LAUSR

Ochna kirkii is an ornamental perennial shrub or small tree, one species among 86 species of evergreen trees in the genus of Ochna, belongs to the Ochnaceae family. Its species has sinonym Ochna carvalhi, Polythecium carvalhi, Polythecium kirkii, Ochna thomasiana Engl. & Gilg. Unique flower shaped like a cartoon character of Mickey Mouse is a specific feature of this plant. So, they are generally referred to as ‘Mickey-Mouse plants’ or ‘Ochnas’. Several members of this family are cultivated as decorative plants due to their colorful flowers and unusual fruits.1 This plant is originally from tropical Africa, but now widely cultivated in tropic countries such Asia and Madagascar. Traditional remedies of Ocnaceae have been recorded in several Asian and Africans countries. For example, the stem bark of O. lanceolata Spreng., a semi-evergreen tree found widely in Central and Peninsular India, is used by the Palliyar tribes as an abortifacient and for treatment of gastric complaints and menstrual disorders.1 In Tanzania, Washambaas used O. macrocalyx Oliv. bark for treatment of dysmenorrhoea, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, and stomach pain.2