“Imagine a climber living for centuries” I say, focusing your attention on the Puss-wel. This giant liana before us is more than just a plant. It is a living testament to time and nature’s grandeur.
Puss-wel, known scientifically as Entada Pusaetha, is a marvel of the plant world. Its Sinhala name, Pus Wel, translates directly to “pus vine”. Look at its thick trunk and long twisted branches resembling a corkscrew. Some believe this very Puss-wel is between 200 and 300 years old.
The Puss-wel is famous for its massive pods. These pods can grow to be 4 to 5 feet long and about 4 inches wide. They contain large, brown, hard, flat seeds. These are considered the largest pods known in the plant kingdom.
Beyond its impressive size, Puss-wel has a role in traditional medicine. In Ayurveda, different parts of the plant treat various ailments. The bark, seeds, and creeper address skin diseases, fevers, and abscesses. They also help with post-partum myalgia, sty, glandular swellings, and severe back pain. Puss-wel is known to reduce Kapa dosha.
The flowers of the Puss-wel are small and white. The leaves are bipinnate with small rounded leaflets. The pods are light brown and curved. The seeds are glossy and brown, sometimes rectangular.
Consider the journey this Puss-wel has taken. It has witnessed countless seasons. It has provided remedies. It stands as a giant reminder of nature’s power and longevity. As you stand before this magnificent Puss-wel, take a moment to appreciate its silent story. It is a story written in its twisted vines, a story of survival and healing. This giant liana will continue to grow, connecting us to the past and inspiring us for the future.