Barleria lupulina or Hophead is a mountainous plant that grows wild in the hilly regions of India. It is not native to India, Barleria was introduced into the country from outside. Thanks to its medicinal properties, local Ayurvedic and Unani practitioners included this herb in their pharmacopeia. The herb is also called the Philippine violet.
Barleria is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and is widely used in Ayurveda and Unani to treat insect bites. Some traditional herbalists prescribe it for snake bites too. It is used in massage to keep the skin free of harmful bacteria and germs.
Hophead is often prescribed for the treatment of herpes simplex as it calms the nervous system and relaxes the muscles. It is also used for relief from painful boils and to control the blood sugar levels. Barleria is considered a natural treatment for rheumatic pains, pimples, ulcers in the intestines and as a pain relief balm. Barleria helps in bringing down the high glucose levels in the blood, and thus it is prescribed in traditional medicine as an anti-diabetic herb.
Note: Those allergic to certain herbs should avoid them.
Disclaimer: Consult a professional before trying herbal formulations at home.
Home remedies
w For relief from painful insect bites, including those by centipedes,
take the fresh leaves of Barleria lupulina, crush them and apply on the
affected area. It reduces swelling, redness and pain.
w For relief from boils, gently apply the paste obtained from the roots of Barleria lupulina on the affected portion. This reduces the swelling and the
associated pain. A decoction obtained from the leaves, if taken in a small
quantity, will also give relief from boils.
w Take a couple of fresh leaves of the Barleria lupulina, crush them and mix
them with a little quantity of lime. Apply the paste on the affected
area for relief from rheumatic pains.
w The paste obtained from the leaves stops bleeding from wounds and helps in
quick healing thanks to the herb’s anti-microbial properties.
w Herbal balms made of Barleria lupulina are available as skin ointments.