Keanekaragaman Hayati Sekitar Kita: Asoka (Saraca Indica)

Abstract

This article introduces species that exist around us and their potential or actual utilisation by humans. One type of plant that can be utilised is Ashoka (Saraca indica). It is widely found in Asia and is widely planted as an ornamental plant by the community. Religiously, this plant is sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism. Several studies have found the benefits of Ashoka, including that Ashoka methanol extract has very potential antioxidant and cytotoxic effects. Other pharmacological activities found are anticancer, antimenorrhagia, antioxytoxic, and antimicrobial activities, and in India, it is widely used in Ayurvedic, Unani, and homeopathic medicine. Ashoka also contains sitosterol, quercetin, kaempferol, epigenin, flavonoids, saponins, glycosides, sterols, tannins, kalechor, octacosanol, epicatechin, procyanidin, catechin, glucosides, and leukocyanidins. All parts of the plant can be used to treat diseases such as treating bruises, dysentery, irregular menstruation, leg cramps, as an antioxidant, leprosy, wounds, snake bites, eye diseases, neurological, uterine disorders, fever, cough, broken bones, and various other diseases.