Chaulmugra

Hydnocarpus kurzii

Physical Characteristics

Hydnocarpus kurzii is an evergreen Tree growing to 15 m (49ft) by 15 m (49ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - northeast India, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam.

Habitats

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Cancer Leprosy Skin Tonic The oil extracted from the seeds, known as 'chaulmugra oil', has a long history of use in the treatment of leprosy[310 , 317 ]. When applied externally, and by direct infiltration of the lesions, it has been shown to be effective in decreasing the size of nodules, numb patches, and skin lesions[555 ]. The active principles are unusual cyclopentenic fatty acids including chaulmoogric acid. The precise molecular mycobactericidal mode of action is still unknown[555 ].. The oil contains chaulmoogric and hydnocarpic fatty acids[310 , 317 ]. A decoction of the bark is drunk as a general tonic to improve health and in the treatment of internal disorders and skin diseases[310 , 555 ]. The roots, as well as the seeds, are used by Thai traditional doctors in the treatment of skin diseases[310 ]. An exciting development from this plant is the observation that the oil, when applied to the skin, increases the strength of scar tissue and strengthens the collagen tissue in wounds. Hence some cosmetic and or dermatological application may be possible[555 ]. In addition, the lignans hydnowightin, hydnocarpin, and neohydnocarpin have been isolated in the plant. These have been shown to have cytotoxic potential against various forms of cancer[555 ].

Known Hazards

The seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides and are toxic. It is advised not to eat pigs nor fish that have been feeding on the seeds, as their flesh induces nausea and vomiting[310 ].