Leaves - cooked. The pungent, aromatic leaves are a common ingredient in curries, chutneys, stews etc[238 , 301 ]. Leaves are first fried in ghee or oil until crisp, then added to the curry. An indispensible ingredient in southern Indian curries[238 ]. The leaves retain their characteristic flavour and aroma even after drying[301 ]. The leaves dried and powdered and used in spice blends [1-4]. Leaves can be sun-dried and stored [1-4]. Another report says that the leaves are little know away from areas in which the plant is grown because the leaves lose their flavour upon being dried[238 ]. Fruit - a peppery flavour [272 , 301 ]. The black fruit is 8 - 10mm in diameter[200 , 238 ]. Curry plant (Helichrysum italicum) is a totally unrelated plant (an herbaceous annual of the Aster family) that has a curry-like aroma but is not recommended as a substitute for curry leaf in cooking [2-2].

Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.


Curry leaf contains several medically active constituents including a glycoside called koenigin, an essential oil and tannins[254 ]. It is a warming, strongly aromatic herb that improves appetite and digestion [238 ]. The leaves, roots and bark can all be used internally in the treatment of digestive problems [238 ]. It has been shown that the leaves increase digestive secretions and relieve nausea, indigestion and vomiting [254 ]. The leaves can be used internally in treating constipation, colic and diarrhoea [238 ]. The leaves are used in the treatment of diarrhoea and dysentery [272 , 307 ]. The leaves can be applied externally as a poultice to treat burns and wounds [254 ]. The leaves are harvested as required and used fresh [238 ]. The roots and bark are harvested as required and can be used fresh or dried [238 ]. The juice of the fruit, mixed with lime juice (Citrus aurantiifolia) is applied to soothe insect bites and stings [254 ]. A paste made from the bark is applied to the bites of poisonous insects and other animals [272 ].

Agroforestry Uses: Plants can be grown as a hedge [200 ]. Other Uses: An oil is extracted from the ripe seeds [238 ]. An oil obtained from the leaves (essential oil?) is used in the soap industry [307 ]. The leaves are thought to be a hair tonic in India, where it is believed that they can prevent the hair greying [254 ]. The flowers are used to repel shrews [974 ]. Container plant - overwintered indoors in colder areas. An interesting house plant, the leaflets of which can be snipped for cooking [2-2].

Special Uses