Purple leatherleaf (Tephrosia purpurea)
Other names: Sarphonk, Sharpunkha, Wild indigo, Purple tephrosia
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Purple tephrosia, also known as Sarphonk, Sharpunkha, Wild indigo, or Purple tephrosia, is an herb belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is originally native to Asia, specifically the region of India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Today, however, it is widespread throughout the world. This plant has many medicinal properties and is widely used in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicine. In addition to its medicinal properties, this plant also has aesthetic value - the flowers are long, purple and often provide beautiful decoration for gardens.
The purple leatherleaf is mostly used in medicine and the pharmaceutical industry. Its effects are wide-ranging - it helps in healing the liver, improves metabolism, has anti-inflammatory effects, aids digestion and is also used in the treatment of asthma and bronchitis. Extracts from the plant are commonly added to various medicines and dietary supplements. Outside of medicine, purple loosestrife is also used in cosmetics. For example, the extract of the root is added to creams for sensitive skin or to products for eczema and psoriasis. It is also used to produce essential oils that are used in aromatherapy. In addition, in India it is also used as a fertiliser in agriculture. Because of its flavonoid content and other chemicals, the plant strengthens the soil and promotes the growth of other plants.