Ulatkambal, also known as Devil’s cotton, is an evergreen tree which is 2.5m tall. Ulatkambal fruit is black in colour and its flowers are yellow, purple or dark red in colour. The leaves are 10-21 cm long and 5.5-13 cm wide with a heart or ovate to oblong shape. It has fused base sepals. The root bark is brown and the inner part is filled with white pulp. Cutting the roots gives a thick gum like appearance. Its scientific name is Abroma augusta.

The leaves and stems of this plant are covered with fine hair which are very annoying to touch. It blooms from late spring to early summer.

Importance of Ulatkambal in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, it has a pungent, bitter taste and hot potency. The main chemical constituents of Ulatkambal include bromine, beta-sitosterol, friedelin, taraxerol, stigmasterol, lupeol, abromasterol A, and octacosanol. It has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti-arthritic, anti-rheumatic, cardio protective and fertility-improving properties used to treat various diseases. It also balances Kapha and Vata dosha.

Benefits of Ulatkambal

Reduces high blood sugar levels-

The root powder of Ulatkambal is an excellent remedy for treating high blood sugar levels. The root extract of this Ayurvedic herb is loaded with anti-diabetic properties which are useful in treating diabetic nephropathy.

Treats arthritis-

Ulatkambal has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and joint swelling in people with rheumatoid arthritis. It can also be used to treat inflammation in other parts of the body.

Promotes hemoglobin in the blood-

The antioxidant properties of this plant helps increase hemoglobin in the blood. It helps in treating anaemia, fatigue, and breathing problems caused by low levels of hemoglobin in the body.

Effective in treating premenstrual syndrome-

Ulatkambal is a very useful herb for women. The root bark powder of this herb is effective in relieving menstrual pain and premenstrual syndrome. It is also useful for inducing menstruation.

Uses of Ulatkambal

• A decoction of dried bark and peppermint powder helps in menstrual cramps.
• An infusion made of the leaves and stems in cold water serves as a sedative and cures gonorrhea.
• Ulatkambal is used to treat chronic uterine bleeding.
• The juice extracted from the root bark helps regulate menstrual flow.
• It is used to treat dysmenorrhea.
• Paste of Ulatkambal provides relief from headache caused by sinusitis.

Side Effects of using Ulatkambal

Avoid the use of Ulatkambal during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it can increase the chances of spotting and bleeding in pregnancy. In some rare cases, the following side effects may occur-

• Vertigo
• Heartburn
• Excessive bleeding
• Burning sensation in abdomen

Where is it found?

Ulatkambal is native to Eastern Africa, South & Tropical Asia and Australia. In India, It is widely grown in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Tripura and Meghalaya. It is also found in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal.