Calotropis gigantean (Ak) a tall erect , plant of summer , growing in Thar. It grows up to 4 meters with green oval leaves with milky stem and with clusters of waxy flowers that are either white or lavender in colour. Each flower consists of five pointed petals and a small crown, rising from the centre , holding stamens. It grows mostly in soft sand and its flowering and seed formation is during September-October. Its seed dispersal happens by wind and animals. Its soft twigs are used in thatched huts and straw enclosures. Tissues got from its wood are used to make rope which is called aakaro or akwaro. It is also grows in Combodia, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, China, Nepal and tropical Africa.
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| Calotropis procera branch with flowers |
People use the bark and root bark for medicine. Despite serious safety concerns, calotropis is used for digestive disorders including diarrhea, constipation and stomach ulcers; for painful conditions including toothache, cramps, and joint pain; and for parasitic infections including elephantiasis and worms.
Calotropis is UNSAFE, especially in high doses. It contains chemicals that can interfere with heart function, particularly at high doses. It can cause serious side effects including vomiting, diarrhea, slow heartbeat, convulsions, and death.
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