Cheruthekku (Terminalia bellerica )

Cheruthekku, also known as Terminalia bellerica or Bahera, is a large deciduous tree that belongs to the Combretaceae family. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia and is widely cultivated in many other parts of the world. The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a broad, spreading crown.

The leaves of Cheruthekku are simple, alternate, and about 10 to 15 cm long. The leaves are elliptical or obovate in shape, with a pointed tip and a slightly toothed margin. The tree produces small, yellowish-green flowers in clusters that are about 5 to 10 cm long. The flowers are followed by fruit that is about 2 to 3 cm in diameter and is green when unripe and yellow when ripe. The fruit contains a hard seed and is edible, although it is not commonly consumed.

Cheruthekku has a wide range of uses in traditional medicine. Various parts of the tree, including the fruit, bark, leaves, and roots, are used to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, colds, asthma, fever, and diarrhea. The tree is also used in Ayurvedic medicine as a rejuvenating tonic and as a remedy for hair loss.

In addition to its medicinal properties, Cheruthekku has a number of other uses. The wood is used for furniture, construction, and fuel, while the bark is used to make dye and tannin. The tree is also grown as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens. Cheruthekku is a hardy tree that prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight. It is usually propagated by seed or by cuttings.