Question 1

Is Nerium oleander used in traditional Sri Lankan medicine?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Nerium oleander — known locally as Kaneru in Sinhala and Arali in Tamil — is catalogued as an ayurvedic medicinal plant in Sri Lanka. Trained vaidyas have historically used highly controlled preparations from its root bark for skin conditions and as a topical analgesic. Its use is strictly regulated due to the plant's significant toxicity.

Question 2

Why is Nerium oleander considered poisonous?

Accepted Answer

All parts of the plant contain cardiac glycosides, particularly oleandrin and neriine, which disrupt the electrical signalling of the heart. Ingesting even small amounts can cause nausea, abnormal heart rhythms, and in severe cases can be fatal. This is why any medicinal application requires expert preparation and is not suitable for home use.

Question 3

What does Nerium oleander look like?

Accepted Answer

It is an evergreen shrub or small tree, typically two to five metres tall, with narrow, dark-green leaves arranged in whorls of three. The flowers appear in clusters at the tips of branches and come in shades of pink, red, white, or occasionally yellow, depending on the variety.

Question 4

Can I grow Nerium oleander safely in a garden?

Accepted Answer

The plant can be grown as an ornamental with basic precautions. Avoid ingesting any part of it, wear gloves when pruning, and keep the plant away from children and livestock. Do not burn oleander wood, as the smoke contains toxic compounds. Washing hands after handling is advisable.

Question 5

Where is Nerium oleander commonly found in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The shrub grows widely in Sri Lanka's lowland dry and intermediate zones and is a frequent sight along major highways, in temple gardens, and around homesteads across the island. It tolerates poor soils, drought, and coastal conditions, making it one of the most widespread ornamental plants in the country.

Question 6

Is there scientific research into oleander as a cancer treatment?

Accepted Answer

Preclinical studies have identified cytotoxic properties in oleander extracts, and an extract called Anvirzel has been tested in early-phase oncology trials. However, no approved cancer treatment based on oleander currently exists, and self-medication is extremely dangerous given the plant's narrow margin between a potentially useful and a lethal dose.

Question 7

What is the Sinhala name for Nerium oleander?

Accepted Answer

In Sinhala, the plant is most commonly called Kaneru (කණේරු). In Tamil, particularly in Sri Lanka's Northern and Eastern provinces, it is known as Arali. Both names refer to the same species and are widely recognised across the island.