Teri pods, Udakiryaka

Caesalpinia digyna

Physical Characteristics

Caesalpinia digyna is an evergreen Shrub growing to 10 m (32ft) by 10 m (32ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Indian subcontinent, Malaysia to Indonesia.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Oil Edible Uses: Oil Regional Crop (These crops have been domesticated and cultivated regionally but have not been adopted elsewhere and are typically not traded globally, Examples in this broad category include perennial cotton and many nuts and staple fruits [1-3]. Staple Crop: Protein-oil (16+ per cent protein, 16+ per cent oil). (Annuals include soybeans, peanuts, sunflower seeds. Perennials include seeds, beans, nuts, and fruits such as almond, Brazil nut, pistachio, walnut, hazel, and safou)[1-3].

Medicinal Uses

Antipyretic Astringent Tonic The root is astringent[310 ]. It is given internally in the treatment of phthisis, scrofula and diabetes[310 ]. Teri Pods yield the glycoside bergenin, which gives the plant its therapeutic properties. As an antioxidant, Teri Pods are revered as a tonic and physical rejuvenative. As an antipyretic, it lowers fever. As an astringent on topical application will heal wounds more quickly.

Known Hazards

None known