Palash
Description : Butea monosperma, commonly known as Palash or Flame of the Forest, is a striking deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent. It is renowned for its vibrant orange-red flowers that bloom in spring, resembling a flame, hence its name. The tree has trifoliate leaves and rough grey bark, and it produces a resinous gum called ‘Butea gum’ or ‘Bengal kino.’
- Medicinal Benefits :
- The gum, known as 'Butea gum,' is used for its astringent properties and in the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, and phthisis.
- Flowers are used in traditional medicine for their diuretic, astringent, and tonic properties.
- Seeds are anthelmintic and are used to treat intestinal worms and other parasitic infections.
- The bark is used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties to treat various skin diseases and infections.
- Other Uses
- The flowers are used to produce a natural dye for fabrics and traditional Holi festival colors.
- The tree is a source of fodder for livestock and green manure for soil fertility improvement.
- Leaves are used to make plates, bowls, and traditional roofing material in rural areas.
- Employed in rituals and cultural practices for its spiritual and symbolic significance.
Suitable Climate Condition : Butea monosperma thrives in warm, tropical to subtropical climates with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). It prefers full sun exposure and can grow in a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and even slightly alkaline soils. The tree is drought-tolerant and can withstand annual rainfall between 500 to 1500 mm, making it well-suited for dry and arid regions.