Overview
The elephant apple, scientifically known as Dillenia indica, is a tropical fruit-bearing tree native to Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. This tree holds cultural and medicinal significance in the regions where it grows. Its large, leathery leaves and yellow flowers contribute to its ornamental value, while its fruit, resembling a green apple, is widely used in culinary preparations and traditional medicine.
Various parts of the elephant apple tree are utilized for their medicinal properties. Its leaves are rich in astringent compounds and are often employed to treat digestive issues like diarrhea and dysentery. Additionally, the bark is known for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties, offering relief from skin conditions. The fruit itself is a good source of Vitamin C and antioxidants, contributing to its digestive benefits in Ayurvedic medicine.
Table of Contents
Elephant Apple In Your Language
Botanical Name of Elephant Apple
Dillenia indica
Family of Elephant Apple
Dilleniaceae
Elephant Apple in English
Elephants apple (एलीफेन्टस एपॅल)
Synonyms of Elephant Apple
Dillenia elongata
Elephant Apple in Sanskrit
भव्यम् (Bhavyam) , बहरञ्ज (Baharang), वक्त्रशोधनम् (Vaktrashodhanam) , पिच्छिलबीजम् (Pichchilabijam) , संपुटाङ्ग (Samputaanga) , कुसुमोदर (Kusumodar)
Elephant Apple in Hindi
Chalta (चालता)
Elephant Apple in Assamese
चालिता (Chalita)
Elephant Apple in Odia ( Odiya)
उवा (Uav) ,चलोटा (Chalota)
Elephant Apple in Kannada
कानीगाला (Kanigala); कोंकणी-कोरोम्बोल (Corombol)
Elephant Apple in Gujarati
करम्बल (Karambal
Elephant Apple in Telugu
उवा (Uvva), पद्दा कलिंग (Padda kalinga
Elephant Apple in Tamil
उवा (Uva)
Elephant Apple in Nepali
रामफल (Ramphal), पंचफल (Panchphal)
Elephant Apple in Marathi
करेबेल (Karebel), कर्मबेल (Karmbel)
Elephant Apple in Bengali
चालता (Chalta)
Elephant Apple in Malayalam
चलीता (Chalita), पुन्ना (Punna)
Physical Appearance of Elephant Apple
The elephant apple (Dillenia indica) is a large, tropical fruit-bearing tree with distinct physical characteristics:
- Leaves:The leaves of the elephant apple tree are large, leathery, and glossy green. They are broadly oval or elliptical in shape with prominent veins.
- Flowers:The tree produces large, solitary, fragrant flowers with five white petals. The flowers have numerous yellow stamens in the center, giving them a striking appearance.
- Fruit:The fruit of the elephant apple is round to oblong and resembles a greenish-yellow apple, hence the name. It typically measures around 5-10 centimeters in diameter. The outer skin is thick and tough, with a slightly fuzzy texture. When ripe, the fruit becomes soft and pulpy.
- Seeds :Inside the fruit, there are numerous small seeds embedded in the pulp. The seeds are brown and angular.
- Bark:The bark of the elephant apple tree is grayish-brown and deeply fissured, providing texture to the tree’s trunk and branches.
Overall, the elephant apple tree is characterized by its large leaves, fragrant flowers, and distinctive fruit, making it easily recognizable in its native habitats.
Chemical Composition of Elephant Apple
In its bark, betulic acid, betulinic acid, lupeol, betulin, B-sitosterol, tannins, triterpenes, lectins, betulin aldehyde, mirorotin, camphorol, glucosides, and kaempferol are found.
In its leaves, n-hentriacontanol, cycloartennon, quercetin, betulinic acid, and ß-sitosterol are found.
In its fruit, tannins, pectin, organic acids, malic acid, sugars, glucose, arabinose, galactose, and mannose are found.
Benefits of Elephant Apple ( Uses of Elephant Apple )
The elephant apple, rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, aids digestion and promotes skin health. Used in traditional medicine, its parts possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Culinary uses include chutneys and pickles. Ornamental value and ecological importance add to its cultural significance.
Headache
- The application of crushed flowers on the forehead alleviates headaches.
Chest Ailment
- Mixing 5-10 milliliters of elephant apple fruit juice with sugar provides relief in chest ailments.
Digestive disorders
- Consumption of 5 milliliters of ripe elephant apple fruit juice provides relief in bloating.
- The use of ripe elephant apple fruit is done in the treatment of abdominal pain.
- Making a decoction of the leaves of the elephant apple tree and consuming it in a dose of 5-10 milliliters provides relief in diarrhea
- Consumption of ripe elephant apple fruit provides relief in constipation.
Skin disorders
- When the crushed flowers of elephant apple are applied, wound healing occurs
Mental illness
- Alcohol-induced: Combining 100 milliliters of juice from cucumber, dates, raisins, phalsa, and pomegranate with roasted chickpea flour and sugar alleviates quenching thirst.
- Irritability: Consuming 10-15 milliliters of juice from ripe fruit mixed with sugar provides relief in irritability.
Overall Body Disorders
- Inflammation: Applying a paste of elephant apple roots and leaves alleviates inflammation.
- Feverish: Consuming fruit juice mixed with sugar provides relief in fever.
- Severe Inflammatio: Applying oil to the leaves of the elephant apple, heating them lightly, and placing them on the inflamed area helps alleviate inflammation
Strain
- If there is strain or stiffness in the legs, apply a paste of black pepper in the juice of elephant apple bark, and then tie the leaves on top. Using it once or twice provides immense benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, elephant apple is edible. Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, it aids digestion, boosts immunity, and potentially reduces inflammation. Its tart taste resembles a combination of apple and lemon. However, excess consumption may cause digestive discomfort. It’s commonly eaten raw or used in culinary dishes like chutneys and pickles.
The benefits of elephant apple include aiding digestion, boosting immunity, and potentially reducing inflammation due to its antioxidant properties. Rich in Vitamin C, it promotes overall health. Its consumption, either raw or in culinary dishes, provides essential nutrients and contributes to a balanced diet.
Elephant apples have a tart and sour taste, resembling a combination of apple and lemon flavors. The taste is unique and refreshing, with a slight tanginess that adds to its appeal. It’s commonly enjoyed for its distinctive flavor in culinary preparations and as a refreshing snack.
Excessive consumption of elephant apples may lead to digestive discomfort, including bloating and diarrhea, due to their high fiber content. Additionally, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or sensitivities. Moderation is key to avoiding potential side effects and enjoying the health benefits of elephant apples.
The price of elephant apples in India varies depending on factors like location, season, and demand. Generally, they are affordable and widely available, especially during the monsoon season when they are in abundance. Prices may range from inexpensive to moderately priced, making them accessible to many consumers.
Yes, elephant apple is a true fruit. It develops from the ovary of a flower and contains seeds. The fruit is fleshy and encases the seeds within its pulp. Elephant apples are botanically classified as fruits and are commonly consumed raw or used in culinary preparations.
Elephant apples can be eaten raw by slicing them and removing the seeds. They are also used in culinary dishes like chutneys, pickles, and beverages. The fruit’s tart flavor adds a unique taste to dishes, making it a versatile ingredient in various recipes and preparations.
Elephant apple is not inherently bad for cough; however, its cooling properties may help soothe throat irritation. It contains vitamin C and antioxidants, which can support immune health. Including elephant apple in the diet may offer relief from cough symptoms, but moderation is advised.
Yes, elephant apple is beneficial for hair health. Rich in nutrients like Vitamin C, it promotes hair growth and strengthens follicles. Its antioxidant properties help combat free radicals, reducing hair damage. Applying elephant apple extract or consuming it may contribute to healthier and stronger hair.
The local name of elephant apple in Hindi is “चलता” (Chalta). It is also known by other regional names such as “गोल चिन्ह” (Gol Chinah) in Bengali, “कैतटुम्ब” (Kaittumb) in Malayalam, and “भोण्टगु” (Bhontgu) in Assamese, reflecting its diverse cultural significance across India.
Yes, elephant apple can be eaten during pregnancy. It is believed to have cooling properties and may aid digestion, making it a safe and nutritious option for expectant mothers. However, as with any food, it’s advisable to consume it in moderation and consult with a healthcare provider for individual advice.
The season of elephant apple is typically during the monsoon, from July to September in India. This is when the fruit ripens and becomes available for harvest. The monsoon season provides the ideal climate conditions for the growth and development of elephant apple trees and their fruits.
Elephant apple trees are predominantly grown in tropical regions, including India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. These regions offer the warm and humid climate that elephant apples thrive in. They are commonly found in forests, orchards, and home gardens throughout these countries.
Yes, elephant apple can be beneficial for diarrhea due to its astringent properties. Consuming elephant apple or its extracts may help firm up stools and reduce bowel movements, alleviating symptoms of diarrhea. However, moderation is key to avoid exacerbating digestive issues, and medical advice should be sought for severe cases.
Both the ripe fruit and leaves of the elephant apple tree are edible. The ripe fruit, with its tart and sour flavor, is commonly eaten raw or used in culinary preparations like chutneys and pickles. The leaves are also edible and can be cooked as a vegetable.
The season of elephant apple is typically during the monsoon, from July to September in India. This period coincides with the fruit’s ripening, making it available for harvest. The monsoon season provides the optimal climatic conditions for elephant apple trees to flourish and produce their fruits.
हिंदी में हाथी अप्पल को “चलता” या “गोल चिन्ह” कहा जाता है। यह भारत में एक प्रमुख फल है, जिसका अधिकांशतः उपयोग कुछ उपचारिक गुणों के कारण होता है। इसका स्वाद खट्टा होता है और इसे अक्सर चटनी या पिकल में उपयोग किया जाता है।
In India, elephant apples typically range from Rs 40 to Rs 60 per kilogram, depending on factors such as location, season, and quality. Prices may vary in different regions and markets across the country.
The botanical name of elephant apple is “Dillenia indica.” It belongs to the family Dilleniaceae and is native to South and Southeast Asia. This large, tropical fruit-bearing tree is known for its distinctive fruit, leaves, and flowers, with various cultural and medicinal uses across its native range.
Elephant apple
Dilleniaceae
Dilleniaceae