Abutilon indicum (L.) Sweet
Vernacular name: Indian mallow, Country mallow, Atibala (Hindi: अति बाला)
Species Name: Abutilon indicum (L.) Sweet
Family: Malvaceae
Habit: Small sub-shrub
Stem: Erect, softly velutinous, 1-2 m tall, stellate hairy.
Leaf: Alternate, cordate, 5-10 cm long, serrate, stellate pubescent beneath.
Flowering: Throughout year
Flowers: Axillary, solitary (fascicled cymose inflorescence – solitary pedunculate flowers); yellow, 1.5 cm diameter, 5 petals.
Fruit: Lokulicidal capsule, 1.5-2 cm diameter, 10-20 carpels, hoary.
Uses:
- It is an ornamental plant grown as hedge.
- Plant has analgesic, anti-inflammation and diurtic properties.
- Leaves acts as demulcent and laxative. Leave poultice is applied externally to soothe ulcers, boils and wounds while decotions are used to alleviate toothaches and relieve tender gums.
- Roots are used as aphrodisiac and nervine tonic and also manage fevers, chest affections and urinary disorders.
- Seeds have expectorant property and used in treatment of coughs, congestion and bronchitis.
- In Ayurvedic, it is known as “Atibala” for strength whereas in tribal remedies, acts as demulcent in Madhya Pradesh.
- Bark is used to yield fibers.
