Babul Tree

1. Babul Tree Also known as gum Arabic tree, Babul is a small tree species native to Africa, the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. Babul tree is useful as herb in India due to its immense medicinal benefits as well as other utilities. Tooth-Brushing The tender twig of the Babul Tree is used as a toothbrush in south-east Africa, Pakistan and India. Medicinal Uses The leaves, bark, gum and pods of the Babul Tree are used for medicinal purposes. The tender growing tops and leaves are used as a douche in cases of gonorrhoea, dropsy and leucorrhoea. Pulp of leaves, decoction of bark and the gum are prescribed in diarrhoea, dysentery and diabetes. A paste made of the burnt leaves with coconut oil makes a very efficacious ointment in cases of itch. The leaves and the gum are used for gargling for relaxing sore throat and spongy gums. Decoction of leaves is also used as wash for bleeding ulcers and wounds. Description of Babul Tree In the interiors and waterless regions, the Babul Tree is one of those very few trees that is able to find adequate nourishment and attains an average height of 5 m to 20 m. The Babul Tree is a slow growing species but is moderately long-lived and preferably grows in sandy or sterile regions, with the climate dry during the greater part of the year. The species can withstand extremely dry environments and can also endure floods.