Botanical Overview
Alstonia scholaris is a flowering plant in the Apocynaceae family. Traditional medicine systems have documented several valuable applications for this species, supported by its observed therapeutic effects. The dogbane family (Apocynaceae) includes herbs, shrubs, vines, and trees with milky sap containing alkaloids and cardiac glycosides. The flowers are typically five-petaled and often showy with a tubular corolla. Many species in this family are highly toxic but also source of important cardiac medications.
General Description
Its natural range is from Pakistan to China, and south to northern Australia. It is a toxic plant, but is used traditionally for myriad diseases and complaints. It is called ‘Saptaparna’ in India and is the sacred tree of the 2nd Jain tirthankar Ajitnatha. It was first described by Linnaeus in 1767, who gave it the name Echites scholaris.
Family Context
The Apocynaceae family is primarily tropical and subtropical. Notable medicinal members include:
- Madagascar Periwinkle — 40 documented uses
- Oleander — 30 documented uses
- African Snakeroot — 28 documented uses
- Periwinkle — 27 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Alstonia scholaris has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Australia, China, Indonesia, India, Malaysia, and others.
Traditional Uses
Alstonia scholaris has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and skin and wound care, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Stomachic
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Respiratory conditions.
- Asthma
- Cough
- Expectorant
- Pneumonia
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Skin and wound care.
- Boil
For skin conditions, the fresh or dried plant is applied topically as a poultice, wash, or compress. A strong decoction can be used to clean wounds and sores. The antimicrobial properties help prevent infection while promoting tissue repair.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 2 compounds in this species: betulin, betulinic-acid.