Plaash

  • English Name : Flame of the Forest, Bastard Teak
  • Botanical Name : Butea monosperma
  • Family Name :
  • Sanskrit Name : Palasha (or Plaksha)
  • Malayalam Name : Plaash (ചമത/ പ്ലാശ്)
  • Planet : Chandra (Moon)
  • Part Used : Bark, Leaves, Flowers, Seeds, Gum
About Image

Overview

  • Butea monosperma, commonly known as Flame of the Forest or bastard teak, is a medium-sized deciduous tree that grows up to 15 meters tall.
  • The tree is known for its bright orange-red flowers that bloom in clusters, giving it the appearance of being on fire.
  • It is widely used in traditional medicine across India, especially in Ayurveda for treating skin diseases, eye disorders, and as a natural vermifuge.
  • The flowers are used in religious rituals, particularly in the festival of Holi, where they are used to make natural colors.

Habitat

  • Butea monosperma is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Indian subcontinent, including India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar.
  • It thrives in dry, deciduous forests and is commonly found in plains, along riverbanks, and on hillsides.
  • The tree prefers well-drained soils, often growing in sandy, loamy, or rocky substrates.
  • It is typically found at elevations ranging from sea level up to 1,200 meters.
  • The tree is drought-resistant and can tolerate high temperatures, making it well-suited to arid and semi-arid regions of India.

Nutritional Prowess

  • Butea monosperma is rich in bioactive compounds with medicinal value.
  • The bark contains tannins and glycosides, known for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • The flowers contain flavonoids like butein and butin, which have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.
  • The seeds contain proteins and essential fatty acids, useful in treating intestinal worms.
  • The gum, known as Bengal Kino, is used as a natural astringent and in the treatment of diarrhea and dysentery.
Description Image

Dermatological Perks

  • Butea monosperma is used in traditional medicine for various skin-related treatments.
  • The bark, applied as a paste, treats skin ulcers, eczema, and burns due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • The flower’s antibacterial and antifungal properties are used in formulations to treat acne and skin infections.
  • The seeds, ground into a paste, are used to treat ringworm and other fungal infections.
  • The gum is used to soothe skin irritation and inflammation, making it useful in treating rashes and dermatitis.
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