Botanical description
Salacia reticulata belongs to category of climbing woody shrubs and has distinct morphological appearance of dichotomous branching pattern. The Bark of the plant is thin, smooth and appears greenish grey in colour. The leaf morphology is elliptic-oblong with oppositely arrangement. Leaf-base is acute, apex abruptly acuminate, margin are toothed with minute rounded teeth. The flowers are hermoprodites, with both stamens and pistils, greenish-white to greenish-yellow in colour and are arranged as 2-8 clustered in leaf axils. The fruit consists thin skin and a central stone, and is globose and tubercular in shape.
Habitat
S. reticulata is an indigenous, flowering plant of the genus Salacia grown in dry zone forests in India and Sri Lanka. In the vernacular, it is known as Ponkoranti (Tamil), Anukudu cettu (Telugu), Ekanayakam (Kannada), and Ekanayakam, Ponkoranti, or Koranti (Malayalam).
Traditional use
S. reticulata, known as Vairi or Pitika in Sanskrit, has been recognized for its use in various traditional wellness practices worldwide. This plant has been traditionally utilized to support general health and well-being. It has been associated with supporting healthy blood glucose levels, joint health, and overall vitality. Research studies have explored its role in promoting a healthy weight, supporting joint comfort, and fostering skin health. Additionally, traditional uses have included the support of respiratory health and menstrual health. The stem and roots of the plant are particularly noted for their contribution to maintaining normal blood glucose levels as part of a balanced lifestyle