There is probably no other Indian tree that holds as much importance for tribal India as Mahua. Also called the ‘Tree of life of tribal India’, it is closely entwined in the day to day life of Central Indian tribes. From food to animal fodder to fuel, almost every part of it can be utilised.
Mahua or Madhuca longifolia is a fast-growing tree that reaches up to a height of 12-15 m. It bears small fleshy flowers in the month of March-April that are usually pale white to yellowish in shade. These flowers are used for preparing one of the most famous drinks of Central India, Mahua wine.
Mahua is loaded with active compounds that provide with tremendous medicinal and therapeutic value. From seasonal flu and fever to epilepsy, mahua is a one-stop solution to virtually every health problem. In fact, Ayurveda has regarded mahua as a universal formula.
Some basic facts about Mahua:
- Scientific name: Madhuca longifolia
- Family: Sapotaceae
- Common names: Mahuwa, Mahua, Mahwa, Mohulo, Iluppai or ippa
- English name: Butternut tree
- Parts used: Bark, seeds and flowers
- Native region and geographical distribution: Mahua is a tropical tree belonging to India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Myanmar with its distribution widely spread across the states of Central and Northern India