Mahua Mahua (Bassia latifolia), is an indigenous tree of high economic value. A characteristic tree of the dry region, it is found in north and central India. It commonly grows in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat. The tree is very well known to rural folk since ages in India. Its flowers, fruits, and oil obtained from seeds are eaten in various ways. The ‘corolla’ commonly called mahua flowers, are a rich source of sugar containing appreciable amount of vitamins and minerals. Fruit, a berry, is eaten as raw or cooked. Pulp is a good source of sugar, whereas dry husk makes a good source of absolute alcohol. Seed is a good source of oil. The linoleic, a major unsaturated fatty acid found in mahua oil, is used in reducing the cholesterol content in blood serum, making its oil quite useful for heart patients. Climate and soil Mahua prefers tropical and subtropical climate. It can withstand drought admirably. The trees of Ba...
Comments
Post a Comment