Screw Tree ( Marrorr Phali )

Screw tree also known as Indian Screw Tree, East Indian Screw Tree, Deer’s Horn, Nut Leaved Screw Tree, Helicteres Isora is a species of small tree or large shrub found in Asia including Indian Subcontinent, South China, Malay Peninsula, Java and Saudi Arabia. Also, found in Australia. The red flowers are pollinated mainly by birds of the sunbird family. It possesses an impressive range of nutritional and medicinal properties.

It is a rich source of nutrients and antioxidants of therapeutic importance. Investigations have indicated that the plant has antioxidant, anticancer, anti-diabetic and antimicrobial properties.

It is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, calcium, phosphorus and iron. Different parts of the plant are traditionally used in the indigenous medicine system to cure various ailments. The roots and the bark are used as an expectorant, demulcent, constipating and lactifuge and useful in colic, scabies, gastropathy, diabetes, diarrhoea and dysentery. The fruits are used as astringents, refrigerant, stomachic, antispasmodic, haemostatic and vermifuge. They are useful in griping of bowels, flatulence, colic, diabetes, diarrhea and dysentery. The root juice and fruits are topically applied to cure snake bite. Fruit pods are highly nutritive.