Vallikanjiram (Tiliacora Acuminata)

Tiliacora acuminata, also known as Chinese cat’s claw or yanang in Thai, is a climbing vine plant that belongs to the Menispermaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

The plant has large, heart-shaped leaves that can reach up to 20cm in length and 15cm in width. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a smooth texture. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that grow in clusters.

Tiliacora acuminata is known for its medicinal properties and is widely used in traditional medicine in Southeast Asia. The leaves, stem, and roots of the plant contain various bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and triterpenoids. These compounds have been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties.

In traditional medicine, Tiliacora acuminata is used to treat a variety of health conditions, including fever, cough, asthma, arthritis, and diabetes. It is also used as a natural remedy for detoxification, to improve digestion, and to promote overall health and wellness.

The plant is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions and can be grown in a variety of soil types. It is relatively easy to propagate by cuttings or by planting the seeds. However, caution should be exercised when using Tiliacora acuminata as a medicinal plant, as some of its bioactive compounds may interact with certain medications or have adverse effects in high doses.