Piper sarmentosum - Pepper leaf

Piper sarmentosum, a species from the family of pepper plants (Piperaceae), is a tropical plant that is widespread in Southeast Asia. It is used in countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia both as a medicinal plant and in the kitchen. The plant is also known as "Wild Betel" and is often confused with Piper Betle, although it is different types.

Morphology

Piper sarmentosum is a persistent, herbaceous plant with a climbing or creeping growth shape. The stems are slim, green and often slightly hairy. They can spread over the ground and form roots on the knots, which helps the plant to multiply vegetatively. The leaves are heart -shaped, shiny and dark green, with a slightly wavy surface. You have a characteristic network-like nerveature and can get up to 10 cm long and 5-8 cm wide. The leaves are aromatic, which makes the plant popular as a spice or aroma fabric.

The flowers of Piper sarmentosum are small and inconspicuous, they grow in ears that emerge from the leaf axils. The inflorescences are cylindrical and reach a length of 1.5 to 3 cm. Like many representatives of the Piperaceae family, the flowers are mitural and the plant can wear both male and female flowers. The fruits are tiny, spherical and turn from green to black when mature.

Distribution and habitat

Piper sarmentosum is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia and grows preferably in moist, shady areas such as forest edges, along river banks and in gardens. The plant is adapted to nutrient -rich soils in its natural environment and tolerates both deep shade and partially shaded conditions. Since it is relatively easy to care for and spreads quickly, it is also cultivated in many parts of Southeast Asia in gardens and on plantations.

Uses

Piper sarmentosum is important in both traditional medicine and kitchen. In Southeast Asian cuisine, the leaves are used as a side dish or in salads, such as "Miiang Kham" in the Thai court. The leaves have a mild, peppery taste and are often combined with different spices.

Medically, Piper sarmentosum has long been appreciated in traditional healing art. The leaves are often used to treat cough, colds, fever and inflammation. In some cultures, the plant is used to promote blood circulation and as antioxidants. Studies have shown that Piper sarmentosum potentially has antimicrobial, anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In particular, the plant contains alkaloids and flavonoids that contribute to traditional medical use.

Chemical composition

The leaves and stems from Piper sarmentosum contain a number of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, essential oils and phenols. The essential oils are responsible for the characteristic fragrance and taste, while the alkaloids and flavonoids contribute to the health advantages that are attributed to the plant. Some of the proven active ingredients include Piperin, Sarmentosin and other compounds that can have anti -inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.