About Palash Flower
The Palash tree, also known as Butea monosperma, is commonly referred to as the “Flame of the Forest” due to the splendorous and splendid orange of its tesu blossom. This vibrant hue is why it is widely used to make colors for the celebration of Holi. The festival marking the arrival of spring in the Hindu calendar. Holi is a celebration of new beginnings, bidding farewell to the old, and preparing for fresh starts. Holi, named after a demon Holika, celebrates the triumph of good over evil. The festival falls in the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna.
| Must Read Blogs | |
| A Beginner’s Guide to Judgment Writing | Issues in IAS Cadre Management |
| Finlandization | Amendments: Procedure and Issues |
| Compulsory Voting in India | Know Your State & UTs – Ladakh |
| Tree | Palash (Butea monosperma) |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Flame of the forest |
| Flower | Tesu blossom |
| Colour | Bright orange |
| Uses | Natural colour source for Holi; medicinal benefits |
Origin & Medicinal Use of Palash Flower
Palash, also known as Kimsuka, Bengal kino, or Forest Flame tree (Botanical Name: Butea monosperma). Palash is a deciduous sacred tree whose flowers, seeds, bark, and gum are used for medicinal purposes. It is found in mountainous districts of India extending from the Northwest Himalayas, common throughout Bengal and southern India, and also in Burma.
The flowers of the Palash tree are used to prepare natural colors that are used to celebrate the Indian festival of Holi. The tree is worshipped as the God of Fire, and in tribal areas, women use the flowers to adorn themselves. Palash flowers are believed to have religious value and are used in havan or yagna religious ceremonies.
According to Ayurveda, Bengal Kino is bitter, astringent, and cooling in action, helping to pacify aggravated Pitta and Kapha doshas. Palash powder, when taken regularly, helps to reduce heat in the body, improve urinary bladder functions, and detoxify the blood. It supports blood and skin purification when taken with cumin water and helps pacify stomach, pelvis burning sensation, and extra thirst.
Externally, Palash flower powder boiled in water and applied as a hot poultice helps to reduce joint inflammation and pain.
How the Palash Related to Holi?
During Holi, people spread the lively colors of spring among loved ones using pinkish-red powder from hibiscus and rose or gulal, yellow powder from marigold, saffron-shade powder from tesu, and colored water that is playfully sprinkled on each other. The festival also involves dance, sweets, and the serving of Bhaang in various parts of India. Additionally, people exchange gifts with their dear ones on this special occasion.
The colors used during Holi are derived from natural sources. It includes the tesu, marigold, and hibiscus flowers, as well as blossoms of the Indian Coral tree. The Palash tree blooms around springtime, and its brilliant orange shades are a harbinger of the approaching change of weather. Many insects are attracted to the tree’s orange blossoms, aiding in the fertilization of this tree species.
Colour Making Method from Palash Flowers & Benefits
Traditionally, the flowers are gently plucked a few days before Holi, and their petals are dried in the sun. Once dried, the petals are crushed by hand to create a natural, rich paste of color that can be further dried to make a powder or used as a wet color. If you have access to Palash flowers, boil them in water and leave them to soak overnight to get a rich orange color that can be diluted further.
The natural hues obtained from tesu and other bright flowers have many benefits for the skin and are non-toxic to the environment. However, due to the lesser availability of these blooming trees in urban areas and the cheaper manufacturing costs of industrial colors, the use of tesu has declined on Holi.
Many trees like the Palash across India are having value for their therapeutic products, colors, food, and eye-soothing views. When they bloom, benefiting both people and other creatures. It is essential that as a culture, we use such festivals as an opportunity to reconnect with our roots. Many of which involve traditions and rituals that bring us closer to nature.
Environment Friendly and Natural Colours
This year Holi will be celebrated on Mon, 25 Mar, 2024. To celebrate Holi in an eco-friendly way, you can either buy Palash flowers online. Thus create colors at home or purchase organic colors from reputed brands. Embracing organic colors not only adds vibrancy to the festival but also ensures a sustainable and eco-friendly celebration.
In conclusion, the Palash tree holds significance in the celebration of Holi. It is not just for its vibrant colors but also for its role in promoting environmental sustainability and cultural heritage.
Read Also: First Lavender Festival
