Botanical Description
Molave (Vitex parviflora) also known as the Smallflower Chastetree is a relatively tall fast-growing native tree that can reach 25 to 30 meters in height. Its most striking feature is its bluish purple flowers borne on terminal panicles followed by its compound trifoliate leaves, its leaflets are an ovate to lanceolate shape with an acute to acuminate apex and glabrous texture and a long petiole. The flowers would eventually develop into a round fruit that turns into a blue-black color upon maturity 5 to 6 mm in diameter.
Uses:
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The leaves are edible and can be used to create herbal teas. The leaves can also be used to treat wounds, fevers, stomachaches, toothaches, and hypertension.
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The bark can also supposedly be used to treat stomachaches as well. A decoction can also be made with the bark to remedy diarrhea.
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The roots can supposedly help reduce bodyaches, backaches, and fatigue as well.
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Its wood however is the most highly prized part of the tree being considered as one of the highest quality lumber in the country due to its durability, it is therefore frequently used in construction and furniture making, and it is even used to create charcoal.
