I have some confusion over the correct identity of this taxon. Hydnocarpus alpinus is described in various publications as a large tree native to southern India and Sri Lanka (see 146, , ]. However, in an amendment to 'A Hand-book to the Flora of Ceylon' Part VI, A.H.G. Alston, 1931; the name of Hydnocarpus alpinus is amended to Chlorocarpa pentaschista Alston. The notes say that Hydnocarpus alpinus is a small tree (not large as recorded originally in the Flora) and is not found in Sri Lanka. It is quite possible that some, or all of the uses attributed here belong instead to Chlorocarpa pentaschista - certainly the record for useful wood. There is considerable need for a modern treatment of the genus, which would help to clear this matter up - until that time I am recording the various uses here, plus also making a record for Chlorocarpa pentaschista and recording the uses there with an explanatory note[].

Common Name:

General Information

Hydnocarpus alpinus is an evergreen tree that can grow 20 - 30 metres tall[]. Another record says that it is no more than 10 metres tall[].
There is some confusion over the correct identity of this plant - see the notes above on nomenclature. It is quite likely to be a source of the medicinal oil 'chaulmoogra', which is extensively used to treat skin problems, including leprosy. Less likely is ithat it is a source of a useful timber - this use is more likely to apply to Chlorocarpa pentaschista[].

Known Hazards

Although we have seen no specific information for this species, the seeds of many members of this genus contain cyanogenic glycosides[, ]. In very small quantities this has been used medicinally, having been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.

Botanical References

Range

E. Asia - southern India, ?Sri Lanka

Habitat

Moist valleys[]. Low country in Sri Lanka, chiefly in drier districts[].

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Tree
Height	0.00 m
Pollinators	Insects
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Species in this genus generally require well-drained sandy or loamy silt soils and grow best along creek beds or on the banks of streams[].
Seeds tend to go rancid rather quickly. Therefore ripe fruits should be opened and the fruit pulp and aril removed from the seeds. Seeds are then washed and dried in the sun. Sun-dried seeds, either whole or broken, are cold-pressed or pressed under concurrent heating to extract the oil. The chemical composition of the end-product of these methods varies[].
A dioecious species, both male and female forms need to be grown if fruit and seed are required

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The seeds are rich in an oil which is said to be a good source of chaulmoogra. Chaulmoogra oil is used to treat a range of skin problems (including leprosy), wounds etc[].
The nearly globose fruit contains numerous seeds closely packed[].

Other Uses

An oil obtained from the seed is used as a fuel in oil lamps[].

The following use is more likely to apply to Chlorocarpa pentaschista. See nomenclature notes above.
The wood is light brown with streaks of darker colour. It is hard and clearly contains tannins. Of fair quality, it can be used for beams and rafters[].
The wood makes a good fuel[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe, when it will usually germinate quickly. Germination of stored seed can be slow, with some species in the genus taking up to 2 years. Sow the seed in a shaded position in a nursery seedbed and keep moist. Grow on the seedlings in shade until large enough to plant out[].

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