Nyctanthes arbor-tristis

DEPARTMENT OF BOTANY
MEDICINAL PLANTS

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis L

Family: Oleaceae
Common Names: Night jasmine, Coral jasmine, Sad tree, Queen of the night
Vernacular Names: Parijaat (Hindi), Parijata (Sanskrit) Pavala-mallikai (Tamil), Pavizhamalli (Malayalam)
Plant Description
Nyctanthes arbor-tristis is a very common ornamental species extensively cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
Habit: Shrub or small tree
Height: upto 10m
Leaves: Leaves ovate, shortly acuminate, distantly toothed or entire, coriaceous, scabrid, base rounded, cuneate or acute.
Flowers: Flowers white, sweet scented, sessile, 3-7 together on hairy quadrangular peduncles arranged in cymose panicles.
Fruit: The fruit is a flat, brown, heart-shaped to spherical capsule with two compartments, each containing a solitary seed
Beneficial Properties
 Traditional medicine
o Relieves pain and inflammation: Nyctanthes possesses potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which is pivotal in reducing joint and muscle pain, thereby reducing the chances of chronic autoimmune inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
o Combats respiratory issues: It is also used to treat painful muscle spasms, sore muscles, sciatica etc. It is vital in treating the common cold, sore throat, cough and flu symptoms. It is also highly beneficial for providing faster relief from non-productive cough, asthma and other bronchial conditions.
o Heals wounds and infections: Nyctanthes portrays strong anti-bacterial, anti-viral and antifungal properties that are not only used for removing bacteria and germs from the body but also treats wounds and improves healing. The bioactive compounds present in this perfumed bloom has been used since the ancient times to treat various skin issues like sores, ulcers, skin fungus, etc.
o Treats malaria: The potent anti-parasitic action of the parijat leaves restricts the growth of the malarial parasite right at the ring stage and hence prevents aggravation of the infection.
o Promotes digestion: Parijat is a traditional remedy for improving gut health and treating a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders
o Regulates diabetes: The excellent anti-glycemic nature of the herb plays a quintessential role in alleviating the blood sugar levels of the body.
o Manages blood pressure: Parijat acts as a natural antihypertensive agent which normalizes the blood pressure levels and keeps it under check.
 Other uses
It is cultivated world wide as an ornamental plant