Trinity Consultants 01243 551766

Mesua ferrea

Synonym: Mesua coromandeliana, Mesua pedunculata, Mesua nagassarium, Mesua speciosa
Family: Guttiferae

Ceylon Ironwood, Indian Rose Chestnut, Penaga Lili
 

Large evergreen tree, often buttressed at the base; trunk up to 3 feet in diameter(90 cm); simple, narrow, oblong, dark green, leaves with whitish underside; young leaves are yellowish pink, limp.

The leaves are applied to the head in the form of a poultice for severe colds. Oil from the seeds is used for sores, scabies, wounds, and rheumatism. The root of this herb is often used as an antidote for snake poison. The dried flowers are used for bleeding haemorrhoids and dysentery with mucus. Fresh flowers are also prescribed for excessive thirst, excessive perspiration, cough, and for indigestion.