Introduction Meriandra strobilifera, now scientifically reclassified as Salvia strobilifera, is an erect, strongly scented, perennial shrub belonging to the family Lamiaceae (mint family). It's a plant known for its distinct appearance and a long history of traditional use in certain parts of the world, particularly in the Indian Himalayas. This plant has been cited in traditional Indian literature for its ethno-medicinal properties.
Name in Different Countries
While the plant is primarily known by its scientific names, Meriandra strobilifera and Salvia strobilifera, it has a few local or common names. In parts of the Indian subcontinent, it is sometimes referred to as "Cone-Bearing Sage" due to its distinct flower spikes. Another name found in some regions of Himachal Pradesh is "Murte." The name Flemingia strobilifera is a different plant altogether, belonging to the Fabaceae (pea) family and is also known as "Wild Hops." It's important to distinguish between these two different species as they are often confused.
Terminology
The taxonomic reclassification from Meriandra to Salvia reflects a modern understanding of plant phylogeny. The genus Meriandra is now considered a synonym of Salvia and is recognized as a subgenus, Salvia subg. Meriandra. This change is based on new molecular and morphological evidence that links these species more closely to the larger Salvia genus. The term "strobilifera" in the plant's name means "cone-bearing," referring to the cone-like, tightly clustered spikes of flowers and bracts.
Availability
Salvia strobilifera is endemic to the Indian Western Himalayas. It is found in various regions of India, including Himachal Pradesh, where it is known to grow at altitudes around 1500-2200 meters. The plant is found in the wild and is not typically cultivated on a large scale. Its distribution is localized to this specific geographical area.
External Look
Salvia strobilifera is an aromatic shrub that typically grows 2-5 feet tall. Its branches are somewhat angular and covered in fine hairs (tomentose). The leaves are:
Coriaceous (leathery) and thick.
Oblong or lanceolate in shape, measuring 2-4 inches by about 1 inch.
The edges are crenate (rounded teeth).
The base of the leaf is prolonged downwards into two pointed lobes.
The upper surface is pubescent and wrinkled, while the lower surface is covered in a dense, white, felt-like layer of hairs (tomentose).
The flowers are small and white, arranged in large whorls that are crowded together in erect, 4-sided spikes. These spikes are tomentose and often form a panicle. In fruit, the spikes have woody bracts. The floral leaves are small, sessile (without a stalk), and overlapping. The calyx is tubular-ovoid with two lips, and the corolla tube is about as long as the calyx. The plant has two protruding stamens.
Healing Properties
Salvia strobilifera has been noted for its ethno-medicinal properties in traditional folk medicine. While scientific research is limited, traditional uses and some modern studies suggest it has several therapeutic benefits:
Anthelmintic activity: The plant is used as a vermifuge, especially for children, to expel parasitic worms.
Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory effects: Extracts from the plant have shown significant pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, with some studies showing its efficacy comparable to or stronger than aspirin at higher doses.
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant activity: The plant contains phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, which contribute to its ability to fight against certain bacteria, fungi, and free radicals that cause oxidative stress.
Anti-ulcerogenic properties: Some research indicates that extracts from the plant's roots can help prevent and treat ulcers by improving the antioxidant status of the stomach lining.
Traditional uses: In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat conditions like fever, indigestion, diarrhea, epilepsy, hysteria, and various dermal issues. The leaves and flowers are traditionally used for treating tuberculosis.
Advantages
The primary advantages of Salvia strobilifera lie in its potential as a natural source for medicine. As a wild plant with well-documented traditional uses, it offers a sustainable and culturally significant alternative for treating common ailments. Its rich phytochemical profile, including flavonoids and other compounds, suggests it could be a valuable subject for further pharmacological research. The plant's use in local practices also highlights its accessibility to communities where modern medicine may not be readily available.
Uses
The uses of Salvia strobilifera are predominantly medicinal and traditional:
Traditional medicine: It is used to prepare decoctions, infusions, and pastes for treating a range of illnesses from fevers to skin conditions.
Oral hygiene: The twigs are used in some regions as a traditional "country toothbrush" to maintain dental health.
Animal care: In parts of India, the plant's leaves are used in traditional rituals and for treating livestock ailments.
Using Way
The traditional method of using Salvia strobilifera involves preparing extracts from various parts of the plant, such as the leaves, roots, and flowers.
Decoction: Boiling the leaves and flowers to create a liquid for internal consumption or for external use, such as a bath.
Paste: Crushing fresh plant parts to make a paste that can be applied to the skin to treat dermal issues or wounds.
Chewing: The twigs are chewed to clean teeth and gums.
Conclusion
Salvia strobilifera (formerly Meriandra strobilifera) is a noteworthy plant of the Lamiaceae family, endemic to the Indian Western Himalayas. While it may not be as widely known as other medicinal herbs, its significance is deeply rooted in traditional folk medicine. With a unique morphology, distinct aromatic properties, and a history of use in treating a variety of ailments, it presents a compelling case for further scientific exploration. As with any herbal remedy, proper identification and consultation with a healthcare professional are crucial before use.
