Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd
• Scientific Name: Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd.
• Family: Nyctaginaceae
• Common Name: Bougainvillea, Paperflower, Great Bougainvillea
• Malayalam Name: കടലാസുപിച്ചകം (കടലാസ്സുചെടി)
• Tamil Name: பூகன்வில்லியா (Pookanviliya), காகத்திரை (Kaakathirai)
Synonyms:
o Bougainvillea glabra Choisy
• Bougainvillea peruviana
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Description:
Bougainvillea spectabilis, commonly known as the Great Bougainvillea or Paperflower, is a fast-growing, thorny, evergreen vine or shrub native to South America (specifically Brazil). It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant because of its vibrant and showy bracts that come in a variety of colors, including magenta, purple, red, and white. The plant has simple, ovate leaves and small, tubular flowers that are surrounded by the brightly colored bracts. Bougainvillea is often seen climbing trellises, walls, or used as a decorative ground cover in tropical and subtropical regions.
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Medicinal Uses:
1. Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic:
o Bougainvillea leaves and flowers are used in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with conditions like arthritis, muscle pain, and fever.
2. Antioxidant:
o The plant is rich in antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body and prevent cell damage caused by free radicals.
3. Wound Healing:
o The leaves of Bougainvillea spectabilis are applied externally to treat wounds, cuts, and burns due to their healing and antiseptic properties.
4. Antibacterial and Antifungal:
o The plant is believed to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it useful in treating various skin infections, including fungal infections and eczema.
5. Cough and Respiratory Issues:
o In traditional medicine, Bougainvillea is used as a remedy for cough, bronchitis, and other respiratory issues. The leaves are sometimes boiled to make a decoction that is consumed for its expectorant properties.
6. Diuretic:
o The plant is sometimes used as a diuretic, helping to eliminate excess fluids from the body and supporting kidney function.
7. Antidiabetic:
o Some studies suggest that Bougainvillea may help lower blood sugar levels, making it useful for managing diabetes.
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