Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Buchanania lanzan | Charpoppu ,Charoli

Buchanania lanzan | Charpoppu ,Charoli
Common names:- Charoli , Char , Charpoppu ,Charoli.
A moderate-sized deciduous tree growing throughout the State in open deciduous forests.
Leaves are eaten by buffaloes.

Buchanania lanzan, commonly known as chironji or charoli, is a small deciduous tree native to India and some other parts of South Asia. The tree belongs to the family Anacardiaceae, and it is primarily known for its seeds, which are edible and have various culinary and medicinal uses. Here are some key characteristics and uses of Buchanania lanzan:

1. Appearance:

Buchanania lanzan typically grows to a height of 5 to 10 meters.
The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical in shape.
The small, fragrant flowers are pale yellow or greenish-white.

2. Edible Seeds:

The seeds of chironji, often referred to as "charoli nuts," are the most valued part of the tree.
These seeds are small, about the size of a lentil, and have a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
Charoli nuts are commonly used in Indian cuisine to add flavor and texture to various dishes, such as sweets, desserts, curries, and rice dishes.

3. Medicinal Uses:

In traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda), various parts of the Buchanania lanzan tree, including the seeds, leaves, and bark, have been used for their potential medicinal properties.
Chironji seeds are believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and are used in herbal remedies.
They are also used for their potential to improve skin health and alleviate digestive issues.
4. Timber:

The wood of Buchanania lanzan is used for making furniture and small wooden items.
5. Conservation:

The tree has faced habitat loss and overexploitation, which has raised concerns about its conservation in some regions.
6. Culinary Uses:

Chironji seeds are a popular ingredient in Indian sweets like barfi, halwa, and kheer (rice pudding).
They are also used in savory dishes, such as pilaf and various curries, especially in northern Indian cuisine.

Buchanania lanzan is a versatile tree valued for its edible seeds and various traditional uses. The seeds, in particular, are an essential ingredient in many regional Indian recipes and contribute to the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the country.


Sunday, September 24, 2023

Artocarpus Lakoocha | Dahu ,Watchuli , Wotomb

Artocarpus Lakoocha  | Dahu ,Watchuli , Wotomb
Family—Urticaceas.

Common names :-Dahu ,Watchuli , Wotomb.

A large deciduous tree growing in the evergreen forests of the

Konkan and N. Kanara.

Leaves are eaten by cattle.

Artocarpus lakoocha, commonly known as Lakoocha, Monkey Jack, or Monkey Bread Tree, is a tropical fruit-bearing tree belonging to the Moraceae family. This tree is native to parts of South and Southeast Asia, including India, Thailand, and Malaysia. Here are some key characteristics and information about Artocarpus lakoocha:

Tree Description: Artocarpus lakoocha is a medium-sized evergreen tree that can reach heights of up to 20 meters (about 66 feet). It has a straight trunk and a spreading canopy.

Fruits: The fruit of the Lakoocha tree is the primary reason for its cultivation. The fruit is typically green and spiky on the outside, with a large, edible pulp on the inside. The pulp is sweet and aromatic, and it contains seeds. The fruit is round to oval in shape and can weigh several kilograms.

Culinary Uses: The sweet and flavorful pulp of Artocarpus lakoocha is consumed fresh as a fruit. It can also be used to make juices, jams, and desserts. The ripe fruit is particularly popular in some regions for its pleasant taste.

Traditional Medicine: In traditional medicine systems, various parts of the Lakoocha tree have been used for their potential medicinal properties. For example, the bark and leaves are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties.

Wood: The wood of the tree is sometimes used for construction and making furniture.

Cultural Significance: In some cultures, Artocarpus lakoocha is associated with various rituals and traditions. It may have cultural and religious significance in certain regions.

Habitat: The tree prefers tropical and subtropical climates and is often found in lowland rainforests and other forested areas.

Conservation: While not necessarily considered endangered, the conservation status of Artocarpus lakoocha may vary by region due to habitat loss and deforestation.

Propagation: Lakoocha trees are propagated through seeds and can be grown from cuttings as well. They require well-drained soil and warm, humid conditions to thrive.

Other Names: The tree is known by various regional names, including "Lakoocha," "Lakucha," "Monkey Jack," and "Monkey Bread Tree."

Artocarpus lakoocha is valued for its sweet and delicious fruit and is an important source of nutrition and income for communities in its native range. It is also appreciated for its potential medicinal properties and cultural significance in some regions.





Monday, August 22, 2011

Dillenia pentagyna flowers | Karmal image | Aggai , Kanagola

Dillenia pentagyna flowers

Family.—Dilleniacea

Common Names :- Aggai , Kanagola ,Karmal.

A rather large seasonal tree ; found throughout the State in deci¬duous forests. Fruit, size of a cherry, globular, smooth, orange-yellow, surrounded by enlarged fleshy sepals, has a pleasant acid taste and is eaten raw or cooked.

See—Timbers, Fibres, Fodder Plants.