Top Benefits of the species planted in the trees for Tigers project

Odisha, a region in eastern India, boasts a rich cultural history along with a varied range of flora and fauna. Its various environments, which span from lush forests to coastal regions, are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.  Let's explore a few of these priceless plants that flourish in the distinctive habitats of Odisha.

Dalbergia sissoo (North Indian Rosewood)

• Indian name: Biradi, sheesham/sheeshoo
• Benefits: Dalbergia sissoo is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a hedge. It is also used medicinally for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It’s distinct grain and durability have made it a sought-after wood in various applications.

Mangifera indica (Mango)

• Indian name: Aam
• Benefits: Mango is one of the most popular of all tropical fruits. The juice of the tree of Mangifera Indica is a restorative tonic and can be used to relieve heat strokes.

Acacia auriculiformis (Earleaf Acacia)

• Indian name: Auri, Karuvel
• Benefits: Acacia auriculiformis is used for its wood, which is used for making furniture, musical instruments, and sculptures. It is also used for its medicinal properties, such as treating fever, coughs, and skin diseases. Its roots are very strong and can break through concrete, ruining sidewalks and driveways and pushing out other vegetation.

Artocarpus heterophyllus (Jackfruit)

• Indian name: Kathal
• Benefits: The fruit is commonly known as jackfruit which is one of the largest edible fruits in the world. With its extensive root system, the tree can be planted in farms to reduce soil erosion and flooding.

Syzygium cumini (Jamun)

• Indian name: Jamun or Jambul
• Benefits: The Jamun tree is a tropical evergreen blooming plant and is an important medicinal plant that has been used for a long time in Indian and other traditional medicines across the world. The tree is renowned for its dark purple to black, plum-like fruits, which are not only delicious but also boast an array of health benefits.

Pongamia pinnata (Indian Beech)

• Indian name: Karanja
• Benefits: It has varying levels of tolerance to drought, salinity, and heavy metals in soils. By restoring degraded land, it can bring socio-economic benefits to communities. It is often used for landscaping as a windbreak or for shade due to the large canopy and showy, fragrant flowers.

Tectona grandis (Teak)

• Indian name: Teak
• Benefits: Teak's sturdy timber and economic importance make it a prominent tree in Odisha's forests. Durability and stability are other great qualities of teak wood. Teakwood is used for shipbuilding, fine furniture, door and window frames, wharves, bridges, cooling-tower louvres, flooring and many more.