Question 1

What is Pavonia odorata used for in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

Pavonia odorata is used in Ayurvedic medicine primarily for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. It appears in formulations targeting fever, urinary complaints, burning sensations, and skin irritation. The root is the most commonly used part of the plant.

Question 2

Where does Pavonia odorata grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The plant grows naturally in the dry and intermediate climatic zones of Sri Lanka, typically in open scrubland, grassland edges, and disturbed habitats at low to mid elevations. It is also cultivated in Ayurvedic herb gardens attached to traditional medicine institutions.

Question 3

What does Pavonia odorata smell like?

Accepted Answer

The plant is named 'odorata' — meaning fragrant — because its roots and foliage produce a pleasant musk-like scent. This fragrance is one of its distinguishing characteristics and contributes to its use in both medicinal and, to a lesser extent, cosmetic applications.

Question 4

Is Pavonia odorata native to Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Pavonia odorata is native to tropical Asia broadly, with its range covering Sri Lanka, India, and parts of Southeast Asia. In Sri Lanka it is considered part of the indigenous and naturalised medicinal flora documented in the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia.

Question 5

What plant family does Pavonia odorata belong to?

Accepted Answer

It belongs to the Malvaceae family, which includes well-known plants such as hibiscus and okra. Like many Malvaceae members, Pavonia odorata produces characteristic five-petalled flowers, in this case pale pink to white in colour.

Question 6

Are there scientific studies on Pavonia odorata?

Accepted Answer

Researchers have investigated extracts of Pavonia odorata for antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activity, finding results that broadly support traditional claims. However, clinical studies remain limited and the plant is not yet part of mainstream pharmaceutical production.

Question 7

How is Pavonia odorata prepared as medicine?

Accepted Answer

Traditional preparations typically involve decoctions or pastes made from the dried root. The root may be boiled in water to create a cooling drink, or ground into a paste for topical application. In compound formulations, it is combined with other herbs according to classical Ayurvedic texts.