Tragia involucrata

Tragia involucrata, commonly known as Indian stinging nettle or locally in some regions as “Thakshiri,” is a perennial climbing shrub belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is widely distributed across tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. The plant is notable for its tiny stinging hairs, which can cause skin irritation on contact, similar to nettles.

This plant typically grows in forests, hedges, and along roadsides, thriving in moist and shaded environments. The stems are slender, twining, and covered with trichomes that give it a stinging effect. Its leaves are simple, ovate, and alternately arranged, while the small, inconspicuous flowers appear in clusters and are usually greenish or yellowish. The fruit is a small capsule containing seeds, which contribute to the plant’s propagation.

Tragia involucrata has a long history in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda and Siddha practices. Various parts of the plant—leaves, roots, and stems—are used to treat ailments such as skin diseases, respiratory disorders, fever, and inflammation. Its medicinal properties are attributed to bioactive compounds like flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins, which exhibit anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects.

Beyond its medicinal use, Tragia involucrata also plays a role in local ecosystems as a host plant for certain insects and contributes to soil stabilization due to its climbing and spreading habit. Despite its small size, the plant is considered highly valuable both ecologically and therapeutically, reflecting the traditional knowledge embedded in rural herbal practices.