MELIA AZEDARACH Meaning and
Definition
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Melia azedarach, commonly known as the Melia or Persian lilac, is a species of tree belonging to the Meliaceae family. Native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, it has been naturalized and widely cultivated in many parts of the world. This deciduous tree typically reaches a height of about 10-15 meters, with a spreading canopy of dark green foliage.
The Melia azedarach is characterized by its pinnately compound leaves composed of 7-17 leaflets, which are lanceolate and finely toothed. Its small, fragrant flowers are arranged in large, drooping clusters, typically appearing in late spring or early summer. These flowers give way to round, yellow or green fruit that matures into small, hard, and resinous drupes.
While valued for its ornamental qualities, the Melia azedarach also possesses certain medicinal properties. Various parts of the tree, including the bark, leaves, and seeds, have been traditionally used in folk medicine to treat various ailments. These may include fevers, intestinal parasites, skin diseases, headaches, rheumatism, and more. However, it is important to note that the ingestion of the plant's berries or other parts can be toxic, especially to livestock and children, causing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain.
In conclusion, the Melia azedarach is a deciduous tree with compound leaves, fragrant flowers, and small fruit. It is cultivated for its aesthetic appeal and has historical uses in traditional medicine. Despite its medicinal potential, caution should be exercised due to its potential toxic effects.
Common Misspellings for MELIA AZEDARACH
- nelia azedarach
- kelia azedarach
- jelia azedarach
- mwlia azedarach
- mslia azedarach
- mdlia azedarach
- mrlia azedarach
- m4lia azedarach
- m3lia azedarach
- mekia azedarach
- mepia azedarach
- meoia azedarach
- melua azedarach
- melja azedarach
- melka azedarach
- meloa azedarach
- mel9a azedarach
- mel8a azedarach
- meliz azedarach
Etymology of MELIA AZEDARACH
The word "Melia Azedarach" has a botanical etymology.
"Melia" is derived from the Greek word "meli" (μέλι), meaning honey, which refers to the sweet and fragrant flowers of the plant. The name reflects the plant's ability to attract bees and other pollinators.
"Azedarach", on the other hand, comes from the Persian name for the tree, "azaddarakh" (آزاددرخ). The Persian term is a combination of "azad" (آزاد), meaning noble or free, and "darakh" (درخ), meaning tree. This reflects the tree's grandeur and noble appearance.
Thus, the etymology of "Melia Azedarach" combines Greek and Persian elements to describe the characteristics of the tree.
