Chaulmoogra

This genus of some 35 species of medium to large evergreen trees occurs in the Indian subcontinent and Malaysia. Hydnocarpus kurzii is one of the few economically important species in the family. The common name "chaulmoogra", the Bengali word for the plant, also refers to H. anthelmintica and H. wightiana, used for similar purposes. Chaulmoogra was first mentioned in Chinese medical literature in 1347 as da feng zi, and spread worldwide as a treatment for serious skin diseases, especially leprosy. The brownish-yellow oil has a unique chemistry, containing acids unknown in any other oils.

Large tree, with a trunk to 1.2m (4ft) thick, and lanceolate leathery leaves, about 22cm (9in) long. Male and female flowers are borne separately in summer, followed by round berries, containing 12-18 seeds in an oily pulp.

Common Name:	Chaulmoogra
Botanical Name:	Hydnocarpus kurzii syn. Taraktogenos kurzii
Genus:	Hydnocarpus
Family:	Flacourtiaceae
Native Location:	SE Asia
Cultivation:	Rich, moist, well-drained soil in moderate humidity.
Propagation:	By seed sown when ripe at 18-21°C (64-70°F); by grafting in late spring or early summer.
Harvest:	Seeds are separated from berries when ripe and used whole for decoctions, powdered for pills and pastes, or crushed for oil. Oil is given as an emulsion or by injection.
Height:	20-30m (70-100ft)
Width:	15m (50ft)
Hardiness:	Min. 12-14°C (54-57°F)
Parts Used:	Seeds (da feng zi), oil
Properties:	An acrid, sedative herb, with an unpleasant smell, that lowers fever and expels intestinal worms. It is a potent antibiotic and alterative. In excess, it is a cardiovascular depressant.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for leprosy, scabies, eczema, psoriasis, scrofula, ringworm, and intestinal worms. May cause vomiting, dizziness, and breathing difficulties. Externally as a dressing for skin diseases and anal fissure, usually in the form of an ointment, 10 percent oil to 90 percent soft paraffin; also combined with walnut oil and pork lard for ringworm; with calomel and sesame oil for leprosy; or with sulphur and camphor for scabies. For use by qualified practioners only.
Bibliography:	Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg 238