oikos : for Ecological Services

June - 2010
Dear Nature Lovers, Happy environment day ! Monsoon is at doorsteps and just like us many plants are also waiting to get splash of first showers. Madhunashini is one such climber which flowers during early rains. This medicinal climber can also be used in gardens and parks for beautification and to attract bees and insects. Lets conserve, & nurture such native plants with natural systems and celebrate each day as Environment Day !
Regards, Ketaki & Manasi.
Madhunashini / Bedakicha pala Scientific name: Gymnema sylvestre Family: Ascelpidaceae This evergreen climber grows on bushes, clusters in open areas from deciduous to semi evergreen forest types. It forms thick clusters that can provide habitats for local wildlife in open areas. Flowers are yellow colored and grow in clusters (umbellate cymes of 2-3 cm in dia), but single flower is very small, 0.5 cm in diameter. Fruits (follicles) can grow up to 6-8 cm in length with flat winged seeds. Interesting thing about this climber is that chewing of its leaves causes numbness to the taste buds for a little time. It is also used traditionally in treating diabetes and snake bites.

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