Question 1

What is Vitex altissima called in Sinhala?

Accepted Answer

Vitex altissima is commonly referred to as Milla in Sinhala. It is a large deciduous tree native to Sri Lanka and other parts of South and Southeast Asia, valued for both its timber and its place in traditional Ayurvedic medicine.

Question 2

What are the medicinal uses of Vitex altissima in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

In Sri Lankan Ayurveda, the bark of Vitex altissima is traditionally prepared as a decoction for fevers and inflammatory conditions. Leaves are used externally in poultices for skin ailments, and the roots and bark are associated in some traditions with relief from rheumatic and joint complaints. Use should always be guided by a qualified Ayurvedic physician.

Question 3

Where can I find Vitex altissima trees in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The tree grows mainly in Sri Lanka's dry and intermediate zone forests, with notable populations in protected areas such as Wilpattu National Park and various North Central Province forest reserves. It can also be found in some Ayurvedic herbal gardens near Kandy and Matale.

Question 4

Is Vitex altissima the same as Vitex negundo?

Accepted Answer

No, they are distinct species within the same genus. Vitex negundo, known locally as Nika, is a shrub or small tree also well documented in Ayurvedic medicine. Vitex altissima grows considerably larger and is more commonly associated with timber production alongside its medicinal applications.

Question 5

Is Vitex altissima timber still used in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Historically, Vitex altissima timber was prized for its hardness and decay resistance, used in construction and furniture. Commercial harvesting from natural forests is now regulated in Sri Lanka, though the species appears in some agroforestry and sustainable plantation schemes in the dry zone.

Question 6

What family does Vitex altissima belong to?

Accepted Answer

Vitex altissima belongs to the family Lamiaceae, which also includes many other aromatic and medicinally significant plants. Within this family, the genus Vitex is distributed widely across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.

Question 7

How is Vitex altissima different from other Sri Lankan Ayurvedic trees?

Accepted Answer

Vitex altissima is distinguished by its large size, palmately compound leaves, and pale-blue to whitish flower clusters. Unlike many smaller shrubby Ayurvedic plants, it is also a significant timber species. Its dual role as both a medicinal and commercial resource makes it particularly notable within Sri Lanka's indigenous plant catalogue.

Vitex altissima

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