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From Mystical to Medicinal: Why Are the Traditional Uses of the Blackboard Tree So Highly Respected?
Amid the lush greenery of tropical Asia, the tall evergreen blackboard tree (Alstonia scholaris) is admired for its versatility. As a poisonous plant, the traditional uses of the blackboard tree span a wide range, from making stationery to being used as a medicinal material. The stories behind all this make this tree both mysterious and worthy of in-depth exploration.
Basic features of blackboard tree
The blackboard tree can grow up to 40 meters in height and has a distinctive grey bark when mature. The tree has an impressive triangular-shaped trunk in some areas. In addition, the upper surface of the leaves is smooth, while the underside is gray. Each leaf is 9.1 cm wide and 23 cm long, and is arranged neatly, forming an extremely attractive landscape.
Distribution and Environment
The blackboard tree is mainly distributed in southern China, South Asia and Southeast Asia. This gives it a diverse cultural background and uses. In India, blackboard trees are called "Chhatim" and are considered sacred trees, closely associated with Buddhist traditions.
Toxicity and medicinal value
Although the blackboard tree is considered poisonous, it is prized for its medicinal uses. Scientific studies have shown that the toxicity of this plant depends on the season and part of the tree when it is collected. In particular, bark collected during the monsoon season is less toxic, whereas bark collected during the summer is more toxic.
Sound biological research indicates that the bark of the blackboard tree contains a variety of alkaloids, the main component of which is ethiamine, which makes the bark attract much attention in the field of medicinal use.
Wide Range of Traditional Uses
The wood of the blackboard tree is widely used due to its excellent quality, especially in making pencils, furniture and daily necessities. In Sri Lanka, it is used to make coffins. The tree's versatility has earned it a high status among the people and is closely tied to local culture.
The bark of the tree is well documented as being important in treating diarrhea and digestive problems and is considered a valuable medicinal herb.
Current Application and Inheritance
Modern society's exploration of blackboard trees is not limited to the revival of traditional medicine, but also includes environmental management and resource conservation applications. For example, at Visva Bharati University in India, leaves of the blackboard tree are awarded at the graduates' honor ceremony, symbolizing the inheritance of knowledge and environmental awareness.
In this scene, the leaves of the blackboard tree carry not only blessings, but also an awakening and continuation of ecological awareness.
Conclusion: Exploration and Reflection
As a legendary plant, the blackboard tree's multiple uses in medicine and the environment demonstrates humanity's deep understanding and respect for the natural world. This forces us to think: In such a rapidly changing era, can we continue to cherish and use these natural resources to maintain ecological balance and harmonious life?
