Justicia gendarussa or water willow has always been associated with the treatment of respiratory track diseases including the prevention of common cold or human influenza. Folk medicine has been using it for ages. It also finds mention in Ayurvedic, Unani and Homoe-opathic medical texts. Justicia gendarussa is recognised as a natural remedy for respiratory track diseases, including problems associated with the lungs.
Besides respiratory problems, Justicia gendarussa brings relief from inflammation, arthritis, migraine and fever. Recent scientific studies in Indonesia have supported the long-held belief of the tribals in Papua that the herb lowers fertility levels in men, and thus aids in family planning. Male contraceptive pills have been developed based on the plant extract. Doctors, however, differ on its efficacy as a family planning herb.
Though the entire plant is used in herbal medicine, it’s the leaf that is recommended for the treatment of health issues including stomach ache, facial paralysis, relief from asthma and heaviness in the chest. It provides relief from fever and acts as an emetic, i.e. it stimulates vomiting.