Doctor Bon

Bassia latifolia is synonymous to Madhuca indica, popularly known as Mahua in India. It is a large handsome tree which may reach a height of 12 to 15 meters. The trunk of the tree is rather short with many spreading branches which provide excellent shade. The leaves are elliptic-oblong in shape. The cream colored flowers which turn purplish when fully mature and ready to drop are formed in dense fascicles near the ends of the branches. The dry flowers which are brown in color are sweet and can be eaten. In some parts of India, the tribal folk prepare local liquor which has a very strong smell.

Herbal use

1. Bassia latifolia used for expelling worms from the body.
2. It cures biliousness or congestion of the liver.
3. It cures ulcers and leprosy and is used for fractures.
4. Bassia helps in rheumatism.
5. Bassia helps in curing heart diseases and ear complaints.
6. Cures diseases of the blood, bronchitis and tuberculosis.
7. It promotes the removal of mucous secretions from the bronchial tubes.
8. Helps in increasing the secretion of milk in lactating mothers.
9. Helps in soothing the alimentary tract and relieving inflammation and is also used for coughs.

Instruction

1. The decoction of the bark is used to take care of nos. 1 to 3 above.
2. The milky latex of the tree is used externally to relieve rheumatic pains.
3. The decoction of the flowers is used to take care of No. 5, 7 and 9 above.
4. The decoction of the fruit takes care of Nos. 5 and 6 above.
5. The decoction of the seeds takes care of No. 8 above.
6. The dried flowers are used as a fomentation to take care of Number 10 above.
7. The flowers fried in ghee are eaten by persons suffering from piles.

Major parts used

The bark, latex, flowers, fruits and seeds