Gymnema is a climbing plant common in the Deccan Peninsula, extending to parts of northern and western India. It is occasionally cultivated as a medicinal plant. Meshashringi, Vishani, Madhunashini, Gurmar and Merasingi are its popular Indian name.
The leaves, opposite and elliptic or ovate, are used in medicine. It is considered as a stimulant, laxative, diuretic and anti-anthelmintice. It is useful in heart diseases, piles, asthma, bronchitis, biliousness, and cures burning sensation.
