Description

Climber with short, elliptical leaves, white or white-green flowers, and round red or black fruits.

Habitat & Cultivation

Native to India and Southeast Asia, embelia grows in hilly regions. The fruit is harvested when ripe.

Part Used

Fruit.

Constituents

Embelia contains naphthaquinones, including embelin. Embelin stimulates the production of estrogen and progesterone, and it may have a contraceptive effect.

Medicinal Actions & Uses

Embelia has been used in Asia as a home remedy for expelling worms. The herb is also diuretic and relieves flatulence, and is used for indigestion, colic, constipation, and debility.

Cautions

Use only under professional supervision. Do not take during pregnancy.