History:
Susruta describes the fruit as anthelmintic, alterative and tonic and recommends its use along with liquorice root for the purpose of strengthening the body and preventing the effects of aging. Under the names of Birang-I-kabuli and Biranj-I-kabuli notes on the drug will be found in Arabian works. Dr. Harris (Lancet, July 23, 1887) has directed attention to the value of this drug as a remedy for tapeworm. He states that he has administered it for several years with good results to natives of India and Europe.

Distribution:
Found throughout India up to an altitude of 5,000 ft.

Habit:
E.r. is a large scandent shrub with slender branches and elliptic-lanceolate and gland-dotted leaves. The fruit is globular and wrinkled, varying in colour from dull red to nearly black; a short pedicel is often present; the pericarp is brittle enclosing a single seed covered with a membrane.

Principle constituents:
Embelin; quercitol; and fatty ingredients. An alkaloid, christembine, a resinoid, tannins and minute quantities of a volatile oil are present.

Indications:
The dried fruit is considered anthelmintic, astringent, carminative, alterative and stimulant. It has been used in India since ancient times, as an anthelmintic. It is effective in the treatment of ascariasis. The dried fruits are used in decoction for fevers and for diseases of the chest and skin. The fruit also shows anti-bacterial activity.

Product range:
Abana, Diakof, Gasex, Geriforte, Herbolax, Koflet, Mentat, Kilose, Vegecort, RadiCare, Antistress Tea, HairCare oil