A plant species locally called 'Kalhar' [Blumea lacera (Burm.f.) DC.] was identified for plantgenetic resources value during exploration and germplasm collection mission conducted in the areas of South Gujarat.

Blumea lacera, also known as Lettuce-Leaf Blumea, is an annual herb belonging to the Asteraceae (sunflower) family. It is characterized by its strong odor, bright yellow flowers, andhairy or glandular stems and leaves. This plant is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical Asia, including India, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific region. It is known for its various medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine for a range of ailments.

Chemical Constituents, Medicinal and Pharmacological Profile:

The plant is rich in bioactive compounds. On steam distillation, the leaves yield approximately 0.5% essential oil, which is composed mainly of:

• Cineol – 66%

• d-Fenchone – 10%

• Citrol – 6%

• Blumea lacera contains coniferyl alcohol, acetylenic compounds, and thiophene derivatives. The aerial parts also possess campesterol, hentriacontane, lupeol, and lupeol acetate. These constituents contribute to its therapeutic and aromatic properties.

•It contains a variety of bioactive compounds such as α-amyrin, β-sitosterol, acetates, hentriacontane, stigmasterol, lupeol, lupeol acetate, and several   volatile constituents including 2,5-dimethoxy-p-cymene, β-caryophyllene, carvotanacetone, chrysanthenone, and 2,6-dimethyl phenol. These   compounds contribute to its antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, diuretic, antidiarrheal, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, astringent, hepatoprotective,   and sedative properties.

Blumea lacera has been widely used in Ayurveda and traditional medicine for centuries. Some of its well-documented applications include:

 • Eye Health: The leaf juice, when applied as eye drops, helps in managing conjunctivitis.

 • Wound Healing: Leaf juice or paste is applied to wounds, especially those with pus, for quicker healing.

 • Piles:

 • For external piles – leaf paste is applied directly over the mass.

 • For internal piles – a small tablet prepared from leaf paste mixed with black pepper powder is administered internally.

 • Liver & Digestive Health: A decoction of leaves and roots (30–40 ml) is given to expel intestinal worms and reduce liver enlargement.

 • Oral Health: Root decoction is used as a gargle for treating gingivitis and oral ulcers.

 • Fever & Gynecological Issues: Root decoction (45–50 ml) is beneficial in fevers, leucorrhea, and chronic cough.

 • Toxicity Management: In cases of dog bite, fresh root juice (10 ml) is traditionally administered.