Oldenlandia corymbosa L.

 

Family: Rubiaceae

Synonym: Hedyotis biflora var. corymbosa (L.) Kurz 

Vernacular name: Onathumba, Parpadakapullu

Habit: Herb

Habitat: Degraded forest areas, also in the plains

Distribution: Paleotropics

Flowering and Fruiting: April-September

Key identification features: It’s a prostrate herb which bears flowers ranging from 2-6 in a cluster known as a corymb. These flowers are four-parted, or 4-merous, and feature a white corolla. The fruit of the plant is a nearly spherical capsule that opens loculicidally, meaning it dehisces only at the top.

Uses: The leaves are pounded, soaked in warm water and the liquid drunk to treat stomach disorders. They are used externally as a poultice to treat sores and sore eyes.