Ceylon Tebok (scientific name: Mesua ferrea ) is an evergreen tree that grows to a height of about 20m and is found mainly in India and Southeast Asia. In India, it is often planted in temple grounds as a sacred tree, and its large white flowers, which grow to about 10cm in diameter, are highly ornamental and are used as trees lining streets and in parks.
In traditional medicine (Ayurveda, etc.), the bark, flowers, seeds, oils, etc. are used for medicinal purposes, and have been widely used as antibacterial agents and to treat disorders of the respiratory tract, digestive tract, skin, and nervous system. According to literature, it is used to alleviate symptoms such as hemoptysis, dysentery, diarrhea, rashes, hiccups, and convulsions.
In terms of ingredients, plant components such as flavonoids , xanthones , phenols , and essential oil components have been reported, and based on the background of these components, basic research and some pharmacological research have suggested that they may have physiological activities such as antibacterial , anti-inflammatory , antioxidant , analgesic , and neuromodulatory properties .
Characteristics of Ceylon Tebok
- Scientific name: Mesua ferrea
- Classification: Calophyllaceae, Mesua genus
- Other names: Ceylon ironwood, Nagakesara (traditional name)
- Appearance: An evergreen tree that grows to a height of about 20m and produces large white flowers.
- Parts used: bark, flowers, seeds, oils and fats
Expected effects
- Antibacterial effect: It has been reported to have growth inhibitory activity against some bacteria and fungi.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: It has been suggested that it may contribute to reducing inflammatory responses by regulating inflammatory mediators.
- Antioxidant effect: It has been suggested that it may contribute to reducing oxidative stress and protecting cells.
- Analgesic effect: It has been suggested that it may contribute to the reduction of pain and discomfort.
- Neuromodulatory effects: It has been suggested that it may contribute to maintaining nervous system balance.
- Respiratory support: It has been suggested that it may contribute to the relief of respiratory disorders such as hemoptysis and coughing.
- Digestive support: It has been suggested that it may help alleviate digestive problems such as dysentery and diarrhea.
- Maintains skin condition: It has been suggested that it may contribute to reducing skin discomfort such as rashes.
- Supports neuromuscular regulation: It has been suggested that it may contribute to regulating neuromuscular responses such as hiccups and convulsions.
