Chinar
- Botanical Name: Platanus orientalis
- Family: Platanaceae
- Synonyms: Oriental Plane, Buttonwood
- Vernacular Name: Commonly known as “Chinar” in Hindi and “Buen” in Kashmiri.
- Classification: A large deciduous tree belonging to the Platanaceae family.
- Habitat: Native to regions from the Balkans to the Himalayas, including Kashmir. It
thrives in riverine settings but can adapt to dry soils once established.
- Morphology: A massive tree that can grow up to 30 meters or more. It has a spreading
crown, flaking bark, and deeply lobed, palmate leaves resembling those of a maple tree. The
flowers are round and burr-like, borne in clusters, and the fruits are small, spherical, and
burr-like as well.
- Useful Parts: Leaves, bark, and wood.
- Chemical Composition: Contains tannins, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds.
The bark and leaves have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes.
- Pharmacological Action: Known for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and wound-healing
properties. It has been used in traditional medicine for treating skin conditions and as a
cooling agent.
- Formulation: Traditionally used in herbal remedies and as a natural dye source.
Rasa: Amla , Tikta
Guna: Laghu , Ruksha
Virya: Sheeta
Vipaka: Katu