Chlorophytum breviscapum
Dalzell.
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Description
A tropical herb in the Asparagaceae family that grows on moist slopes and along the edges of streams.
This description is brief — help expand it
Edible Uses
The leaves are cooked as a vegetable.
Traditional Uses
The leaves are cooked as a vegetable.
This uses section is brief — help expand it
Medicinal Uses
Chlorophytum breviscapum is one of several species of Chlorophytum known as 'safed musli' and commonly used in traditional Indian medicine. Safed musli holds an important position in Indian herbal medicine, where the tuber is valued mainly as a tonic, intended to give strength and vigour, and is widely used as a natural aphrodisiac. It is used in the treatment of general debility, diabetes and lactation problems. The regular use of this remedy is a valuable help in the treatment of impotency and premature ejaculation. The tuber is an integral part of more than 100 herbal drug formulations.. The tuber is used as an aphrodisiac and galactogogue, as well as for its nutritive, health promoting properties and immunoenhancing, hepatoprotective and antioxidants activities. The tubers are also used in the treatment of fevers and leucorrhoea. The dried roots of Chlorophytum contain 42% carbohydrate, 8 - 9% protein, 3 - 4% fiber and 2 - 17% saponin. Studies on Chlorophytum conducted in India and elsewhere indicate that saponins are responsible for the medicinal properties. Saponin content is thought to be highest in roots of forest origin. Many native Indian species are sold as safed musli in the Indian drug market. Chlorophytum boriviliahum produces the highest yield and highest saponin content, other native species that are used include Chlorophytum arundinaceum, Chlorophytum breviscapum, Chlorophytum indicum, Chlorophytum laxum and Chlorophytum tuberosum
Distribution
It is a tropical plant. It grows on moist slopes and along the edges of streams.
Where It Grows
Asia, India,
Cultivation
Chlorophytum species require a frost free climate, and can succeed from the subtropical zone to the tropics, in moist to humid climates. Species in this genus seem to be adapted to a wide range of conditions in cultivation, though they are generally found in soils rich in organic matter and can succeed in full sun or in shade
Propagation
Seed - Division
Also Known As
Pulum musali
References (1)
- Bhogaonkar, P. Y. & Devarkar, V. D., 2018, Inventory for ethnovegetable knowledge of the tribals of Satpura hill area-Melghat, Dist. Amravati (India), Plantae Scientia, 2018; Vol. 01 Issue 01: 01-08
