- Promotes relief from abdominal spasm & pain
- Promotes wellbeing from intestinal infestations & loose motions
- Supports as antioxidant and blood purifier
- Supports low blood sugar levels
- Excellent cure for gastrointestinal problems
- Health booster for new mothers
- The screw tree for skin problems
- Helps manage diabetes
- Effective for treating respiratory diseases
Botanical name: Helicteres isora or Screw tree is a sub-deciduous shrub or small tree with grey coloured bark. East Indian Screw Plant is used as medicine since ancient time, in organized (Ayurveda, Unani & Siddha) and unorganized (folk, native & tribal) form. In these systems, Marodphali is described as a medicinal plant which is used in several diseases. Screw is commonly known as Marodphali, Marorphali, etc. due to screw like appearance of its fruit. In Sanskrit it is called Avartani and Mriga-shinga which literally means deer’s horn. Marodphali or Avartani is used as a folk medicine to support relief from snake bite, diarrhoea and constipation of new born baby.
As per Ayurveda Marodphali helps to pacify aggravated kapha and pitta both from upper and lower parts of the body. Traditionally Marodphali’s are supposed to be used for improving physical stamina and strength. According to Ayurveda, seeds are astringent, fruit is supposed to be used intestinal discomfort and colic. Marodphali supports as antioxidant and helps to purify blood. Regular use of Marodphali may help proper utilisation of sugar molecules from Intestine to maintain low blood sugar levels. East Indian screw tree fruit promotes relaxation of intestinal muscles and helps healthy digestion.
As per scientific study Helicteres contains quinolone alkaloid & tanins which supports to reduce frequency of loose motions and intestinal infestations if any.
External application of paste helps to get rid of pigmentation and itching response. In olden days Marodphali seeds powder was applied with castor oil in case of ear discharge and ulcers with great efficiency.