Explore the Indian Mahua tree's incredible benefits - from ecological restoration to cultural heritage. Learn how this native species supports conservation and sustainable livelihoods.
Madhuca longifolia is an Indian tropical tree found largely in the central, southern, north Indian plains and forests, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. It is commonly known as madhūka, mahura, madkam, mahuwa, Butter Tree, mahura, mahwa, mahua, mohulo, Iluppai, Mee or Ippa-chettu. [1] It is a fast-growing tree that grows to approximately 20 meters in height, possesses evergreen or ...
Mahua trees suffered heavily, with an estimated 56% trees lost. The Giving Tree: Known as the Kalpavriksha or tree of life, Mahua (Madhuca longifolia) holds deep cultural and economic significance for India’s Indigenous populations. It provides food, medicine and a livelihood to these communities.
The mahua tree may be famous for the potent indigenous liquor made from its flowers, but for many forest-dependent communities, the tree is also a source of oil, medicine, insecticide, livestock feed, and has even served as famine survival food
Learn about the Mahua tree (Madhuca longifolia), its cultural significance, traditional spirit, nutritional value and why it’s revered as India’s Spirit Flower.
What Is the Mahua Tree and Why It’s Known as India’s Spirit Flower
The Mahua tree (Madhuca longifolia) is a cornerstone of life in the forests of Central India, particularly for tribal communities. This medium-sized deciduous tree, reaching heights of 16-20 metres, is at its most beautiful between March and April when its flowers bloom in full, with fruit ripening from June to August.
Health benefits of Mahua Mahua has following health benefits: Oil extracted from the seeds of the Mahua plant is applied over the area affected with skin diseases and body pain. Nasal administration of the fresh juice of the flowers of Mahua is done in diseases of vitiated pitta dosha like headache, burning sensation of the eyes etc.