Boerhavia diffusa L.

DEPARTMENT OF BOTANY
MEDICINAL PLANTS

Boerhavia diffusa L.

Boerhavia diffusa, commonly known as Punarnava or Red Spiderling, is a herb with a wide array of medicinal properties, particularly for treating liver and kidney disorders. It is used in both Ayurvedic and modern herbal medicine for its detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting qualities. Beyond its medicinal uses, it also has cultural significance in various parts of India and is considered sacred by some.
Botanical Information:
• Scientific Name: Boerhavia diffusa L.
• Family: Nyctaginaceae
• Common English Name: Punarnava, Red Spiderling
• Malayalam Name: തഴുതാമ THAZHHUTHAMA
• Tamil Name: மூக்குரட்டைக்கொடி mukkurttaikkoti,
• Other Names: Spreading Boerhavia, Red Spiderling
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Description:
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial, sprawling or climbing herb
• Height: 0.5 to 1 meter
• Leaves: Simple, ovate to lanceolate, and dark green. Leaves are typically 4–10 cm long, and have a smooth or slightly hairy surface.
• Flowers: Small, usually pink or purple, found in clusters, and have a characteristic funnel shape. The flowers bloom in the late evening and night, and are important for pollination by nocturnal insects.
• Fruit: The plant produces small, hard, and blackish seeds that are spread by the wind.
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Synonyms:
• Boerhavia repens L.
• Boerhavia erecta L.
• Boerhavia glomerata (L.) I.M. Johnst.
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Uses:
1. Medicinal Uses:
o Traditional Medicine: Boerhavia diffusa is widely used in Ayurveda and traditional medicine in various parts of India and Southeast Asia. It is considered a powerful herb for treating a wide range of ailments.
 Liver Health: It is best known for its use in promoting liver health. The plant is used as a tonic and to detoxify the liver.
 Kidney Disorders%