Taxonomic study of Acacia nilotica in Churu district, a dye plant.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Taxonomical study of acacia nilotica (linn) wild (a dye yielding plant) in churu district
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Rakesh Kumar Verma
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Taxonomical study of acacia nilotica (linn) wild (a dye yielding plant) in churu district
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201710-9408
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The genus Acacia, part of the Mimosaceae family, encompasses a wide range of trees, shrubs, and climbers. One notable species, Acacia nilotica (Linn) Wild, commonly known as babul, is indigenous to tropical areas including the Indian subcontinent and parts of Africa. Its resilience allows it to thrive in diverse environments, making it a vital resource for local communities. This article explores the taxonomic classification, economic importance, and various uses of Acacia nilotica, emphasizing its multifaceted role in ecosystems and human livelihoods.
Economic Importance of Acacia nilotica
Acacia nilotica is recognized for its economic significance as it serves multiple functions, particularly in rural areas. The wood of babul is highly regarded for construction purposes, as it is durable and suitable for making agricultural implements. Additionally, the tree offers excellent fuelwood and is utilized for charcoal production. Beyond its timber, Acacia nilotica provides a source of tannins from its bark and pods, which are important in industries like tanning and dyeing. The economic value of this species is evident not only in construction and fuel but also in its application in various commercial and medicinal products.
Medicinal Uses of Acacia nilotica
The medicinal properties of Acacia nilotica are well-documented, with various parts of the tree employed in traditional healing practices. Its leaves, bark, gum, and pods are used for treating ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and respiratory issues. The tender young tops and leaves serve as a remedy for gonorrhea, dropsy, and leucorrhea. Additionally, a paste made from burnt leaves and coconut oil is effective against itching, while a decoction of the leaves can be used for cleaning wounds. Thus, the plant plays a crucial role in ethnomedicine, providing a natural source of treatment for numerous health issues.
Taxonomical Classification
Acacia nilotica follows a structured botanical classification: Kingdom-Plantae, Class-Dicotyledonae, Sub-class-Polypetalae, Order-Rosales, Family-Mimosaceae, Genus-Acacia, and Species-Acacia nilotica. This classification highlights the tree's placement within a diverse plant family known for its pod-bearing characteristics and high tannin content. Understanding this taxonomy not only aids in identifying the species but also emphasizes its connections to other economically and ecologically significant plants within the Mimosaceae family.
Conclusion
Acacia nilotica is a vital species that showcases the intricate relationship between environmental adaptation and human utility. Its extensive use in construction, fuel, medicine, and agriculture underscores its importance as a multipurpose tree in arid regions, particularly in Rajasthan, India. The combination of its economic value, medicinal benefits, and ecological contributions—such as nitrogen fixation—demonstrates the need for sustainable management and conservation efforts. Recognizing the significance of Acacia nilotica can lead to enhanced awareness and support for its preservation, ultimately benefiting rural populations and biodiversity in the regions it inhabits.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are the primary uses of Acacia nilotica?
Acacia nilotica, also known as babul, is used for timber, fodder, gum, and medicinal purposes. Its bark contains tannins for tanning, while its pods and leaves have various health applications.
Where is Acacia nilotica commonly found in India?
Acacia nilotica is widespread in dry areas of India, particularly in Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, and Karnataka, thriving in forest areas, roadsides, and agricultural fields.
What is the botanical classification of Acacia nilotica?
Acacia nilotica belongs to the Plantae kingdom, Dicotyledonae class, Mimosaceae family, and is classified under the genus Acacia and species nilotica.
What are the economic benefits of Acacia nilotica?
Acacia nilotica provides timber for construction, fuelwood, tannins from bark and pods, and is significant for its medicinal properties and ecological benefits, including nitrogen fixation.
How is Acacia nilotica utilized in traditional medicine?
Its leaves, bark, gum, and pods are used to treat ailments like diarrhea, dysentery, and sore throats, with preparations including decoctions and ointments for various health issues.
What is unique about the gum from Acacia nilotica?
The gum, known as Indian Gum Arabic, is obtained from bark cuts and is used in various applications, although it's considered less effective than true Gum Arabic from A. senegal.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Taxonomic study of Acacia nilotica in Churu district, a dye plant.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Tree:
A tree is a perennial plant with an elongated stem or trunk that supports branches and leaves. In the context of Acacia nilotica, it refers to the species' physical structure, enabling it to grow in diverse environments, including arid regions, while providing numerous economic and ecological benefits.
2) Species:
In biology, a species is a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. Acacia nilotica stands as a notable species within the Acacia genus, recognized for its significant roles in agriculture, medicine, and sustainability in its native habitats.
3) India:
India is a South Asian nation enriched by diverse cultures, languages, and ecosystems. Acacia nilotica thrives in various Indian states, playing crucial roles in local economies for timber, fodder, and traditional medicine, reflecting the plant's adaptability and importance within Indian ecology.
4) Field:
In botany, a field denotes an area where plants grow, often characterized by specific ecological conditions. The term reflects the research area for Acacia nilotica, where collection and study of specimens take place, providing vital data for taxonomy and ethnobotany.
5) Rajasthan:
Rajasthan is a large state in northwestern India, known for its desert landscapes and rich biodiversity. The prevalence of Acacia nilotica in Rajasthan, particularly in Churu district, signifies its adaptation to semi-arid regions, showcasing its importance for local communities and ecosystems.
6) Indian:
The term 'Indian' relates to anything originating from India. In the context of Acacia nilotica, it emphasizes its status as a native species with significant cultural, economic, and ecological relevance to Indian communities that utilize various parts of the tree for multiple purposes.
7) Timber:
Timber refers to wood that is prepared for construction and manufacturing. Acacia nilotica is valued for its durable timber, commonly used in building structures, agricultural tools, and various hardwood products, contributing significantly to rural livelihoods and sustainable forestry practices.
8) Study (Studying):
Study denotes the systematic investigation of a subject. The taxonomical study of Acacia nilotica focuses on identifying its characteristics, distribution, and ecological role, thereby enhancing understanding of its importance in biodiversity and its potential applications in ecology and ethnomedicine.
9) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants, encompassing their physiology, structure, ecology, and distribution. The study of Acacia nilotica exemplifies botany's role in understanding plant diversity, taxonomy, and the relationships between plants and their environment, particularly in the context of human use.
10) Genus:
A genus is a taxonomic rank that groups species with common characteristics. Acacia, the genus of Acacia nilotica, encompasses several species known for their economic and ecological benefits, highlighting the significance of classification in understanding plant diversity and relationships in ecosystems.
11) Egypt:
Egypt is a transcontinental country linking northeast Africa with the Middle East. Acacia nilotica's name derives from its association with the Nile River, emphasizing its historical significance in traditional medicine throughout Egypt, as well as its wide geographic distribution across Africa.
12) Ajmer:
Ajmer is a city in the Indian state of Rajasthan, home to institutions like S.P.C. Govt. College, where botanical studies, including the taxonomy of Acacia nilotica, are conducted. It plays a crucial role in the documentation and preservation of local biodiversity.
13) Forest:
A forest is a large area dominated by trees, providing habitat for wildlife and intense biodiversity. Acacia nilotica often occupies forest edges and degraded lands, facilitating ecological recovery and resource availability for local communities, thereby supporting both conservation and economic activities.
14) Family:
In taxonomy, a family is a higher ranking classification that groups related genera. Acacia nilotica belongs to the Mimosaceae family, which includes species recognized for their ecological and economic importance, contributing to our understanding of plant diversity and evolutionary relationships.
15) Lanka (Lamka, Lànkà):
Lanka, or Sri Lanka, is an island nation in South Asia known for its rich biodiversity. Acacia nilotica is found in this region as well, highlighting its adaptability across various climatic conditions and its significance in both local cultures and ecosystems.
16) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi refers to a researcher involved in early botanical studies in Rajasthan. His contributions to understanding the flora, including Acacia nilotica, acknowledge the historical efforts in documenting plant species, enriching our knowledge of local biodiversity and its applications.
17) Kumar:
Kumar is a common Indian surname, here referring to Rakesh Kumar Verma, the author of the study. His work emphasizes the relevance of documenting biodiversity through studies like that of Acacia nilotica, exemplifying individual contributions to the field of botany.
18) Water:
Water is essential for plant survival, significantly influencing growth and distribution. Acacia nilotica demonstrates remarkable drought resistance, surviving with limited water, and showcasing its ecological adaptability, thereby playing a crucial role in arid and semiarid regions, such as Rajasthan.
19) Hindi (Himdi):
Hindi is the predominant language spoken in northern India. The use of Hindi names for Acacia nilotica, such as 'kikar,' illustrates the cultural significance of this tree in local communities, highlighting its role in traditional practices and vernacular knowledge.
20) Tear:
In botany, a 'tear' refers to the ovoid gum tears produced by Acacia nilotica when the bark is cut. This gum is economically valuable, used in various traditional remedies and industry, representing the multi-functional aspects of this tree species.
21) Western India:
Western India refers to the region encompassing the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and others. Acacia nilotica plays a crucial role in the ecology and economy of western India, thriving in its varied landscapes and serving multiple uses for local populations.
22) Common People (Common Folk):
Common people refer to the general population in a region. In the context of Acacia nilotica, it highlights the plant’s significance to local communities, who utilize various parts of the tree for medicinal, economic, and nutritional purposes, fostering traditional ecological knowledge.
23) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the study of drug action. The medicinal applications of Acacia nilotica, such as its use in treating ailments like diarrhea and diabetes, illustrate its importance in traditional medicine, contributing to the understanding of plant-based remedies in pharmacology.
24) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is a state in western India known for its diverse landscapes. Acacia nilotica is prevalent in Maharashtra, where it serves multiple roles, including providing fodder, timber, and medicinal uses, reflecting its ecological and economic importance in the region.
25) Arrangement:
Arrangement refers to the organization or positioning of entities. In botanical context, the arrangement of Acacia nilotica's leaves and flowers impacts its ecological interactions and efficiency in resource utilization, highlighting the importance of structural attributes in plant biodiversity.
26) Observation:
Observation in research involves examining plants in their natural habitats. The observation of Acacia nilotica during the study enhances understanding of its ecological roles, growth conditions, and interactions with local communities, informing conservation and sustainable use practices.
27) Karnataka:
Karnataka is a southwestern state in India where Acacia nilotica can also be found. Its adaptability across various regions of India highlights the tree's importance in diverse climatic conditions, fulfilling ecological, economic, and cultural roles in local communities.
28) Gathering:
Gathering refers to the collection of data or resources. In the context of Acacia nilotica, gathering information about its uses and properties involves engaging with local communities, illustrating the blend of scientific inquiry with traditional ecological knowledge.
29) Medicine:
Medicine refers to substances used to treat illnesses. Acacia nilotica’s various parts are employed for medicinal purposes, reinforcing the role of traditional knowledge in recognizing the therapeutic values of plants, emphasizing its significance in local health practices.
30) Bleeding:
Bleeding refers to the loss of blood from the body, often requiring medical attention. Acacia nilotica’s leaf decoction is traditionally used for treating bleeding wounds, illustrating the tree's relevance in local medicinal practices and the broader field of ethnobotany.
31) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit is an ancient Indian language rich in literary and cultural heritage. The term 'Babbula' for Acacia nilotica in Sanskrit reflects the historical and cultural significance of plants in Indian traditions, highlighting the deep-rooted connections between language and local flora.
32) Babbula:
Babbula is the Sanskrit name for Acacia nilotica, illustrating the tree’s significance in ancient Indian texts and practices. The name reflects cultural connections and historical uses that highlight the traditional importance of this species in local medicine and daily life.
33) Gujarat:
Gujarat is a state in western India, adjacent to Rajasthan. Acacia nilotica thrives in Gujarat’s ecosystems, emphasizing the species’ adaptability across arid and semi-arid regions, playing vital roles in local economies, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
34) Kannada:
Kannada is the official language of the Indian state of Karnataka. Understanding Acacia nilotica in Kannada, like its local name, illustrates the cultural significance and the traditional ecological knowledge associated with the plant among diverse linguistic communities in India.
35) Village:
A village is a small community in a rural area. Acacia nilotica serves as a vital resource for villages, providing timber, fodder, and medicinal products, thereby enhancing local livelihoods and supporting agricultural practices essential for rural development.
36) Beating:
Beating refers to the method of extracting bark from Acacia nilotica for tannin production. This traditional practice, derived from sustainable resource management, highlights the economic relevance of the tree while illustrating local methods of utilizing botanical resources sustainably.
37) Coconut (Cocoanut):
Coconut refers to the tropical fruit, and its oil is used in traditional medicine. When combined with Acacia nilotica leaves, it creates a potent ointment for skin ailments, emphasizing the interplay between different medicinal plants in traditional healing practices.
38) Andhra (Amdhra):
Andhra Pradesh is a southeastern state in India. Acacia nilotica is found in this region, playing significant roles in agroecosystems by providing timber, fodder, and traditional medicinal products relevant to local agricultural and health practices.
39) Thomas:
Thomas references a contributor in the botanical studies of the region. Research contributions such as those involving Acacia nilotica highlight collaborative efforts that enrich our understanding of plant diversity and its significance in ecological and ethnic contexts.
40) Jaipur:
Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, known for its rich cultural heritage. The presence of Acacia nilotica in this urban and periphery environment showcases its benefits for urban forestry, providing ecological services and resources for local populations.
41) Nagaur:
Nagaur is a district in Rajasthan where Acacia nilotica thrives. Its presence signifies adaptability to local conditions, playing important roles in community livelihoods as a source of fodder, timber, and traditional medicinal applications.
42) Bitter:
Bitter refers to a distinct taste, often associated with certain plant parts like Acacia nilotica's seeds. The taste indicates the presence of specific compounds, which form a part of traditional diets and medicinal preparations.
43) Nature:
Nature encompasses the physical world, including plants and ecosystems. Acacia nilotica exemplifies the integration of scientific understanding and traditional practices in managing natural resources, reflecting the holistic relationship between human communities and their environment.
44) Reason:
Reason refers to the rationale behind phenomena or practices. The significant ecological role of Acacia nilotica in soil stabilization and nitrogen fixation illustrates the importance of plant diversity in enhancing ecosystem functionality and agricultural sustainability.
45) Plough:
A plough is an agricultural tool used for tilling soil. Acacia nilotica timber is favored for making ploughs due to its strength and durability, reflecting the tree's integral role in supporting agricultural practices in rural communities.
46) Gold (Golden):
Golden describes a color often associated with Acacia nilotica flowers. The vibrant yellow blossoms attract pollinators, benefiting the ecosystem by promoting biodiversity and ensuring the reproduction of various plant species in their habitats.
47) Sagar (Sagár):
Sagar refers to a geographical feature or may denote specific locations. In this context, it could indicate areas where Acacia nilotica is found, highlighting the tree's adaptability and importance in those local ecosystems.
48) Ulcer:
An ulcer refers to a sore on the skin or mucous membrane. Traditional medicine uses Acacia nilotica's leaves and gum to treat ulcers, emphasizing the significance of understanding plant properties in developing treatments for various ailments.
49) House:
A house refers to a structure for habitation. Acacia nilotica provides timber for building houses, demonstrating its importance in providing essential resources for constructing homes and supporting livelihoods in rural areas.
50) Tamil:
Tamil is a Dravidian language predominantly spoken in Tamil Nadu and parts of Sri Lanka. The recognition of local names for Acacia nilotica underscores the plant's relevance in cultural practices and traditional medicinal knowledge across diverse linguistic communities.
51) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burnt refers to the process of combustion, which can be used in preparing traditional medicines. The leaves of Acacia nilotica are often burnt and used in mixes for ointments, showing the plant's versatile applications in local medicinal practices.
52) Alvar (Arvar, Alwar):
Alwar is a district in Rajasthan where Acacia nilotica grows. Its adaptability to various terrains in Alwar highlights the economic and ecological value of this tree within local communities and its role in regional biodiversity.
53) Cutan:
Sudan is a country in northeastern Africa where Acacia nilotica also thrives. The species' widespread distribution across Africa and Asia illustrates its ecological significance, adaptability, and usage in traditional medicine and local economies.
54) Kota:
Kota is a city in Rajasthan known for its agricultural activities. Acacia nilotica supports local agriculture by providing fodder and timber, reinforcing its role as an important resource for farmers and rural communities in the region.
55) Tank:
A tank is a water storage structure, often found in agricultural settings. Acacia nilotica's presence around tanks promotes soil stabilization and water conservation, underscoring its ecological role in enhancing local agricultural productivity.
56) Food:
Food refers to any consumable item providing nourishment. The seeds of Acacia nilotica can be consumed, illustrating the tree's multifaceted contributions to local diets and its role in promoting food security during periods of scarcity.
57) Rice (Rce):
Rice is a staple food crop in many parts of the world, including India. Agricultural practices involving Acacia nilotica timber for ploughs demonstrate the interconnectedness of resource utilization and food production systems, enhancing local livelihoods.
58) Crop:
A crop is a cultivated plant grown for food or economic gain. Acacia nilotica supports agricultural systems by providing shade and improving soil fertility, thereby facilitating better growth conditions for crops in arid regions.
59) Wall:
A wall is a vertical structure serving as a barrier. The thorny branches of Acacia nilotica can be used as natural fencing, demonstrating its utility in providing security and managing livestock in agricultural settings.
60) Line:
Line can refer to a row or boundary. In agriculture, plant lines of Acacia nilotica may serve as windbreaks, enhancing microclimates for crops while illustrating the tree's role in sustainable agricultural practices.
61) Post:
A post is a vertical support structure. Acacia nilotica wood is commonly used for making sturdy posts in agricultural and construction applications, underlining the species' economic importance and its integration into rural livelihoods.
62) Inci (Imci):
Inch is a unit of measurement. The dimensions of Acacia nilotica’s timber products are vital for construction and agriculture, illustrating the practical relevance of size in determining suitability for various applications in local contexts.