Podophyllum hexandrum, also known as the
Himalayan May Apple, is a medicinal plant with a variety of uses, primarily in traditional medicine. It is known for its
anticancer properties, particularly due to the presence of
podophyllotoxin, which is used in the synthesis of anti-cancer drugs like etoposide and teniposide. Additionally, it has been traditionally used to treat skin diseases, digestive issues, and as a purgative and laxative.
Specific Uses:
Anticancer :
Podophyllotoxin, found in the rhizomes, is a key ingredient in the synthesis of drugs like
etoposide and
teniposide, which are used in the treatment of various cancers including lung cancer, leukemia, and other solid tumors.
Skin Diseases : The crushed leaves and roots are used to treat skin diseases, rashes, and eczema.
Digestive Issues : Ripe fruit juice is traditionally used for stomach ulcers and dyspepsia, and the fruit itself is eaten raw for chest congestion and gastric problems.
Purgative and Laxative : The rhizome powder is used as a purgative and laxative, and the resin is used in veterinary medicine as a cathartic for dogs.
Traditional Medicine : In various regions, it is used to treat a wide range of ailments including colds, constipation, septic wounds, burning sensations, erysipelas, mental disorders, plague, allergic and inflammatory skin conditions, and even some forms of cancer.
Other : The pericarp of the mature red fruit is used to treat eye wounds in cattle.
