Nerium oleander L.
• Scientific Name: Nerium oleander
• Family: Apocynaceae
• Genus: Nerium
• Species: oleander
Common and Regional Names:
• Common Name: Oleander, Rose Bay
• Malayalam: Arali (അരളി)
• Tamil: Chevarali செவ்வரளி / அரளி Arali
• Hindi: Kaner (कनेर)
• English: Oleander, Rose Bay
Description:
Nerium oleander is an evergreen shrub or small tree that typically grows 2 to 6 meters in height. It is characterized by its long, narrow, lance-shaped leaves and large, showy flowers that come in colors ranging from white, pink, to red. The flowers are grouped in terminal clusters and have a sweet fragrance. Nerium oleander is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, particularly in the Mediterranean region, parts of Asia, and Africa.
Uses and Medicinal Importance:
Oleander is a highly toxic plant but has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes. Both the flowers and leaves contain toxic compounds, primarily cardiac glycosides, which can be harmful if not used cautiously. Despite its toxicity, it has some medicinal applications when prepared correctly under professional guidance.
1. Medicinal Uses:
• Cardiovascular Health:
o Traditionally, Nerium oleander has been used in folk medicine to treat heart conditions, including arrhythmias and heart failure, due to its cardiac glycoside content. These compounds, when prepared in controlled doses, are believed to improve heart function, but improper use can be fatal.
• Anticancer Properties:
o Nerium oleander has shown some potential in studies as an anticancer agent. Extracts of the plant have been researched for their ability to inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells, particularly breast and colon cancer. However, due to its toxicity, its use in cancer treatment is highly regulated and controversial.
• Wound Healing:
o In some traditional practices, the plant’s milky latex has been used topically to treat wounds, ulcers, and skin infections. It is believed to have antiseptic and antimicrobial properties.
• Pain Relief:
o Oleander has been used as an analgesic in certain traditional practices to alleviate pain, especially in conditions like arthritis and joint inflammation.
• Digestive Health:
o Some cultures use Nerium oleander for gastrointestinal issues, such as dysentery and diarrhea. However, care must be taken due to the plant’s toxic nature
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