Tetracera scandens (L.) Merr.
Summary
Akar ampelas putih (Tetracera scandens) is a woody liana 3-4 meters long of the Dilleniaceae family, distributed from China and India to Southeast Asia including Indonesia. Its rough-textured leaves are commonly used by locals to smooth wood carving surfaces, while its stem is used as a binding cord. Beyond these uses, the plant is also believed to be effective against dysentery, boils, and burns.
Agroecology
Generally grows well in secondary forests, especially along riverbanks and near coastlines. Commonly found at elevations up to 1,000 m above sea level, with a soil pH below 7. This plant requires shaded areas and fertile soil.
Morphology
- Stem upright and woody, cylindrical, up to 16 cm in diameter.
- Leaves rough-textured, oblong-ovate to oblong, 6-12 cm long, toothed at the margins.
- Flowers numerous, white, about 8 mm in diameter, borne on terminal and axillary panicles 10-25 cm long.
- Fruit oval-oblong, pointed, nearly 1 cm long.
- Seeds hairy, toothed.
Cultivation
- Propagated generatively (by seed).
- Not yet cultivated; generally grows wild.
Chemical Content
Flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin, isoscutellarein, hypoletin, astragalin), terpenoids, alkaloids, phenols, essential oil, tannins, neophytadiene, hexadecanoic acid, terpenoids (stigmasterol, betulinic acid).
Benefits
Anti-diarrheal, antibacterial; treats hepatitis, swelling, and gout; anti-HIV; treats dysentery, boils, canker sores, burns, venomous animal bites; acts as a tonic and sedative; treats anemia and fever.
Simplisia
Not yet available
Local Names
Akosempalay (Jambi), Akar mempelas (Malay), Kasapan (Java), Rempelas (Aceh)
Traditional Recipes
The following recipes reflect traditional knowledge passed down through generations, not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or advice. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
1. Fever
- Wash 5-7 leaves of akar ampelas putih thoroughly.
- Boil the leaves in 2 cups of water until just starting to boil, then remove the leaves. Let them cool until warm.
- Apply the leaves to the forehead or the feverish body.
2. Relieving Itching
- Take a sufficient amount of leaves and root, wash thoroughly.
- Pound the ingredients until fine.
- Apply to the itchy skin.
3. Postpartum Tonic
- Take a sufficient amount of the whole plant, wash thoroughly.
- Boil until the liquid is reduced by half.
- Drink the decoction.