This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.

In both the Indian (Ayurveda) and Chinese traditional medicine systems, Acanthus ilicifolius has been esteemed for its wide array of therapeutic properties.1 According to Indian Ayurveda, the species is considered a valuable nerve tonic, astringent, stimulant, and expectorant.1 Traditionally, the plant has been extensively used to address a broad spectrum of health issues, including asthma, diabetes, dyspepsia, hepatitis, leprosy, neuralgia, paralysis, ringworm, various skin diseases, snake bites, and leukemia.1 The roots are particularly indicated for the treatment of cough, asthma, leucorrhea, and paralysis.1 The mucilage derived from the leaves has been traditionally applied to manage neuralgia and rheumatism.1

The traditional uses of A. ilicifolius are rich and varied across Southeast Asian cultures. In Indonesia, where it is locally known as "jeruju" or "daruju," a poultice made from the leaves may be applied to treat rheumatic pain or used as an emollient.2 It is found in regions such as Central Java and North Sumatra.2 In Malaysia, also referred to as "jeruju" or "jeruju puteh," the seeds have been traditionally employed for managing cough and for deworming infants.2 The prickly leaves are also used in Malay rituals, placed beneath houses to ward off mystical disturbances.2 In the Philippines, it is known by vernacular names such as "daguari," "diluariu," and "kasumba".3 In Papua New Guinea, where it is called "kikia," crushed leaves mixed in water are consumed to facilitate childbirth or before surgical operations.2 Thailand recognizes the plant by several local names, including "kaem mo" and "ngueak plaamo namngoen," with both the stem and leaves traditionally used to promote longevity.2 Bark extracts in Thailand have also been employed for dermatitis and allergies.2 

Traditional formulations and preparations of A. ilicifolius are diverse. The aerial parts of the plant are commonly used as a poultice for wounds. When combined and ground with ginger, they are applied to soothe sore legs, and a porridge made from them is ingested for bowel complaints.2 A decoction of the whole plant, often mixed with sugar candy and cumin, has been traditionally used for indigestion.2 Crushed fruit has served as a traditional remedy for purifying the blood and as a dressing for burns. Compresses crafted from either the fruit or roots were applied in cases of snakebites or arrow poisoning.2 The entire plant can also be utilized as a drying agent, for instance, in rice sacks.2 A decoction prepared from the leaves can be ingested to aid in the birthing process. Furthermore, a combination of the leaves with either the stems or roots has been traditionally consumed to promote longevity and enhance hair health.2 The roots have also been traditionally applied to treat shingles.2

The remarkable breadth and diversity of traditional uses for A. ilicifolius—ranging from internal ailments like asthma, diabetes, and digestive issues to external applications for skin conditions, wounds, and even specific life events like childbirth, as well as general wellness goals like longevity and nerve tonic effects—strongly suggest a comprehensive understanding of the plant's benefits across different cultures. This indicates that traditional practitioners likely observed a broad-spectrum "balancing" or "strengthening" effect on the body's systems, rather than treating isolated symptoms. The extensive list of applications goes far beyond what a single, narrowly targeted active compound could achieve. The sheer variety of traditional uses implies that A. ilicifolius was perceived to exert a systemic, regulatory, or adaptogenic effect on the body. Rather than being a specific cure for one disease, it was likely understood to support the body's overall resilience and ability to maintain equilibrium, thereby addressing a multitude of seemingly disparate ailments. This aligns with the concept of traditional medicine often focusing on balancing the body's internal environment, allowing for its positioning as a versatile ingredient that supports general well-being.

Table 1. Traditional Uses of Acanthus Ilicifolius by Region/Country

Works cited

1. (PDF) Traditional Use, Phytochemistry, Pharmacological and ..., https://www.researchgate.net/publication/370890823_Traditional_Use_Phytochemistry_Pharmacological_and_Toxicological_Properties_of_Acanthus_ilicifolius_A_Review
2. (PDF) Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Acanthus ..., https://www.researchgate.net/publication/383107527_Ethnobotany_Phytochemistry_and_Pharmacology_of_Acanthus_ilicifolius_A_Comprehensive_Review
3. PROSEA - Plant Resources of South East Asia - PROTA4U, https://prosea.prota4u.org/view.aspx?id=884