As the famous proverb goes ‘From the tiny little acorn a mighty oak grows’, and so it is with all beginnings that may seem small or inconsequential! Take the case of the tiny green gardens that start from someone’s backyard and are painstakingly built on the zeal and passion of a humble gardener wanting to make a small change. In no time do we see that tiny little garden turning into a verdant green lung with an independent ecosystem all of its own- complete with luscious fruits, blooming flowers, chirruping birds and scurrying squirrels. This is the ultimate joy of Mother Nature and the reward that she bestows on mankind in turn.

However that’s not all that Mother Nature bestows generously- it has also provided for trees and plants to impart health and well-being, medicine and fragrance, beauty and sanctity and so much more.

Why we love our leafy friends

In our series we are going to explore one-by-one some the many aromatic plants and medicinal trees that have gone a long way in improving the health, ours and of the environment-

Loving the Mahogany tree

In all honesty Mahogany is a highly versatile tree that has a plethora of benefits, commercial included. Not only is the wood of the Mahogany tree prized for its durability in making furniture but it is also used for quickly making a barren piece of land a green haven as the tree is known to grow fast too. What’s more, the fully grown tree provides a restful shade, reduces air pollution (almost by 47 % – 69 %) and acts as a counter to soil erosion besides which the Mahogany tree roots are not invasive and don’t spoil tar roads as other tree roots do.

In fact one can peacefully sit under the cool shade of a Mahogany tree and strum a guitar made out of its wood.

Medicinal Benefits too!

Known as Toona sureni or Swietenia macrophylla, the Indian mahogany tree is a beautiful sight to behold as the leaves are a dark green besides which it is a fruit bearing tree too. The fruits are known to have a multitude of medicinal benefits and it is amazing to note that from a mere single fruit one can find so many sources of succour.

Mahogany seeds comprise of saponins and flavonoids, which are powerful and protective antioxidants for the body. Not only is the fruit jam packed with these helpful firefighters but it also contains antioxidants that act to slow down the ageing process.

For those who suffer from poor blood circulation and blood clotting issues, fat deposits in the arteries and even high levels of the dreaded LDL– i.e. bad cholesterol, the consumption of these seeds goes a long way.

The seeds are known to act as a soothing pain reliever besides they help those suffering from diabetes by regulating blood sugar and lowering blood pressure.

Antibacterial (antifungal), antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, the seeds also help in lowering body heat (anti pyretic). What’s more, these tiny magic seeds also reduce bleeding while boosting immunity.

But wait! That’s not all- the Mahogany seeds are known to help improve liver functions besides restoring lack of appetites and hypertension too. Concurrently, they help those suffering from eczema, rheumatism and malaria.

Do be careful with over consumption, as the seeds have side effects too. Excessive consumption has been known to cause gallstones besides other side effects. Caution and prudence is advised.

Here goes a saying “Keep a green tree in your heart and perhaps a singing bird will come”- Chinese Proverb