Question 1

What is Exallage auricularia used for in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

Exallage auricularia is documented in Sri Lanka's official Ayurvedic medicinal plant catalogue, where it is associated with traditional applications relating to urinary and digestive health. It is typically used as one component within compound Ayurvedic preparations rather than as a standalone remedy. Specific formulations and dosages are determined by trained Ayurvedic physicians.

Question 2

Is Exallage auricularia the same as Hedyotis auricularia?

Accepted Answer

Yes, these names refer to the same plant. Exallage auricularia has also been classified as Hedyotis auricularia and Oldenlandia auricularia in different periods of botanical taxonomy. The name used depends on which taxonomic authority the source follows; all three refer to the same species within the Rubiaceae family.

Question 3

Where does Exallage auricularia grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The plant is found across the lowland and mid-country wet zones of Sri Lanka, favouring moist, shaded habitats such as stream banks, paddy-field margins, and secondary forest edges. It also occurs in parts of the dry zone where seasonal moisture or groundwater is available.

Question 4

Is Exallage auricularia endemic to Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Exallage auricularia is not endemic to Sri Lanka; it is distributed across tropical Asia more broadly. However, it is included in the island's national Ayurvedic plant catalogue because it has been used in traditional Sri Lankan medicine and occurs naturally in the country's ecosystems.

Question 5

How is Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic plant catalogue maintained?

Accepted Answer

The Department of Ayurveda under Sri Lanka's Ministry of Health is responsible for officially cataloguing and regulating Ayurvedic medicinal plants in the country. The catalogue documents species used in traditional medicine, guides regulatory recognition of plant-based preparations, and supports research into indigenous pharmacopoeia.

Question 6

Can travellers learn about Ayurvedic plants while visiting Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Yes, several Ayurvedic centres, herb gardens, and wellness retreats across Sri Lanka offer guided introductions to the island's medicinal plant heritage. Visitors to rural areas, wetlands, and forest reserves may also encounter many catalogued species in their natural habitats, particularly during guided nature walks.

Question 7

What family does Exallage auricularia belong to?

Accepted Answer

Exallage auricularia belongs to the Rubiaceae family, which is one of the largest flowering plant families and includes well-known species such as coffee (Coffea) and gardenia. Within this family, Exallage is closely related to the genera Hedyotis and Oldenlandia.