Question 1

What is Melia azedarach used for in traditional medicine?

Accepted Answer

In Sri Lanka's ayurvedic tradition, the bark, root bark, leaves, seeds, and flowers of Melia azedarach are used to address conditions ranging from intestinal parasites and skin inflammation to fever. Each part of the plant is prepared differently depending on its intended application. Use should always be supervised by a qualified ayurvedic practitioner, as the plant contains compounds toxic in uncontrolled doses.

Question 2

Is the chinaberry tree found in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Melia azedarach — commonly called the chinaberry or bead tree — grows naturally and is widely cultivated across Sri Lanka's dry and intermediate zones. It is especially common in the North Central and North Western provinces, and is also maintained at botanical gardens such as the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya.

Question 3

Are the berries of Melia azedarach poisonous?

Accepted Answer

The berries of Melia azedarach are toxic to humans and most domestic animals if ingested, containing compounds called meliatoxins. Interestingly, some bird species are able to consume the ripe fruit without apparent harm. The tree should not be confused with edible fruiting species, and children and pets should be kept away from fallen fruit.

Question 4

What does Melia azedarach look like?

Accepted Answer

It is a medium to large deciduous tree, typically reaching 7 to 15 metres, with a broad spreading canopy and feathery bipinnate leaves. In spring it produces small pale purple or lilac flower clusters, followed by round yellow-green berries that persist on the branches through the dry season.

Question 5

What is the Sinhala name for Melia azedarach?

Accepted Answer

Melia azedarach is known in Sinhala as 'Lunu Midella' (ලුනු මිදෙල්ල). It is catalogued in Sri Lanka's official ayurvedic plant records and is recognised under the local botanical identifier LK94006192.

Question 6

Is Melia azedarach the same as the Persian lilac?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Melia azedarach is commonly referred to as the Persian lilac due to its lilac-coloured flowers, though it is botanically unrelated to the true lilac genus Syringa. Other common names include chinaberry, bead tree, and white cedar, reflecting how widely the species has spread across tropical and subtropical regions.

Question 7

What is the ecological importance of Melia azedarach?

Accepted Answer

The tree is a pioneer species that establishes well on degraded or dry soils, making it useful in reforestation and agroforestry programmes. Its canopy reduces soil erosion, fallen leaves improve soil organic content, and the fruit provides food for several bird species. It is commonly planted as a shade tree and windbreak in Sri Lankan village homesteads.