Question 1

What is Lannea coromandelica used for in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

In Ayurvedic medicine, Lannea coromandelica is used primarily for its astringent bark, which is applied in preparations for wound healing, skin ulcers, and inflammatory conditions. It is also used in formulations for gastrointestinal complaints such as diarrhoea and dysentery. Traditional healers in Sri Lanka and India have incorporated it into practice for centuries.

Question 2

Where does Lannea coromandelica grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The tree is most common in Sri Lanka's dry and intermediate zones, growing in scrub forests, along roadsides, and at the edges of agricultural areas. It is frequently encountered near ancient ruins and temples in the northern and north-central provinces. It tolerates poor, rocky soils well and is sometimes planted in village home gardens.

Question 3

What family does Lannea coromandelica belong to?

Accepted Answer

It belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, which also includes familiar trees like mango, cashew, and pistachio. Members of this family are widespread across tropical and subtropical regions and several are economically or medicinally important.

Question 4

Is there scientific evidence for the medicinal properties of Lannea coromandelica?

Accepted Answer

Laboratory-based phytochemical studies have identified tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids in the plant, which are consistent with its traditional astringent and anti-inflammatory uses. Some studies report antimicrobial and antioxidant activity in extracts. However, large-scale human clinical trials are limited, so traditional applications should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.

Question 5

What does the Lannea coromandelica tree look like?

Accepted Answer

It is a medium to large deciduous tree that can reach roughly 15 to 20 metres in height, with a spreading crown and grey-brown, slightly fissured bark. Its pinnate leaves drop during the dry season and return with a fresh flush at the onset of rains. Small yellowish-green flowers appear before the new leaves, followed by small fleshy fruits that redden when ripe.

Question 6

What is the Sinhala name for Lannea coromandelica?

Accepted Answer

The tree is commonly known as Goda-kirindi or Katumba in Sinhala, though local names can vary by region. In Tamil it is sometimes referred to as Otiyan. These vernacular names reflect the tree's long familiarity in Sri Lankan rural communities.

Question 7

Is Lannea coromandelica found only in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

No, the species is distributed across South and Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, where it features in Ayurvedic and Unani medicinal traditions under various local names. Sri Lanka's botanical catalog documents it as a significant component of the island's ayurvedic pharmacopoeia, though its range extends well beyond the island.