About Ailanthus excelsa Roxb.
Ailanthus excelsa Roxb., commonly known as tree of heaven, is a large deciduous tree native to India and Sri Lanka. In the Tamil language, it is also called Pi-Nari Maram, a name that references its disagreeable odor. This species is often planted along the edges of fields and rivers to mark property boundaries and prevent soil erosion. The tree has a number of documented medicinal uses: its gum and bitter, aromatic leaves are reported to have medicinal properties. Its bark acts as a febrifuge, and can be used to treat asthma, bronchitis, and dysentery. Both the leaves and bark have a well-regarded reputation as a tonic for use after childbirth. The juice extracted from the leaves and fresh bark is used as a remedy for post-childbirth after-pains. Beyond medicinal uses, the tree is utilized in the matchstick industry, its foliage serves as fodder for goats, and it is counted among the best trees for trapping suspended particulate matter (SPM).
