Swietenia mahagoni (L.)
• Scientific Name: Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq.
• Family: Meliaceae
• Common Name: Mahogany, West Indian Mahogany, Cuban Mahogany
• Malayalam Name: മഹോഗനി (Mahogani)
• Tamil Name: மகோனி (Makoni)
Synonyms:
• Swietenia mahagoni has been referred to by several other names in botanical literature: Swietenia americana L. and Mahogonia mahagoni (L.)
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Description:
Swietenia mahagoni, commonly known as Mahogany or West Indian Mahogany, is a large evergreen tree native to the tropical Americas, particularly the Caribbean and southern Florida. The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and is known for its large, glossy, pinnate leaves and clusters of small, fragrant white or yellowish flowers. The fruit is a capsule that contains winged seeds. The wood of Swietenia mahagoni is highly valued for its rich, reddish-brown color and durability, and is widely used in furniture making and carpentry. The tree also has medicinal uses, with various parts of the plant, including the bark, leaves, and seeds, being used in traditional medicine.
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Medicinal Uses:
1. Anti-inflammatory:
o The bark and leaves of Swietenia mahagoni are used in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation, particularly in cases of arthritis, rheumatism, and muscle pain.
2. Antimicrobial:
o Extracts from the bark and leaves have shown antibacterial and antifungal properties, making them useful for treating skin infections and wounds.
3. Liver Health:
o The bark and leaves are sometimes used to support liver function and treat liver disorders, such as jaundice.
4. Blood Pressure Regulation:
o Some traditional uses include the use of bark decoctions to regulate blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
5. Antidiabetic:
o The leaves and seeds are used in certain herbal formulations to help lower blood sugar levels and manage symptoms of diabetes.
6. Wound Healing:
o The bark and leaves are sometimes applied externally to promote wound healing due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
7. Cough and Respiratory Conditions:
o The leaves and bark have also been used in treating respiratory issues such as coughs, bronchitis, and asthma.
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