Question 1

What is Erycibe paniculata used for in traditional medicine?

Accepted Answer

Erycibe paniculata is catalogued among Sri Lanka's ayurvedic medicinal plants. Ethnobotanical records suggest that related species in the Erycibe genus have been used in traditional Asian medicine for their reported analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Clinical research on the species is limited, so its uses remain documented primarily through traditional practice.

Question 2

What family does Erycibe paniculata belong to?

Accepted Answer

Erycibe paniculata belongs to the family Convolvulaceae, the same family that includes morning glories and sweet potatoes. Within that family, the genus Erycibe is made up of woody tropical climbing vines found across South and Southeast Asia.

Question 3

Where does Erycibe paniculata grow naturally?

Accepted Answer

The species is native to tropical Asia and grows naturally in lowland and mid-elevation tropical forests across South and Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka. In Sri Lanka it is found in humid, closed-canopy forest habitats, typically in the wet zone of the island.

Question 4

Is Erycibe paniculata listed in Sri Lanka's official ayurvedic pharmacopoeia?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is included in the catalogue of ayurvedic medicinal plants maintained by Sri Lanka's Department of Ayurveda. This official listing places it within the formal institutional record of plants recognised for use in traditional medicine on the island.

Question 5

How do I identify Erycibe paniculata in the wild?

Accepted Answer

It is a woody liana with simple, alternate, leathery leaves and small white or cream flowers borne in panicles — branched clusters — which give the species its name. The fruit is a small, dark berry. It climbs supporting trees and tends to be found at forest edges or in dense secondary forest.

Question 6

What is the significance of Sri Lanka's medicinal plant diversity?

Accepted Answer

Sri Lanka's varied climate and topography support an exceptionally high level of plant biodiversity relative to its land area. This has resulted in a rich ayurvedic tradition drawing on hundreds of native species. The island's forest reserves and national parks play a key role in conserving these plant populations alongside the traditional knowledge built around them.

Question 7

Are there scientific studies on Erycibe paniculata?

Accepted Answer

Formal pharmacological research on Erycibe paniculata specifically is limited. Some scientific literature addresses related Erycibe species found in other parts of Asia, documenting phytochemical constituents and biological activities, but comprehensive clinical studies on the Sri Lankan population of this species have not been widely published.