Barleria prionitis or Porcupine flower: Vajradanti keeps dental health

By Syed Akbar
Barleria prionitis or porcupine flower is an ornamental plant, but some consider it as a weed. Ayurveda, Unani and other traditional systems of medicine the world over recognize the importance of Barleria prionitis as for as dental or oral health is concerned. Thanks to its unique properties of keeping teeth in good health and fighting tooth decay and gingivitis, this plant is popularly known as Vajradanti.
Apart from its dental benefits, Vajradanti is prescribed by practitioners of herbal medicine for problems like fever, respiratory diseases including whooping cough, joint pains including those related to arthritis, healing of wounds and boils, and curing of cracks in heels.
Some herbal experts believe that Barleria prionitis controls nocturnal emission and premature ejaculation in men. It is also recommended for removing worms from the digestive system. Other benefits of this herb include promotion of hair growth, increase in urine output and relief from scabies.
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Home remedies
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Herbal doctors recommend decoction of Barleria prionitis root for treatment of viral fevers. Take a few leaves, fresh or dried, wash them properly and put them in a bowl. Add a glass of water and boil it to obtain decoction. Filter the solution and consume it in small quantities twice a day.
If you are suffering from bleeding gums, loose teeth, dental cavities and sensitive teeth, Barleria prionitis is the best natural bet. You can do a mouth wash prepared from the root of this herb. Alternatively you can take dried leaves or roots, make them into powder. Take a little quantity and brush your teeth. It keeps the teeth strong and healthy.
The leaves of Barleria prionitis can be crushed and applied on wounds, boils and in joints for relief. It also reduces swelling.
Crushed leaves can also be applied on the scalp to fight fungal growth and promote hair growth. They can also be applied on cracks on the heels for relief.
Herbal doctors suggest dried bark powder for whooping cough. Paste obtained from roots can be applied on boils for relief from pain.