Medicinal Uses And Folklore Of Kalpavriksha Trees

The folklore and medicinal uses are as diverse as the trees themselves. Here are examples from the most prominent ones:

Banyan (Ficus benghalensis)

• Folklore: Believed to be the abode of deities and spirits (Yaksha). Worshipped for longevity and fertility. It is a symbol of Lord Shiva.
• Medicinal Uses: The milky latex (sap) is applied to cuts, bruises, and for joint pain. The bark is a strong astringent, used in traditional medicine to treat dysentery and diarrhea. Leaves are used as a poultice to reduce inflammation.

Peepal (Ficus religiosa)

• Folklore: Worshipped as the living embodiment of Lord Vishnu. It's believed that ancestors' spirits reside on the tree.
• Medicinal Uses: The bark is used to treat skin diseases like eczema. The leaves are used to manage jaundice. The powdered fruit is traditionally used for asthma.

Coconut (Cocos nucifera)

• Folklore: Considered a "pure" fruit, offered to deities in all Hindu rituals. Breaking a coconut is symbolic of breaking one's ego before god.
• Medicinal Uses: Coconut water is a natural sterile electrolyte drink, used for rehydration. Coconut oil has antimicrobial and moisturizing properties, used for skin and hair health.

Mahua (Madhuca longifolia)

• Folklore: Revered as the "tree of life" in tribal culture. The flowers are collected to make a fermented beverage (*mahua*) used in all rituals and celebrations.
• Medicinal Uses: The flowers are used as a general tonic, a cooling agent, and to treat coughs. The oil from its seeds (mahua butter) is used for cooking and as an emollient for skin diseases.