Family Name: Malvaceae
Botanical Name(s): Sida Spinosa
Popular Name(s): Nagabala, Gorakchaulia, Gulsakari, Kadumenthys,
Kantalo-Bal, Kattuvantiyam, Mayir-Mamkkam, Pilabarela, Tukati-Khareti
Parts Used: Leaves and root
Habitat: Bonmethi is found in India and Sri Lanka.
Description: Bonmethi is an annual plant with branching stems
that are covered with fine white hairs. Its alternate leaves are up to 2"
long and 1" across. They are ovate or ovate-oblong and crenated
along the margins. Its flowers are about 1/3" across and consist of
5 spreading petals that are light yellow or light orange in colour. Its
seeds are reddish brown and 3-angled
Uses: Bonmethi leaves are used as demulcent and refrigerant.
These are used to cure gonorrhoea, gleet and scalding urine. Decoction
of its root-bark and root is used in debility and fever.
