Bodhi

Bodhi trees are native to India. This specific tree is also known as the Bo tree, or Sacred Fig tree. Historically, Prince Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) achieved enlightenment while meditating under its shade. An original cutting from the first bodhi tree can be found in the Foster Botanical Garden in Honolulu. Other common names include: Pipal (India), Pu Ti Shu (China), Indo bodaiju (Japan), Arayal (Malaysia), and Cay de (Vietnam).

This spiritually significant tree can grow up to 100 feet tall with trunks reaching 10 feet in diameter. The silvery smooth trunk branches out into different spans of distinctive heart shaped leaves leading to a long whispy point. Bodhi trees are perennial and thrive in hot, humid weather preferring full sunlight.

Chaminade University's bodhi tree was presented as a gift to the School of Business by a donor.

Traditional Cultural and Spiritual Usages

• Seeds used to make prayer beads
• Leaves contain glucose, phenolic; bark rich in vitamin K
• Leaves, shoots, bark, seeds used to treat asthma, kidney disease, ulcers, diabetes and blood-related problems
• Properties: antibacterial, astringent, antiviral