Murraya koenigii

HABIT: Murraya koenigii, or Curry leaf plant, is a compact evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Indian subcontinent. It features pinnate leaves with 12-24 lance-shaped leaflets, giving it a dense and bushy habit. Fragrant white flowers are borne in panicles during spring and summer, followed by small black berries. With its attractive foliage and compact size, Murraya koenigii is suitable for both container gardening and as an ornamental shrub, providing a steady supply of aromatic curry leaves.

CONSERVATION STATUS: Least concern. 

MEDICINAL USES: M. koenigii, has a wide range of traditional uses in Indian cookery and traditional medicine. In Indian cuisine, the green leaves are used as antihelminthics, analgesics, digestives, and appetizers. Medicinally, the leaves are applied topically to treat conditions such as piles, inflammation, itching, fresh cuts, dysentery, bruises, and edema. The roots have a mild purgative effect and are used for stimulating common body aches. The bark is known for its efficacy in treating snakebites. Moreover, the essential oil extracted from Curry leaves demonstrates antioxidative, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and nephroprotective properties, as observed in animal models (Balakrishnan, R., Vijayraja, D., Jo, S. H., Ganesan, P., Su-Kim, I., & Choi, D. K. (2020). Medicinal profile, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of Murraya koenigii and its primary bioactive compounds. Antioxidants, 9(2), 101.).

ETHNOBOTANICAL USES: Murraya koenigii, commonly known as Curry leaf plant, has diverse ethnobotanical uses. Its aromatic leaves are extensively used in Indian cuisine, adding flavor to curries, chutneys, and rice dishes. The plant holds cultural and religious significance, being used in rituals and festivities. It serves as an ornamental plant, enhancing the beauty of gardens and landscapes with its attractive foliage. The leaves can be utilized to make herbal teas and infusions, while their fragrance finds application in perfumes and aromatherapy. Additionally, Curry leaf plant is believed to repel insects naturally and is associated with traditional practices for its insect-repellent properties. Overall, Murraya koenigii enriches culinary experiences, cultural traditions, aesthetics, and natural remedies.