Vitex negundo

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Vitex negundo
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Magnoliopsida Order: Lamiales Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Vitex Species: V. negundo
Binomial name
Vitex negundo L.[1]

Latin  : Vitex negundo English : Five leaved chaste tree Hindi  : Nirgundi

Vitex negundo is a large, aromatic shrub with quadrangular, densely whitish, tomentose branchlets. Its principal constituents are casticin, isoorientin, chrysophenol D, luteolin, p–hydroxybenzoic acid and D-fructose. The leaves possess discutient properties and are applied to rheumatic swellings of the joints and in sprains. It can be applied locally in rheumatic arthritis and sprains. The juice of the leaves is used for the treatment of fetid discharges. They show anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and analgesic activities. It is useful in the treatment of superficial bruises, injuries, sores and skin infections. The essential oil of Vitex Negundo has been used to reduce inflammation and swelling of joints due to rheumatism and injuries. The main constituents of the oil are sabinene, linalool, terpinen-4-ol, β-caryophyllene, α-guaiene and globulol constituting 61.8% of the oil.

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