Calotropis

This giant milkweed species grows in tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and India. It produces a milk-like liquid used in traditional Indian medicine to treat skin diseases, rheumatism, and aches. When taken orally, caloptropis reportedly has potent anti-inflammatory, anti-fever, and anti-pain effects, although it can be quite toxic.

Common Name:	Calotropis
Other Names:	Mudar Bark, Mudar Yercum
Botanical Name:	Calotropis procera
Genus:	Calotropis
Family:	Zygophyllaceae
Location:	Widespread in tropical and subtropical regions
Cultivation:	Moist sandy soil in sun.
Propagation:	By seed sown in spring.
Harvest:	Fruits are collected when ripe and dried for decoctions.
Height:	15-90cm (6-36in)
Width:	15-90cm (6-36in)
Hardiness:	Z10
Parts Used:	Fruits
Properties:	A bitter-sweet, warming, diuretic herb that controls bleeding, has a tonic effect on the liver and kidneys, and stimulates the circulation. It is reputedly aphrodisiac..
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for impotence, premature ejaculation, sprematorrhea, frequent urination, kidney complaints, blurred vision due to deficient liver energy, lumbago, and nosebleeds; also to strengthen contractions during prolonged of difficult labor.
Culinary Uses:	Young leaves and shoots are cooked as a vegetable. Fruits are infused to make tea.
Economic Uses:	Extracts are added to bodybuilding formulas as an alternative to anabolic steroids..
Warning:	Subject to statutory control as a weed in certain areas.
Bibliography:	Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg 392