PREMNA HERBACEA

Roxb.

Synonym ► Pygmaeopremna herbacea Moldenke. Family ► Verbenaceae. Habitat ► The sub-tropical Himalayas and in Assam, extending southwards through West Bengal, Bihar, Orissa into Deccan Peninsula. Roots are usually confused with those of Clerodendrum serratum and are sold as Bhaarangi. Siddha/Tamil ► Siru Thekku. Folk ► Gethiaa, Ghantu Bhaarangi. Baaman-haati (Bengal). Fruits are known as Bhuumi-jambu, Phin Jaamun. The root is known as Bhaarangamuula; in Andhra Pradesh, Gandu Bhaarangi. Action ► Root and leaves—given in asthma, rheumatism.The root contains several diterpe- noids. Quinonemethide (bharangin) is reported from the plant. controlling the activity of the adreno- corticotropic hormone. Dosage ► Leaf, root bark—50- 100 ml decoction, powder—1-3 g. (CCRAS.)