Tambal or Brisbane Lily - Floral Beauty and Folkloric Remedy

Tambal  or Brisbane Lily  

- Floral Beauty and Folkloric Remedy  

Photos by Dr Abe V Rotor 

I found this unique plant in an unexpected place in our backyard in San Vicente, Ilocos Sur, beside a leaning mango tree, where there is little sunshine, and the surrounding is shaded and cool.  The plant simply emerged just after a shower in May. There it stood dainty and proud, with immaculate white compound flowers perched on a sturdy stalk. Though the plant is short lived, it made our summer memorable to my family and our friends. 

 

 

Eurycles amboinensis (L.) Lindl or Proiphys amboinensis L Herb; Family Amaryllidaceae. It is native to countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and the  Philippines. It is called Brisbane Lily in Australia. This species occurs naturally in colonies in light shaded areas of the rainforest, and on open and coastal areas.  

Folkloric Uses of Tambal 

- Ethnic use of the leaves reduce swelling and chewing the bulbs is said to 

  relieve the  effects of poisonous fish.*
- Small doses of raw bulbs ingested to induce vomiting.
- Leaves used externally as anti-rheumatic topical.
- Subanens in Zamboanga del Sur apply poultice of leaves and roots on inflammation.
- In the Bicol area, fire-warmed lightly-oiled young leaves are applied to abdomen for stomach aches, to the forehead for headaches, and to the chest for colds and chest congestion. Also applied over sprains and fractures.
- Bulb chewed to relived oppression and giddiness resulting from eating poisonous fish or crustaceans.
- In Indonesian Pre-Christian era, plant has recorded use for the treatment of small pox: A plaster or compress was made from leaves and placed on wounds to draw pus.
In Malaysia, the plant used to prevent spirits from haunting houses.

References: Philippine Medicinal Plants (Internet);  

*Philippine Ornamental Plants - Mona Liza Steiner,1952