Gmelina elliptica Sm.

Wareng (Gmelina elliptica) is a thorny tree up to 10 meters tall of the Lamiaceae family, native to Southeast Asia, distributed as far as the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This plant is popular as a living hedge as well as bonsai material thanks to its unique shape. Wareng is traditionally believed to address bloating, toothache, and help prevent hair loss.

On the island of Java, wareng grows at elevations of 500 m above sea level. This plant can be found near coastlines. Prefers regions with temperature conditions of 21-28°C, soil pH 4-7, full sunlight or with shade, soil with sufficient moisture, sandy and clay soil texture.

• Stem has cambium, cylindrical shape, forms a square angle at the stem tip, length reaching 2-3.5 m with a diameter of 0.6-3 cm, has thorns on mature stems, light gray color, uneven bark surface.
• Leaves ovate somewhat oblong shape, 2-9.5 cm long, 1.5-5 cm wide, flat leaf sides, smooth surface, green in color, slightly hairy.
• Flowers compound gathered forming scales when not yet blooming, blooming flowers have 4 petals grown with fine yellow hair.
• Fruit round, young green, ripe yellow, about 2 cm long.

Propagated generatively (seed) and vegetatively (air layering and cuttings).

1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, diisoctyl ester, monolinoleoylglycerol trimethylsilyl ether.

Addresses bloating, itchy feet, gum inflammation, relieves headache, earache, toothache, treats beriberi, vermifuge, prevents hair loss.

• Wash wareng leaves or bark thoroughly using clean water.
• Air-dry for 5 days.
• Once dry, grind using a blender.
• Store in a closed plastic bag.

Bulangan, Pangranga.