The Cannonball Tree: A Tree of Beauty and Mystery
Author Affiliations
- 1Department of Pharmacognosy, IVM’s Krishnarao Bhegade Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Talegaon Chakan road, Talegaon Dabhade-410507, Tal. Maval, Dist. Pune, Maharashtra, India
- 2IVM’s Krishnarao Bhegade Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Talegaon Chakan road, Talegaon Dabhade-410507, Tal. Maval, Dist. Pune, Maharashtra, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar technological university, Lonere, Raigad- 402103, India
- 3IVM’s Krishnarao Bhegade Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Talegaon Chakan road, Talegaon Dabhade-410507, Tal. Maval, Dist. Pune, Maharashtra, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar technological university, Lonere, Raigad- 402103, India
- 4IVM’s Krishnarao Bhegade Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Talegaon Chakan road, Talegaon Dabhade-410507, Tal. Maval, Dist. Pune, Maharashtra, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar technological university, Lonere, Raigad- 402103, India
- 5IVM’s Krishnarao Bhegade Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Talegaon Chakan road, Talegaon Dabhade-410507, Tal. Maval, Dist. Pune, Maharashtra, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar technological university, Lonere, Raigad- 402103, India
- 6IVM’s Krishnarao Bhegade Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research, Talegaon Chakan road, Talegaon Dabhade-410507, Tal. Maval, Dist. Pune, Maharashtra, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar technological university, Lonere, Raigad- 402103, India
Int. Res. J. Biological Sci., Volume 13, Issue (1), Pages 29-34, February,10 (2024)
Abstract
The Cannonball tree is a deciduous plant indigenous to the tropical forests of Central and South America. It is also grown in various other tropical areas for its ornamental and medicinal properties. The tree belongs to the family Lecythidaceae and has various regional names such as shivlingam, kailashpati, and ayahuma. The tree is characterized by its large, spherical fruits that resemble cannonballs, and its fragrant, colourful flowers that are borne in long racemes. The tree has been used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani for treating various ailments such as gastritis, scabies, bleeding, piles, dysentery, scorpion poison, toothache, and cancer. The tree is also a source of timber, dye, and perfume. The cannonball tree is considered sacred by Hindus and Buddhists, who use its flowers for religious ceremonies and offerings. The cannonball tree has many unique features that make it stand out among other plants.
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