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Health benefits of Himalayan Daphne

Himalayan daphne Quick Facts
Name: Himalayan daphne
Scientific Name: Daphne bholua
Origin Himalayas and adjoining ranges, from Nepal through Bhutan, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Vietnam, into Sichuan and north-west Yunnan
Colors Initially green and develop a red or reddish-orange hue as they mature
Shapes Small drupe measuring around 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter
Health benefits Respiratory Health, Mood and Stress Support, Digestive Health, Wound Healing, Skin Health, Oral Health, Hair Care, Immune Support, Cardiovascular Health
Daphne Bholua, also referred to as Himalayan Daphne or Nepalese paper plant, is a floral shrub native to the Himalayas and adjacent ranges, from Nepal through Bhutan, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Vietnam, into Sichuan and north-west Yunnan. It is a member of the Thymelaeaceae family and has a distinct, sweet fragrance. The plant’s appealing flowers and foliage make it an excellent choice for ornamental purposes, as it is favored by gardeners. Himalayan Spurge, Himalayan Paper Plant, Uttarakhand Daphne, Paper Daphne, Paper flower, Indian Paper Plant, Lokta Bush, Nepal Daphne, Bhutan Paper Plant, Nepalese Paper Plant, Bholua Daphne, Bhutanese Daphne, Himalayan Daphne Bush, and Sikkim Paper Plant are some of the common names for the plants. 

The genus name “Daphne” has its origins in Greek mythology. Daphne was a goddess who was pursued by Apollo in Greek mythology. Her father, a river deity, transformed her into a laurel tree to protect her from his advances. Consequently, the genus Daphne comprises numerous species of flowering plants and is associated with laurel trees. The specific epithet “bholua” alludes to the plant’s occurrence in the eastern Bhutan Himalayas. It is believed to be named after the Bhutanese people and their traditional appreciation and knowledge of the plant. The plant is gathered from the forest for local medicinal and material purposes.

Himalayan Daphne Facts

Name Himalayan daphne
Scientific Name Daphne bholua
Native Himalayas and adjoining ranges, from Nepal through Bhutan, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Vietnam, into Sichuan and north-west Yunnan
Common Names Himalayan Paper Plant, Paper Daphne, Nepalese Paper Plant, Indian Paper Plant, Lokta Bush, Bhutan Paper Plant, Uttarakhand Daphne, Nepal Daphne, Sikkim Paper Plant, Bhutanese Daphne, Himalayan Spurge, Himalayan Daphne Bush, Bholua Daphne, Paperflower, Winter Daphne, Fragrant Daphne, Sweet-scented Daphne, Scented Paper Plant, Himalayan Scented Daphne, Winter Daphne, Himalayan Fragrant Spurge
Name in Other Languages Afrikaans: Himalayiese Daphne
Albanian: Daphne e Himalajit
Arabic: Zahrat al-Himalaya (زهرة الهيمالايا)
Assamese: Himalayan Daphne, Himalayi Daphni (হিমালয়ী ডাফনি)
Azerbaijani: Himalaya Defnesi
Belarusian: Himalayskaya dafna (Гімалайская дафна)
Bengali: Bholua (ভোলুয়া), Himaloyi Daphne (হিমালয়ী ডাফনে), Himalayi Daphne (হিমালয়ী ধফনে), Daphne al-Himalaya (دافني الهيمالايا)
Bhojpuri: Himalayan Daphne
Bhutanese: Himalayan Daphne
Bulgarian: Himalayska dafne (Хималайска дафне), Himalayska dafniya (Хималайска дафния)
Burmese: Himalayan Daphne, Himalayi Daphan (ဟီမလယ် ဒာဖန်း)
Chinese: Xǐmǎlāyǎ Dānbō (喜马拉雅丹波), Himalayan Daphne, Xǐmǎlāyǎ Shān Máojiǔ (喜马拉雅山毛榉), Mao hua rui xiang
Croatian: Himalajska Dafna
Czech: Dafna himálajská
Danish: Himalaya Daphne
Dutch: Himalayaanse Daphne
English: Lokta plant, Nepalese paper plant          
Estonian: Himaalaja dafne
Filipino: Himalayan Daphne
Finnish: Himalajan dafne
French: Daphné de l’Himalaya
German: Himalaya-Spindelstrauch, Himalaya-Daphne
Greek: Vounospóros tis Imalaías (Βουνοσπόρος της Ιμαλαΐας)
Gujarati: Himalayan Daphne (હિમાલયન ડેફ્ને), Bholuva (ભોલુવા), Himalayan Daphne (હિમાલયન ડફની)
Hindi: Bholua (भोलुआ), Bhimal (भिमल), Dhauni (धौनी)
Hungarian: Himalája dafné
Icelandic: Himalaja-dafna
Indonesian: Himalayan Daphne
Italian: Dafne dell’Himalaya
Irish: Daphne Himalaia
Japanese: Himarayan Dafune (ヒマラヤンダフネ), Himalayan Daphne
Kannada: Bholuva (ಭೋಲುವಾ), Himalaya Daphne (ಹಿಮಾಲಯ ಡಫ್ನೆ)
Kashmiri: Himalayan Daphne
Kazakh: Himalay dafnasy (Гималай дафнасы)
Khmer: Himalayan Daphne
Konkani: Himalayan Daphne
Korean: Himalaya Dapne (히말라야 답네), Himalayan Daphne
Kyrgyz: Himalay dafnasy (Гималай дафнасы)
Lao: Himalayan Daphne
Latvian: Himalaju dafna
Lithuanian: Himalajinė dafnė
Macedonian: Himalajskа dafne (Хималајска дафне)
Maithili: Himalayan Daphne
Malay: Himalayan Daphne
Malayalam: Bholuva (ഭോലുവ), Himalayathile Daphne (ഹിമാലയത്തിലെ ഡഫ്നെ), Himalayan Daphne (ഹിമാലയ ഡാഫ്നി)
Marathi: Bholuva (भोलुवा), Himalayan Daphne (हिमालयन डॅफनी)
Mongolian: Himalayan Daphne, Himalain dafn (Хималайн дафн)
Nepali: Bholuwa (भोलुवा), Lokta (लोक्टा), Argale, Argayle, Kagate,  Kaagate paate (Kagat pate),  Loktaa, Sigu
Norwegian: Himalaya Dafne
Odia: Himalayan Daphne
Polish: Dafnia himalajska
Portuguese: Dáfne-do-Himalaia
Punjabi: Bholua (ਭੋਲੂਆ), Himalayan Daphne (ਹਿਮਾਲਿਆਈ ਡੈਫਨੀ)
Romanian: Dafinul din Himalaya, Dafinul Himalayan
Russian: Gimalayskiy dafne (Гималайский дафне)
Serbian: Himalaska Dafna (Хималаска Дафна)
Sindhi: Himalayan Daphne
Sinhala: Bholuwa (භොලුවා), Himalayan Daphne
Slovak: Himalájska dafne
Slovenian: Himalajski volčin, Himalajska dafna
Spanish: Dáfnide del Himalaya
Swahili: Daphne ya Himalaya
Swedish: Himalayansk Spurge
Tamil: Bholuva (போலுவா), Himalayan Daphne (ஹிமாலய டாப்னி)
Telugu: Bholuva (భోలువా), Himalayan Daphne (హిమాలయన్ డఫ్నే)
Thai: Himalayan Daphne
Tibetan: Dpal-bod Yon-tan (དཔལ་བོད་ཡོན་ཏན།), Shugu (བཤུ་གུ), Himalayan Daphne
Turkish: Himalaya Çuhaçiçeği, Himalaya Defnesi
Ukrainian: Dafna himalayska (Дафна гімалайська), Himalayska dafna (Гімалайська дафна)
Urdu: Himalayan Daphne (ہمالیاں ڈیفنی)
Vietnamese: Himalayan Daphne, Daphne Himalaya, Dó bô lua
Plant Growth Habit Deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub
Growing Climates Clearings in oak and rhododendron forests, shrubberies, pastures and grassy glades
Soil Favors organic-rich, well-draining soil. Ideal pH levels range from mildly acidic to neutral (around 6 to 7)
Plant Size Around 1 to 3 meters (3 to 10 feet) tall and 1 to 2 meters (3 to 6 feet) wide
Root Root system of Himalayan daphne is composed of fine, fibrous fibers. These roots are relatively thin and highly branched, producing a dense network near the soil surface that extends horizontally
Stem Stems are thin, brittle typically has a brownish hue and a smooth or slightly gritty texture
Bark Bark is smooth and papery or parchment-like in appearance. It is delicate to the touch and peels off readily in thin layers
Leaf Simple, alternate, and elliptical in shape. They are usually leathery, glossy, and dark green in color. The leaves emit a pleasant fragrance when crushed or bruised.
Flowering season Late December to March
Flower Plant produces clusters of fragrant flowers. The flowers are tubular and usually pale pink to white in color. They bloom during late winter or early spring, often before the leaves emerge. The fragrance of the flowers is strong and appealing
Fruit Shape & Size Small drupe measuring around 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter
Fruit Color Initially green and develop a red or reddish-orange hue as they mature
Seed Generally oval or ellipsoid in shape, typically small, measuring around 3 to 5 millimeters in length
Flavor/Aroma Sweet, spicy, and floral
Plant Parts Used Bark and roots
Propagation By seed, Stem Cuttings, Layering and Grafting
Lifespan Thrive and persist for 20 to 30 years or even longer
Season April -May
Major Nutrition
  • Carbohydrates
  • Protein
  • Fat
  • Fiber
  • Vitamins
  • Minerals
  • Phytochemicals
Varieties
    • Daphne papyracea var. papyracea
    • Daphne papyracea var. alba
    • Daphne papyracea var. feruginea
    • Daphne papyracea var. bhutanica
    • Daphne papyracea var. flava
    • Daphne papyracea var. himalaica
    • Daphne papyracea var. glomerata
    • Daphne papyracea var. rubra
    • Daphne papyracea var. purpurea
    • Daphne papyracea var. aurantiaca
    • Daphne papyracea var. concolor
    • Daphne papyracea var. nanum
    • Daphne papyracea var. multiflora
    • Daphne papyracea var. leucantha
    • Daphne papyracea var. grandiflora
    • Daphne papyracea var. maroonii
    • Daphne papyracea var. recurvifolia
    • Daphne papyracea var. variegata
Health benefits
  • Respiratory Health
  • Anti-inflammatory Effects
  • Antimicrobial Activity
  • Mood and Stress Support
  • Digestive Health
  • Wound Healing
  • Anti-allergic Effects
  • Antioxidant Activity
  • Skin Health
  • Anti-aging Properties
  • Oral Health
  • Hair Care
  • Immune Support
  • Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Effects
  • Anticancer Potential
  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Anti-diabetic Effects

Plant Description

Himalayan daphne is a deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub that grows approximately 1 to 3 meters (3 to 10 feet) tall and 1 to 2 meters (3 to 6 feet) wide and has an upright growth tendency. The plant grows in oak and rhododendron woodland clearings, shrub lands, pastures, and verdant glades. The plant favors organic-rich, well-drained soil. Ideal pH levels range from mildly acidic to neutral (around 6 to 7). Ensure that the soil does not become saturated with water, as too much moisture can cause root decay. Numerous cultivars of Himalayan daphne are cultivated as ornamental plants in Europe and North America. It has leathery leaves and intensely fragrant, deep pink flowers.

Appropriate growing environment for Himalayan daphne

Himalayan Daphne is a flowering plant that thrives in specific environmental conditions. Here are some key factors to consider when creating an appropriate growing environment for Himalayan Daphne:

Roots

The root system of Himalayan daphne is composed of fine, fibrous fibers. These roots are relatively thin and highly branched, producing a dense network near the soil surface that extends horizontally. Typically, they are shallow and do not penetrate the ground profoundly. The fibrous root system is well acclimated to its natural environment in the Himalayan alpine and subalpine regions. The fine root filaments that cover the fibrous roots significantly increase the available surface area for water and nutrient absorption. This efficient absorption mechanism enables the plant to fulfill its growth and survival needs in the difficult mountain environment.

The fibrous root system of the Himalayan daphne serves a role in its vegetative propagation. Some Daphne species are capable of producing adventitious roots from their stems or branches. When the stem or branch makes contact with the soil, these adventitious roots can develop into new plants, allowing for vegetative reproduction.

Stem

Typically, stems are thin and brittle. It can reach a height of several meters, but the exact size can differ depending on the plant’s specific environment and age. The stem typically has a brownish hue and a smooth or slightly gritty texture. The stem has a branching structure. Lateral branches emerge from the main stem as the plant matures, resulting in an unkempt or shrub-like growth habit. The branching is typically irregular and somewhat dense, giving the tree a robust aspect. The stem grows upright and has a faint arching or leaning shape. The plant has a compact growth habit, and its stems frequently intertwine, producing the appearance of a dense thicket.

Bark

Bark is smooth and papery or parchment-like in appearance. It is delicate to the touch and peels off readily in thin layers. The color of the bark varies based on the plant’s age and environmental conditions. It is typically light brown or light grey, but can also have traces of green or crimson. Lenticels are tiny, corky pores or patches located on the bark’s surface. They permit the exchange of gases between the plant’s inner tissues and the external atmosphere.

The thin bark is renowned for its ability to readily peel away in thin strips or sheets. This quality has made it a popular material for traditional crafts such as papermaking and the production of handmade paper. As a result of the configuration of leaf scars and bud scales, the bark often displays distinct patterns. These patterns can vary among species and serve as identifiers. When the bark of certain species of daphne, including Himalayan daphne, is crushed or fractured, a pleasant scent is released.

Leaves

The leaves are alternately arranged along the stems. This means that each leaf emerges from a different location along the stem, producing a staggered appearance. In general, leaves are lanceolate, which means they are elongated and narrow, with a pointed apex. Some leaves are marginally broader or more ovate in outline than others. Typically, the leaf margins are entire, which means they are smooth and devoid of serrations or fangs. The leaf margins are typically smooth and mildly curved.

The prominent veins of leaves run parallel to the leaf margins. These veins aid in the transport of water and nutrients throughout the leaf, and they also provide structural support. The upper surface of the foliage is glossy and smooth, while the lower surface is paler and may be matte or slightly rough. Depending on environmental conditions and the maturity of the foliage, leaf color can vary. The leaves are typically dark green, but they can also be bluish-green. In general, the leaves are tiny to medium in size, ranging in length from about 5 to 10 centimeters. The Himalayan daphne is an evergreen shrub, meaning it retains its foliage year-round. The foliage neither change color nor fall with the seasons.

Flower

Typically, flowers are petite and bell-shaped. They are cylindrical or tubular in shape with a flared or slightly rounded orifice. The diameter of the flowers can differ, but is typically between 1 and 2 centimeters. The individual blooms are relatively small, but their clustered growth creates a striking display. The flowers can be a variety of hues, including white, ivory, light pink and light purple. The precise hue may differ based on the cultivar or environmental conditions. Typically, the flowers have four or five petals that are fused at the base. These petals extend outward to create the flower’s bell or tube-like structure. The edge of the petals may be smooth or faintly undulating.

A notable characteristic of flowers is their pleasing aroma. The flowers frequently emit a sweet, lingering fragrance that can be appreciated up close. Inside of the flower are the reproductive organs. The male parts of a flower are the stamens, which comprise of several filament-like structures topped by anthers that produce pollen. The pistil, the female part of the flower, comprises of the stigma, style, and ovary and is located in the center. Himalayan daphne typically blossoms from late winter to early spring, bringing with it a burst of color and fragrance.

Fruits

This is a petite drupe fruit. A drupe is a variety of fruit with a fleshy outer layer (exocarp), a hard or stony interior layer (endocarp), and an internal seed. Typically, the diameter of the melons ranges between 1 and 2 centimeters. They can vary in size marginally depending on the species or cultivar. When they are juvenile and immature, fruits initially appear green. As they mature, their color typically changes to red or reddish-orange. The precise hue and color may vary based on the cultivar or environmental conditions. The fruit’s outermost layer (exocarp) is smooth and may have a waxy or faintly glossy appearance. As a fruit ripens, the exocarp becomes mushy and fleshy, making it simpler to extract the seed contained within. The fruits are dispersed predominantly by birds. The fleshy fruit is consumed by birds, while the seeds travel through their digestive systems. The seeds are then disseminated by the bird’s droppings, contributing to the plant’s propagation and spread. Typically, the crops mature in late summer or early autumn. The fruits are now completely coloured, and the exocarp has become soft and fleshy. You can harvest them by delicately plucking them from the plant.

Seeds

In general, seeds are ovoid or ellipsoid in shape. They have a rounded and sleek exterior. The length of the seeds can differ slightly, but is typically between 3 and 5 millimeters. The precise measure may vary depending on the species or cultivar. The seed coat is the protective outer membrane that covers seeds. The seed coat is typically thin, silky, and light brown to dark brown in color. Inside the seed coat is the embryo, which represents the earliest stage of plant development. The embryo includes the embryonic leaves (cotyledons) and the developing point (apical meristem).

Endosperm may exist as a nutrient-rich tissue surrounding the embryo. As the embryo germinates and begins to grow, the endosperm provides nourishment. When conditions are favorable, the seed germinates, at which point it absorbs water and initiates embryo development. After the embryo emerges from the seed coat, root and shoot development commences. Birds are the primary dispersers of the seeds. The fleshy fruits are consumed by birds, while the seeds transit through their digestive systems. The seeds are then disseminated by the bird’s droppings, contributing to the plant’s propagation and spread.

Varieties of Himalayan daphne

Himalayan daphne is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Thymelaeaceae. It is native to the Himalayan region, specifically found in countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and India. Himalayan daphne is a highly diverse plant species, and several varieties or subspecies exist within this species. Here are some notable varieties of Himalayan daphne:

Health benefits of Himalayan daphne

Himalayan Daphne is a plant native to the Himalayan region. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Tibetan medicine for its various health benefits. While it’s important to note that scientific research on Himalayan Daphne is limited, the plant is believed to possess several potential health-promoting properties. Here are some of the commonly attributed health benefits:

1. Respiratory Health

Himalayan Daphne is frequently utilized to promote respiratory health. It is thought to have expectorant properties, which may aid in loosening and expelling mucus from the airways. It is frequently employed in traditional remedies for coughs, colds, bronchitis, and other respiratory disorders.

2. Anti-inflammatory Effects

It is believed that the plant has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. This property may aid in the treatment of conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, and inflammatory skin disorders.

3. Antimicrobial Activity

Himalayan Daphne is believed to have antimicrobial properties, meaning it may aid in the struggle against microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. Traditional applications include treating skin infections, wounds, and other microbial-related conditions with the plant.

4. Mood and Stress Support

Some traditional practices employ Himalayan Daphne for its potential sedative and mood-boosting properties. It can reduce tension, anxiety, and mild mood disorders. It is essential to note, however, that the scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited.

5.  Anti-diabetic Effects

It is believed that Himalayan Daphne possesses hypoglycemic properties, which may aid in regulating blood sugar levels. To validate these claims and ascertain the safety and efficacy of Himalayan Daphne for diabetes management, however, rigorous scientific research is required.

6. Digestive Health

Traditional medicine uses Himalayan Daphne to support digestive health. It is believed to have carminative properties, which may aid in alleviating gas, bloating, and indigestion. It is also used to promote healthy digestion and stimulate the appetite.

7. Wound Healing

Traditionally, the plant is applied topically for its potential wound-healing properties. Crushed Himalayan Daphne leaves or bark is occasionally applied to incisions to promote healing and prevent infection. However, it is essential to note that serious wounds require appropriate wound care and medical attention.

8. Anti-allergic Effects

Himalayan Daphne is used in some traditional practices to alleviate allergy symptoms. It is believed to have anti-allergic properties that can alleviate symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and nasal obstruction. However, there is no scientific evidence to substantiate these claims.

9. Antioxidant Activity

It is believed that Himalayan Daphne contains compounds with antioxidant properties. Antioxidants assist in protecting the body from oxidative stress and free radical injury. Although Himalayan Daphne’s antioxidant potential has not been extensively investigated, it may contribute to overall health and wellbeing.

10. Skin Health

Himalayan Daphne has traditionally been utilized for its prospective skin benefits. It is believed to possess skin-health promoting and skin-condition relieving properties. The plant’s extracts can be applied topically to relieve irritated skin, diminish redness, and hydrate dry skin. However, individual sensitivities and allergies can vary, so it is recommended to conduct a patch test prior to applying it to larger areas of skin.

11. Anti-aging Properties

Himalayan Daphne’s antioxidant content may contribute to its potential anti-aging properties. Antioxidants assist in neutralizing free radicals and decreasing oxidative stress, both of which can contribute to premature aging and skin injury. Although Himalayan Daphne’s anti-aging properties have not been extensively studied, its antioxidant activity may promote overall skin health.

12. Oral Health

In some traditional practices, Himalayan Daphne is used for oral health. It is believed to possess antibacterial properties that may aid in the fight against oral bacteria responsible for tooth decay, gum disease, and bad odor. It is essential to note, however, that oral health requires comprehensive care, including regular dental hygiene practices and visits to a dentist.

13. Hair Care

Due to its possible advantages for the scalp and hair, Himalayan Daphne is occasionally used in hair care products. It may assist in relieving an irritated scalp, reducing dandruff, and promoting healthier hair. For this purpose, some traditional remedies incorporate Himalayan Daphne extracts or oils into hair masks or cleansers. However, the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness in hair care is scant.

14. Immune Support

It is believed that Himalayan Daphne has immune-enhancing properties. It is utilized by traditional medical systems to strengthen the immune system and support its overall function. However, scientific investigations are required to validate these claims and comprehend the underlying mechanisms.

15. Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Effects

Himalayan Daphne is occasionally used traditionally for its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to relieve mild to moderate pain, including migraines, muscle aches, and joint pain. However, additional research is necessary to identify the compounds responsible for these effects and their precise mechanisms of action.

16. Anticancer Potential

Some preliminary research indicates that certain compounds found in Himalayan Daphne may have anticancer properties. In laboratory investigations, it was discovered that these compounds exhibit cytotoxic activity against specific cancer cell lines. It is crucial to note, however, that additional research, including clinical trials, is required to determine its efficacy and safety as a cancer treatment.

17. Cardiovascular Health

Himalayan Daphne is thought to have prospective cardiovascular health benefits. It may assist in lowering blood pressure, enhancing blood circulation, and promoting cardiac health. However, scientific evidence in this regard is limited, and it is essential to rely on established treatments for cardiovascular disorders.

Traditional uses and benefits of Himalayan Daphne

Different uses of Himalayan daphne

Himalayan daphne has various uses beyond culinary applications. Here are some different uses of Himalayan daphne:

Side effects of Himalayan daphne

Himalayan Daphne is a flowering plant native to the Himalayan region. While it is primarily appreciated for its fragrant flowers and attractive appearance, it’s important to note that certain parts of the plant, especially the bark and roots, contain toxic compounds that can cause various side effects if ingested or handled improperly. Here are some potential side effects of Himalayan Daphne:

References:

https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Daphne+bholua

http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2756860

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daphne_bholua

https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/DAPBH

https://en.hortipedia.com/Daphne_bholua

https://temperate.theferns.info/plant/Daphne+bholua

http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/d/daphne-bholua.php

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