Turnera ulmifolia L.
Summary
The eight o'clock flower (Turnera ulmifolia) is an erect shrub 30-150 cm tall of the Passifloraceae family, native to Mexico and the West Indies, now widely distributed as far as Java, Sumatra, Madura, and Kalimantan. Besides its beautiful flowers that make it a popular ornamental, this plant also serves as a natural pest-control agent in gardens. Traditionally, its leaves are used to relieve stomach ulcers, rheumatism, and headaches.
Agroecology
This plant is found growing wild in abandoned land, fields, cemetery grounds, and along waterways, growing in clusters. Generally grows in dry sandy areas at elevations of 10-250 m above sea level, in locations with direct sunlight or slight shade.
Morphology
- Roots taproot,
- Stem mature stems brown, hard, and woody.
- Leaves simple, lanceolate, coarsely toothed margins, pinnate venation, growing at the tips of the plant.
- Flowers solitary, bisexual, with 5 free petals, obovate, bright yellow. 5 stamens, 3 pistil styles shaped like brushes.
- Fruit a berry, round, 3-valved with a thick fruit skin. The fruit is protected by two bracts. The fruit grows at the leaf base.
Cultivation
Propagated by seed and stem cuttings. Cut a stem section 8-10 cm long. Planting hole 5 cm in diameter and 5 cm deep.
Chemical Content
Saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, phenolic compounds, amino acids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides.
Benefits
Treats duodenal ulcers, stomach ulcers, rheumatism, and joint swelling; antibiotic (against Staphylococcus aureus); treats headache.
Simplisia
Not yet available
Local Names
Ilat kucing or Lidah kucing (Java).
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. Swelling or Boils
- Pound a sufficient amount of fresh eight o'clock flower leaves.
- Add slaked lime (betel lime) as needed, then mix well.
- Apply to the boil or swollen area of the body.
2. Digestive Tract Disorders Caused by Staphylococcus aureus Bacteria
- Prepare several leaves and a sufficient amount of root, then wash under clean running water.
- Boil the herbal mixture until boiling and the water changes color. Once done, strain into a glass using a strainer and consume the mixture twice a day.