A review on ethno botanical importance of an endemic species of Western Ghats: Strychnos colubrina Linn. Sp. (Vallikanjiram)

Abstract

Strychnos colubrine Linn. Sp.-Loganiaceae, Vallikanjiram or Modirakanjiram in Malayalam is being used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments. The plant is a woody climber and root bark is widely used internally and externally for the treatment of snake bite. It is also given in intermittent fever, in skin diseases and to alleviate pain and swelling from small pox. The taila (oil) prepared with seeds are used externally for reliving joint pain by the local people of Urulanthanni, Ernakulam district. A comprehensive compilation of medicinal uses, pharmacological actions about the plant has been done. This helps to conserve our endemic resources, which would finally lead to the authentication and scientific validation.