Scleromitrion diffusum (Willd.) R.J.Wang

 

Family – Rubiaceae

Synonym – Hedyotis diffusa Willd.; Oldenlandia diffusa (Willd.) Roxb. 

Vernacular names – Parpadakam; Parpadakapullu

Habit – Herb

Habitat – Degraded forest areas, also moist localities in the plains

Distribution – Tropical and Subtropical Asia and America

Flowering and Fruiting – August-November

Key Identification Features – These small diffuse herbs have narrow, linear leaves and white flowers. The flowers are axillary, solitary or in pairs, and the capsule contains minute, angular seeds.

Uses –Traditionally, it’s taken internally for coughs, asthma, and jaundice, and externally for snake bites and bruises. Modern research highlights its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential antitumor effects.