Botanical Overview
Plumbago zeylanica, commonly known as Ceylon leadwort, Chitrak, or White leadwort, belongs to the Plumbaginaceae family. This plant is native to India, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Australia. The medicinal parts primarily used are the root, leaf, and sometimes the whole plant.
Energetics
Plumbago zeylanica is considered warming and drying in temperature and moisture energetics, possessing an acrid and bitter taste. Its directionality is ascending, and it is regarded as a tonifying herb that works primarily on qi.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Carminative
- Digestive stimulant
- Expectorant
- Topical vulnerary
Indications
Western
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Skin infections
- Wounds
- Respiratory congestion
- Cough
Syndromes
- Chronic skin conditions
- Respiratory tract infections
- Gastrointestinal sluggishness
TCM
- Phlegm accumulation
- Chest congestion
- Skin lumps
Syndromes
- Qi stagnation with phlegm
- Wind-heat skin disorders
Ayurveda
- Vata and Kapha disorders
- Indigestion
- Skin diseases
- Respiratory complaints
Syndromes
- Kaphaj disorders
- Vataj disorders
- Vrana (wounds and ulcers)
Unani
- Digestive impairment
- Cutaneous eruptions
- Respiratory difficulties
Syndromes
- Soot-related skin diseases
- Phlegmatic conditions
Constituents & Mechanisms
The primary phytochemicals identified in Plumbago zeylanica include plumbagin, alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, and coumarins, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Root decoction 2-5 g 1-2 times daily
- Topical paste applied externally on wounds
- Powdered root 250-500 mg daily
Safety & Contraindications
Caution is advised due to potential skin irritation and toxicity associated with the raw root. It should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation. Topical use may cause dermatitis. There are no well-documented interactions, but concurrent use with other irritant herbs is not recommended.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Plumbago zeylanica – PFAF Plant Database
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants
- Plumbago zeylanica Linn. – Pharmacognosy and Pharmacology, Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia
- Phytochemical and pharmacological investigation of Plumbago zeylanica, Singh A. et al.