Exploring Anogeissus Latifolia tree: A Gem of the Indian Subcontinent

Origin of Anogeissus Latifolia tree

Anogeissus Latifolia tree also known as the Axlewood tree, Dhawda, or Gum Ghatti tree 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. It is popularly used in the production of the Gum Ghatti.

In this blog, we will learn some interesting facts about the production process, botanical features, and more about Anogeissus latifolia.

Botanical Features of Anogeissus Latifolia tree

Anogeissus Latifolia or Dhawda is a medium-sized tree that belongs to the Combretaceae species of the family. The Gum Ghatti Tree is deciduous and found in dry and rocky regions of major countries like India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and some parts of Southeast Asia.

One of the special characteristics of Anogeissus Latifolia is it can survive extremely dry weather with minimum rainfall. It has slender branches and smooth bark. Apart from all the Botanical characteristics of Anogeissus Latifolia what makes the tree superior is the gum it produces.

The Production Process of Gum Ghatti From Anogeissus Latifolia Tree

Harvesting & Selection of the Anogeissus latifolia

The production process of Gum Ghatti begins with the harvesting of the resin from the Gum Ghatti Tree. Further mature trees of more than 10 years of age are selected to harvest gum ghatti. 

Tapping of the tree:

To extract gum ghatti from Anogeissus latifolia a small incision is made in the bark of the tree which enables the tree to ooze out the gum. This process is known as tapping. 

The Gum Flow:

When exposed to air the oozed gum then begins to harden in the form of small chunks.

Medicinal Benefits of Anogeissus latifolia

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, and respiratory problems.

Economic Importance of Anogeissus latifolia

With medicinal benefits, there are many economic benefits of Anogeissus latifolia as well. One of the primary economic benefits of Anogeissus latifolia is the production of gum ghatti which gives employment opportunities to many locals in India. The wood derived from Anogeissus latifolia is in high demand due to its durability and longevity making it ideal for making high-quality.

Cultural Significance of Anogeissus latifolia

Deeply rooted in India Culture and tradition the Anogeissus latifolia 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. In some regions, the Gum Ghatti Tree is considered sacred and planted near temples by the local communities. In the rural folk, the Dhawda Tree is represented as a strength & resilience and is also believed to be a shelter from natural disasters.

Ecological Importance of Anogeissus latifolia

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. The deep roots of  Anogeissus latifolia help to bind the soil to prevent the loss during monsoon. Dhawda is considered a drought-resistant species that enables it to stay without water for a long period. 

Conservation & Sustainability of  Anogeissus latifolia

Apart from being such an important species of  Anogeissus latifolia faces many problems. One such problem is Deforestation. In many parts of the country, the  Anogeissus latifolia are over-harvested leading to the loss of the species in today’s date. Apart from being a drought-resistant tree, the survival rate of Anogeissus latifolia is declining gradually as the temperature is fluctuating because of the global warming problem.  However, some conservation methods are taken by the Government such as the crucial steps taken to stop the over-exploitation for the collection of gum, bark and timber, replantation of Anogeissus latifolia to promote reforestation, etc.

Conclusion

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