Graptophyllum
(Graptophyllum Pictum [L.] Griff.)

Tribe: Acanthaceae
Bulbs Name: Graptophylli Folium

Description

These leaves are often found growing wild in the countryside, or planted as an ornamental plant and the plant fence. Originally from New Guinea and Polynesia, can be found from the lowlands to the mountains with an altitude of 1250 m above sea level. Grows well in open places exposed to sunlight, with a dry or humid climate.
Shrub or small tree, 1.5-3 m tall, woody stems. Skin and leaves less slimy and smells bad. Branch angle blunt, shaped and segmented pole meeting. single leaf, short-stemmed, Situated opposite crossed, ovate to Lancet, a pointed tip and base, wavy edge, bone pinnate, 8-20 cm long, 3-13 cm wide, upper surface shiny purple. Compound interest, arranged in series in the form of bunches of 3-12 cm in length, red- purple color. Fruit fruit box, oval shaped, purple-brown color. Beans are sometimes 2, round shape, the color white.
There are 3 varieties, the purple-leaved, leafy green and white pinto. Used as medicine is a purple-leaved variety called Graptophyllum pictum (L.) Griff. luridosanguineum Sims var. These plants bloom throughout the year, but in Java rarely produce fruit. Propagation by stem cuttings.

Nature and Usefulness
Nutritious leaves as a facilitator urine (diuretic), accelerate the maturation of boils, mild laxative (laktaif), and skin softener (emoliens). Interest was efficacious as a facilitator of menstruation.

Chemical content
Leaves of this plant contains alkaloids that are not toxic, glokosida, saponins, tannins, chlorophyll, and mucus. Stem leaves contain calcium oxalate, formik acids, and fats.

Portion used
Leaves, bark and flowers are also efficacious drugs.

How to Use
As much as 10-15 g of fresh leaves boiled, then drink.
For external use, leaves or bark is cleaned and refined taste. Use to cover body parts that hurt.