🌿 Herbal & Medicinal Uses of Ponnankanni Keerai

1. Eye Health

• Traditionally believed to improve eyesight

• Rich in vitamin A, which helps prevent night blindness

2. Liver Health

• Acts as a natural liver detoxifier

• Used in Siddha and Ayurvedic medicine for jaundice treatment

3. Skin Care

• Helps treat acne, eczema, and skin irritations

• Known for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties

4. Blood Purification

• Helps purify the blood and improve circulation

5. Menstrual Health

• Used to regulate menstruation and reduce pain or irregular cycles

6. Hair Health

• Juice is used traditionally to treat dandruff and promote hair growth

7. Digestive Aid

• Stimulates digestion and improves appetite

• Helps relieve constipation and gastric discomfort
  
  

🌿 Plant Classification

• Kingdom: Plantae

• Family: Amaranthaceae

• Genus: Alternanthera

• Species: A. sessilis
  
  

🌱 Plant Description

• Type: Spreading, low-growing herb

• Height: 10–30 cm (groundcover plant)

• Stems: Reddish or green, soft, and creeping

• Leaves: Small, oval, green with reddish tinge; succulent

• Flowers: Tiny, white or purplish in axillary clusters

🌿 Growth Requirements

• Climate: Tropical and subtropical

• Soil: Moist, fertile, and well-drained

• Light: Full sun to partial shade

• Watering: Requires regular moisture; drought-resistant once established

🌱 Propagation

• By Cuttings: Easily grows from stem cuttings

• By Seeds: Also possible, though cuttings are more common

🗓️ Harvest Time

• Can be harvested 30–40 days after planting

• Leaves are harvested for both culinary and medicinal use

🍲 Culinary Uses

• Commonly used in poriyal, kootu, soups, and dal

• Can be juiced or consumed raw in small quantities for medicinal benefits

⚠️ Precautions

• Use in moderation; excess consumption may lead to loose stools due to its cooling nature