Indian Kino Tree
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| Pterocarpus marsupium Roxburgh |
The Indian Kino Tree (Pterocarpus marsupium), also known as the Malabar Kino, Benga (or Venkai) is native to India. The Indian Kino is inhabit parts of the Western Ghats in the Karnataka-Kerala region.
Parts of the Indian Kino (heart wood, leaves, flowers) have long been used for their medicinal properties in Ayurveda. The heart wood is used as an astringent and in the treatment of inflammation and diabetes.
The Indian Kino is a medium to large, decidious tree and can grow up to 30 meters tall.
Gammalu Aratu (Ayurvedic name): The bark of this plant is used as an astringent and for toothaches. The water extract of the bark contains an active principle, epicatechin which increases the CAMP content of the islets which is associated with the increased insulin release, conversion of pro-insulin to insulin and cathepsin B activity.
It turns the water blue as soon as it comes in contact with the water. It's also told that it is good for elephantiasis, leucoderma, diarrhoea, dysentery, rectalgia, cough and greyness of hair.
[edit] References
- World Conservation Monitoring Centre (1998). Pterocarpus marsupium. 2006 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. Retrieved on 11 May 2006. Listed as Vulnerable (VU A1cd v2.3)
