses:
1. Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic:
o The bark and seeds are used in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation and treat pain.
o Preparation: Decoctions from the bark and seeds are applied topically or consumed to relieve arthritis, joint pain, and muscular pains.
2. Antimicrobial:
o Extracts from the plant have demonstrated antimicrobial properties and are used in the treatment of infections.
3. Wound Healing:
o The leaves and bark are used in traditional medicine for promoting wound healing and to treat cuts, ulcers, and skin infections.
4. Antioxidant:
o The plant is also known to possess antioxidant properties, which help in reducing oxidative stress in the body.
5. Diuretic:
o The plant has been used as a diuretic to promote urination and to manage conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney stones.
6. Cough and Respiratory Conditions:
o In folk medicine, the leaves and seeds are used to treat respiratory problems such as cough and asthma.
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