Wound healing effects of Lagundi (Vitex nigundo) extract to Albino Mice (Peromyscus

leucopus)

Lagundi (scientific name: Vitex negundo) is a large native shrub that grows in

Asia and Southeast Asia such as the Philippines and India and has been traditionally

used as herbal medicine and is an important medicinal plant in Ayurvedic and Unani

systems of medicine. The extracts from its leaves and roots are mostly considered to

provide the most health benefits. The Philippine Department of Health has conducted

research and study for Lagundi and has suggested that the lagundi plant has a number

Lagundi (Vitex negundo) is an erect, branched tree or shrub, that grows to as much as 5

m high. Lagundi has a single thick, woody stem like a trunk and is usually seen in

swamps of the Philippines and India. Lagundi leaves appear palmately, in the form of

five pointed leaves which splay out like the fingers of a hand. Lagundi leaves are 5-

foliate, rarely with 3 leaflets only. Lagundi leaves are 4-10 cm long, slightly hairy

beneath. The lagundi flowers are blue to lavender, 6-7 mm long bearing fruit globose of

about 4mm in diameter that turns black when ripe.

Lagundi or Vitex negundo has been traditionally used as herbal medicine by Philippine

and Indian folks. It;'s main health benefit is to ease respiratory complaints. Lagundi is

generally used for the treatment of coughs, asthma symptoms, and other respiratory

problems.

Lagundi is also known for its analgesic effect that helps alleviate pain and discomfort.

Other traditional health benefits that are derived from the use of Lagundi are as follows:
 Lagundi is used to prevent and treat worm infestation

Lagundi is also used treat skin diseases such as eczema, ring worm, etc.

Used to wash wounds to promote healing,

Lagundi has an analgesic function to treat rheumatism,muscle pain and

inflammation of joints

Lagunid is used for anorexia,

Used to treat Stomach problems such as colic, spasms and indisgeston,

Lagundi has claimed health benefits against high cholesterol.

Lagundi is also used as a carminative herb

Lagundi is believed to promote good memory and eye sight,

Lagundi tea is taken to relieve anxiety and to promote relaxation.

The old folks would burn Vitex negundo leaves ane the smoke is believed to drive away

insects, particularly mosquitoes.