Anantmul

Common name: Indian ipecac.

Also known as Indian Sarsaparilla, Tylophora Indica.
Sariva Hindu materia medica called this plant and Ichnocarpus frutescent under the name 'Sarivadvaya'. They are often used together and considered as similar. Many synonyms are mentioned in the literature. Under the name 'Nanari' it is much used in south India. It is considered as a substitute of 'Sarsaparilla'.

Various kinds of 'ushbah' were mentioned Mohammedans physicians. It is also found in other systems of medicine. 
The herb has long enjoyed a reputation as tonic, alterative, demulcent, diaphoretic, diuretic and blood purifier. It is employed in nutritional disorders, syphilis, chronic rheumatism, gravel and other urinary diseases and skin affections.

Anantmul is administered in the form of powder, infusion or decoction as syrup. It is also an ingredient of several medicinal preparations. Anantmul is used as a substitute for Sarsaparilla (from Smilax sp.) and employed as a vehicle for potassium iodide and for purposes for which Sarsaparilla is used.

A syrup made from the roots of Anantmul is used as a flavoring agent and in the preparation of a sherbet, which is reported to have cooling properties promoting hair growth. 
The dried fruit of Anantmul is useful in hemorrhage, diarrhea and dysentery. It has anabolic, antibacterial, expectorant, cardiotonic, antipyretic, antioxidative, antiviral, anti-emetic and resistance building properties and used in the treatment of leucorrhea and arteriosclerosis.

Anantmul is antibacterial and its astringent properties prevent infection and help in the healing of ulcers. It is used as a laxative to relieve constipation.