Buchanania lanzan Spreng (Chironji): A vulnerable multipurpose tree species in Vindhyan region

Abstract

Chironji, Charoli or Char, (Buchanania lanzan Spreng.), a member of the family Anacardiaceae, originated in the Indian sub-continent, is an excellent multipurpose tree species. Traditional indigenous knowledge reveals the immense value of almost all parts of the plant i.e. roots, leaves, fruits, seeds and gum for various medicinal uses. At present, it is growing under forest condition as an under exploited fruit and gives monitory reward to tribal community of the country. The tree is natural wild growth in the tropical deciduous forests of Northern, Western and Central India, mostly in the States of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh and in Varanasi and Mirzapur districts and Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh. Besides India, the plant is also found in other tropical Asian countries, Australia and Pacific islands. B. lanzan also a vulnerable medicinal plant, is included in the Red Data Book published by International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. In this background, there is compelling need for developing a suitable technology facilitating easy multiplication, regeneration and conservation of the species, simultaneously imparting and disseminating proper knowledge and education to the tribal population.