What to know about Canna indica (cannas) before using it medicinally

Canna indica, commonly known as cannas, is a versatile and medicinal herb that has been widely used to improve health and wellness due to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, which help to soothe and heal various health conditions.

This plant is relatively easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of environments, making it a popular choice among gardeners and horticulturists. Botanically, Canna indica is classified as a type of flowering plant that belongs to the family Cannaceae, characterized by its showy, brightly colored flowers and large, strap-like leaves.

The herb has been mentioned in various historical texts and traditions, including ancient Chinese and Indian medicinal systems, where it was revered for its therapeutic and spiritual properties.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Canna indica.

What are the medicinal properties of Canna indica?

Canna indica helps with the treatment of fever, rheumatism, and other inflammatory conditions. The plant's medicinal properties are also used to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and promote wound healing. Its antimicrobial properties make it effective against bacterial and fungal infections.

The active constituents of Canna indica responsible for its medicinal properties are alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic effects. These compounds interact with the body's systems to produce therapeutic effects.

The most commonly used parts of the plant for medicinal purposes are the rhizomes and leaves. The rhizomes are rich in alkaloids, while the leaves contain flavonoids and saponins. The plant's extracts are often used to make tinctures, infusions, and poultices.

When used improperly, Canna indica can cause side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, and skin irritation. Prolonged use can also lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms. In rare cases, the plant can cause allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.

The most common precautions to take when using Canna indica medicinally include consulting a healthcare professional, following recommended dosages, and monitoring for side effects. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using the plant due to its potential effects on fetal development and milk production.

What are the horticulural aspects of Canna indica?

Canna indica grow in warm temperatures, 65-90°F (18-32°C), with high humidity, and partial shade to full sun. They thrive in moist, fertile soils, pH 6.0-7.0, with regular watering, but not waterlogged conditions.

Planting cannas requires careful consideration of their dormant period. Purchase rhizomes in spring or fall, and plant them 4-6 inches deep, 2-3 feet apart, in a hole twice as wide and as deep as the rhizome. Add organic matter and water well after planting.

Harvesting cannas is typically done after the first frost, when the foliage begins to die back. Cut the rhizomes from the parent plant, leaving some foliage to encourage new growth. Dig up the rhizomes, and store them in a dry, cool place over winter.

Pests affecting cannas include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites, while diseases include root rot, leaf spot, and fusarium wilt. Regularly inspect plants for signs of infestation or infection, and treat promptly with organic or chemical controls as needed.

What are the botanical aspects of Canna indica?

Canna indica is a perennial plant belonging to the family Cannaceae. It is characterized by erect, leafy stems with leaf blades that are 1-3 meters long, having wavy or lobed margins and a prominent midrib. Flowers are borne on inflorescences, often in shades of red, orange, yellow, and pink.

Canna indica is a monotypic genus, comprising a single species, and is a member of the order Zingiberales. Its botanical classification is: Kingdom: Plantae, Clade: Angiosperms, Clade: Monocots, Order: Zingiberales, Family: Cannaceae, Genus: Canna, Species: C. indica. It is closely related to the banana family (Musaceae) and the ginger family (Zingiberaceae).

Several variants of Canna indica exist, including the 'Pretoria' variety, which has bright orange flowers, and the 'Phaison' variety, which has white flowers with red markings. Other cultivars have varying flower colors and sizes, making them suitable for different garden designs. Some varieties are also bred for their foliage, with large, strap-like leaves.

Canna indica is native to Central and South America, but is now widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Pacific Islands. It prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soils.

The life cycle of Canna indica begins with seed germination, which typically takes 2-3 weeks. The seedling grows its first leaf (cormel) and develops roots before producing a flower stalk and inflorescence. After flowering, the plant dies back, leaving a dormant corm that can regrow the following season. This process can be repeated for multiple years, depending on the care and conditions provided.

What are the historical aspects of Canna indica?

Canna indica is a plant species with a long history of use, particularly in the 16th century, when it was introduced to Europe as an ornamental plant. It was highly valued for its vibrant flowers, which were used to create arrangements and decorations. The plant's rhizomes were also used as a source of fiber for paper production.

In ancient Greek and Roman mythology, the Canna indica was associated with the goddess of fertility, Demeter, and the goddess of love, Aphrodite. The plant was said to have been used in rituals to promote fertility and love. In Hindu mythology, the plant was associated with the god of rain, Varuna.

Canna indica has been a symbol of tropical splendor and elegance in various cultures. In Victorian-era England, the plant was considered a status symbol due to its exotic and expensive nature. In modern times, the plant is often associated with summer, sunshine, and warmth. Its large, showy flowers are a popular choice for wedding decorations.

Historical texts, such as the "Garden of Eden" by Peter Henderson, published in 1859, describe Canna indica as a "striking and beautiful" plant. The plant's popularity continued throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, with numerous horticultural texts and magazines featuring its cultivation and care. The "New Illustrated Cyclopedia of Horticulture" by Charles A. Judd, published in 1904, includes a detailed description of the plant's growth habits.

Artifacts of Canna indica can be found in various historical gardens and botanical collections. The Victoria and Albert Museum in London has a collection of Canna indica illustrations from the 18th and 19th centuries. The Royal Horticultural Society's Lindley Library in London also contains a collection of Canna indica-related materials, including seed catalogues and gardening manuals.