Fire-flame Bush (Dhataki)

Fire-flame bush is a spreading shrub of the loosestrife family that grows in dry hills and forests throughout India, including Kerala. In spring its arching branches are covered in small, bright red tubular flowers, before the new leaves appear.

Known as Dhataki in Sanskrit, its dried flowers are an essential ingredient of traditional Ayurvedic Asavas and Arishtas, where they start natural fermentation. They are also used in preparations for skin care and digestion. The flower is the part used.