Justicia betonica

Various parts of this plant have been used as traditional Ayurvedic medicine in India as well as in other countries. 

• The aerial part of this plant is used in diarrhea, inflammation, and swelling. 
• In India, the inflorescence extract of this plant is given orally to treat vomiting and constipation and used externally to wash hairs. 
• Leaves are crushed and applied to relieve pain and swelling.
• Leaf and flower ash internally used for the treatment of cough, diarrhea etc.
• Leaf decoction is used to cure vomiting and headache. 
• In Uganda, the leaves of J. betonica are used against HIV/AIDS. 
• J. betonica is administered to lower cholesterol and is used to treat paralysis, ear aches, headaches, bruises, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, pain and inflammation, and malaria in India.
• The plant possesses analgesic, antimalarial, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Source: Swasha Khandeparker Naik, et al.: Antibacterial activity of Justicia betonica Linn 

Justicia betonica L

Habit- Gregarious shrub

Parts used - Leaves, flower

Application - Vomiting; constipation; hair wash; finger joint abscess

Treatment - General

References - Rao et al. 2006