Pongam tree (Pongamia)
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š¹ Scientific & Common Details
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Scientific name: Millettia pinnata (synonym: Pongamia pinnata)
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Common names: Pongam, Indian Beech, Karanj, Honge, Karanja
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Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)
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š¹ Local / Traditional Uses
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Medicinal:
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Seed oil (karanja oil) used in traditional medicine for skin diseases, rheumatism, and as an antiseptic.
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Leaves used in poultices for wounds and inflammations.
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Agricultural:
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Oilcake (by-product after oil extraction) used as organic manure.
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Leaves sometimes used as green manure.
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Other Uses:
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Seed oil used in lamps, soaps, and sometimes blended with biodiesel.
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Wood used for fuel and light timber purposes.
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Shade tree commonly planted along roadsides and in villages.
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š¹ Ecological Role
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1. Shade: Dense foliage provides excellent shade, making it a popular roadside and avenue tree.
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2. Soil Fertility: Being a legume, its roots fix atmospheric nitrogen, enriching the soil.
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3. Bird Nesting: Branches and thick canopy support nesting of birds like mynas, pigeons, and doves.
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4. Carbon Sequestration: Absorbs significant amounts of COā, helping in climate regulation.
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5. Erosion Control: Deep root system binds soil and prevents erosion along riverbanks and degraded lands.
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š¹ Fun Facts š±
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Pongam is called the āDiesel Treeā because its oil can be processed into biodiesel.
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Flowers attract bees and butterflies, making it useful for pollinator support.
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It is a hardy tree, tolerating drought, saline soils, and polluted urban conditions.
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In Ayurveda, almost every part of the treeāleaves, bark, flowers, and seedsāhas some medicinal use
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š¹ Cultural Significance
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In Indian villages, Pongam trees are often planted on roadsides, near temples, and in community spaces for shade and social gatherings.
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The tree is considered auspicious in some regions, associated with protection and prosperity.
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During festivals, branches and leaves may be used for decoration.
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Its resilient nature symbolizes endurance and self-sufficiency in folklore.