কামিনী (MURRAYA PANICULATA)
ORIGIN
Murraya paniculata is native to South Asia, Southeast Asia, southern China, and northern Australia. It is widely cultivated across tropical and subtropical regions as an ornamental and hedge plant.
TAXONOMY
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Angiosperms → Eudicots
Order: Sapindales
Family: Rutaceae
Genus: Murraya
Species: Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack
It is closely related to curry leaf (Murraya koenigii).
EVOLUTION
Murraya paniculata evolved within the citrus family, developing aromatic leaves and flowers rich in essential oils. These compounds provide chemical defense against herbivores and attract pollinators, contributing to its evolutionary success in warm climates.
DESCRIPTION
An evergreen shrub or small tree, usually growing 3–7 meters tall.
Bark: Smooth, grey to light brown
Leaves: Pinnate, glossy, dark green, aromatic
Flowers: Small, white, star-shaped, intensely fragrant
Fruit: Small, oval, red to orange berry containing 1–2 seeds
The flowers are highly valued for their fragrance.
ECOLOGY
Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates
Grows well in sunny to partially shaded locations
Pollinated by insects, especially bees
Fruits eaten by birds, aiding seed dispersal
It contributes to urban biodiversity.
CULTIVATION
Propagation: Seeds and cuttings
Climate: Warm and humid
Soil: Well-drained loamy soil
Water: Moderate requirement
Commonly grown as hedges, ornamental plants, and bonsai.
TRADITIONAL USES
Ornamental planting due to fragrant flowers
Used in garlands and religious offerings
Leaves sometimes used as a mild flavoring agent
Traditional household remedies
MEDICINAL USES
In traditional medicine:
Leaves used for pain relief and inflammation
Bark and roots used for diarrhea and stomach disorders
Flowers used as calming and cooling agents
Used in traditional treatments for toothache and fever
RESEARCH
Scientific studies report:
Phytochemicals: Alkaloids (murrayine), flavonoids, coumarins, essential oils
Pharmacological activities:
Antioxidant
Anti-inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Analgesic
Mild antidiabetic effects
Research is mostly preclinical, validating several traditional uses.
BIOLOGY
Life form: Evergreen shrub or small tree
Reproduction: Sexual reproduction via seeds
Flowering: Multiple times a year in warm climates
Growth rate: Moderate
TOXICITY
Murraya paniculata is generally safe in traditional usage.
Excessive consumption may cause mild gastric irritation
Essential oils should not be used internally without dilution
No major toxicity reported
CONCLUSION
Murraya paniculata (Kamini) is a highly valued ornamental and medicinal plant, admired for its fragrance, evergreen foliage, and therapeutic potential. Supported by emerging scientific research, it plays an important role in traditional medicine, landscaping, and urban ecology.