Mara Vazha (Vanda Spathulata) -Ayurvedic Medicinal Herbs

March 23rd, 2007 | admin

Maravazha (vanda spathulata) is an orchid that grows atop trees (epiphytic), deriving moisture and minerals through its aerial roots that holds on to the substratum (the tree).  Maram means a tree and vazha is a plantain or banana tree – you can say a mara vazha as a tree-top plantain.

 Vanda spathulata is found only in south India and Sri Lanka. Vanda stangeana is another variety found in North India.

Maravazha is used as an Ayurvedic herb. Its dried flowers are used in the treatment of asthma, depression, as a pacifier and as a liver tonic.

Vanda spathulata belongs to the family Orchidaceae.