Vitex negundo

Vitex negundo (Five-leaved chaste tree, Hindi: Nirgundi') is a large, aromatic shrub with quadrangular, densely whitish, tomentose branchlets.

The leaves possess discutient properties and are applied to rheumatic swellings of the joints and in sprains. It can be applied locally in rheumatic arthritis and sprains. The juice of the leaves is used for the treatment of fetid discharges. Its principal constituents are casticin, isoorientin, chrysophenol D, luteolin, p–hydroxybenzoic acid and D-fructose. The plant has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and analgesic activities. These properties are useful in the treatment of superficial bruises, injuries, sores and skin infections.

The essential oil of V. negundo has been used to reduce inflammation and swelling of joints due to rheumatism and injuries. The main constituents of the oil are sabinene, linalool, terpinen-4-ol, β-caryophyllene, α-guaiene and globulol constituting 61.8% of the oil.

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