Cocculus pendulus, commonly known as Pilwan, is a small flowering plant found in India, Nepal, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
It belongs to the family Menispermaceae.
The active compounds in Cocculus pendulus include alkaloids such as cocculine, which has been shown to have antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Other alkaloids found in the plant, such as picrotoxin and menispermine.
The Pilwan plant is a visually striking specimen with a unique physical appearance.
Standing tall and slender, it boasts a height reaching up to 6 feet (1.8 meters).
Its stems are adorned with delicate, feathery leaves that form a graceful canopy.
The foliage is a vibrant shade of emerald green, lending a refreshing and captivating aura to any space it inhabits.
The Pilwan plant also showcases vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers in an array of stunning colors, ranging from radiant reds to soothing purples.
Its overall appearance is one of elegance and beauty, making it a captivating addition to any botanical collection or garden.
Despite its traditional uses, Cocculus pendulus can be toxic when consumed in large quantities.
The plant contains picrotoxin, which is a potent convulsant and can cause seizures and respiratory failure.
For this reason, it is important to use Cocculus pendulus with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner.
The plant has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, including as a treatment for fever, stomach ailments, and snakebite.
It is also used as a natural insecticide, and the dried fruit of the plant is sometimes used as a fish poison.
The plant have been studied for their potential as insecticides and for their effects on the nervous system.