Hydrolea zeylanica is a fascinating herb with a rich history in traditional medicine, particularly in the Ayurvedic system. It's a member of the Hydroleaceae family and is known by a variety of common names, including blue waterleaf and Ceylonese hydrolea. This herbaceous plant thrives in wet, marshy areas and is often found growing near ponds and streams. It's characterized by its beautiful blue or purplish flowers and smooth, ovate leaves. While it's commonly used for its medicinal properties, it's important to distinguish it from other plants with similar names, as there can be confusion in traditional texts.
Names in Different Countries and Terminologies
The name of Hydrolea zeylanica varies significantly across different regions, reflecting its widespread use and cultural importance. In India, for example, it's known by many names, each with a unique local flavor. In Hindi, it's called Koliary or langali, while in Bengali, it's known as isa-langulia or kasschra. The Tamil names include ponnankanic cakkalatti and vellel. In Malayalam, it's called cheruvallel, and in Telugu, it's known as neeli nakshathralu, which translates to "blue stars," likely a reference to its flower color. The scientific name, Hydrolea zeylanica (L.) Vahl, provides a universal way to identify the plant, ensuring there's no confusion regardless of the local name.
Availability
Hydrolea zeylanica is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. It's commonly found in marshy areas, wetlands, and along the banks of rivers and streams. The plant is often harvested from the wild, but due to its popularity in traditional medicine, it may also be cultivated in some regions. Its availability is closely tied to its natural habitat, so it's most accessible in areas with a humid, tropical climate.
External Look
Hydrolea zeylanica is an erect or spreading herb that can grow up to 60 cm tall. The stems are often branched and can be either smooth or slightly hairy. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and lance-shaped or ovate, with smooth or slightly toothed edges. The most striking feature of the plant is its flowers, which are small, numerous, and clustered in terminal or axillary cymes. The flowers are typically a beautiful shade of blue or purplish-blue, giving the plant its common name, blue waterleaf. The fruit is a small, globose capsule that contains many tiny seeds.
Healing Properties and Advantages
Hydrolea zeylanica is revered in traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda, for its diverse healing properties. The plant is primarily known for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects. The leaves are often used to create a poultice that's applied to ulcers, sores, and other skin ailments to promote healing and reduce inflammation. It's also believed to possess antimicrobial properties, which helps in preventing infections in wounds. The plant is considered to be a cooling agent, which is beneficial in treating conditions associated with excess heat in the body. Furthermore, some traditional uses point to its potential in treating fever and other internal ailments.
Uses and Using Way
The most common way to use Hydrolea zeylanica is by creating a poultice from its fresh leaves. The leaves are crushed or ground into a paste, which is then applied directly to the affected area. This is the traditional method for treating ulcers, boils, and skin infections. The paste can also be mixed with other herbs or oils to enhance its healing properties. For internal use, a decoction or tea made from the leaves may be consumed, though this is a less common application. As with any herbal remedy, it is crucial to use the plant correctly and to consult a healthcare professional, especially for serious conditions.
Conclusion
Hydrolea zeylanica is a valuable and versatile herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Its widespread availability in tropical regions, combined with its well-documented healing properties, makes it a significant plant in local folk medicine. While its primary use is for topical application to treat skin ailments, its broader potential is still being explored. It's essential to use this herb with an understanding of its proper identification and application, as misidentification can lead to ineffective or even harmful results. The plant serves as a testament to the rich botanical knowledge passed down through generations.
