Boerhavia diffusa L.

 

  

       Scientific Name: Boerhavia diffusa L.

Family: Nyctaginaceae

Synonym: Boerhavia repens var. diffusa (L.) Hook.f.

Vernacular name: Talutama, Tavilama, Thamizhama, Tharana, Thavizhama, Thazhuthama

Habit: Herb

Habitat: Moist and dry deciduous forests and also in the plains

Distribution: Tropical and Subtropical regions

Flowering and Fruiting: April – August

 

Key identification features: Perennial herbs with long trailing branches; stems reddish and tomentose. Leaves unequal, ovate. Flowers small, occurring in clusters of 4 to 10, found in axils of leaves or terminal on peduncled umbels. Perianth pink. Plant has 3 stamens. Capsule clavate.

 

Tribal Consumers: Adiya

 

Uses: Boerhavia diffusa is often used in traditional medicine to support kidney function, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion. Additionally, its leaves are believed to have diuretic properties, helping to promote urine flow and flush out toxins from the body.