Herb's Introduction
Micrococca mercurialis is an annual herb belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. It's a small plant, typically growing to about 50 cm tall, and can be found either growing upright or spreading along the ground. It's recognized for its pale green, often purple-tinged, ovate leaves and small, greenish-yellow flowers. The fruit is a distinctive, three-lobed capsule that is initially bluish-green and turns dark purple when it dries.
Name in Different Countries and Terminology
The herb is primarily known by its scientific name, Micrococca mercurialis. The name "mercurialis" links it to the genus Mercurialis, although it belongs to a different genus, which may cause some confusion. The provided Malayalam name, Kunukku-thooki, is a key local term, indicating its use and recognition in specific regions of India, particularly Kerala. Other synonyms like Tragia mercurialis and Mercurialis alternifolia show its historical classification and the different names it has been given by botanists over time. Availability and
External Look
Micrococca mercurialis is an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle within one year. It's often found in tropical and subtropical regions, growing in various habitats. Its procumbent or erect nature means it can be seen in fields, wastelands, or along roadsides. Its distinctive features include: Height: Up to 50 cm. Leaves: Alternate, elliptic-ovate, 2-7 cm long, with a scalloped margin. They have a characteristic pale green color often tinged with purple. Flowers: Small, greenish-yellow, and arranged in axillary, spike-like inflorescences. Fruit: A small, ovoid, three-lobed capsule with sparse bristly hairs.
Healing Properties and Advantages
Based on the provided information, Micrococca mercurialis has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating certain ailments in children. The plant sap is noted for its use as a remedy. Fever: The plant is used to treat fever in children, suggesting it may have antipyretic properties (fever-reducing). Headaches and Otitis: The plant sap is administered into the nose, eyes, or ears to treat headaches and otitis (ear inflammation). This application suggests it might have analgesic (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory effects. A significant advantage of this herb is its traditional and local use, which points to its long-standing recognition as a folk remedy. Its availability in the wild in certain regions makes it a readily accessible traditional medicine source.
Uses and Using Way
The primary uses of Kunukku-thooki are for treating fever, headaches, and ear infections. The specific method of use involves the application of the plant's sap.For fever in children: The entire plant is used, though the specific preparation is not detailed. For headaches and otitis: The plant sap is directly instilled (put drop-wise) into the nose, eyes, or ears. Disclaimer: This information is based on traditional uses and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. The direct application of plant sap into sensitive areas like the eyes and ears can be dangerous and is not recommended without expert guidance.
Conclusion
Micrococca mercurialis, or Kunukku-thooki, is a small annual herb with a rich history of traditional medicinal use. Its most notable applications are in treating fever in children and alleviating headaches and ear pain through the topical application of its sap. While recognized in folk medicine, it is crucial to approach its use with caution, as its direct application to sensitive body parts can pose health risks. The herb's easy availability in its native tropical regions makes it a key part of local ethnobotanical practices.
