Japana

Light Conditions:

• Partial Shade:
  Japana can grow with 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Shade:
  Japana can grow with heavy shade and has been used as a ground cover for tea and rubber plantations.

Soil:

• Well-drained soil that is poor, average or rich in nutrients and can retain some moisture. The plant has been reported to grow from sea-level up to 1,600 metres at secondary forests and moist locations.
• Mulch (such as grass clippings and wood chips) can be added to the surface of the soil to retain moisture and keep down weeds.

Watering Frequency:

• Water the soil primarily when the soil is almost dry.
• Do not allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

Amendments and Fertiliser:

• Japana grows easily and can be bushy through adequate pruning.
• If you notice that the plant appears to wither, monitor the soil moisture and the lighting conditions first before addressing the soil fertility.

Pruning and Maintenance:

• Prune (deadhead) stems or leaves when they appear to wilt, look diseased or turn yellow.
• Pruning can aid in stimulating new growth and make the plant bushier.

Whole Plant -

It smells strongly of coumarin, especially when crushed, and has a taste which is both bitter and aromatic. It is useful for soil stabilisation, biodiversity and as a ground cover, as shown in the ecology section.

 

Leaves -

The leaves are used to make a tea with a spicy taste which can act as a laxative when taken in quantity. It contains antioxidants which can be used as a tonic, to induce sweating, and treat fever and scurvy. The leaf tea can be used as a treatment against digestive problems such as chronic diarrhoea and constipation, and respiratory issues such as lung diseases, influenza, chest colds and pneumonia. It is used as a broncho-dilating agent which is administered during inter-crisis periods or when the asthmatic crisis is starting. The leaves are haemostatic, and thus, the tea may be deployed to regulate menstruation problems. It is also used as a cardiac stimulant, increasing the force of the heart beat but diminishing its frequency. Biological tests and experimental studies provide references on its hypotensor and hypothermal action. Externally, the leaves are used to treat badly infected wounds and also as an antidote for snake bites. Furthermore, a gargle prepared from the leaves is used to relieve thrush, scurvy and angina.

 

Essential Oil -

The essential oil, isolated from the plant, has been shown to inhibit the growth of certain fungi, namely Curvularia, Rhizopus, Aspergillus and Penicillium species, (but not Aspergillus Fumigatus and Penicillium Decumbens). It has also been deemed to be highly effective against the bacteria, Escherichia Coli and Proteus Vulgaris, and moderate activity against Bacillus Anthracis, Staphylococcus Aureus and some Salmonella spieces.

Environmental, Soil Erosion Control -

The plant's extensive root system can help stabilise and bind the soil, preventing erosion in areas susceptible to soil loss, particularly on slopes and banks.

 

Environmental, Wildlife Habitat:

It can serve as a habitat and a food source for various small animals, birds, and insects, enhancing the biodiversity of the local ecosystem. Suitable as a ground cover in tea and rubber plantations, and particularly shady and wet environments.

 

Pollinator Support:

The plant's flowers can attract various pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, thereby promoting biodiversity and aiding in the pollination of surrounding plants.

Hepatotoxic (may damage the liver).

 

Please take caution.

 

It is advised that you consult with your physician before taking any herbal medicine.