Distribution
Karanja is a fast growing species occurring in the humid tropics from sea level up to
1200 m (not above 600 m in the Himalayan foothills). It requires an annual rainfall
ranging from 500 to 2500 mm with a 2-6 months dry period, and temperatures between 1°C
and 38°C. Karanja is highly tolerant of salinity and alkalinity, and can grow on
seashores. However, saline soils are thought to reduce tree nodulation and growth
(Murphy et al., 2012). Karanja does well on most soils (sandy, stony to clayey) at a pH
ranging from 6 to 9. The karanja tree prefers well-drained soils with assured moisture
for optimal growth, particularly at the early stages of growth.
Plant Description
Pongamia pinnata is a legume tree that grows to about 15–25 m (50–80 ft) in height
with a large canopy that spreads equally wide. It may be deciduous for short
periods. It has a straight or crooked trunk, 50–80 cm (20–30 in) in diameter, with
grey-brown bark, which is smooth or vertically fissured. Its wood is white colored.
Branches are glabrous with pale stipulate scars. The impropriate leaves of the tree
alternate and are short-stalked, rounded, or cuneate at the base, ovate or oblong
along the length, obtuse-acuminate at the apex, and not toothed on the edges. They
are a soft, shiny burgundy when young, and mature to a glossy, deep green as the
season progresses, with prominent veins underneath.
Active constituent of Karanja
| Parts Used |
Chemical Constituents |
Uses |
|
Leaves
|
Alkaloid, steroid
|
Skin disorders
|
|
Carbohydrate, tannin
|
Medicinal purposes
|
|
Seed
|
Karanjin
|
Hemorrhoids
|
| Pongamol |
Rheumatic problems |
| Flowers |
Oleic acid, fatty acids |
Treat ulcers
Also used for skin disorders
|
| Fruits |
Oleic acid |
Managing constipation |
| Barks |
Indian beech |
Astringent , anti-inflammatory |
|
Treat constipation and arthritis |
| Karanj oil |
Karanja oil has a high content of triglycerides and flavonoids |
spermicidal |
Uses
- Pongamia pinnata is well-adapted to arid zones, and has many
traditional uses. It is often used for landscaping as a windbreak or for shade
due to the large canopy and showy, fragrant flowers. The flowers are used by
gardeners as compost for plants. The bark can be used to make twine or rope, and
it also yields a black gum that has historically been used to treat wounds
caused by poisonous fish. The wood is said to be beautifully grained, but splits
easily when sawn, thus relegating it to firewood, posts, and tool handles.The
tree’s deep taproot and drought tolerance makes this tree ideal for controlling
soil erosion and binding sand dunes.Degani et al have published a review of the
applications of P. pinnata. Studies have shown seedlings with tolerance to
salinity levels between 12 and 19 dS/m, with an ability to tolerate salinity
stresses of 32.5 dS/m.
Prepared by : Mr. Krishna Thakur
Checked by : Mrs. Roshni khan
Verified by : Dr. Mahavir Chhajed
