Kulit pule (Alstonia scholaris)

This plant contains indole alkaloids such as echitamine, alstonine, and ditamine, which impart an intensely bitter taste while functioning as antipyretic agents, antimalarials, and central nervous system stimulants. Its triterpenoids, including lupeol and α-amyrin, exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce joint inflammation and accelerate wound healing. Saponins and tannins act as astringents, effectively stopping bleeding and firming stools in cases of diarrhea. Additionally, flavonoids serve as antioxidants that support overall immunity and enhance the body’s defensive system.

The bark of the pule tree offers a range of significant therapeutic benefits. Historically and pharmacologically, it has been used as an antimalarial and antipyretic, serving as a natural substitute for quinine to manage high intermittent fevers and malaria due to its alkaloid activity. The combination of alkaloids and tannins makes it effective for digestive disorders (antidiarrheal), eliminating bacteria that cause dysentery and diarrhea while cleansing the intestines of pathogens. The plant also acts as an analgesic, relieving rheumatic pain, toothaches, and chest discomfort by modulating pain signals in the central nervous system. Additionally, pule bark extract has been shown to exhibit antidiabetic effects, helping to lower blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.