Download EKOR KUCING Scientific name : Acalypha hispida Common name

EKOR KUCING
Scientific name
Common name
Local name
Family
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Acalypha hispida
Red hot cat’s tail
Ekor kucing
Euphorbiaceae
Introduction
The plant originated in Oceania, but has become naturalized to
multiple countries in North America, including the United States,
Mexico, and Belize.
Plant Description
It can grow to be six to twelve feet (1.8-3.7 meters) tall. The
plant is dioecious, and therefore there are distinct male and
female members of the species. The female plant bears
pistillate flowers which range in color from purple to bright red,
and grow in clusters along catkins. This feature is the primary
reason the plant bears the nickname “red-hot cat tail”.
Plant habit
The plant has become somewhat domesticated, due to the
nature and color of its flowers. It can be grown from seeds as
well as from cuttings.
Plants parts used : Root, flower and leaves.
Uses in traditional medicine
Leaves are used as a poultice for leprosy. A decoction of the leaves and flowers is applied as
an emollient to wounds and ulcers and is given internally as a laxative and diuretic in gonorrhea.
The bark appears to act as an expectorant and so to relieve asthma. The leaves are astringent
and flowers employed against diarrhea.