About Mikania micrantha Kunth
Mikania micrantha Kunth has ribbed stems that can reach up to 6 metres (20 ft) in length. Its leaves are 4–13 centimetres (1.6–5.1 in) long, with a heart-shaped base and a pointed apex. It produces clusters of white flowers that measure 4.5–6.0 millimetres (0.18–0.24 in) across. This species has documented regional medicinal uses. In Fiji, it is applied to heal cuts and stop minor external bleeding, though its full medicinal properties are not yet fully discovered. It is a well-known local antiseptic medicine in Mizoram State, India, where it is called Japan Hlo by local people. Use of the plant is also reported in Arunachal Pradesh, India: fresh leaves are pounded and applied to lacerations to stop bleeding and support healing. In Bangladesh, it is used to treat gastric ulcers and as a local antiseptic. The antioxidant and anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) activities of Mikania micrantha leaves have been the subject of scientific study.
