Crataeva nurvala Buch.-Ham.
Crataeva nurvala is a versatile plant with medicinal, cultural, and religious significance, particularly in the Indian subcontinent. Its diuretic properties make it useful in treating kidney-related issues and other health problems. With its sacred status in Hinduism, it also plays a role in religious worship, particularly related to Lord Shiva. The plant is also valued for its aesthetic and cultural contributions.
• Scientific Name: Crataeva nurvala Buch.-Ham.
• Family: Capparaceae (Caper family)
• Common English Names: Three-leaved caper, Varuna, or Sacred Crataeva
• Malayalam Name: Neermathalam നീർമാതളം
• Tamil Name: Viru (விரு), Varuna (வருண)
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Description:
• Plant Type: Deciduous tree or large shrub
• Height: It grows up to 4–6 meters in height.
• Leaves: The plant has simple, alternate leaves that are usually trifoliate (three-leaved), with each leaflet ovate to elliptic in shape.
• Flowers: The flowers are white or pale yellow with long stamens and a characteristic fragrance.
• Fruits: The fruits are small, round, and green when immature, turning brown when ripe. The seeds inside the fruit are flattened.
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Synonyms:
• Crataeva religiosa Forst.
• Crataeva magna Buch.-Ham.
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Uses:
1. Medicinal Uses:
o Kidney and Urinary Disorders: Crataeva nurvala is highly valued in traditional medicine for its role in treating kidney stones and urinary tract problems. It has diuretic properties that help in flushing out toxins from the kidneys and bladder.
o Anti-inflammatory: The plant has anti-inflammatory properties and has been used in treating conditions like arthritis.
o Digestive Health: The bark and leaves are used as a laxative and to aid in digestion.
o Detoxification: It is often used in Ayurvedic treatments for detoxifying the body and improving overall health.
o Skin Disorders: The plant’s extracts are sometimes used in the treatment of various skin disorders, including rashes and eczema.
2. Religious and Cultural Significance:
o Sacred Tree: Crataeva nurvala is considered sacred in Hinduism, particularly in connection with the worship of Lord Shiva. The tree is often planted in temples and is associated with religious rites.
o Worship: The tree is commonly referred to as the “Varuna Tree” and is associated with the god Varuna, the deity of water and the celestial ocean in Hindu mythology.
o Foliage and Flowers: The tree’s trifoliate leaves are often used in religious rituals.
