Identity:
Kundaro is considered a variety of the well-known sal tree. The resin of this tree is used as incense (dhuno). Because the resin of the kundaro tree is of superior quality, it is more expensive and is sold in markets under the name Devkupo.
This tree is evergreen and lightly bushy, growing up to about 100 feet in height. Its Bengali name is Kundaro, and its Sanskrit name is Ajabes.
The bark of the tree is rough. The leaves are large, measuring about 4–10 inches in length and 3–4 inches in width.
The kundaro tree flowers and bears fruit during spring. The flowers are small and white. The fruit is light brown and fleshy. From the fruit, a fatty, aromatic, yellowish oil is extracted. Each fruit contains a single seed.
Uses:
The resin of the kundaro tree is used in the preparation of aromatic oils. The leaves, resin, incense (dhuno), and fruit are all used medicinally.
The fatty oil obtained from the fruit is especially effective in relieving rheumatic pain and is used as a massage oil in cases of inflammatory rheumatism (amavata). Leaf juice is used as an antiemetic and is applied in cases of burns and blood-related disorders.
Powdered dhuno, taken in doses of 200–250 grams three times daily for several days, helps cure bloody dysentery. If the condition becomes chronic, the same dose should be taken twice daily for a few days.
In cases of painful or difficult urination (mutrakricchra), taking dhuno powder in the above dosage two to three times a day relieves the condition.
