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Pinwheel Jasmine (Ervatamia coronaria)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Apocynaceae
  • Common Names: Pinwheel Jasmine, Crape Jasmine, East Indian Rosebay
  • Parts Used: Leaves, flowers, roots, latex

Description

Ervatamia coronaria is a small evergreen shrub or tree native to South and Southeast Asia, commonly cultivated for its fragrant, pinwheel-shaped flowers. It has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in Ayurveda for fever reduction, pain relief, and wound healing.
  • Traditionally applied as a poultice to treat skin conditions and ulcers.
  • The milky latex has been used for toothaches and minor cuts.
  • Employed as a sedative in some traditional practices.

Constituents

  • Alkaloids (ervatamine, coronarine)
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Saponins
  • Essential oils
  • Glycosides

Actions

  • Analgesic (pain-relieving)
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antimicrobial
  • Antispasmodic
  • Sedative
  • Wound healing

Medicinal Uses

1. Pain Relief and Anti-inflammatory:
Traditionally used to alleviate headaches, muscle pain, and arthritis.

2. Wound Healing and Skin Conditions:
Applied as a poultice for burns, ulcers, and insect bites.

3. Antimicrobial and Antifungal:
Used for treating bacterial and fungal infections on the skin.

4. Nervous System Support:
Considered mildly sedative and used for stress relief.

5. Gastrointestinal Aid:
Used in some folk traditions to relieve digestive discomfort and cramping.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1 tsp of dried leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Crushed fresh leaves applied to wounds, ulcers, or skin irritation.

Latex Application:

  • Used sparingly for toothaches and minor cuts, but with caution due to potential irritation.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Not recommended due to potential uterine-stimulating effects.
  • Skin Sensitivity: The latex may cause irritation in some individuals.
  • Neurotoxic Potential: High doses may have toxic effects on the nervous system.
  • Allergic Reactions: Use cautiously if prone to skin allergies.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Ayurveda: Cooling and bitter; balances Pitta and Kapha, but may aggravate Vata in excess.
  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Used for pain relief, wound healing, and calming the nervous system.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Considered a blood-cooling and heat-clearing herb.

Combinations

  • For Pain and Inflammation: Combine with turmeric and boswellia.
  • For Wound Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.
  • For Nervous System Support: Combine with passionflower and valerian.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves and flowers are collected during the growing season.
  • Drying: Air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
  • Storage: Store dried plant material in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Preliminary studies suggest Ervatamia coronaria has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, reinforcing its traditional medicinal applications.

Pinwheel Jasmine remains a versatile herb in traditional medicine, particularly valued for pain relief, wound healing, and its mild sedative effects.