Karka: Palash (Flame of forest)

The flowers of this sacred tree are offered in place of blood in sacrifice rituals. Dry stem is used to create sacred fire during poojas. Palash flowers are used as a brain stimulant and used in treating enlarged spleen and menstrual disorders. It possesses anti-leprotic, antimicrobial, antiulcer, anti-asthmatic and blood purifying properties (Das et al., 2011). The roots are used to treat snake bites and causes partial sterility in women. Water of soaked flowers is used to bathe to treat skin disorders. Sore throat can be treated using mouthwash prepared by boiling leaves in water. Intake of resin powder with milk can give relief to joint pain. Bad breath can be treated by brushing with Palash twigs.