Semecarpus Anacardium
Family : Anacardiaceae
Common Name : Marking nut
English Name : Marking nut
Hindi Name : Bhilawan
Telugu Name : Nallajeeda
Bengali Name : Bhallata
Tree Characteristics :
Marking nut tree is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach a height of 25 metres, but is usually smaller. Possibly best known for its use in making a permanent marking ink, this multi-purpose tree also provides food, medicines, oil etc. It is often cultivated as an ornamental plant in the tropics. The shell surrounding the seed contains a strongly irritant substance. If this is the same as for the related cashew nut, then it will be destroyed by roasting.The plant is poisonous to the touch in the same manner as poison ivy (Toxicodendronspp), bringing the skin up in a severe rash.
Nursery:
Fruiting season April to May Black drupaceous fruit is referred to as seed eeds are viable for about few months under ambient room temperature The seeds are soaked in cold water for 48 hrs. Acid scarification in 50% sulphuric acid for 5 and 10 min increase the percentage germination and reduce mean germination time. Germination percentage Up to 21; Germination period 27 to 53 days; Seeds are sown with the stalk end upwards and in slanting position in polythene bags of 22.5x17.5 cm size filled with potting mixture and watered . Seedlings do not stand transplanting well and hence direct sowing is preferred.
Economic Uses :
Young fruits are pickled.The roasted fruit rinds are eaten by local people
The pulp of the pedicels is roasted and eaten.Ripe fruits are aphrodisiac, digestive and stimulant.A paste or juice of the fruit is used in the treatment of bronchitis, dysentery, fever, asthma and haemorrhoids.
The pure black acrid juice obtained from the fruits is used externally to remove rheumatic pains, aches and sprains. An oil obtained from the seeds is used to treat skin eruptions. The latex is applied externally in the treatment of headaches, skin diseases and scabies.
Wood is suitable for packing cases.
