- Botanical Name: Polyalthia longifolia
- Family: Annonaceae
- Synonyms: Mast Tree, Indian Fir Tree, False Ashoka
- Vernacular Name: Commonly known as “Nakli Ashoka” in Hindi, “Mast Tree” in
English, and “Ashoka Chettu” in Telugu. - Classification: A tall, evergreen tree belonging to the Annonaceae family.
- Habitat: Native to the Indian subcontinent, it thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It
is often planted as an ornamental tree along roadsides and in gardens. - Morphology: A slender tree that can grow up to 10–20 meters in height. It has a straight
trunk, drooping branches, and glossy, lance-shaped leaves that are coppery-red when young
and turn green as they mature. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and bloom in clusters.
The fruits are small, ovoid, and turn purple-black when ripe. - Useful Parts: Leaves, bark, and seeds.
- Chemical Composition: Contains alkaloids, flavonoids, and essential oils. The leaves and
bark are rich in bioactive compounds with medicinal properties. - Pharmacological Action: Known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant
properties. It is used in traditional medicine for treating fever, skin disorders, and digestive
issues. - Formulation: Used in herbal remedies and decoctions for general health and skin care.
The tree is also valued for its ornamental and environmental benefits.
Rasa: Kasaya, Tikta
Guna: Ruksha , Laghu
Virya: Sheeta
Vipaka: Katu