Health Benefits

Health benefits of Fragrant Premna

Premna odorata is a species of flowering plant in the Lamiaceae family. It is frequently referred to as the Chinese Headache Tree or aromatic premna. Naturalized in southern Florida, the plant is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, Yunnan, Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and Northern Australia. Additionally, it has been documented in the Northern Territory, Assam, Sulawesi, the Bismarck Archipelago, Malaya, Borneo, Hainan, Thailand, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Island, New Guinea, Maluku, Christmas Island, Queensland, Laos, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Sumatera, Myanmar, Taiwan, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Few of the popular common names of the plants are Chinese Headache Tree, East Indian Greenbark, Tea-scented Premna, False Ashok, Malabar Neem, East Indian Screw Tree, Curry Leaf Tree, Indian Privet, Box-leaved Privet, Fragrant False Ashoka, White Leadtree, Agarita, False Ashoka, Ceylon Privet, Wild Lime, Buan and Tree of Headaches.

The genus name “Premna” comes from the Latin word “premno,” which means “to press or flatten.” This may refer to the traditional use of certain Premna species in making herbal medicines by pressing or extracting the plant’s aromatic and medicinal compounds. The species name “odorata” is also derived from Latin and means “fragrant” or “having a pleasant odor.” This part of the name emphasizes one of the prominent features of Premna odorata, which is its sweet and pleasant fragrance. It is used as an ornamental plant, as a hedge plant, and for its medicinal properties. Its leaves are used in traditional medicine for treating fever, skin diseases, and digestive issues.

Fragrant Premna Facts

Fragrant premna Quick Facts
Name: Fragrant premna
Scientific Name: Premna odorata
Origin Indian subcontinent, Yunnan, Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and Northern Australia, and naturalized in southern Florida
Colors Initially green turning to various shades of red, purple, or black as they mature
Shapes Fleshy, dark purple, rounded, about 5 millimeters in diameter
Flesh colors Typically a pale yellow or light green
Taste Bitter and astringent
Major nutrients • Phytochemicals
• Bitter Principles
• Minerals
• Fiber
Health benefits Digestive Health, Respiratory Health, Stress and Anxiety Reduction, Pain Relief, Diabetes Management, Wound Healing, Cardiovascular Support, Liver Health, Anticancer Potential, Mood and Sleep Enhancement, Menstrual Pain Relief, Antiviral Activity
Name Fragrant premna
Scientific Name Premna odorata
Native Indian subcontinent, Yunnan, Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and Northern Australia, and naturalized in southern Florida. It is also native to Assam, Bangladesh, Bismarck Archipelago, Borneo, Cambodia, Christmas Is., Hainan, India, Jawa, Laos, Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, Maluku, Myanmar, New Guinea, Northern Territory, Philippines, Queensland, Sri Lanka, Sulawesi, Sumatera, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam
Common Names Fragrant Premna, Chinese Headache Tree, East Indian Greenbark, Tea-scented Premna, False Ashok, Malabar Neem, East Indian Screw Tree, Curry Leaf Tree, Indian Privet, Box-leaved Privet, Fragrant False Ashoka, White Leadtree, Agarita, False Ashoka, Ceylon Privet, Wild Lime, Buan, Tree of Headaches
Name in Other Languages Arabic: Al-bamyh al-uṭrīyyah (الباميه العطريّة)
Assamese: Ujjali, Alni
Bengali: Vata (বট), Agar, Arani (অরণি), Gandha Prasarini (গন্ধ প্রসারিণী)
Bhutanese: Damtshi, Damtshi
Burmese: Thabyeit, Pan, Dukkaru, Padal, Thet-dan (သက်တန်), Nat-pan-daung, Ngwe Hkaw Nauk (ငွေခေါငောကျောက်)
Chinese: Xiāng zhāng shù (香樟树), Máo yú chòu mù (毛魚臭木), 毛鱼臭目
Dutch: Bitterhout, Kina di santo bomingo
English: Fragrant Premna
Fijian: Tagimoucia, Tavola, Biki ni tavalagi
Filipino: Sambong, Alagaw, Akapulko
French: Bois noir, Canelle d’Inde
German: Indischer Färberstrauch, Bitterholz
Greek: Aromatikó premna (Αρωματικό premna)
Gujarati: Arani, Nariyo, Rajan Pallav
Hawaiian: Māmaki, Wāwae‘iole
Hindi: Arani, Arni, Gandh Prasarini (गंध प्रसारिणी)
Hmong: Ntseeg ntxawg
Indonesian: Mindi Sambal, Bangkit
Italian: Legno amaro, Ruta di Santo Domingo
Japanese: Puremun’aodorāta (プレムナオドラータ)
Javanese: Mindi Sambal, Kalangik
Kannada: Aralu Mara (ಅರಳು ಮರ), Aralu soppu (ಅರಳು ಸೊಪ್ಪು), Sannaga
Kashmiri: Fragrant Premna, Neob, Niab
Khmer: Chông Phlôêng, Sângkâtâmâm (សង្កាត់តំម៉ាម៉ា)
Konkani: Karli, Kattu Ponna
Korean: Peulenyam odorata (프렘냐 오도라타)
Lao: Ngồ (ງໍ), Khôk (ໂຂງ)
Malagasy: Fragrant premna, Rana-sampy
Malay: Lemuni Sembalun, Akar Cina
Malayalam: Arali, Aralu, Ponna, Kattuponna
Manipuri: Nong-gai-heet
Maori: Mamangi
Marathi: Aralu, Ponna, Ponnalata, Gandhbawal (गंधबवळ)
Myanmar: Kway-Cha
Nepali: Chikri (चिक्रि), Chandrajyoti (चन्द्रज्योति)
Odia: Arani, Arnimula, Banarjana
Persian: Arani (آرانی)
Portuguese: Camaraíba, Guaçatonga, Algarobeira
Punjabi: Phagal (ਫਗਲ), Supari, Ganda Bawal (ਗੰਧ ਬਾਵਲ)
Russian: Dushitsa aromatnaya (Душица ароматная)
Samoan: Ta’amu, Mapuata
Sanskrit: Agnimantha (अग्निमन्थ)
Sinhala: Anoda (අනෝද), Alu (අලු), Kalu-Ara, Aralu
Spanish: Árbol de la Madera de Ángel, Árbol de lija, Algarrobo, Baria, Sambong
Sundanese: Fragrant premna, Hawu-hawu
Swahili: Fragrant premna, Mti wa utumwa, Mti wa barafu
Tagalog: Arani, Alagaw
Tahitian: Tahauru, Faraoa mapuata
Tamil: Arani, Panneer Tree, Panai maram (பனை மரம்), Ponna, Kattu Pon, Tondai Valai (தொண்டை வளை)
Telugu: Arani, Ponnam (పొన్నాం), Neekaradi (నీకరడి), Garaba Ponna, Thonde Vasa (తొండే వాస)
Thai: Pho (โพ), Ubon (อุบล), Pho Thong (โพทอง), Bai Thong (ใบทอง)
Tibetan: Gsar bo, Sarba
Tongan: Talasi
Turkish: Fragrant premna, Hoş kokulu premna
Urdu: Arani
Vietnamese: Bùi Sừng, Quyết minh (Quyết Minh)
Plant Growth Habit Tropical and subtropical, evergreen, small tree or woody shrub
Growing Climates Thickets, secondary forest, margins of gallery forest, along roadsides, lowland rainforests, riverbanks, streams, swampy areas, mangrove swamps, other coastal habitats, abandoned fields and colonize secondary forests
Soil Well-draining soil is crucial while loamy or sandy soil mix with good drainage is recommended
Plant Size Up to 10 meters tall, occasionally to 12 meters. The bole can be up to 25cm, occasionally 30cm, in diameter
Root Single, thick taproot. From the main taproot, lateral roots branch out horizontally in various directions. These lateral roots are responsible for absorbing water and nutrients from the surrounding soil
Stem Young stems are cylindrical, hairy and light brown while old stems are erect, woody, and cylindrical with hairy texture and darker in color
Bark Younger branches having smoother bark and older branches having more textured and fissured bark
Leaf Leaves are ovate to broadly ovate, 10 to 20 centimeters long, with broad, rounded, or somewhat heart-shaped base, and pointed tips. Under surface of the blade is usually covered with short hairs, aromatic when crushed
Flowering season April to June
Flower Greenish-white or nearly white, 4 to 5 millimeters long and borne on terminal inflorescences (cymes) 8 to 20 centimeters in diameter
Fruit Shape & Size Fleshy, dark purple, rounded, about 5 millimeters in diameter
Fruit Color Initially green turning to various shades of red, purple, or black as they mature
Fruit Skin Smooth and somewhat glossy
Fruit Weight Only a few grams
Flesh  color Typically a pale yellow or light green
Seed Typically often oblong or ellipsoid in shape and measure around 0.5 to 1 cm (0.2 to 0.4 inches) in length
Flavor/Aroma Sweet, fragrant, and somewhat similar to that of jasmine or gardenia
Taste Bitter and astringent
Plant Parts Used Leaves, roots, barks, fruits and flowering tops
Propagation By Seeds, stem cuttings, Air Layering
Lifespan For 50 years or more
Season August to October
Varieties
  • Premna odorata var. odorata
  • Premna odorata var. pubescens
  • Premna subscandens
Major Nutrition
  • Phytochemicals
  • Bitter Principles
  • Minerals
  • Fiber
Available Forms
  • Decoction
  • Infusion
  • Powder
  • Paste
  • Tincture
  • Oil
  • Herbal Formulations
  • Capsules and Tablets
Health benefits
  • Anti-Inflammatory Properties
  • Antioxidant Effects
  • Immune System Support
  • Digestive Health
  • Respiratory Health
  • Antimicrobial Activity
  • Stress and Anxiety Reduction
  • Pain Relief
  • Diabetes Management
  • Wound Healing
  • Anti-Arthritic Properties
  • Antispasmodic Effects
  • Anti-Asthmatic Properties
  • Cardiovascular Support
  • Liver Health
  • Anticancer Potential
  • Mood and Sleep Enhancement
  • Menstrual Pain Relief
  • Antiviral Activity
  • Anti-parasitic Effects

Plant Description

Fragrant premna is a tropical and subtropical, evergreen, small tree or woody shrub that normally grows up to 10 meters tall, occasionally to 12 meters. The bole can be up to 25 cm, occasionally 30 cm, in diameter. The plant is found growing in thickets, secondary forest, margins of gallery forest, along roadsides, lowland rainforests, riverbanks, streams, swampy areas, mangrove swamps, other coastal habitats, abandoned fields and colonize secondary forests. Well-draining soil is crucial while loamy or sandy soil mix with good drainage is recommended.  The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine. It is sometimes planted, in places such as Florida, the Philippines and India. In some cultures, it is considered a sacred plant and is used in religious ceremonies. Its aromatic qualities make it a popular choice for making garlands and floral arrangements.

Herbal remedies often incorporate leaves, bark, and roots, among other plant parts, due to their presumed medicinal attributes. Aromatherapy employs the essential oil derived from Fragrant Premna due to its calming and comforting characteristics. It is thought to induce a state of tranquility in both the mind and body. The ornamental value of this plant is derived from its fragrant flowers and glossy foliage. It is suitable for cultivation in parks, gardens, and domestic pots in temperate climates. Fragrant Premna populations have encountered challenges in certain areas as a consequence of habitat degradation caused by deforestation and agricultural expansion.

Appropriate growing environment for fragrant premna

Fragrant Premna is a tropical and subtropical plant native to Southeast Asia. It requires a specific growing environment to thrive. Here are the key factors for creating an appropriate growing environment for Fragrant Premna:

Roots

Taproot is the common name for the solitary, thick primary root of Fragrant Premna. By extending vertically into the soil, the taproot provides access to water and nutrients and stabilizes the plant. Lateral roots originate from the primary taproot and extend horizontally in diverse orientations. The function of these lateral roots is to uptake nutrients and water from the adjacent soil. Additionally, they serve to offer structural support to the plant.

Root hairs are minute, hair-like structures that proliferate across the surface of the lateral roots. The root hairs significantly augment the surface area of the root, thereby promoting enhanced assimilation of soil minerals and water. The primary root, also known as the taproot, is affixed with a protective structure known as the root cap. Protecting the delicate growing tip as it moves through the earth, the root cap aids the root in its navigation through the soil.

Stem

The typical structure of Fragrant Premna is a solitary principal stem or trunk that protrudes from the soil. The primary stem functions as the pivotal axis of the above-ground structure of the plant. Branch systems emanate both upwards and outwards from the primary stem. The branches have the potential to divide into two or branch numerous times, resulting in an aesthetic resemblance to a tree or a bush, contingent upon the specific development pattern of the plant. Nodes, which serve as attachment sites for leaves, branches, and buds, are located along the stem. Nodes play a critical role as locations for plant growth and development. Internodes refer to the segments of the stem that separate nodes. Internodes are accountable for elongating the stem and establishing interstitial space between leaves and branches; their lengths can vary.

Bark

Generally, the bark possesses a gritty and relatively coarse consistency. Depending on the age of the plant, the bark may be more textured and fissured on elder branches, whereas it may be smoother on younger branches. Bark typically ranges in hue from grayish-brown to dark brown; as it ages, it may become darker and more weathered. The moderately thick epidermis serves to fortify the underlying tissues against physical harm, pathogen invasion, and environmental pressures. Lenticels, which are minute, elevated, and permeable formations situated on the surface of the bark, facilitate gas exchange between the internal tissues of the bark and the surrounding environment. Their presence is critical for respiration.

Leaves

The leaves of fragrant Premna generally exhibit an oblong or elliptical morphology. Their leaf structure is uncomplicated; thus, they do not consist of tiny leaflets. Although there is some variation in leaf size, on average, the plants produce moderate-sized leaves measuring between 6 and 10 centimeters (2.4 and 3.9 inches) in length. Dark green foliage are characteristic of numerous healthy, photosynthetic leaves. The dark green hue aids the plant in photosynthesis by facilitating the efficient absorption of sunlight. The smooth and lustrous upper surface of the leaves contributes to their appealing appearance. The smooth surface facilitates light absorption in an efficient manner. Two leaves are affixed to the stem at the same node on opposite sides, resulting in an inverse arrangement of the leaves along the stem. This opposite leaf arrangement is a prevalent feature observed in numerous plant species, including Fragrant Premna.

Flowers

Typically, dense, rounded inflorescences comprise groupings of small, tubular flowers bearing the fragrance of Premna. The size of these clusters may differ, and they might comprise multiple individual blooms. Small and tubular in shape, the individual blossoms have a slender tube-like structure and flared petals at the apex. A tube may be formed by fusing the sepals at their base. Although flowers can be found in a variety of hues, the most prevalent are white, ivory, pink, or lavender. The precise hue of the flowers may differ contingent upon the cultivar or variety. The floral tube is where the reproductive organs are located. Four stamens (reproductive structures of the male gender) and one pistil (reproductive structure of the female gender) are conventionally found in the center of flowers. Fragrant Premna is renowned, as its name implies, for its exceptionally sweet and delightful aroma. Particularly during the evening and night, the flowers emanate a potent and pleasant fragrance that entices pollinators such as moths.

Fruits

In general, the fruits have a diameter of approximately 0.5 to 1 centimeter (0.2 to 0.4 inches). In appearance, they are typically spherical or round, bearing a resemblance to minuscule fruit. The hue of the fruits may differ in accordance with their level of maturity. Typically, they are green when immature; as they mature, they transform into a range of hues, including scarlet, purple, and black. Ripe fruit has a smooth, slightly lustrous exterior. Peeled or punctured with only a mild compression. Humans generally refrain from consuming the fruit because of its acrid or astringent flavor.

Seeds

The seeds of Fragrant Premna are comparatively sizable in relation to the fruit’s dimensions. Typically, they are elongated and range in length from 0.2 to 0.4 inches (0.5 to 1 centimeter). Frequently oblong or ellipsoid in shape, the seeds resemble elongated capsules of a minute size. Seeds are typically brown in color and have a tough, fibrous exoskeleton. The seed is protected from environmental factors and injury by its outer shell. The seed sheath safeguards the inner seed by virtue of its rigidity and resilience. The seed is able to endure a wide range of environmental conditions due to its high durability.

Varieties of Fragrant premna

Fragrant Premna is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. While there are different varieties and cultivars of Premna plants, the term “Fragrant Premna” typically refers to a specific variety known for its aromatic properties and medicinal uses. Here are some varieties and cultivars of Fragrant Premna:

Health benefits of fragrant premna

 Fragrant Premna is a plant that has been traditionally used in various traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, for its potential health benefits. While scientific research on this plant is ongoing, here are some of the health benefits of Fragrant Premna in more detail

1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Compounds found in Fragrant Premna demonstrate anti-inflammatory characteristics. These compounds have the potential to mitigate inflammation within the body, a process that is linked to a range of chronic ailments including cardiovascular disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, and arthritis.

2. Antioxidant Effects

Antioxidants abound in the plant, such as flavonoids and polyphenols. Antioxidants aid in the neutralization of free radicals, which are capable of causing injury to cells and DNA. It is possible that Fragrant Premna could promote longevity and overall health by mitigating oxidative stress.

3. Immune System Support

Traditional applications of Fragrant Premna indicate that it may strengthen the immune system. Strengthening the immune response may assist the body in protecting against diseases and infections.

4. Digestive Health

In traditional medicine, fragrant Premna has been employed to treat digestive disorders including dyspepsia, bloating, and abdominal pain. Potentially calming the gastrointestinal tract, it could facilitate improved digestion.

5. Respiratory Health

Fragrant Premna is utilized in specific traditional medicine systems to treat respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, and wheezing. It has the potential to function as a bronchodilator, aiding in the dilation of airways, and an expectorant, promoting the elimination of mucous from the respiratory system.

6. Antimicrobial Activity

Several investigations have indicated that extracts of Fragrant Premna may possess antimicrobial properties. This implies that it might exhibit efficacy against specific strains of bacteria and fungi, thereby potentially contributing to the therapeutic management of infections.

7. Stress and Anxiety Reduction

Fragrant Premna is occasionally employed as an all-natural remedial measure to alleviate symptoms of tension and anxiety. It potentially induces relaxation and calmness within the nervous system, thereby aiding in tension reduction and fostering psychological health.

8. Pain Relief

In traditional medicine, Fragrant Premna is employed to alleviate pain. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties may contribute to its potential efficacy in mitigating a range of pain conditions, such as joint pain, muscle aches, and migraines.

9. Diabetes Management

Initial findings indicate that Fragrant Premna might potentially contribute to the regulation of blood glucose levels. Those who have diabetes or are at risk of developing the disease may find this beneficial; however, additional research is required to determine its efficacy.

10. Wound Healing

Wound healing may be facilitated by the topical application of Fragrant Premna extracts or preparations. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties may aid in the prevention of infection and the promotion of healing.

11. Anti-Arthritic Properties

Arthritis symptoms have traditionally been alleviated with Fragrant Premna. As an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, it potentially mitigates joint rigidity, inflammation, and pain that are symptoms of arthritis and other related conditions.

12. Antispasmodic Effects

Fragrant Premna is utilized in some traditional medical systems to alleviate muscle spasms and cramping. Muscle relaxation and pain relief are potential benefits of this treatment for spasmodic conditions.

13. Anti-Asthmatic Properties

The bronchodilatory properties of Fragrant Premna may prove advantageous for individuals who suffer from asthma. It can facilitate airway dilation, thereby alleviating asthma symptoms and improving respiratory comfort.

14. Cardiovascular Support

Emerging research indicates that Fragrant Premna might potentially contribute to the promotion of cardiovascular health. Further research is warranted to validate the potential benefits of this substance in terms of blood pressure regulation and heart-related hazard reduction.

15. Liver Health

Fragrant Premna is thought to be beneficial for liver health. It has the potential to facilitate liver detoxification and enhance its overall well-being and optimal operation.

16. Anticancer Potential

The potential anticancer properties of Fragrant Premna, which contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, have been investigated in a number of studies. This is a subject of interest within the realm of cancer research, despite the need for additional study.

17. Mood and Sleep Enhancement

The tranquil and stress-relieving attributes of Fragrant Premna potentially contribute to enhanced mood and improved quality of sleep. It facilitates undisturbed sleep, reduces anxiety, and aids in relaxation.

18. Menstrual Pain Relief

As an analgesic and pain reliever, Fragrant Premna is utilized in traditional medicine. It potentially provides relief from cramping and additional menstrual symptoms.

19. Antiviral Activity

Fragrant Premna extracts may have antiviral properties, which could be beneficial in the treatment or prevention of viral infections, according to some studies. Nonetheless, additional investigation is required to validate these impacts.

20. Anti-parasitic Effects

Fragrant Premna’s potential to combat specific parasitic infections has been the subject of investigation. It could potentially aid in the treatment of parasitic diseases due to its anti-parasitic properties.

Ayurvedic Benefits

Culinary Uses of Fragrant premna

Fragrant Premna is primarily known for its medicinal and herbal uses, but it is not commonly used in culinary applications, especially in Western cuisine. However, in some traditional culinary practices in certain regions, Fragrant Premna leaves and other parts of the plant may be incorporated for their aromatic and flavor-enhancing qualities. Here are some potential culinary uses:

Different uses of fragrant premna

Fragrant Premna has a variety of traditional and potential uses beyond its culinary and medicinal applications. Here are different uses of Fragrant Premna:

Side effects of fragrant premna

Fragrant Premna is generally considered safe when used in moderate amounts for culinary, aromatic, and medicinal purposes. However, like many herbs and plants, it may have side effects or interactions with certain individuals or in specific circumstances. Here are some potential side effects and considerations associated with Fragrant Premna:

References:

https://www.itis.gov/servlet/SingleRpt/SingleRpt?search_topic=TSN&search_value=504594#null

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Premna_odorata

https://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Premna+odorata

http://www.stuartxchange.com/Alagaw.html

https://bie.ala.org.au/species/https://id.biodiversity.org.au/node/apni/2908961

https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PROD

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