Kamala (Mallotus philippensis), also known as "Kamala tree" or "Red Kamala," is a traditional medicinal plant widely used in Ayurveda and other systems of Indian medicine. Its reddish powder (extracted from the fruit glands and hairs) has historically been used for a variety of conditions, including as an anthelmintic (to expel worms), for skin diseases, and specifically in the management of leprosy (Hansen's disease). Ancient Ayurvedic texts mention Kamala as a remedy for "Kushta," a term that encompasses various chronic skin diseases, including leprosy. The rationale for its use is based largely on its perceived purifying and antiparasitic properties, as well as its ability to alleviate skin inflammation and lesions.

However, modern scientific research directly examining Kamala's efficacy against Mycobacterium leprae, the bacterium responsible for leprosy, is lacking. While some studies have reported antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities for extracts of Mallotus philippensis, these are not specifically targeted at leprosy. There is no robust clinical or pharmacological evidence supporting its use as a primary or adjunctive treatment for leprosy in contemporary medicine. Thus, its use for leprosy is justified primarily by traditional and historical precedent rather than by scientific validation.