Pokok Susun Kelapa

Pokok Susun Kelapa is the Malay name for the plant with the scientific name Tabernaemontana divaricata, also commonly known as Crape Jasmine or Pinwheel Flower. This plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine across Asia, with various parts of the plant being utilised for their therapeutic properties. It is a source of numerous alkaloids and other bioactive compounds that have been the subject of modern scientific research.

Here are some of the traditional medicinal uses of Tabernaemontana divaricata:

General Properties and Uses

The plant is known in traditional medicine as a "panacea" or cure-all for a wide range of ailments. It is used for its:

• Analgesic (pain-relieving) properties: Used to treat headaches, rheumatic pain, and toothaches.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Used to reduce inflammation and swelling.
• Anti-diabetic potential: Some traditional practices use the plant to help manage blood sugar levels.
• Antioxidant and anti-microbial effects: The plant's extracts are used to combat infections and fight oxidative stress.

Uses of Specific Plant Parts

• Leaves:
  • Skin and Wound Care: The milky white latex from the leaves is applied topically to soothe wounds, reduce inflammation, and treat various skin diseases like scabies and boils.
  • Respiratory Health: In some traditions, the juice of the pounded leaves is used as a remedy for coughs and asthma.
  • Eye Care: The sap from the leaves or the juice of the flowers can be used in traditional eye drops to treat eye infections and sore eyes.
  • Fever: A decoction of the leaves is used to treat fever.
• Roots:
  • Digestive Health: The roots are traditionally used to treat diarrhoea, abdominal complaints, and as an anthelmintic (to expel parasitic worms).
  • Pain Relief: The roots are chewed to relieve toothaches and are also used to treat headaches and hypertension.
  • Resdung (Sinusitis): In some traditional Malay practices, the pounded roots are used to prepare a mixture that is inhaled to treat sinusitis.

• Flowers:
  • Neurological and Mental Health: The flowers are known to contain alkaloids that have been studied for their potential sedative, anti-epileptic, and anti-anxiety effects. They are also used as a brain tonic.
  • Anticancer Properties: Some studies have explored the anti-tumour potential of alkaloids found in the flowers, linking them to properties that inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
  • Aromatherapy: The pleasant fragrance of the flowers is used in traditional aromatherapy to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

It is crucial to consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any part of this plant for medicinal purposes. Self-medication is not recommended.