Lollipop-climber
StarDiplocyclos palmatus
Synonyms: Coccinia palmata, Bryonia palmata
Western Herbalism Properties
Traditional Uses
In Ayurvedic medicine the seeds of Diplocyclos palmatus ("shivlingi beej") are classically used to support fertility and reproductive health in both women and men, and the plant is also employed for fever and inflammatory conditions (review in Pharmacognosy Research; Kirtikar & Basu). In broader Indian and Southeast Asian folk practice the whole plant and fruit are similarly used for fevers and as a tonic. The plant is regarded as toxic in excess and is avoided in confirmed pregnancy.
Gallery
Botanical Description
Diplocyclos palmatus (synonym Bryonopsis laciniosa), the lollipop climber or "shivlingi," is a slender annual climbing vine in the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae), widely distributed across tropical Africa, India, Southeast Asia and northern Australia. It climbs by means of tendrils and bears alternate, deeply five-lobed, palmate leaves. The plant is monoecious, with small greenish-yellow flowers borne in the leaf axils. Its most striking feature is the fruit: a small, rounded berry, green with longitudinal whitish stripes when young, ripening to bright red with pale stripes, giving a distinctive "lollipop" appearance. Each fruit contains several seeds whose curved, ridged shape is traditionally likened to the shivling, the origin of the Indian name. It grows in hedges, thickets and forest margins, scrambling over surrounding vegetation. The plant is considered toxic if consumed in excess.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
📝 Notes
Public notes from the community and your own private notes on Lollipop-climber.
No notes yet.