When spring is in the air, the top branches of the kachnar tree (botanical name: Bauhinia variegate) starts to bloom and gradually the top of the tree is covered with beautiful flowers; it is virtually a beauty to behold when it is in full bloom from February to April. kachnar, or orchid tree Mountain ebony, or camel’s foot tree is a medium-sized tree that reaches a height of 50 to 60 feet. It is indigenous to Southeast Asia, especially India, Pakistan and Southern China.

The leaves are large and broad and are bi-lobed both at the apex and the base like a camel’s hoof print, hence the name camel’s foot. The tree bears white or pink flowers. The fruit is a long pod about a foot long with several seeds ranging from 10 to 15 inside.

The buds of kachnar are incredibly beautiful as well as delicate. Urdu poets have frequently used the half opened buds as a metaphor to explain the beauty of young girls. 

A multipurpose plant that is beautiful to look at, delicious to eat and has medicinal value too

This popular ornamental tree in subtropical and tropical climates is grown for its scented flowers and is also used as a food item in South Asian cuisine, especially in many Pakistani and Indian recipes. The buds are cooked as vegetable with yoghurt, onions and a generous use of condiments and spices to offset its flavour; it is delicious and good for health. The kachnar buds as well as flowers are somewhat bitter in taste whenever raw and are usually utilised to make pickles within the subcontinent. 

Kachnar is considered a rich source of vitamin C, other vitamins and minerals needed for the upkeep of our health. The buds are an excellent source of phenol and provide a source of dietary anti-oxidants. The seeds are rich in amino-acids, digestible carbohydrates and ascorbic acid. Studies carried out in India revealed that kachnar is a good source of nutrients especially in fibre component and can be beneficial for patients suffering from complications and cardiovascular diseases.

Kachnar flowers along with its buds could be cooked for the meal and may even be consumed in the form of a medicine so as to get a number of advantages for the health, like the treatment of numerous illnesses and ailments.

Traditionally, the stem bark of kachnar has been used in Ayurveda to treat diabetes, ulcers and asthma. It has also been used as an anti-inflammatory, hepato-protective and anti-tumor agent. The roots and buds of the tree are used to improve digestion. Recent studies have shown this herb to have valuable hypoglycaemic action, supporting this use as an anti-diabetic agent. Some studies have also found Kachnar to possess antibacterial activity.

According to research the leaves are rich in reducing sugar and have good nutritive value for healthy development of tasar silk worms. The bark of the tree is astringent, tonic, anthelmintic, scrofula and skin diseases. It is also used for treatment of leprosy. The flower and flower buds are laxative. Dried buds are used for treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery, piles, tumours and other stomach problems. The root of the tree is carminative and is used in dyspepsia, flatulence and is antidotal to snake bite.

In ancient Ayurveda, kachnar is used for treatment of worm infection, scrofula and for healing wounds. It is safe for general use. However, due to its hypoglycaemic action, it should be used with care by persons on anti-diabetic medication.

Published in Dawn, Sunday Magazine, January 31st, 2016