Question 1

Is Thevetia peruviana used in Sri Lankan ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Thevetia peruviana is catalogued among Sri Lanka's ayurvedic medicinal plants. Its bark, latex, and seed extracts appear in traditional formulations, primarily under expert supervision and after undergoing purification processes that reduce the plant's inherent toxicity before use.

Question 2

What are the toxic effects of Thevetia peruviana seeds?

Accepted Answer

The seeds contain cardiac glycosides, including thevetin A, thevetin B, and neriifolin, which can disrupt normal heart function if ingested. Even small amounts of unprepared seed material can cause serious symptoms. Medical attention should be sought immediately if accidental ingestion occurs.

Question 3

What does Thevetia peruviana look like?

Accepted Answer

It is an evergreen shrub or small tree with narrow, dark green glossy leaves and tubular, fragrant flowers that are typically bright yellow or peach-orange in colour. The fruit is a fleshy, angular structure that turns black when ripe and encloses a hard, nut-like seed.

Question 4

Where in Sri Lanka can you find Thevetia peruviana growing?

Accepted Answer

The plant grows widely across Sri Lanka's dry and intermediate zones, commonly seen along roadsides, in home gardens, and around temple grounds. It is often used as an ornamental hedge and thrives in well-drained soils with plenty of sunlight.

Question 5

Is Thevetia peruviana the same as yellow oleander?

Accepted Answer

Yes, yellow oleander is one of the most widely used common names for Thevetia peruviana. It is also known as lucky nut in parts of the Caribbean and tropical Asia. Despite superficial similarities in flower form, it is botanically distinct from Nerium oleander, the more widely known ornamental oleander.

Question 6

Can Thevetia peruviana be grown safely in a home garden in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The plant is grown in many Sri Lankan home gardens for its ornamental flowers, but caution is warranted if children or pets are present, as the seeds and fruit are toxic if eaten. Fallen fruit should be cleared regularly, and the plant should not be placed where animals might graze near it.

Question 7

What is the shodhana purification process used for toxic ayurvedic plants?

Accepted Answer

Shodhana is a classical ayurvedic purification technique applied to potent or toxic plant materials before they are used medicinally. It typically involves soaking, boiling, or processing the raw material with specific co-ingredients over defined periods to reduce harmful compounds while preserving therapeutic ones. Only trained practitioners carry out this process.