Variegated Erythrina (Erythrina variegata)

Variegated Erythrina (Erythrina variegata) is a member of the Fabaceae family, native to Southeast Asia, Indian Subcontinent, and Pacific Islands. Traditionally, its leaves, bark, and seeds have been used for decoctions, infusions, and powders.

This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and tonic actions, and has a long history of use in ayurvedic medicine, african traditional medicine, and traditional chinese medicine.

Variegated Erythrina (Erythrina variegata) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Variegated Erythrina (Erythrina variegata) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Variegated Erythrina
Scientific Name	Erythrina variegata
Plant Family	Fabaceae
Genus	Erythrina
Species	variegata
Native Range	Southeast Asia, Indian Subcontinent, Pacific Islands
Plant Parts Used	Leaves, Bark, Seeds
Primary Medicinal Actions	Anti-Inflammatory, Astringent, Tonic
Primary Traditional Systems	Ayurvedic Medicine, African Traditional Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Decoction, Infusion, Powder

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Erythrina variegata
Common Name: Variegated Erythrina
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Rain Tree, Coral Tree, Coral Tree
Plant Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Erythrina

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically reaches a height of 5 to 15 meters.
Leaves: Broad leaves with upper surface exhibiting a glossy green and lower surface displaying a pale white to silvery hue, featuring distinct stomatal bands along the midrib.
Flowers: Inflorescences are racemose with zygomorphic flowers having five petals, one of which is larger and colored red, with two smaller white petals and two yellow stamens.
Stems: Elongated, erect growth habit, opposite branching pattern, smooth, glabrous surface, prominently ridged and chambered structure.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

Ayurvedic Medicine
African Traditional Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Decoction
Infusion
Powder
Poultice

Medicinal Actions

Anti-inflammatory: In herbal texts, considered a cooling anti-inflammatory, for general calming applications.
Astringent: Commonly referenced as a mild astringent, for surface-level applications.
Tonic: Traditionally described as a warming tonic, for long-term use contexts.
Diuretic: In herbal literature, noted as a moderate diuretic, for elimination-focused applications.

Active Compounds

Flavonoid: A group of naturally occurring compounds commonly present in many flowering plants.
Alkaloid: Plant-derived nitrogenous compounds found in various tissues.
Tannin: Plant-derived compounds known for their ability to bind proteins.
Phenolic Acid: Simple phenolic molecules widely distributed across plant tissues.

Modern Research Overview

Scientific research related to this plant is ongoing. This section will be expanded in the future to include summaries of phytochemical studies, laboratory research, and other relevant scientific literature as it becomes available.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: Precautionary considerations have been reported in relation to this herb.
Contraindications: Reported information suggests that this herb may be contraindicated in specific circumstances.
Allergies: Sensitivity or allergy-related effects have not been clearly established.
Drug Interactions: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb interacts with pharmaceutical drugs.
Toxicity: Toxicity related to this herb has been documented in available sources.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Available information regarding use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is limited.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Water is poured over plant material and allowed to steep before straining.
Decoction: Plant parts are gently boiled in water to release soluble constituents.
Poultice: This method uses direct contact between plant material and the skin.
Powder: Dried plant material is ground into a fine powder.
Extract: This method isolates plant compounds using alternative solvents.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in full sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.