Exploring Anogeissus Latifolia tree: A Gem of the Indian Subcontinent

Origin of Anogeissus Latifolia tree

Anogeissus Latifolia tree also known as the Axlewood tree or Dhawda is a deciduous tree found in the forest of India. This includes various regions like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka. Besides India, it is native to Myanmar, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

Anogeissus Latifolia tree is mainly found in dry and mixed deciduous forests belonging to the Combretaceae family of trees. The trees can reach up to 20-36 metres in height

Production of Gum Ghatti

Anogeissus Latifolia tree holds a significant role in India as it gives versatile benefits ranging from the ecosystem, cultural heritage and medicinal benefits. One such purpose of the Anogeissus Latifolia tree is that it is used in the production of Gum Ghatti, a natural gum extracted from the bark of the tree.

The process of extraction of gum involves making an incision on the bark of the tree, allowing the gum to ooze out and form resinous tears. These tears are then collected, cleaned, and processed for the final product – a pale yellow to brownish colour gum for versatile applications.

Further, the gum is used in various industries like food, pharmaceuticals, oil and petroleum for its versatile properties and applications such as emulsifier, thickener and stabiliser in different industries.

Medicinal Benefits

The benefits we get from its bark don’t stop here as it has been used for its medicinal properties right from centuries. It is widely used by Ayurvedic Practitioners in herbal formulations of medicine as it gives astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, to treat anaemia, piles, leprosy chronic diarrhoea, skin diseases, respiratory problems

Cultural Significance

Deeply rooted in India Culture and tradition the Anogeissus Lalidolia tree holds a special position and is often mentioned in mythological texts like Mahahrabharat and Ramayan where it is revered for its strength and resilience.

Provides Ecological Balance

Beyond its cultural and traditional origin, Dhawda plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance as it is deeply rooted in the soil preventing soil erosion and also provides a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Conclusion

In the tapestry of Indian natural and cultural landscape, the Anogeissus Lalidolia tree symbolises in various folk and rituals as wisdom, resilience and interconnectedness with nature.