Oothu (Udu)

Oothu, also known as Udu, is a tropical fruit-bearing tree that is native to the Western Ghats region of India, particularly in the state of Kerala. It is a medium-sized evergreen tree that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family and is known for its unique fruit, which is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine.

The Oothu tree typically grows to a height of 10-15 meters, with a spreading canopy and a straight trunk. The leaves are simple, alternate, and leathery, with a glossy dark green color. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-white in color and are usually found in clusters on the branches.

The fruit of the Oothu tree is the main feature of this plant. The fruit is a small, kidney-shaped drupe that is typically 1-2 centimeters in size, with a hard, woody shell. The fruit has a unique odor and a bitter taste, and it is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for its medicinal properties.

In Ayurvedic medicine, Oothu is believed to have various health benefits. The fruit is considered to have astringent, digestive, and diuretic properties. It is used in traditional remedies for treating digestive disorders, including diarrhea and dysentery, and is also used as a remedy for skin ailments, such as eczema and rashes. The fruit is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Apart from its medicinal uses, Oothu is not commonly used as a culinary fruit, as its taste is bitter and it is usually consumed in small quantities for its medicinal properties. However, in some traditional practices, the fruit may be used in pickles or chutneys for its unique flavor.

The Oothu tree is also known for its timber, which is used in construction, furniture making, and for fuelwood. The bark of the tree is used to make a black dye, which is used in traditional dyeing practices.

Oothu, or Udu, is a unique tropical fruit-bearing tree that is primarily valued for its medicinal properties in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. It is known for its small, kidney-shaped fruit with a bitter taste and is also used for its timber and dye-making properties.