Identity:
Akanda is a medium-sized shrub. Its stems are somewhat tough, while the young branches are covered with fine hairs. The leaves are 4–8 inches long and about 1–3 inches wide, elongated in shape, and somewhat resemble jackfruit leaves. Compared to the size of the leaf, the leaf stalk is very short.
There are two main types of Akanda:
- White Akanda (Śveta Akanda / Alak) – produces white flowers
- Red Akanda – produces slightly purplish flowers
This plant grows in almost all regions of India and is also found in some areas of Bangladesh.
Uses:
Nearly all parts of the Akanda plant are used medicinally. The leaves and flowers are especially used for treating ear pain, joint pain (arthritis), skin diseases, scorpion stings, bloody dysentery, colds, coughs, and indigestion.
