Centipede plant (Engl.)

Muehlenbeckia platyclada Meissn.

Antiseptic

A prostate shrub Height: Grows 1-5 meters and is heavily branched. Leaves: Leaves are dark green, elongated, flattened, alternately arranged on a flat stem. The leaves are simple, alternate, lanceolate, 0.5 to 2 cm. wide and 2 to 5 cm. long. Leaves are sessile, membranous, entire, often lobed at base, 1.5-6.5 cm long. Flowers: The unisexual cluster of flowers with greenish white perianths are borne in the axils. Flowers 1-6 in sessile clusters, bracteate, bracts ovate, c. 1 mm long. Perianth segments 5, greenish, oblong, 1-1.5 mm long. Stamens 8. Ovary ovoid, 3-angular c. 1 mm long; styles 3. Nuts enclosed in the fleshy deep red or purplish perianth. Fruits: The fruits are somewhat round in shape are classified as berries and turn red when ripe.

Medicinal Uses & Benefits

Samad (wound). Preparation: Pound enough amount of himag leaves and squeeze out the juice.. Part used: Leaves

Preparation

Pound enough amount of himag leaves and squeeze out the juice.

Location & Habitat

REGION VII (CENTRAL VISAYAS), SIQUIJOR, SAN JUAN, Cultivated as an ornamental in home lots and backyard gardens.

Research

Siquijor State College: Documentation of Philippine Traditional Knowledge and Practices on Health and Development of Traditional Knowledge Digital Library on Health: FOLK HEALING PRACTICES of SIQUIJOR ISLAND : Phase 2

Additional Images

Quick Info

Scientific Name: Muehlenbeckia platyclada Meissn.
Local Name: Centipede plant (Engl.)
Family: Polygonaceae
Category: Antiseptic
Collected By: Not provided
Date Collected: Jun 28, 2026

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Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy.