Common Name
English :Century plant
Hindi :Kantala
Manipuri :Kewa
Scientific Name
Group :Angiosperm (Monocotyledon)
Family :Agavaceae
Genus :Agave
Species :americana Linn.
Habit :Spiny, xerophytic shrub
Parts Used :Leaf
Mode of Preparation :Finely chopped leaves are soaked in water for infusion. Finely chopped leaves simmered for decoction. Leaf sap is extracted by smashing fresh leaves. Leaves dried & crushed for powder. Planted as line fence.
Mode of use :Decoction and Fresh
Ingredients :Leaves contain an essential oil which renders wall papers and plasters termite proof. Leaves contain ten steroidal saponins.Agave sap contains oestrogen-like isoflavonoids, alkaloids, coumarins, vitamins pro-A, B and C.
Ailment Treated:Leaf infusion or decoction used for cleansing the blood. Leaf sap is used internally in case of wounds and inflammations. Dried leaf powder is recommended for anaemia, kidney diseases and liver problems. Core of the plant is used for dropsy, venereal sores and dysentery.
Source:Exotic but naturalized in the wild habitat.