The Tugal tree, a species of considerable significance, stands as a notable component of various ecosystems. While not widely recognized globally, its unique characteristics contribute to its importance in its native regions. This tree offers a range of attributes that make it a subject of interest for both its ecological role and human applications.
Understanding the Tugal Tree
The Tugal tree, scientifically known as Schleichera oleosa, is a member of the Sapindaceae family, often referred to as the soapberry family. It is commonly known by several names, including Kusum, Lac Tree, Gum Lac Tree, and Ceylon Oak. This tree is typically a medium to large deciduous species, though it can be nearly evergreen. It can reach heights of up to 20 to 40 meters and often features a broad, spreading crown.
The bark is generally greyish-brown and tends to peel in irregular flakes as the tree matures. Its leaves are compound and pinnate, growing up to 30 cm long, with 11–21 narrow oval leaflets. Young leaves exhibit a striking bright red color, which gradually transitions to green as they mature. The tree produces tiny, inconspicuous yellowish flowers in dense clusters, followed by small, roundish to ovoid fruits, about 1.5-3 cm in size.
Natural Habitat and Distribution
The Tugal tree is indigenous to tropical Asia, with its natural range extending from the foothills of the Himalayas and the western Deccan Plateau to Sri Lanka and Indo-China. It is widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, including countries like India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It has also naturalized in parts of Indonesia, such as Java and the Lesser Sunda Islands.
This species thrives in dry, mixed deciduous forests and savannas. It prefers well-draining soils that can range from rocky, gravelly, or loamy. The Tugal tree is adapted to tropical and subtropical climates, tolerating mean annual temperatures between 30 to 42°C and annual rainfall ranging from 750 to 2,800 mm. It often grows at lower altitudes but can be found up to 1,200 meters above sea level.
Diverse Uses and Benefits
The Tugal tree offers a wide array of practical and economic uses, making it a valuable resource in its native regions. One of its most significant contributions is its role as a primary host for the lac insect (Kerria lacca), which secretes a sticky, resinous substance known as lac. This natural resin is processed into shellac, a versatile material used in various industries for products like polishes, varnishes, and electrical insulation. The Kusum tree is particularly noted for producing “kusmi lac,” which is considered superior in quality and yield.
Beyond lac production, the seeds of the Tugal tree are a source of Kusum oil, also known as Macassar oil. This yellowish-brown, semi-solid oil has applications in hair care, cooking, traditional lighting, and is also historically used in the batik industry. The wood of the Tugal tree is highly valued for its hardness, density, and durability, making it suitable for constructing pestles, cartwheels, axles, and agricultural implements.
The tree also provides environmental benefits and serves as a source of fodder. Its leaves and young shoots can be used as feed for livestock. The Tugal tree’s dense canopy provides shade, contributes to soil conservation, and supports local biodiversity. Its fire-resistant nature adds to its resilience in certain ecosystems.
Cultural and Traditional Significance
The Tugal tree holds a notable place in the cultural and traditional practices of its native regions, particularly in India. In traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, the tree, known as Koshamra or Kusum, is recognized for its therapeutic properties. Its bark is valued for its astringent and antioxidant qualities, traditionally employed for addressing skin inflammations, itching, and other skin disorders. The oil extracted from the seeds is also used in traditional remedies for skin ailments, including itch and acne, and for promoting hair growth. Additionally, infusions from the bark have been historically used to manage conditions like malaria.
Beyond medicinal applications, the Tugal tree’s cultural importance extends to its role in folklore and everyday life. The pleasantly acidic aril of its ripe fruits is consumed, and cooked young leaves are sometimes used as a side dish. The tree is also associated with traditional games; in India, its seeds are used in the children’s game “Tugal”.