Palash flower – Medicinal value

Palash flower – Medicinal value

Palash flowers bloom at early summer or at the end of winter (March to April). Flowers are used to make colour for the festival of Holi. In Manipur, there is an interesting cultural use of the wood of this tree with beautiful flowers – when a member of the “Meitei” community dies, and for some reasons, his body cannot be found, the wood of this tree is cremated in place of the body. It is said that the tree is a form of Agnidev, God of Fire.

 In the Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh, these flowers are specially used in the worship of Lord Shiva on occasion of Shivratri. Palash flowers are considered as drug in many ailments like eye disease, chronic fever, gout, liver disorders, leucorrhoea, epilepsy, leprosy, and enlargement of spleen. Flowers also have antifungal, anti inflammatory, and contraceptive properties. 

The plant parts are used in the form of extract, juice, infusion, powder and gum. The tree is one of the most important hosts for the lac insect. It is used for timber, resin, fodder, medicine and dye. The wood is dirty white and soft, being durable under water, is used for well-curbs and water scoops. Good charcoal can be made from its wood.

 Leaves are much used for plates and as wrappers. Leaves are good fodder. It is also cultivated as an ornamental tree.  Arthritis pain can be reduced to a great extent if the steamed flowers(fresh or dried) are tied on the place where there is swelling. 

It decreases intestinal infections and decreases ulcer symptoms.1-2 gm of the flower is taken along with mishri or candy sugar and  is supposedly good even for men's health .