Cordia dichotoma, commonly referred to as Lasura or Indian cherry, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree belonging to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and can be found in various parts of Asia, including India, Pakistan, and Nepal. This tree typically reaches a height of 5 to 10 meters, with a spreading canopy.
The leaves of Cordia dichotoma are simple, alternate, and broadly ovate in shape. They are dark green, leathery, and have a rough texture. The tree produces fragrant white to pale yellow flowers, which are tubular and borne in clusters. These blossoms attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
One of the distinctive features of Cordia dichotoma is its fruit, which is small, round, and resembles a cherry. These fruits start green and turn yellow or orange when ripe. They are edible and have a sweet and slightly sour taste. The seeds within the fruit are often used for propagation.
Cordia dichotoma is not only valued for its fruit but also for its various medicinal properties. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda, where different parts of the tree are utilized for their therapeutic benefits.
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The Medicinal Health Benefits of Cordia dichotoma (Lasura or Indian cherry)
1. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Cordia dichotoma possesses potent anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body. These properties make it useful in alleviating conditions such as arthritis and joint pain.
2. Digestive Aid: The leaves and fruit of Cordia dichotoma have been traditionally used to improve digestion. They can help soothe indigestion, alleviate bloating, and promote overall digestive health.
3. Antioxidant Boost: Rich in antioxidants, Cordia dichotoma helps combat oxidative stress and free radical damage. Regular consumption of its fruits or extracts can contribute to better cellular health.
4. Immune System Support: The plant’s bioactive components can enhance the immune system’s functioning, helping the body fend off infections and illnesses more effectively.
5. Respiratory Health: Cordia dichotoma is believed to have respiratory benefits. It may help alleviate symptoms of respiratory disorders like cough, bronchitis, and asthma.
6. Wound Healing: Applied topically or consumed, Cordia dichotoma can aid in wound healing due to its antimicrobial and tissue-regenerating properties.
7. Diabetes Management: Studies suggest that Cordia dichotoma may have a positive impact on blood sugar levels, making it a potential natural remedy for managing diabetes.
8. Skin Health: The plant’s extracts can contribute to healthy skin by reducing inflammation, promoting collagen synthesis, and addressing skin issues like acne and eczema.
9. Liver Health: Cordia dichotoma may support liver health by aiding in detoxification processes and promoting the overall well-being of this vital organ.
10. Cardiovascular Benefits: Some research indicates that Cordia dichotoma might help in maintaining cardiovascular health by contributing to cholesterol regulation and supporting heart function.
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The Methods of Usage to Achieve the Provided Health Benefits of Cordia dichotoma (Lasura or Indian cherry)
1. Herbal Infusion: Prepare an herbal infusion by steeping dried Cordia dichotoma leaves in hot water. This infusion can be consumed to aid digestion and provide antioxidants to your body.
2. Topical Application: Create a poultice or paste using crushed Cordia dichotoma leaves and apply it to wounds or skin irritations for their potential wound-healing and antimicrobial benefits.
3. Fruit Consumption: Enjoy the ripe fruits of Cordia dichotoma directly, reaping the advantages of their natural sweetness along with antioxidant and immune-boosting properties.
4. Decoction: Boil Cordia dichotoma bark or leaves in water to make a decoction that can be consumed as a tea. This method may offer benefits for respiratory health.
5. Oil Infusion: Infuse Cordia dichotoma leaves in a carrier oil to create an oil blend that can be used for massages. This might aid in reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.
6. Powdered Form: Dry Cordia dichotoma leaves, grind them into a fine powder, and incorporate it into your daily diet or mix it with skincare products for potential internal and external health benefits.
The Side Effects of Using Cordia dichotoma Medicinal Plant
1. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions upon contact with Cordia dichotoma or its extracts. It’s important to perform a patch test before using it topically and to discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur, such as skin rashes, itching, or swelling.
2. Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Excessive consumption of Cordia dichotoma fruits or extracts may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Moderation is key to avoid such issues.
3. Interaction with Medications: Cordia dichotoma might interact with certain medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or causing unwanted side effects. If you are taking any medications, consult a healthcare professional before using Cordia dichotoma in any form.
4. Blood Sugar Levels: While Cordia dichotoma shows promise in aiding diabetes management, it’s crucial for individuals with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels closely when incorporating it into their routine. It can interact with diabetes medications, leading to hypoglycemia.
5. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should exercise caution when using Cordia dichotoma. Limited research is available on its safety during these periods, so it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use.
6. Overconsumption: As with any herbal remedy, overconsumption of Cordia dichotoma, whether in the form of fruits, extracts, or supplements, should be avoided. Excessive intake can lead to adverse effects and interactions with other medications or supplements.
Nutritional Value of Cordia Dichotoma (Lasura or Indian Cherry)
1. Carbohydrates: The fruits contain 15–20% carbohydrates, primarily polysaccharides like starch and free sugars, providing sustained energy and supporting its traditional use in combating fatigue and as a dietary staple in arid regions.
2. Proteins: Fruits offer 2–5% protein, including essential amino acids that aid tissue repair and immune function, making it a modest protein source in underutilized diets for rural communities.
3. Lipids: Present at 1–3% in fruits and higher in seed kernels (up to 20%), lipids contribute to energy storage and include anti-inflammatory fatty acids that enhance metabolic health.
4. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Fruits provide 10–20 mg per 100g of vitamin C, acting as an antioxidant to boost immunity, promote collagen synthesis, and protect against oxidative stress.
5. Chromium: Trace amounts (up to 0.1–0.5 mg/100g) in fruits support glucose metabolism and have therapeutic value in managing diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity.
6. Calcium: Containing 20–50 mg per 100g in fruits, calcium strengthens bones and teeth, supports muscle function, and aids nerve signaling, beneficial for overall skeletal health.
7. Iron: Fruits offer 1–3 mg per 100g of iron, aiding red blood cell formation and oxygen transport to prevent anemia, especially in nutrient-deficient populations.
8. Potassium: Providing 200–300 mg per 100g, potassium helps regulate blood pressure, supports electrolyte balance, and promotes muscle function.
9. Magnesium: Present at 50–100 mg per 100g, magnesium contributes to bone health, nerve function, and energy production for metabolic support.
10. Phenolic Antioxidants (Chlorogenic Acid): Found at 1–2% in fruits, these compounds neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation, and support liver and cardiovascular health.
These nutrients highlight Cordia dichotoma’s role as an underutilized superfruit in tropical diets, offering energy, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, though antinutrients like phytic acid (355 mg/100g) and oxalic acid (250 mg/100g) should be considered in high consumption.
Scientific Evidence and Case Studies on Cordia Dichotoma (Lasura or Indian Cherry)
1. Jamkhande et al. (2013): This review analyzed phytochemicals in Cordia dichotoma, including flavonoids and alkaloids, demonstrating antidiabetic effects via α-glucosidase inhibition (IC50 0.5–1 µM) and anti-inflammatory activity through COX-2 reduction in rat models, supporting its use for diabetes and arthritis (Jamkhande, P. G., Barde, S. R., Patwekar, S. L., & Tidke, P. S., 2013, Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine).
2. Venkateshwarlu et al. (2011): Ethanol extracts of Cordia dichotoma leaves showed anticonvulsant activity in pentylenetetrazole-induced seizure mice, reducing seizure duration by 40–60% at 200 mg/kg, attributed to flavonoids, indicating neuroprotective potential (Venkateshwarlu, R., Raju, A. B., & Yerragunta, V. G., 2011, International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research).
3. Ratra & Gupta (2015): Methanol extracts of Cordia dichotoma leaves reduced blood glucose by 25–35% in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats over 21 days, due to flavonoids enhancing insulin sensitivity, confirming antidiabetic efficacy (Ratra, M., & Gupta, R., 2015, International Journal of Pharma and Bio Sciences).
4. Selin-Rani et al. (2016): Leaf extracts of Cordia dichotoma exhibited 80% mortality against Spodoptera litura larvae at 5% concentration and disrupted detoxification enzymes, while showing antimicrobial effects against bacteria, highlighting pesticidal and infection-fighting benefits (Selin-Rani, S., et al., 2016, Pesticide Biochemistry and Physiology).
5. Prakash et al. (2013): Fruit extracts of Cordia dichotoma demonstrated larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti (LC50 150–200 µg/mL) and 75% DPPH scavenging for antioxidant capacity, with tannins and steroids supporting wound healing and anti-inflammatory uses (Prakash, N. U., et al., 2013, International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences).
Frequently Asked Questions About Cordia Dichotoma (Lasura or Indian Cherry)
1. What is Cordia dichotoma used for traditionally?
Cordia dichotoma is used in Ayurveda and folk medicine for treating diabetes, diarrhea, wounds, fever, headaches, respiratory issues, and skin conditions like ringworm, with fruits eaten raw or pickled.
2. Is Cordia dichotoma safe to consume?
In moderate amounts like pickles or vegetables, it is safe, but high intake may cause digestive issues due to antinutrients; consult a healthcare provider if pregnant or diabetic.
3. Can Cordia dichotoma help with diabetes?
Studies suggest its extracts lower blood glucose and inhibit α-glucosidase, supporting traditional antidiabetic uses, but it should complement medical treatment.
4. How is Cordia dichotoma prepared for medicinal use?
Immature fruits are pickled or used as vegetables; leaves and bark are boiled into decoctions for internal use, or applied as poultices for wounds and inflammation.
5. Does Cordia dichotoma have antioxidant properties?
Yes, its phenolic compounds like chlorogenic acid scavenge free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and supporting liver and cellular health, as shown in DPPH assays.
6. Can Cordia dichotoma treat infections?
Research indicates antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi, validating traditional uses for wounds, diarrhea, and skin infections.
7. What are the side effects of Cordia dichotoma?
Rare, but excessive consumption may lead to stomach upset from antinutrients like phytic acid; no major toxicity reported in traditional doses.
8. Where is Cordia dichotoma native to?
It is native to India, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa and Australia, thriving in tropical and subtropical dry forests as a deciduous tree up to 15 meters tall.
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Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. The health benefits described are based on scientific research and traditional knowledge. They are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any herb or natural remedy for medical purposes.
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