Platostoma palustre

Platostoma palustre

Platostoma palustre, also known as Mesona, is a species of plant in the family Lamiaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly used in traditional medicine and as a culinary ingredient.

Description

Platostoma palustre is a perennial herb that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. It has opposite, ovate leaves that are 2-6 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The flowers are small, white, and borne in terminal spikes. The fruit is a small, brown nutlet.

Distribution and Habitat

Platostoma palustre is native to Southeast Asia, including countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. It grows in wet, marshy areas, hence the name 'palustre', which means 'of the marsh'.

Uses

Platostoma palustre is used in traditional medicine in many Asian countries. The leaves are used to treat fever, cough, and sore throat. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is used to clear heat and detoxify the body.

In addition to its medicinal uses, Platostoma palustre is also used in cooking. The leaves are used to make a jelly known as 'grass jelly' or 'cincau' in Indonesia and Malaysia.

Cultivation

Platostoma palustre is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soil. It can be propagated by seeds or by cuttings. It requires full sun to partial shade and regular watering.

Conservation Status

While Platostoma palustre is not currently listed as threatened or endangered, its habitat is being lost due to deforestation and urbanization. Efforts are being made to conserve this species and its habitat.

See Also

• Lamiaceae
• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Grass Jelly

External Links

• The Plant List: Platostoma palustre
• PubMed: Antioxidant activity of Platostoma palustre

• Grass jelly cultivation in Singapore
  Grass jelly cultivation in Singapore
• Grass Jelly Spoon
  Grass Jelly Spoon
• Es Cincau
  Es Cincau