Cheilocostus speciosus (J.Koenig) C.D.Specht
Spiral Ginger / Dawar-dawar/Tawar-tawar/Badui (Bru.)
Description
Traditional Medicinal Uses
Ecology
Propagation
Distribution
Precaution
Perennial herb that can grow up to 1.5 m tall. Leaves are simple, spirally arranged and thickly leathery. Leaf blade is elliptic to oblong-lanceolate, acute at apex, subrounded at base with entire margin. Stems are sheathing and slightly woody at the base. Flowers are large and white with yellow tinge. Inflorescence a terminal cone-like spike. Fruit a globosely triangular, red capsule. Seeds are black and glossy. Rhizomes are yellowish-brown at the outer surface and sheathing at the
The tubers and rhizomes are made into a decoction and taken to relieve indigestion and aching joints. The tubers are also eaten to treat coughs and other chest problems. The plant is known for its anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antidiarrheal, antimutagenic, antimicrobial, antibacterial, antioxidant,
It prefers sandy soil under a sunny position. It is commonly found cultivated in pots, in open settled areas, in dry forests and along roadsides.
Seeds and rhizome division.
Widely distributed in tropical Asia and Australia.
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