Justicia procumbens: habitat, Chemical Composition, Properties, and Uses

Justicia procumbens is commonly known as procumbent water willow. It is a medicinal plant that has been worshiped for centuries for its medicinal properties. It has a wide range of therapeutic benefits due to which it has attracted the attention of many traditional herbal practitioners and modern researchers. In this article, we will learn about Justicia Procumbens in detail.

Synonyms

Justicia procumbens is known by various synonyms across different regions and languages. Some of the commonly used synonyms include Justicia reptans, Justicia nummularifolia, and Justicia mauritiana.

Habit and Habitat

Justicia procumbens is a perennial herb but it is a low-growing herb. Its height generally ranges from 10-30 cm. This plant grows natively in tropical and subtropical regions and is often found in moist, shady areas such as swamps, river banks, and forest edges.

Common names

The most commonly used common name for Justicia procumbens is Procumbent Water Willow. However, it is also known by other regional names such as Creeping Justicia, Water Willow Herb, and Mini Shrimp Plant.

Hygrophila spinosa

Chemical Composition

Chemical constituents found in Justicia procumbens include flavonoids, alkaloids, triterpenoids, and phenolic acids.

Used Part of Plant

The most commonly used plant parts include leaves, stems, and roots.

Properties of Justicia procumbens

Ayurvedic Properties

It has the following properties:

Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter)
Guna (Quality): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)
Virya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)
Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Katu (Pungent)
Dosha Effect: Balances Kapha and Pitta doshas

These Ayurvedic properties highlight the plant’s ability to soothe certain imbalances in the body

Therapeutic Properties

Justicia procumbens is renowned for its medicinal properties, which include:

Anti-inflammatory properties: This plant helps reduce inflammation and swelling, making it beneficial for arthritis and rheumatism.
Rich in antioxidant properties: It protects cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and slows the aging process.
Antimicrobial Properties: It has antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it effective against various pathogens.
Analgesic: It acts as a pain reliever and provides relief from headaches, muscle aches, and other types of pain.
Diuretic: Increases the removal of excess fluid from the body, aids detoxification, and supports kidney function.

Health Benefits of Justicia procumbens

Justicia procumbens provides many health benefits, it helps in treating many types of diseases. Some of the major health benefits include:

Joint Health: Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, Justicia Procumbens may help reduce symptoms of arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory joint conditions.

Improves digestive health: The plant’s bitter taste and digestion-stimulating properties help it promote healthy digestion, relieve indigestion, and help treat gastrointestinal disorders.

Skin Care: The antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of Justicia procumbens help treat acne, eczema, and other skin conditions.

Urinary Health: Its diuretic properties support kidney function and urinary tract health and help prevent urinary infections.

Immune Support: The plant’s bioactive compounds boost the immune system, increasing the body’s natural defenses against infections and diseases.

How to Uses Justicia procumbens

It can be used in different forms:

1. Herbal Tea: This tea can be consumed to promote digestive health, detoxify the body, and boost immunity. Its leaves and stems are boiled to make tea.

2. Topical applications: Poultices and ointments made from crushed leaves and roots can be applied to the skin to treat wounds, cuts, and skin infections.

3. As an extract: Liquid extract of Justicia procumbens can be taken orally to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

4. Capsules and tablets form: Justicia procumbens is also available in capsule or tablet form.

Conclusion

Justicia procumbens is a remarkable plant with a rich history. It offers many health benefits ranging from Ayurvedic properties to a wide range of therapeutic benefits. It can be consumed in any form but it is necessary to consult a doctor before consuming it.

Remember, before starting any new wellness regimen, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it is suitable for your specific needs and circumstances.