Question 1

What is Callicarpa tomentosa used for in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

In Sri Lankan Ayurvedic practice, Callicarpa tomentosa is used in preparations targeting inflammation, wound healing, and fever. The leaves and bark are most commonly employed, either as decoctions or in topical poultices. These uses are based on traditional knowledge and should be explored under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.

Question 2

Where does Callicarpa tomentosa grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The shrub is found in the lowland and mid-elevation wet and intermediate zones of Sri Lanka, typically at forest margins, scrubland, and along streams. It tolerates disturbed habitats and secondary growth areas, making it relatively widespread in the island's southern and western lowlands.

Question 3

What does Callicarpa tomentosa look like?

Accepted Answer

It is a shrub growing one to three metres tall, with opposite woolly leaves and small pink or lilac flowers. Its most distinctive feature is the tight clusters of vivid violet-purple berries that ripen after flowering and remain on the plant for several weeks.

Question 4

Is Callicarpa tomentosa the same as beautyberry?

Accepted Answer

Callicarpa tomentosa belongs to the same genus as the commonly cultivated beautyberry plants (such as Callicarpa americana and Callicarpa japonica), and shares their characteristic purple berry clusters. However, it is a distinct species native to South and Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka, with its own documented ethnobotanical profile.

Question 5

Is Callicarpa tomentosa found in Ayurvedic medicine lists in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Callicarpa tomentosa is formally catalogued in the Sri Lankan Ayurvedic medicinal plant register maintained by the Department of Ayurveda. It is recognised as one of the indigenous plant species with documented traditional therapeutic applications.

Question 6

What compounds are found in Callicarpa tomentosa?

Accepted Answer

Phytochemical studies on the Callicarpa genus have identified flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic acids in various species. These classes of compounds are broadly associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory research. Specific clinical data on Callicarpa tomentosa remains limited.

Question 7

Can I see Callicarpa tomentosa growing in Sri Lanka's national parks?

Accepted Answer

The species is more commonly encountered in lowland secondary forest edges and scrubland than inside dense primary forest reserves. Visitors exploring the margins of reserves such as Sinharaja or travelling through rural lowland areas of the wet zone have the best chance of encountering it in the wild.