Peepal tree 

Peepal tree

Scientific name: Ficus religiosa

Family: Moraceae

Common names: Peepal, Sacred Fig, Bodhi Tree

🔹 Uses

Medicinal → leaves, bark, figs for asthma, diabetes, cough, skin ailments

Religious → sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism

Shade → planted in temples, parks, roadsides

Timber → light construction (rarely used due to sacredness)

🔹 Ecological Role

Provides dense shade

Leaf litter improves soil fertility

Supports bird nesting and bats

Carbon sequestration → long-living tree

Supports biodiversity through figs

🔹 Fun Facts

Bodhi Tree → Buddha attained enlightenment here

Can live hundreds of years

Has aerial roots forming new trunks

Leaves rustle in wind → considered auspicious

🔹 Cultural Significance

Sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism

Worshipped on Saturdays and festivals

Planted near temples & villages for spiritual protection

Symbol of life, fertility, and continuity

👉 Peepal = Sacred, medicinal, shade-providing, biodiversity-friendly, culturally significant tree.