Question 1

What is Calophyllum tomentosum used for in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

In Sri Lankan Ayurvedic medicine, the bark resin and seed oil of Calophyllum tomentosum are used primarily for their anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. External applications have traditionally addressed skin conditions, rheumatic pain, and joint ailments. Preparations should be used under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.

Question 2

What is the Sinhala name for Calophyllum tomentosum?

Accepted Answer

The tree is commonly referred to as Keena or Pona in Sinhala, though local names can vary by region. It is distinct from the more familiar Domba tree (Calophyllum inophyllum), which is a separate species found mainly in coastal areas.

Question 3

Where can I find Calophyllum tomentosum in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The tree grows naturally in the wet-zone lowland and mid-elevation rainforests of southwestern Sri Lanka. Its habitat overlaps with protected areas such as the Sinharaja Forest Reserve. It is not typically encountered in the dry zone or along the coast.

Question 4

Is Calophyllum tomentosum the same as Calophyllum inophyllum?

Accepted Answer

No, they are distinct species. Calophyllum inophyllum (Domba) is a broad, spreading coastal tree widely planted near beaches and temples. Calophyllum tomentosum is a taller forest interior tree identified by the fine hairs on its young shoots and leaf undersides. Both belong to the same genus and share the yellow latex characteristic.

Question 5

What does Calophyllum tomentosum look like — how can I identify it?

Accepted Answer

Look for a tall evergreen tree with leathery, dark-green leaves that have closely spaced parallel veins running perpendicular to the midrib. Young shoots and leaf undersides carry a fine, dense covering of hairs. When the bark is cut, a pale yellowish latex oozes from the wound.

Question 6

What active compounds are found in Calophyllum tomentosum?

Accepted Answer

Phytochemical research on the genus Calophyllum has identified xanthones, coumarins, and triterpenoids as significant bioactive compound classes. Some of these have shown anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity in laboratory studies. However, clinical trials specific to Calophyllum tomentosum remain limited.

Question 7

Is the timber of Calophyllum tomentosum used commercially in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The reddish-brown heartwood is moderately hard and has historically been used for construction, furniture, and boat building. As natural forest stands are now largely within protected areas, legally sourced timber comes from cultivated trees or licensed plantations rather than wild-harvested forest.

Calophyllum tomentosum

Other species in this genus