Semecarpus anacardium
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Semecarpus Anacardium (the Oriental Anacardium) is a native of India and is closely related to the cashew.¹²

Etymology

It is known as bhallatak in India and was called "marking nuts" by Europeans, because it was used by washermen to mark the cloths before washing, as it imparted water insoluble mark to the cloth. It's also known as "Ker" in Kannada.

Woody plant features

It is a deciduous tree, found in the outer Himalayas. The nut is about 2.5 cm long, ovoid and smooth lustrous black. In Ayurveda, the fruit is considered a rasayana for longevity and rejuvenation,and is processed before use, as it is toxic in nature.

Medicinal uses

Recent studies have shown the fruit to be a good anti-inflammatory agent and effective in various types of cancers.

References

• Germplasm Resources Information Network taxonomy of plants

Further reading

• Puri, H. S. (2003) RASAYANA: Ayurvedic Herbs for Longevity and Rejuvenation. Taylor & Francis, London. pages 74-79.

• Wealth of India, Raw Materials. Vol IX, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, New Delhi, 1972

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