Thankuni - Centella asiatica

Common Name :	Indian Pennywort, Thankuni.
Binomial Name :	Centella asiatica
Family :	Apiaceae
Bangla Name :	Thankuni.
Photo Taken :	Bangladesh

Centella asiatica, also known as Gotu kola or Indian pennywort, is a herbaceous plant species native to Southeast Asia. It is commonly used in traditional medicine and is widely cultivated for its medicinal properties. In Bangladesh this plant is known as Thankuni (থানকুনি).

Indian pennywort has small, fan-shaped leaves that are light green in color and grow on thin, long stalks. The leaves are edible and are often used in salads and other culinary dishes. The plant has a creeping growth habit, with long, slender stems that can reach up to several feet in length.

Thankuni (or Indian pennywort) produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are pink to red in color. The flowers are produced in clusters at the base of the plant's leaves and are pollinated by insects such as bees and butterflies. The flowers give way to small, oval-shaped fruits that contain tiny seeds.

Centella asiatica can be propagated through seed or by dividing the plant's roots. To propagate through seed, collect the ripe fruits and extract the seeds. Plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist. To propagate by division, dig up the plant and separate the roots into smaller sections, each with several leaves and roots. Plant the sections in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist.

Thankuni has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including skin conditions, wounds, and anxiety. The plant is also thought to have cognitive-enhancing properties and may help improve memory and cognitive function. Additionally, Centella asiatica is used in some traditional systems of medicine to promote longevity and overall well-being.

Photos of these Thankuni (Centella asiatica) were taken from Bangladesh during June 2019.


Written by Lonely Traveler,
For blog icflora.blogspot.com