Tree that promises good fortune for the whole family

CHENNAI: Ankolam or Azhinjil, known as Alangium salvifoium (L.f.) Wang. in botanical term is one of the most worshipped and auspicious trees in India. A piece of the stem of this tree is kept at the entrance of the houses not only to prevent the entry of evil spirits but also to bring good fortune to a family.
As it is considered very auspicious, the tree is also planted near temples, pavithra vanas. It is grown as Sthala Vruksha/ sacred element in Vairava Temple near Karaikudi, Shivagangai district and Ashtothira Eshwar Temple near Ponneri of Thiruvallur district.

Ankolam is also well known
for its antidotal properties, 
against several types of poisonous-bites

Ankolam is also well known for its antidotal properties,  against several types of poisonous-bites.
It is a small, deciduous tree with pale brown bark that has  shallow cracks. The tree has spiny branch that provides safe nooks, and hence attracts birds to the nest. Anyone who calls oneself a lover of birds should have this tree in the garden.

Leaves are unequal at the base, usually 3-5-nerved from the base. Flowers are white or yellowish-white and fragrant. Berries are globose or ellipsoid and orange-red when ripe. These are sweet and edible. You get one seed per fruit and it is enclosed in red, mucilaginous, pulp.
Flowering and fruiting happens between February to September.
The tree stands in the tropical forests of India, and is frequent in dry deciduous and scrub forest, often along the water courses.

Roots of Ankolam is useful for external applications in acute case of rheumatism, leprosy, inflammation and for external and internal application in case of rabid dog bites. They are also used as an astringent, which provides a soothing effect on the skin. Fruits are purgative. They are used in treating burning sensations and hemorrhages. Oil obtained from the seeds is used for the treatment of piles and skin disorders. Tincture of A. salvifolium is also reported to be used in homeopathy. Ankola is the common name in Sanskrit, sage-leaved Alangium in English, Ankole in Kannada, Ankolamu in Malayalam and Angolam in Telugu.

(The author heads the Centre for Herbal Gardens and
Landscaping Services at FRLHT, Bengaluru)

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