Bauhinia purpurea

orchid tree

Famous for its unmistakable orchid-like bloom, the orchid tree is also renowned throughout its range for its medicinal properties. Modern scientific study has shown extracts to be effectively analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antidiabetic, anticancerous, and able to regulate thyroid hormone activity. Wound healing properties have been studied and found to be as effective as Aloe vera in accelerating healing of wounds and burns. In India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, the plant has been used to treat skin diseases, ulcers, stomach tumors, diarrhea, wounds, and glandular swellings for many years among traditional peoples.

Compounds in this plant have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels and for this reason, bodybuilders and athletes will often take supplements containing extracts of this plant when eating diets high in cholesterol and fat to build muscle.

Young pods and ripe seeds have been cooked and eaten by natives in India, and leaves serve as plates for meal.

Parts of the orchid tree have also served as a poison antidote for alcohol overdose, datura poisoning, fish poisoning, scorpion sting, snakebite and tiger bites. Tiger bites? I’m personally very glad I don’t have to worry about knowing what to use to treat something like that. Ouch.

The orchid tree may need supplemental watering during dry periods to maintain healthy foliage. If planted in poor soils, fertilization will also be necessary for healthy foliage and full form.