Clerodendrum indicum
Synopsis of clerodendrum indicum
Clerodendrum indicum, also known as Turk’s Turban, Skyrocket, or Bharangi (in Ayurveda), is a tall, erect shrub belonging to the Lamiaceae (mint) family. Native to tropical Asia, particularly India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia, this plant is known for its tubular, trumpet-shaped flowers and has been traditionally used in various systems of medicine for its respiratory, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties.
The roots, leaves, and sometimes flowers of Clerodendrum indicum are used medicinally and are rich in flavonoids, sterols, terpenoids, saponins, and essential oils, which contribute to its diverse therapeutic actions. One of the plant's most established traditional uses is as an expectorant and bronchodilator, making it a valuable herb for treating chronic coughs, asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions. It is often used to loosen phlegm, clear the airways, and support easier breathing.
In modern research, extracts of Clerodendrum indicum have shown anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant effects. Animal studies suggest potential for reducing inflammation, protecting liver tissue from toxin-induced damage, and inhibiting microbial growth, particularly in respiratory or urinary infections. The plant is also being investigated for possible anti-cancer properties, though this research is still in early stages.
Its bitter, astringent qualities and affinity for the respiratory and digestive systems also make it useful for cleansing toxins (ama in Ayurveda), improving digestion, and reducing fever. It is commonly used as a decoction, powder, or juice, especially in combination with other herbs.
Historical Use
In Ayurvedic medicine, Clerodendrum indicum is known as Bharangi, and has been valued for thousands of years as a key herb for the management of respiratory diseases, including chronic sinusitis, hoarseness, asthma, and coughs with thick mucus. It is classified as ushna (warming), tikta (bitter), and kapha-vata reducing, meaning it helps to clear congestion, balance air and phlegm energies, and stimulate metabolic fire.
Traditional texts like the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita describe Bharangi as an herb that "clears the channels," promotes expectoration, and rejuvenates the body after chronic respiratory illness. It was also used in fever, liver disorders, skin eruptions, and snake bites. The roots were often decocted, sometimes with honey or ghee, and administered as part of cleansing and rejuvenating therapies (rasayana).
In Unani and Siddha medicine, Clerodendrum indicum was also used for asthma, indigestion, and inflammatory swellings, often in paste or decoction form. The plant was recognized for its cooling effect on the lungs and anti-congestive properties, and was also given in cases of internal inflammation and liver sluggishness.
Today, Clerodendrum indicum remains a valued plant in Ayurvedic respiratory and detox formulas, particularly in herbal syrups, lung tonics, and immunity-boosting blends. While it is less known in Western herbalism, it continues to gain attention in ethnopharmacological research for its promising effects on inflammation, infection, and liver support.
Clerodendrum indicum is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Abrasions (Traditional)
Abscesses (Traditional)
Antibiotics (alternatives to) (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bites and Stings (Traditional)
Bleeding (external) (Traditional)
Boils (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Canker Sores (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Dyspepsia (Traditional)
Ear Infection or Earache (Traditional)
Eczema (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Indigestion (Traditional)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Injuries (Traditional)
Insect Repellant (Traditional)
Jaundice (adults) (Traditional)
Kidney Infection (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Malaria (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Parasites (general) (Traditional)
Parasites (nematodes, worms) (Traditional)
Parasites (tapeworm) (Traditional)
Rashes and Hives (Traditional)
Snake Bite (Traditional)
Staph Infections (Traditional)
clerodendrum indicum is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Products containing clerodendrum indicum
Nature's Sunshine Bronchial Formula (Ayurvedic)
Nature's Sunshine Respiratory System (30 Day Program)
