Simarouba glauca

Suresh Forestry Network
Overview

Simarouba glauca

The Simarouba glauca, commonly known as the Paradise Tree, is a valuable medicinal tree native to Central and South America, but now cultivated in tropical regions worldwide. This hardy, fast-growing tree is prized for its therapeutic properties, especially its bark, seeds, and leaves, which have been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

Simarouba is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. The bark is used to treat various digestive disorders, including dysentery, diarrhea, and indigestion. It has also been traditionally used to combat fevers and infections due to its potent antibacterial qualities. The seeds of Simarouba are known for their oil, which is rich in oleic and stearic acids, making it beneficial for skincare and haircare. The oil is also being researched for its potential in treating certain types of cancers and other chronic conditions.

In addition to its medicinal uses, Simarouba glauca is gaining attention in agroforestry due to its ability to thrive in poor soils and improve soil fertility. It is also considered a promising biofuel crop because of the oil yield from its seeds.