Role in Nature:
A fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing tree, enriches soil fertility and supports agroforestry. It stabilizes soil, prevents erosion, and reclaims degraded lands. Used in alley cropping, it provides green manure and restores nutrient-depleted soil. Highly versatile, it plays a key role in tropical agroforestry, improving land productivity and sustainability.
Cultural Significance:
It symbolizes protection and fertility in Central America due to its resilience. Its flowers and young leaves are consumed as vegetables in some cultures. The durable wood is used for fuel, charcoal, construction, and farm tools, making it a valuable resource in regions where it is grown.
Medical Significance:
- Antimicrobial – Treats skin infections and wounds with antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Anti-inflammatory – Reduces inflammation and pain in arthritis and other conditions.
- Insect Repellent – Crushed leaves repel mosquitoes and insects.
- Deworming Agent – Expels intestinal worms in humans and animals.
- Analgesic – Relieves toothaches, headaches, and other pains.
- Respiratory Aid – Helps treat coughs and colds by clearing mucus.
Did You Know?
Well-adapted to dry conditions and can survive prolonged drought periods. It has compound leaves with 7-25 leaflets and produces pink to purple flowers.
Role in Nature:
A fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing tree, enriches soil fertility and supports agroforestry. It stabilizes soil, prevents erosion, and reclaims degraded lands. Used in alley cropping, it provides green manure and restores nutrient-depleted soil. Highly versatile, it plays a key role in tropical agroforestry, improving land productivity and sustainability.
Cultural Significance:
Cultural
Significance:
It symbolizes protection and fertility in Central America due to its resilience. Its flowers and young leaves are consumed as vegetables in some cultures. The durable wood is used for fuel, charcoal, construction, and farm tools, making it a valuable resource in regions where it is grown.
Medical Significance:
Medical
Significance:
- Antimicrobial – Treats skin infections and wounds with antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Anti-inflammatory – Reduces inflammation and pain in arthritis and other conditions.
- Insect Repellent – Crushed leaves repel mosquitoes and insects.
- Deworming Agent – Expels intestinal worms in humans and animals.
- Analgesic – Relieves toothaches, headaches, and other pains.
- Respiratory Aid – Helps treat coughs and colds by clearing mucus.
Did You Know?
Well-adapted to dry conditions and can survive prolonged drought periods. It has compound leaves with 7-25 leaflets and produces pink to purple flowers.