Question 1

What is Helicteres isora used for in Ayurvedic medicine?

Accepted Answer

Helicteres isora is used in Sri Lankan Ayurvedic medicine to treat digestive disorders, skin conditions, respiratory complaints, and inflammatory conditions. The root, bark, and fruit pods are each applied to different conditions, typically as decoctions, powders, or topical pastes. Preparations should be taken under the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.

Question 2

What does Helicteres isora look like?

Accepted Answer

It is a small shrub or tree growing typically 1–3 metres tall, with broad slightly heart-shaped leaves, orange-red flowers, and distinctively twisted, screw-like seed pods. The coiled pods are the plant's most recognisable feature and are the source of its English common name, East Indian screw tree.

Question 3

Where does Helicteres isora grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The plant is most commonly found in dry lowland forests and scrublands, particularly in the North Central, North Western, and Eastern provinces of Sri Lanka. It favours well-drained, sandy or rocky soils and is well adapted to seasonal drought conditions.

Question 4

Is Helicteres isora the same as Valamba or Murva?

Accepted Answer

Helicteres isora is referred to by several vernacular names across South and Southeast Asia. In Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic texts it appears under names including Valamba and related designations depending on regional tradition. The plant is distinct from the Murva of Sanskrit texts, which refers to a different species, so local Ayurvedic practitioners are the best source for clarifying regional nomenclature.

Question 5

Does science support the medicinal claims for Helicteres isora?

Accepted Answer

Preclinical research has identified bioactive compounds including flavonoids, tannins, and saponins, with laboratory studies suggesting antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity. These findings are broadly consistent with traditional applications. However, large-scale human clinical trials remain limited, so the scientific evidence base is still developing.

Question 6

Can I buy Helicteres isora products in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Preparations incorporating Helicteres isora ingredients — including decoctions and powdered formulations — are available through registered Ayurvedic pharmacies and government Ayurvedic hospitals across Sri Lanka. Standardised products are regulated by the Department of Ayurveda. It is advisable to purchase from licensed outlets and to use preparations under professional guidance.

Question 7

Is Helicteres isora found in Sri Lanka's national parks?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the plant grows naturally in the dry-zone habitats protected within several national parks and reserves in Sri Lanka's North Central and North Western provinces. Visitors to these parks may encounter the plant along forest margins, though it is not a primary attraction and should not be collected or disturbed within protected areas.