Ancient scriptures on Ayurveda recommended medicinal use of O. americanum. Current investigator evaluates paradoxical nature of O. americanum. The toxic effects of plant extract were studied on the life cycle, growth and mortality of beetle Tribolium confusum in stored rice grain. The survival rate of beetle is significantly reduced in the grains treated with leaves of plant extract. Metals in plant extract were found to be as zinc (88 µg/g), iron (120 µg/g), copper (56 µg/g) and manganese (21 µg/g). These trace metals impart therapeutic values to this herb specified in Indian Ayrvedic Medicinal System.