Karapule

Transplanting:

To transplant karapule to the ground or a larger area, ensure that:

• The hole is made at least twice as wide as the pot, and
• the depth of the hole is such that the top of the soil from the karapule plant is level with the surface soil of the ground or larger area.
• It is advised that the area of transplanting has adequate space for the tap roots of karapule to occupy.
• Ensure that the plant gets lots of water shortly after transplanting to lessen the effects of plant shock.

Light Conditions:

• Full Sun:
  Karapule, once established, should preferably be grown in a location that receives 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day.
• Partial Shade:
  In our climate, karapule can grow well with 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day, primarily when conditions are too hot and dry.

Soil:

• Well-drained soil that is poor, average or rich in nutrients. Karapule prefers light, rich soil that can retain some moisture. The plant has been reported to grow from sea-level up to 1,600 metres at dry lowland woodlands, moist forests, evergreen forests and deciduous forests.
• 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 or dry.
• Watering karapule should be that the soil is kept moist but not soggy.
• Avoid overwatering. Signs of overwatering can be identified when there are black spots on the leaves.
• Karapule is drought tolerant once established but be sure to check on its watering needs especially in the dry season and shortly after transplanting.

Amendments and Fertiliser:

• Karapule grows easily and can be invasive by the spreading of its seeds and through suckers.
• Plants in pots should receive a topping of organic fertiliser every 6 weeks or half the recommended dosage of liquid fertilisers every week.
• Do not overfertilise.
• If you notice that the plant appears to wither, monitor the soil moisture, the lighting conditions and the soil fertility.

Pruning:

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

Carbazole Alkaloids (Girinimbine, Mahanimbine, Mahanine), Cinnamaldehyde, Koenigin, Tannins

 

Leaves -

Beta-Carotene, Calcium, Carotenoids, Iron

Karapule is an aromatic herb with cosmetic, culinary, medicinal and ornamental applications. The leaves are used in cuisines, while the roots, bark, leaves, fruits and essential oils have medicinal properties. Curry leaf can increase appetite, improve digestion and treat constipation, diarrhoea and colic (extended, consistent crying in babies). It is advised not to eat the seeds.

 

Entire Plant -

Karapule can be planted as a hedge.

 

Roots -

Roots can be utilised fresh or dry. Roots can be used for digestive problems.

 

Stems and Twigs -

Extracts from the stems and twigs are ingredients for some skin conditioners in the cosmetic industry.

 

Bark -

The bark can be utilised fresh or dry. The bark can be used for digestive problems. Externally, a paste of the bark can be applied to bites of poisonous animals.

 

Leaves -

Fresh karapule leaves have a strong aroma and are used in Cambodian, Indian, Indonesian, Laotian, Malay and Thai cuisines. The leaves can be cooked to increase the flavour profile in curries, chutneys, stews and other dishes. The leaves can be eaten (with a slightly bitter taste) or made into a tea. It is anti-inflammatory, a good antioxidant, and used for colic, constipation, diarrhoea, digestive problems and dysentery. For diarrhoea, it is advised to take 0.25 to 0.50 teaspoons of curry leaf powder with a glass of water after a light meal. In addition, the curry leaves alleviate indigestion, gastric ulcers, morning sickness, nausea and vomiting, and can improve the metabolism to manage weight. It is recommended to chew 5 to 6 karapule leaves on an empty stomach to relieve indigestion or control weight. Karapule is good for managing diabetes and cholesterol by aiding the digestive system. The leaves also aid with eyesight, are used in toothpaste for treating teeth and gum disorders, are useful for hair growth, reducing hair loss and possibly preventing hair greying, and are good for the liver, skin and memory. Topically (externally), the leaves can be a part of a poultice to relieve burns and wounds.

 

Flowers -

Karapule flowers are said to repel shrews.

 

Fruits -

The fruits of karapule have a peppery taste. Externally, a juice of the fruits with lime juice can be used for insect bites or stings.

 

Essential Oils -

The essential oils from karapule, extracted from the ripe seeds and leaves, have antibacterial and antifungal properties. The essential oils from the leaves are ingredients for some soaps or preservatives in cosmetics.

Consumption of seeds is discouraged as they may be toxic.

 

It is recommended not to consume karapule excessively as this may lead to a burning sensation or other digestive problems.

 

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