Question 1

What is Rungia repens used for in ayurvedic medicine?

Accepted Answer

Rungia repens is used in Sri Lankan and South Asian ayurvedic traditions primarily for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and digestive properties. It is typically prepared as a decoction or paste and applied topically or taken internally as part of a compound formulation. Village practitioners have used it for skin conditions, mild respiratory complaints, and joint discomfort.

Question 2

Where does Rungia repens grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The plant is most common in Sri Lanka's wet zone, particularly in shaded, moist environments such as forest margins, stream banks, and paddy-field edges. It also grows in home gardens across the south-western lowlands. It can be found in parts of the intermediate zone as well, wherever adequate moisture and shade are available.

Question 3

What plant family does Rungia repens belong to?

Accepted Answer

Rungia repens belongs to the family Acanthaceae. It is a small, creeping herb native to tropical Asia, including Sri Lanka, India, and parts of Southeast Asia. The plant produces small purple or violet flowers in dense spikes.

Question 4

Is Rungia repens the same as a common weed?

Accepted Answer

Rungia repens can appear weed-like in that it grows readily in disturbed and cultivated ground without deliberate cultivation. However, its medicinal value in the ayurvedic tradition means it is regarded as a useful herb rather than simply an unwanted plant. It is easy to propagate and maintain in a kitchen garden.

Question 5

Are there scientific studies on Rungia repens?

Accepted Answer

Research into the Acanthaceae family has identified bioactive compounds — including alkaloids and flavonoids — in several related species. Formal clinical research specifically on Rungia repens remains limited, and most documentation of its therapeutic use comes from traditional medical texts and ethnobotanical surveys. University research programmes in Sri Lanka and India continue to investigate the pharmacological properties of plants in this family.

Question 6

Can I harvest Rungia repens from the wild in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Rungia repens is not listed as an endangered species, and small-scale collection from non-protected habitats is generally permissible. Sri Lanka's Department of Ayurveda advises sustainable harvesting practices: take only what is needed, leave root systems intact, and avoid collection within protected forest reserves. Growing the plant in a home garden is a more reliable and sustainable alternative.

Question 7

What other ayurvedic plants are catalogued in Sri Lanka alongside Rungia repens?

Accepted Answer

Sri Lanka's ayurvedic materia medica includes several hundred plant species. Commonly documented alongside Rungia repens are species such as Pongamia pinnata, Acacia chundra, and Syzygium aromaticum, as well as many plants used in compound formulations like Yogaraja Guggulu and Kaishore Guggulu. The national catalogue is maintained by the Ministry of Indigenous Medicine.