Pongamia pinnata

  

Pongamia pinnata, also known as Indian Beech, Karanja, or Millettia pinnata, is a medium-sized tree native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is valued for its various ecological and economic uses. Here are some key characteristics and uses of Pongamia pinnata:

• Appearance: Pongamia pinnata is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 15-25 meters in height. It has a dense, spreading canopy with pinnate leaves that are typically 15-30 cm long, consisting of 5-7 leaflets.
• Flowers: The tree produces fragrant, white to pinkish-purple flowers in clusters, which are attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies.
• Fruit: The tree bears flattened, brown pods that contain seeds. Each pod can have 1-5 seeds.
• Seed Oil: Pongamia pinnata seeds are rich in oil, known as Pongam oil or Karanja oil. This oil has various industrial and traditional uses. It can be used in soap and candle making, as a lubricant, and as a biofuel.
• Traditional Uses: In traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, various parts of the Pongamia pinnata tree, including leaves, seeds, and oil, have been used for their medicinal properties. They are believed to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties.
• Biofuel Potential: Pongamia pinnata has gained attention as a potential source of biofuel. Its oil can be used as a feedstock for biodiesel production, offering a renewable and environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels.
• Soil Improvement: Pongamia pinnata is also known for its ability to improve soil quality. Its roots fix nitrogen, enriching the soil with this essential nutrient. It is often used in agroforestry systems to enhance soil fertility.
• Shade and Windbreak: The tree's wide canopy provides shade, making it suitable for agroforestry and as a shade tree for crops. Additionally, it can be used as a windbreak in coastal areas to protect against salt spray and strong winds.
• Wildlife Attraction: Pongamia pinnata can attract various wildlife, including birds and insects, due to its flowers and seeds.
• Environmental Benefits: Planting Pongamia pinnata can contribute to reforestation efforts and help mitigate soil erosion in certain areas.

While Pongamia pinnata has many valuable attributes, it's important to note that the cultivation and use of this tree can vary depending on regional and local practices. It is considered an important species for sustainable agriculture and afforestation efforts in many parts of its native range.

Pongamia pinnata is part of the catalog of ayurvedic medicinal plants of Sri Lanka.