Glass specimen jar of gum ghatti, India, 1830-1930
Gum ghatti (anogeissus latifola) is used in ancient medical traditions. These include Ayurveda and Unani Tibb. The plant helps treat diarrhoea, dysentery and ulcers. It has cooling and astringent (tissue-contracting) properties. The latter helps reduce blood loss. Recent research shows the plant also treats skin wounds. The plant shown on the far left in its form of gum resin is also used as a food stabiliser. The seeds are shown with two medicinal plants: ajwain seeds (A671108) and areca nuts (A669305).
Object number:
A669306
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: sample
Individual units, segments, or small quantities taken as evidence of the quality or character of the entire group or lot
Glossary: Ayurveda
An Indian medical tradition. Literally translated it means ‘Life Science’ and promotes mental and physical health through balancing biological elements. Ayurveda focuses on exercise, massage, yoga and meditation.
Glossary: Unani Tibb
An Islamic medical tradition based on ancient Greek principles and focusing on balance in the body. It is found mostly in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and the Middle East.