The herb contains an orange yellow pigment, plumbagin a sitosterol and a fatty alcohol. The proportion of the plumbagin varies within the limits according to the locality, growth, age condition of the soil and the reason. The older the plant and drier the soil, the greater is the quantity of active principle found in its root.
Healing Power and Curative Properties
The root of the plant is acid and stimulant. It is useful in inducing copious perspiration and in promoting salivation. It also strengthens the stomach and aids in its action. It leaves are almost tasteless, have hard cellulose and are slightly mucilaginous. About 60 ml of raw juice of its leaves can be taken by itself or may be added to mixes green vegetables and lettuce to prepare gruel or cake.
Intestinal Disorders
Its leaves are useful in dyspepsia and piles. It increases digestive powers and stimulates appetite.
Skin Disorders
Owing to its skin irritation the herb is used in the treatment of chronic skin diseases as well as in leucoderma and baldness. A paste made with salt and water is useful for obstinate skin diseases such as syphilitic ulcers, scabies, varicose ulcers and ringworm. Paste of the root is used over glandular tumors and abscesses. The juice of its root especially If fresh, is very acid and blisters the skin.
Rheumatism
The herb is useful in the treatment of rheumatic and paralytic affections. Blended with a little bland oil such as refined coconut oil, it is applied extremely over the affected parts.
Precautions: The root in large doses is narcotic and irritant. It should therefore be given only in small doses of 0.75 to 1.25 grams.
