Question 1

What is Anogeissus latifolius used for in traditional medicine?

Accepted Answer

The bark of Anogeissus latifolius is used in Sri Lankan and Indian Ayurvedic practice primarily for gastrointestinal complaints such as diarrhoea and dysentery, owing to its high tannin content. The gum (ghatti gum) produced by the tree serves as a natural emulsifier in compound formulations. Leaf and bark preparations are also associated with antimicrobial and wound-care applications in some traditions.

Question 2

Where does Anogeissus latifolius grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The species is found mainly in Sri Lanka's dry and intermediate zones, particularly in the North Central and North Western provinces. It grows in dry deciduous and mixed forest, often on rocky soils, and can be encountered in and around protected areas such as Wilpattu National Park. It is typically absent from the wet zone and highland regions.

Question 3

What is ghatti gum and which plant produces it?

Accepted Answer

Ghatti gum, also called Indian gum, is a natural exudate produced by Anogeissus latifolius when its bark is damaged or incised. It functions as a polysaccharide-based emulsifier and stabiliser, used in both traditional Ayurvedic compounding and modern food and pharmaceutical applications. It is considered a functional substitute for gum arabic in several formulations.

Question 4

How do I identify Anogeissus latifolius in the wild?

Accepted Answer

Look for a medium to large deciduous tree with grey, flaky bark that peels in irregular scales. The leaves are alternate and elliptic, and the flowers appear as small, compact spherical heads of tiny yellowish-green blooms. In the dry season the tree sheds most of its leaves, making the pale grey trunk and branching structure more visible.

Question 5

Is Anogeissus latifolius endangered or protected in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The species is not currently listed as globally threatened, but dry-zone forests in Sri Lanka face ongoing pressure from agricultural expansion and climate variability. As a result, the intact forest communities in which axlewood naturally occurs are themselves considered ecologically sensitive. Conservation of dry-zone protected areas indirectly safeguards populations of this and many other species.

Question 6

What is the Sinhala name for Anogeissus latifolius?

Accepted Answer

Anogeissus latifolius is locally referred to in Sinhala as 'Damba' or 'Dahama' in some regional traditions, though usage can vary across different parts of the dry zone. The tree is more widely known across South Asia by its common English names axlewood or dhawa.

Question 7

Does Anogeissus latifolius have any commercial uses beyond Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ghatti gum from the tree is approved as a food additive in several countries and is used as a natural emulsifier in beverages, confectionery, and pharmaceutical formulations. The dense timber has traditionally been used for agricultural implements and high-quality charcoal. Research into the gum's potential in drug delivery systems has also attracted interest from pharmaceutical scientists.