Know the herbs

Scientific name

Persicaria minor (Huds.) Opiz

Family

Polygonaceae

Local name

Kesum (Perlis, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Pahang, Kelantan)

Description

Persicaria minor is a perennial herb, creeping, and can grow up to 1 m in height. The stem is cylindrical, green and slightly reddish, has short nodes and segments, and is easy to root at the segments. The leaves are arranged alternately, elongated lanceolate, and very fragrant. The pseudospica type flower clusters are located at the terminal. The flowers or perianth are white to pink. The fruit is black to dark brown and has a shiny surface.

Usage

Kesum is used to treat menstrual cramps, control high blood pressure and blood glucose levels, treat stroke, and as a complementary treatment for stomach tumors.

Malaysia Herbal Monograph (source: Globinmed)