Botanical name: Jatropha gossypiifolia L.
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Hindi: रतनजोती, लाल व्याघ्रैरण्ड
It is native to South America but is commonly found in the all provinces. In the south, people plant it in their homes.
Jatropha gossypiifolia is found growing in abundance along roadsides and in wastelands. Its plants are 1-2 meters tall, with leaves divided into 3-5 segments, and red flowers. Mucous glands appear in the form of hairs on the leaf margins, petioles, and sub-leaflets, making the plant sticky to the touch. Its root has a camphor-like odor. It is considered a good toothbrush.
Chemical composition: Jatropha gossypiifolia seeds contain 30% light yellow oil, sugar, starch, and a ricin-like toxic substance called curcin.
Properties and uses: Jatropha gossypiifolia root is carminative, digestive, and absorbent. Its oil is a strong laxative like jasmine. Due to its uncontrolled action, it is not used internally.Applying the plant’s milk to a wound forms a thin layer that stops bleeding, protects the skin, and helps the wound heal faster. It is used for treating conditions like ringworm, eczema, and problems on the palms. A boiled leaf mixture is used in a similar way. Gargling with it helps stop gum bleeding and makes teeth stronger. The plant’s stick is also useful when used as a toothbrush.
Its oil is used on itchy skin, herpes, eczema, and other skin problems. It is also helpful for joint pain (rheumatism) and for cleaning wounds.
To help mothers produce more milk, the leaves are gently heated and tied to the breast.
In the Konkan region, for problems like indigestion, diarrhea, or stomach pain, people grind a small piece of the fresh root (about finger-length) with seven black peppercorns and a little asafoetida. They then give the juice mixed with milk