Ethnobotanical value of dry, fallen ovaries of <i>Bombax ceiba</i> L. (Bombacaceae: Malvales)

Abstract

In the tropics, the traditional ecological knowledge regarding utilization of diverse Non Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) available with different human communities remains under-explored. Though not on an organized scale, the collection and sale of various NTFPs, help the members of tropical rural communities to sustain themselves. Bombax ceiba, a tropical moist deciduous tree has various ethnobotanical values. Semul gum is edible and possesses medicinal value. Immature fruits of this tree have value as an expectorant, stimulant and diuretic. Extracts of young roots are used for treating dysentery. Now the dry, fallen ovaries of this tree species have a new commercial value, and are being widely collected and traded by some local herbalists in Thrissur District of Kerala.